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Boardrooms & Billionaires #2
Merger to Marriage
One night of passion...
Mayson McBride has spent the last decade restoring her family’s magazine empire with her two sisters. She loves what she does, but she can’t shake the feeling something’s missing. Which is why she jumps at the chance–incognito–for a single night of no-strings-attached sex with Holt Turner.
A once in a lifetime connection...
Holt’s been unable to forget the woman he shared one night of explosive passion, and he’s thrilled to get reacquainted with her at a weekend house party. What he doesn’t expect are the immediate feelings of need and desire–emotions he keeps firmly in check–upon their reunion.
A forever commitment...
When Mayson and Holt’s single night together leads to unexpected consequences, both must decide what matters most. Especially when a threat from Holt’s past promises to ruin their relationship before it’s barely begun.
Mayson McBride has spent the last decade restoring her family’s magazine empire with her two sisters. She loves what she does, but she can’t shake the feeling something’s missing. Which is why she jumps at the chance–incognito–for a single night of no-strings-attached sex with Holt Turner.
A once in a lifetime connection...
Holt’s been unable to forget the woman he shared one night of explosive passion, and he’s thrilled to get reacquainted with her at a weekend house party. What he doesn’t expect are the immediate feelings of need and desire–emotions he keeps firmly in check–upon their reunion.
A forever commitment...
When Mayson and Holt’s single night together leads to unexpected consequences, both must decide what matters most. Especially when a threat from Holt’s past promises to ruin their relationship before it’s barely begun.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2013
63 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Addison Fox
143 books374 followersAddison Fox can’t remember a time when words weren’t a part of her life. In addition to being an avid reader, she loves writing novels about strong-willed and exciting heroes and heroines – individuals who are meant for each other and who deserve their happy ever after. After she makes them work for it, of course!
First published in 2010, Addison has written across romance genres including paranormal, contemporary and romantic suspense. A romantic at heart, she’ll take her heroes any way she can get them – from ancient warriors to computer geeks to sexy cowboys. She’s not picky - but she is deeply grateful her readers are willing to come along for the ride.
Addison lives in New York. You can find her at her home on the web at www.addisonfox.com or on Facebook (facebook.com/addisonfoxauthor) and Twitter (@addisonfox).
The House of Steele series for Harlequin Romantic Suspense launches in July with THE PARIS ASSIGNMENT.
And two new stories in the Alaskan Nights series will be out - FROM THIS MOMENT ON (Penguin eNovella, July) and JUST IN TIME (Aug).
Addison lives in Dallas. She loves to get email from readers.
First published in 2010, Addison has written across romance genres including paranormal, contemporary and romantic suspense. A romantic at heart, she’ll take her heroes any way she can get them – from ancient warriors to computer geeks to sexy cowboys. She’s not picky - but she is deeply grateful her readers are willing to come along for the ride.
Addison lives in New York. You can find her at her home on the web at www.addisonfox.com or on Facebook (facebook.com/addisonfoxauthor) and Twitter (@addisonfox).
The House of Steele series for Harlequin Romantic Suspense launches in July with THE PARIS ASSIGNMENT.
And two new stories in the Alaskan Nights series will be out - FROM THIS MOMENT ON (Penguin eNovella, July) and JUST IN TIME (Aug).
Addison lives in Dallas. She loves to get email from readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 4, 2018
Mayson and her sisters have poured everything into the family business and it's finally paid off. The magazine is in the clear and expanding successfully and her oldest sister has not only derailed a take-over, but found a partner and love along the way.
At the wedding, Mayson meets Holt and for one night, she gives in to their blistering chemistry. That one night of wild abandon comes with consequences neither expected, when Mayson finds out her amazing night with Holt resulted in an unplanned pregnancy.
Holt has done everything in his power to make something of himself and to distance himself from the taint of his ruthless con-artist mother. For years he's kept himself closed off from others but Mayson and the baby, it feels right to him and they become his top priority. Marriage would keep them both close and if his mother ever came after him, legally they would be protected by his name. But love isn't in the cards form him and Mayson refuses to enter into such a business like merger for the sake of the baby.
This had a couple of interesting turns and uncliche reactions. For example, with Mayson and Holt first meet, Mayson wanted to shed her responsibilities and just be a normal girl having fun. So she presents herself as Elizabeth and although Holt feels annoyed that she kept her true identity a secret from him and only revealed the truth because of the baby, he doesn't over dramatize it. He admits to feeling put off by her lie but doens't hold it over her head. She also doesn't give excuses for why she did it, she owns up to her mistake but also doesn't let it blow out of proportion. They were very mature about the whole thing which is something you don't see very often in romance. This is usually used as a plot device to make up unnecessary drama.
The second I was pleasantly surprised is the baby news reveal. It wasn't completely drama free but the author manages to make it realistic and understandable. Holt is surprised to find Elizabeth/Mayson still as intriguing and alluring as before but the bomb of the pregnancy freaks him out and he spews the uncertainty and fear he initially feels out and it hurts Mayson. But again, it isn't drawn out or angsty. He realizes his mistake almost immediately and reaches out to Mayson to talk it over and work things out. Like adults!
Even with these nice and refreshing changes, this was still just an okay read. Aside from that first meeting, the chemistry fizzled. The conflict that Holt has between the old timer, Teddy and than again with his mother was interesting but it felt like more page time was devoted to that, than the actual couple.
Would I recommend? For the safety gang looking for an easy read, this one might be a good option. Just dont' expect an epic or impressionable read.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
At the wedding, Mayson meets Holt and for one night, she gives in to their blistering chemistry. That one night of wild abandon comes with consequences neither expected, when Mayson finds out her amazing night with Holt resulted in an unplanned pregnancy.
Holt has done everything in his power to make something of himself and to distance himself from the taint of his ruthless con-artist mother. For years he's kept himself closed off from others but Mayson and the baby, it feels right to him and they become his top priority. Marriage would keep them both close and if his mother ever came after him, legally they would be protected by his name. But love isn't in the cards form him and Mayson refuses to enter into such a business like merger for the sake of the baby.
This had a couple of interesting turns and uncliche reactions. For example, with Mayson and Holt first meet, Mayson wanted to shed her responsibilities and just be a normal girl having fun. So she presents herself as Elizabeth and although Holt feels annoyed that she kept her true identity a secret from him and only revealed the truth because of the baby, he doesn't over dramatize it. He admits to feeling put off by her lie but doens't hold it over her head. She also doesn't give excuses for why she did it, she owns up to her mistake but also doesn't let it blow out of proportion. They were very mature about the whole thing which is something you don't see very often in romance. This is usually used as a plot device to make up unnecessary drama.
The second I was pleasantly surprised is the baby news reveal. It wasn't completely drama free but the author manages to make it realistic and understandable. Holt is surprised to find Elizabeth/Mayson still as intriguing and alluring as before but the bomb of the pregnancy freaks him out and he spews the uncertainty and fear he initially feels out and it hurts Mayson. But again, it isn't drawn out or angsty. He realizes his mistake almost immediately and reaches out to Mayson to talk it over and work things out. Like adults!
Even with these nice and refreshing changes, this was still just an okay read. Aside from that first meeting, the chemistry fizzled. The conflict that Holt has between the old timer, Teddy and than again with his mother was interesting but it felt like more page time was devoted to that, than the actual couple.
Would I recommend? For the safety gang looking for an easy read, this one might be a good option. Just dont' expect an epic or impressionable read.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All
thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
May 25, 2013
4 heart-warming stars!!
Yup, my CR streak continues with Merger to Marriage by Addison Fox. This one was a pleasant surprise. The premise had been done before but it was done really well by Ms. Fox. The dialogues are witty, fun and believable.
Mayson met Holt at her sister's wedding. There was instant attraction which led to a one-night stand, which led to one unexpected consequence. Both Holt and Mayson must deal with their prejudice and trust issues to achieve their happily ever after.
As I mentioned before, this story has been done many times in the past but there's something about Ms. Fox's writing that made this really enjoyable for me. For one, I really connected with Mayson and Holt. Mayson is tough, smart and loyal. She was able to hold her own with Holt.
Holt had a shitty childhood, thanks to his con artist of a mother. He was able to make something of himself, and while he was very attracted to Mayson, he never intended for anything more to come out of their night together. But when it did, he came through for Mayson but not with some hiccups along the way, which is to be expected since he is a guy after all. But yeah, I was rooting for him from the get-go.
I also liked the fact the MCs took time to process their feelings for each other. Yes, there was an instant attraction between them but they didn't fall in love immediately. It took time, which was realistic and believable to me.
Will definitely recommend this to people who are looking for a light, heart-warming read. :D
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Yup, my CR streak continues with Merger to Marriage by Addison Fox. This one was a pleasant surprise. The premise had been done before but it was done really well by Ms. Fox. The dialogues are witty, fun and believable.
Mayson met Holt at her sister's wedding. There was instant attraction which led to a one-night stand, which led to one unexpected consequence. Both Holt and Mayson must deal with their prejudice and trust issues to achieve their happily ever after.
As I mentioned before, this story has been done many times in the past but there's something about Ms. Fox's writing that made this really enjoyable for me. For one, I really connected with Mayson and Holt. Mayson is tough, smart and loyal. She was able to hold her own with Holt.
Holt had a shitty childhood, thanks to his con artist of a mother. He was able to make something of himself, and while he was very attracted to Mayson, he never intended for anything more to come out of their night together. But when it did, he came through for Mayson but not with some hiccups along the way, which is to be expected since he is a guy after all. But yeah, I was rooting for him from the get-go.
I also liked the fact the MCs took time to process their feelings for each other. Yes, there was an instant attraction between them but they didn't fall in love immediately. It took time, which was realistic and believable to me.
Will definitely recommend this to people who are looking for a light, heart-warming read. :D
ARC provided by Entangled Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2018
3 board/bored CEOS
this .....didn't work
it totally should have worked!!!
it had the makings of a perfect like HEA.
Girl meets boy under a fake name ..night of hot sex...
both get starry eyes with memories
girl finds out she is pregnant
boy asks her to marry him
they suck as adults...
don't have kids when you both are immature
I wanted my perfect HEA not this emotionless merger.
the two MCs didn't have any steam/angst/lust/intensity
it would have worked better if they hated eachother truly instead of try to show the other one how much they "work"
so you are good at kissing.. and apparently at making babies...anything else?!!!
this .....didn't work
it totally should have worked!!!
it had the makings of a perfect like HEA.
Girl meets boy under a fake name ..night of hot sex...
both get starry eyes with memories
girl finds out she is pregnant
boy asks her to marry him
they suck as adults...
don't have kids when you both are immature
I wanted my perfect HEA not this emotionless merger.
the two MCs didn't have any steam/angst/lust/intensity
it would have worked better if they hated eachother truly instead of try to show the other one how much they "work"
so you are good at kissing.. and apparently at making babies...anything else?!!!
May 22, 2013
Some people should not have kids.....More about that later.
The leads of the novel are Mayson and Holt. We see them involved quite quickly in a one night stand that leaves a lasting impression on both of the players.
Personally, I thought this would be a light read, then I got ticked off at her father and the demon that is Holt's mother and saw that though the story follows an often used plot, there was something worthwhile being presented here.
It was easy to see the things that would ultimately pose a problem in their relationship. She hated to be limited and he was under a weight of guilt that was not even his own related to criminal activity.
I liked the fact we saw a compariosn beteween her happy family and his not some much of a family. And though she had a life of privilege she was shown to be a hard worker along with her sisters, who rescued the business their father was driving to ruin.
The often hidden fact about supposedly perfect families played out well in the opening of the novel, many times there are hidden hurts and bleeding wounds in the homes of the privileged.
While I will shake my head in exasperation at Mayson's father I would like to get my hand around Holt's mother's neck.
Coming from that background you should give this novel a read to see how Holt and Mayson handle the consequences of their night of passion.
AND see why some people should not have kids.
The leads of the novel are Mayson and Holt. We see them involved quite quickly in a one night stand that leaves a lasting impression on both of the players.
Personally, I thought this would be a light read, then I got ticked off at her father and the demon that is Holt's mother and saw that though the story follows an often used plot, there was something worthwhile being presented here.
It was easy to see the things that would ultimately pose a problem in their relationship. She hated to be limited and he was under a weight of guilt that was not even his own related to criminal activity.
I liked the fact we saw a compariosn beteween her happy family and his not some much of a family. And though she had a life of privilege she was shown to be a hard worker along with her sisters, who rescued the business their father was driving to ruin.
The often hidden fact about supposedly perfect families played out well in the opening of the novel, many times there are hidden hurts and bleeding wounds in the homes of the privileged.
While I will shake my head in exasperation at Mayson's father I would like to get my hand around Holt's mother's neck.
Coming from that background you should give this novel a read to see how Holt and Mayson handle the consequences of their night of passion.
AND see why some people should not have kids.
May 9, 2013
Four Solid Stars! I received an ARC for Merger to Marriage by Addison Fox. This is the second book in the Boardrooms & Billionaires series. I am a fan of Addison Fox and enjoy everything she writes and this did not disappoint.
This book centers on Mayson McBride and Holt Turner. Mayson is part of a three sister team who runs a major magazine, which we are introduced to in Tempting Acquisitions. Holt is a very successful Businessman in his own right. Mayson meets Holt and they have a hot love affair that was only to last for one night. The two go their separate ways but fate has more in store for them besides one night of off the chart chemistry.
When Mayson and Holt have a chance meeting, the chemistry is still there. They are then brought together by an unforeseen issue and decide to marry more as a merger than for love. Quickly, their love begins to build, though Holt feels unworthy of love due to his past. A past that he has been trying, not only to make up for, but also to hide from everyone for years.
These are very complex and interesting characters that are believable and are full of passion. You also get to see more of the characters from the first book. As usual Addison Fox does a great job and my only complaint is that it was too short (I wanted more). I am excited for the third book in the series called The Billionaire’s Demands.
This book centers on Mayson McBride and Holt Turner. Mayson is part of a three sister team who runs a major magazine, which we are introduced to in Tempting Acquisitions. Holt is a very successful Businessman in his own right. Mayson meets Holt and they have a hot love affair that was only to last for one night. The two go their separate ways but fate has more in store for them besides one night of off the chart chemistry.
When Mayson and Holt have a chance meeting, the chemistry is still there. They are then brought together by an unforeseen issue and decide to marry more as a merger than for love. Quickly, their love begins to build, though Holt feels unworthy of love due to his past. A past that he has been trying, not only to make up for, but also to hide from everyone for years.
These are very complex and interesting characters that are believable and are full of passion. You also get to see more of the characters from the first book. As usual Addison Fox does a great job and my only complaint is that it was too short (I wanted more). I am excited for the third book in the series called The Billionaire’s Demands.
January 20, 2018
Merger to Marriage, (Boardrooms & Billionaires 2) Addison Fox
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: General Fiction (Adult) , Romance
Some books I love, others not so much even though its clear other readers adore them. This is one such read.
I found the story was OK but kind of bland. Mayson was nice, her sisters were nice, Holt was nice, his friends were nice...you get the picture. His mother was a first class b itch, and I'd like to have seen more of her but...
I really didn't feel any chemistry between Mayson and Holt, they respected each other as business individuals but that was it. No love, no lust, the most I can feel between them is a faint like, and that doesn't work for me in a romance read. I want to feel they just can't keep away, they have to touch, caress, kiss all the while ( well, within reason ).
I only read this yesterday and I'm having a hard time this morning actually recalling what happened. It just wasn't a read that made it for me, although of course its perfect for others. I need drama, angst, emotions and plots that make me feel will things work out, are there just too many things against them, scenes where it's the couple v whatever plots can tear them apart. This book, well I didn't get any of that.
I hadn't read book one, though they're stand alone reads so that wasn't necessary, but might have made some events clearer.
Its perfectly written, just the the story itself just isn't one for me. It might be perfect for you if you're looking for a light and easy, innocuous romance, me – I need a bit more. Horses for courses and all that...
Stars: 2.5/3, it was a story that was a forgettable read for me, but which will be perfect for other people. You choose.
ARC supplied for review purposes by Netgalley and publishers
June 25, 2016
I loved this book! It was so good I read it in one day.
One of my favorite types of romance is when the two main characters launch into a marriage of convenience (for whatever reasons) and fall in love in the process. Merger to Marriage fits the bill perfectly!
The story is well written and the characters are well defined. I formed an immediate connection with both Mayson and Holt, in addition to the secondary characters. Their feelings for each other developed at a wonderful pace and their time together was scorching hot. I truly enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it highly!
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of my favorite types of romance is when the two main characters launch into a marriage of convenience (for whatever reasons) and fall in love in the process. Merger to Marriage fits the bill perfectly!
The story is well written and the characters are well defined. I formed an immediate connection with both Mayson and Holt, in addition to the secondary characters. Their feelings for each other developed at a wonderful pace and their time together was scorching hot. I truly enjoyed reading this book and I recommend it highly!
I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2018
It was a short and light read, with no dragging around. I have read one book by Addison Fox in the Harlequin Intrigue imprint till now, and I loved that. And this one's much better, it straightaway jumps into action! The camaraderie between the McBride sisters is lovely. I couldn't believe while reading it that any mother can be like that, but Holt's mother is just that...bat-shit crazy! But the way of handling Mayson-Holt's one night leading to pregnancy was wonderful...their hesitant steps towards finding love, realistic...
May 28, 2013
I loved the chemistry between Holt & Mayson!
What started out as a one night stand, became a journey of discovery for the two. They were both dealing with issues that made them question their ability to be the right match for the other. The surprises along the way kept the story interesting.
Holt truly wins you over when he opens up about himself.
And all the interaction with the McBride sisters & Nathan made the story truly enjoyable.
What started out as a one night stand, became a journey of discovery for the two. They were both dealing with issues that made them question their ability to be the right match for the other. The surprises along the way kept the story interesting.
Holt truly wins you over when he opens up about himself.
And all the interaction with the McBride sisters & Nathan made the story truly enjoyable.
February 12, 2018
Mayson is the youngest of the McBride sisters and the creative genius behind the success of the sisters enterprise. When Mayson dumps that glass of oh so sumptuous glass of expensive Bordeaux
on her bridesmaid gown at Keira and Nathan's wedding she dashes upstairs to change, happy she packed an extra dress and dashes back to reception hoping to snag a glass before they run out. There she runs into Holt literally when she catches her heel opening the door and he saves her from face planting on the reception room floor. Armed with a spare bottle of the Bordeaux Holt talks Mayson into sitting outside the main room for a nice quiet conversation and a glass of the coveted wine. He's a best friend of the groom. Turns out Holt was the giver of the gift of all that wine. Too bad he missed the wedding and half the reception due to a business meeting.
Mayson introduces herself as Elizabeth for whatever reason, and after some halfway intelligent conversation Mayson invites him up to her room. This is so unlike Mayson but a what a girl wants....
They have incredible chemistry and spend the night together. There isn't any word about their parting, just that the two of them spend the next few weeks thinking about each other, Holt even asking Nathan about an Elizabeth only to come up with no information.
When Keira and Nate have a party at his house in Newport Mayson and Holt meet again. This time she tells him who she is and then drops the ultimate bomb. She's pregnant. Of course he reacts poorly and doesn't know what to make of the whole situation other than a damn business deal when he finds out that she's close to a client he's been trying to sign.
Holt didn't have the best upbringing and his mother appears back in his life just before he meets Mayson which has him on edge. He's spent much of his career trying to make good in a discreet way the unthinkable actions of his mother. His mother threatens Holt's well being and Holt's just unsure enough to let her steamroll him to a point. He's firm on one hand and a puss on the other.
Since he's offended Mayson in so many ways, about the whole pregancy-marriage thing to the point I lost count I grew very very tired of Holt and his self serving crap. Mayson had enough on her plate with the business, a father who didn't give a shit about the three girls or their mother and now a man who she didn't know wanting to marry her, or not on any given day I really did feel for her. She slaps those boundaries down and refuses to budge. Push comes to shove when Holt conveniently and without asking her invites this client he's trying to hook, who he knows is fond of Mayson out to dinner. Mayson is livid and lays into him. Mayson makes it clear she'll do this once and then she's done with him and doesn't want to marry him. Not ever. Close but yet so far eh Holt? You ass.
Things go south and dinner and back at Mayson's apartment things are said, mainly by Holt that he can never take back. He solves Mayson's problem when he grabs his jacket and walks out. Mayson is upset but Holt is a mess. He deserves every tiny piece of shit he gets. Getting the feeling I don't like Holt? Good!! He turned my stomach.
After getting punched in the face by Nathan for what he did, the two of them coming up with a plan to be rid of his mother and the past that haunts Holt. In a few days things are lined up he sees his mother get her just desserts. Didn't change my feeling for him at all though. I just didn't like the guy. I read book one and three when they were released. I suppose there was a reason I passed on this one.
Taking Holt out of the equation it's a good story, I love the sisters and the plot line of the three books.
Addison writes a great story and this series is no exception.
**arc from NetGalley and Entangled in exchange for an honest review. The opinions in my review are my own**
on her bridesmaid gown at Keira and Nathan's wedding she dashes upstairs to change, happy she packed an extra dress and dashes back to reception hoping to snag a glass before they run out. There she runs into Holt literally when she catches her heel opening the door and he saves her from face planting on the reception room floor. Armed with a spare bottle of the Bordeaux Holt talks Mayson into sitting outside the main room for a nice quiet conversation and a glass of the coveted wine. He's a best friend of the groom. Turns out Holt was the giver of the gift of all that wine. Too bad he missed the wedding and half the reception due to a business meeting.
Mayson introduces herself as Elizabeth for whatever reason, and after some halfway intelligent conversation Mayson invites him up to her room. This is so unlike Mayson but a what a girl wants....
They have incredible chemistry and spend the night together. There isn't any word about their parting, just that the two of them spend the next few weeks thinking about each other, Holt even asking Nathan about an Elizabeth only to come up with no information.
When Keira and Nate have a party at his house in Newport Mayson and Holt meet again. This time she tells him who she is and then drops the ultimate bomb. She's pregnant. Of course he reacts poorly and doesn't know what to make of the whole situation other than a damn business deal when he finds out that she's close to a client he's been trying to sign.
Holt didn't have the best upbringing and his mother appears back in his life just before he meets Mayson which has him on edge. He's spent much of his career trying to make good in a discreet way the unthinkable actions of his mother. His mother threatens Holt's well being and Holt's just unsure enough to let her steamroll him to a point. He's firm on one hand and a puss on the other.
Since he's offended Mayson in so many ways, about the whole pregancy-marriage thing to the point I lost count I grew very very tired of Holt and his self serving crap. Mayson had enough on her plate with the business, a father who didn't give a shit about the three girls or their mother and now a man who she didn't know wanting to marry her, or not on any given day I really did feel for her. She slaps those boundaries down and refuses to budge. Push comes to shove when Holt conveniently and without asking her invites this client he's trying to hook, who he knows is fond of Mayson out to dinner. Mayson is livid and lays into him. Mayson makes it clear she'll do this once and then she's done with him and doesn't want to marry him. Not ever. Close but yet so far eh Holt? You ass.
Things go south and dinner and back at Mayson's apartment things are said, mainly by Holt that he can never take back. He solves Mayson's problem when he grabs his jacket and walks out. Mayson is upset but Holt is a mess. He deserves every tiny piece of shit he gets. Getting the feeling I don't like Holt? Good!! He turned my stomach.
After getting punched in the face by Nathan for what he did, the two of them coming up with a plan to be rid of his mother and the past that haunts Holt. In a few days things are lined up he sees his mother get her just desserts. Didn't change my feeling for him at all though. I just didn't like the guy. I read book one and three when they were released. I suppose there was a reason I passed on this one.
Taking Holt out of the equation it's a good story, I love the sisters and the plot line of the three books.
Addison writes a great story and this series is no exception.
**arc from NetGalley and Entangled in exchange for an honest review. The opinions in my review are my own**
January 26, 2018
Merger to Marriage is a kind of dull story. When Mayson and Holt share a night of passion, they figure they'll never see each other again after. But, why wouldn't they? After all, Holt is Mayson's brother in law's close friend, small world and all that. This is just the first problem I had with this story. Of course the two would run into each other again if they have such a close association. The second problem? Their chemistry isn't very strong, not during their first night, and not after, when they're trying to figure out how to make her pregnancy work in their new non-relationship.
When Holt sees the woman again with whom he had shared a night he couldn't get out of his mind, he's excited. So is she. But, a short time later when they find she's pregnant, how will they co-parent? Will they strike up a relationship of convenience? Or do what the rest of the modern world does when faced with a surprise pregnancy and they aren't in a relationship with each other - become single, but hopefully cohesive co-parents together? I feel as if they should have done the single but cohesive co-parent thing together, rather than attempting a relationship, because as I said, their chemistry wasn't strong, certainly not strong enough to maintain a relationship.
But, there are other things in their way to an HEA other than their lack of chemistry. Holt's got a secret in his past (and present) that he decides not to share with Mayson, with anyone really, and it's a big secret. When Mayson finds out he didn't share, and that he elected to use her for his own purposes to help close a deal with one of her family friends? Yeah, that didn't help matters.
Really, this story had great potential. The premise is a tried and true trope. It's just that the execution is lacking and the characters, while likable, just weren't all that interesting and they lacked the strong, true chemistry needed to forge, and maintain, a lasting relationship.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
When Holt sees the woman again with whom he had shared a night he couldn't get out of his mind, he's excited. So is she. But, a short time later when they find she's pregnant, how will they co-parent? Will they strike up a relationship of convenience? Or do what the rest of the modern world does when faced with a surprise pregnancy and they aren't in a relationship with each other - become single, but hopefully cohesive co-parents together? I feel as if they should have done the single but cohesive co-parent thing together, rather than attempting a relationship, because as I said, their chemistry wasn't strong, certainly not strong enough to maintain a relationship.
But, there are other things in their way to an HEA other than their lack of chemistry. Holt's got a secret in his past (and present) that he decides not to share with Mayson, with anyone really, and it's a big secret. When Mayson finds out he didn't share, and that he elected to use her for his own purposes to help close a deal with one of her family friends? Yeah, that didn't help matters.
Really, this story had great potential. The premise is a tried and true trope. It's just that the execution is lacking and the characters, while likable, just weren't all that interesting and they lacked the strong, true chemistry needed to forge, and maintain, a lasting relationship.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for an honest review.
February 13, 2018
Mayson McBride works hard on her family’s magazine with her sister. When her sister gets married she takes a chance on Holt Turner. One night of passion is all she needs to get him out of her system. Neither of them is really looking at forever though Mayson is starting to want that something more. When a surprise from there night happens things change. Mayson will get to be the mother she always wanted but Holt sees it as an opportunity to make a merger with marriage. There is an important deal he is trying to land to make amends of the past and being married to Mayson would seal the deal. Mayson wants more than a merger in her marriage.
In an Oyster Shell – It is a creative romance that has tantalizing conflict and strong-headed characters that make for a relationship full of sparks.
The Pearls – I like the strong female character that we find in Mayson. She sets the tone of the book with the help of her sisters. She’s creative and beautiful and stands her own against Holt’s all business ways. Holt has an interesting past that really ties the story together. The two characters together make a beautiful story.
The story premise is a good one. Two people coming together for longer than they planned. A one night fling turns to something more. Overcoming the past to get something better.
The romance is sweet though catalyzed into a steamy romance. They go back an forth as they figure things out and learn from each other. Each challenging the other to something more.
In an Oyster Shell – It is a creative romance that has tantalizing conflict and strong-headed characters that make for a relationship full of sparks.
The Pearls – I like the strong female character that we find in Mayson. She sets the tone of the book with the help of her sisters. She’s creative and beautiful and stands her own against Holt’s all business ways. Holt has an interesting past that really ties the story together. The two characters together make a beautiful story.
The story premise is a good one. Two people coming together for longer than they planned. A one night fling turns to something more. Overcoming the past to get something better.
The romance is sweet though catalyzed into a steamy romance. They go back an forth as they figure things out and learn from each other. Each challenging the other to something more.
February 9, 2018
I always enjoy a surprise baby plot. That part of the plot gets resolved rather easily with the heroine, Mayson, and the hero, Holt, coming to a mature commitment to working together when she turns up pregnant after their one-night stand.
There is a sub-plot about Holt’s mother and his fears that his mother’s criminal past and present will threaten his relationship with Mayson. That would have been interesting if the author had done more with that, but it’s all wrapped up relatively quickly and easily and mostly out of the picture. That just seems unfair to the reader. Why have this build-up and plot development if you’re going to solve in in a page or so?
The lack of real plot development is what made this rather a meh read for me.
I was given a free ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
There is a sub-plot about Holt’s mother and his fears that his mother’s criminal past and present will threaten his relationship with Mayson. That would have been interesting if the author had done more with that, but it’s all wrapped up relatively quickly and easily and mostly out of the picture. That just seems unfair to the reader. Why have this build-up and plot development if you’re going to solve in in a page or so?
The lack of real plot development is what made this rather a meh read for me.
I was given a free ARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
February 7, 2018
Please note: I received a copy of MERGER TO MARRIAGE via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to the publisher and author.
MERGER TO MARRIAGE gets 5 stars and here is why:
It’s a fresh take on the familiar unexpected baby trope. When Mayson and Holt hook up, it’s clear their different backgrounds and crazy families make a relationship impossible to pursue, except for the chemistry that sparks between them. Ms. Fox delivers a page-turner with hella-hot guys, savvy girls, and chemistry that lights up my kindle! If you like contemporary romance with a splash of sexy, this book is for you. Highly recommend!
MERGER TO MARRIAGE gets 5 stars and here is why:
It’s a fresh take on the familiar unexpected baby trope. When Mayson and Holt hook up, it’s clear their different backgrounds and crazy families make a relationship impossible to pursue, except for the chemistry that sparks between them. Ms. Fox delivers a page-turner with hella-hot guys, savvy girls, and chemistry that lights up my kindle! If you like contemporary romance with a splash of sexy, this book is for you. Highly recommend!
February 2, 2018
What a nice surprise this book was. I was expecting the usual unexpected baby trope but this one packed quite a few more punches. Mayson and Holt definitely come from different families but where one family's problems are blatant the other's are hidden but no less painful. Due to their family issues they both have trust issues yet they don't let this come between them. They work to accept each other for the sake of their little surprise.
I highly recommend this one.
I highly recommend this one.
March 5, 2018
This is one of those second chance romances that give you the feel goods as you read. This author is a good one because she does know how to bring the romance to life using her characters to do it. This one centers around Mayson and Holt with you connecting with the story right away. You sink into it wondering where you will be going with these two who have a few things to do. It is one that you can breeze through enjoying every minute of it. Nice way it wraps up too.
March 29, 2018
Good story!
This is a good story. I love the characters. I think it would have made a better story if there was more of a character background of Holt. We did get a character background of Mayson from the previous book in the series. A little disappointed in this book I thought it would be more involved than what it was.
This is a good story. I love the characters. I think it would have made a better story if there was more of a character background of Holt. We did get a character background of Mayson from the previous book in the series. A little disappointed in this book I thought it would be more involved than what it was.
November 8, 2018
I have known Addison Fox for almost two decades and was elated when she finally put her imagination into writing. I have read many novels from her various series and highly recommend the Alaska series. Her books are always a smooth, easy read with likeable characters who are relatable. You'll find these books are reminiscent of Nora Roberts and Judith McNaught. Enjoy!
February 1, 2018
Good book. Loved it all. Holt and mayson are made to be together. Ok maybe not at first. They both are strong willed and let anger get in the way. But they push past it and compromise for name of Love.
July 11, 2018
This book was a little cheesier than the first one. Its not 100% realistic, but its nice to read an fantasy outcome and sometimes those outcomes do happen to some people. Like the first in the trilogy, its a good quick read and has intriguing peaks.
December 29, 2018
Okay read
Had the potential to be better than it was. Wasn’t anything different from many other romance reads. Characters were okay and plot reasonable although a Adult man still dealing with his mothers machinations was annoying. Was an okay read not a great one.
Had the potential to be better than it was. Wasn’t anything different from many other romance reads. Characters were okay and plot reasonable although a Adult man still dealing with his mothers machinations was annoying. Was an okay read not a great one.
February 5, 2018
This second book in the Boardrooms and Billionaires series can definitely be read as a standalone. I haven't read Tempting Acquisitions yet but after reading Mayson and Holt's story, I definitely want to.
Mayson and Holt meet at her sister's wedding but since neither knows who the other is, they think they will never see each other again after their one night stand. When there's more to their encounter than just one night together, they have to figure out how they are going to navigate an ongoing relationship. Holt's suggestion is a marriage that will benefit both of them. Mayson's suggestion made more sense to me: co-parenting and seeing where their relationship goes.
This story was sweet and relatively drama free. Mayson and Holt were thrown into an unexpected situation and while some of the outcomes were crazy to me, I loved how they handled everything that came their way and fixed it when they didn't do a great job of it the first time. I'm definitely adding the rest of this series to my TBR.
*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*
Mayson and Holt meet at her sister's wedding but since neither knows who the other is, they think they will never see each other again after their one night stand. When there's more to their encounter than just one night together, they have to figure out how they are going to navigate an ongoing relationship. Holt's suggestion is a marriage that will benefit both of them. Mayson's suggestion made more sense to me: co-parenting and seeing where their relationship goes.
This story was sweet and relatively drama free. Mayson and Holt were thrown into an unexpected situation and while some of the outcomes were crazy to me, I loved how they handled everything that came their way and fixed it when they didn't do a great job of it the first time. I'm definitely adding the rest of this series to my TBR.
*This is my voluntary review of an advanced reader copy*
July 16, 2021
This was another book provided by netgalley and my last ARC for the month of May. Here's what I think about the book.
This is the story of Mayson Mcbride one of the brilliant Mcbride sisters who restored and save the almost shaky Mcbride magazine empire. The three sisters worked really hard for it. And for Mayson this means ALL WORK , NO PLAY.
"She'd known it for months, as she and her sisters worked tirelessly to make something of their lives and their legacy. They all had gifts - Keira for management, Camryn for finance,and her with her eye for design --and they were going to bring McBride Media back from the brick of disaster.."
So, during her sister Keira's wedding.. she took it as a breather and gave herself a chance to loosen up. It was also that night that she literally bumped into the sexy Holt. Maybe, it was the intoxicating effect of a good wine, their flowing conversation plus Holt's irresistible sexy stares...one thing led to another... next thing they knew .. they were kissing ... and Bam! sexual awareness sparked between them like live wire! It was supposed to be a one night stand. Yeah. Right. But then...
Mayson tried to shook off that steamy night with Holt out of her head,but she failed. She can't forget Holt... and his kisses.. and his touch. Same thing happened to Holt. Even in the middle of his busy career oriented life , flashes of that hot night distracted him! He wants to see Elizabeth again. (Yes, Mayson told him she is Elizabeth! ) Oh. the confusion! So, okaaaaaaaaaaay.. it got me a little interested, and I'm a little excited to find out how these two ..uhmmmm horny executives find each other again. Ooops!
So they meet again! It should be one exciting reunion! But then ..another Bam! Mayson found out that she is pregnant with Holt's baby! Oh. Yeah. Now he's the baby daddy! Well, how do you think Holt will receive this overwhelming news? Of course he'll be shocked! Well, running away towards the nearest exit is a possible solution. But something bugged him. True that he has not known Mayson .. Hell! he even thought she is Elisabeth?! So how can you trust someone who can't even tell you her real name? But then there is this strong desire to protect his baby and Mayson.. from his evil mother. Yes, her mom is someone he is ..well, he considers a dark past he is not so proud of. He believes that her mother will use this situation against him. He cannot afford it to happen. So he offered Mayson a proposition . .. a merger- marriage. Like it's a business deal! What an ass! ( ooops again! ) I don't like Holt. Ugh.
But then as the story progresses, the more I saw the other side of the coin. What I saw as a heartless Holt is a caring , loving person that is just totally misunderstood. I saw how he cared so much not only for their baby but for Mayson too. And Mayson? the sweetest! She is adorable, caring , passionate and a no-nonsense kind of a person. And I love it how she can make Holt open up. They are perfect for each other!
Though the story was quite simple and even predictable...Addison Fox makes it better with her good choice of words. She really knows how to put it at the right place and at the right time. The only problem is, I can feel that there is still something missing? Like more swoon worthy moments ? Or perhaps more drama? Or I'm looking forward for something more from Holt and Mayson?
The ending was cut short. Like everything was resolved too fast. Maybe it's just me, expecting much from this book. How I wish it would be a mind blowing.. giddy fest kind of ending. Nevertheless, it was still a good and sweet story .
This is the story of Mayson Mcbride one of the brilliant Mcbride sisters who restored and save the almost shaky Mcbride magazine empire. The three sisters worked really hard for it. And for Mayson this means ALL WORK , NO PLAY.
"She'd known it for months, as she and her sisters worked tirelessly to make something of their lives and their legacy. They all had gifts - Keira for management, Camryn for finance,and her with her eye for design --and they were going to bring McBride Media back from the brick of disaster.."
So, during her sister Keira's wedding.. she took it as a breather and gave herself a chance to loosen up. It was also that night that she literally bumped into the sexy Holt. Maybe, it was the intoxicating effect of a good wine, their flowing conversation plus Holt's irresistible sexy stares...one thing led to another... next thing they knew .. they were kissing ... and Bam! sexual awareness sparked between them like live wire! It was supposed to be a one night stand. Yeah. Right. But then...
Mayson tried to shook off that steamy night with Holt out of her head,but she failed. She can't forget Holt... and his kisses.. and his touch. Same thing happened to Holt. Even in the middle of his busy career oriented life , flashes of that hot night distracted him! He wants to see Elizabeth again. (Yes, Mayson told him she is Elizabeth! ) Oh. the confusion! So, okaaaaaaaaaaay.. it got me a little interested, and I'm a little excited to find out how these two ..uhmmmm horny executives find each other again. Ooops!
So they meet again! It should be one exciting reunion! But then ..another Bam! Mayson found out that she is pregnant with Holt's baby! Oh. Yeah. Now he's the baby daddy! Well, how do you think Holt will receive this overwhelming news? Of course he'll be shocked! Well, running away towards the nearest exit is a possible solution. But something bugged him. True that he has not known Mayson .. Hell! he even thought she is Elisabeth?! So how can you trust someone who can't even tell you her real name? But then there is this strong desire to protect his baby and Mayson.. from his evil mother. Yes, her mom is someone he is ..well, he considers a dark past he is not so proud of. He believes that her mother will use this situation against him. He cannot afford it to happen. So he offered Mayson a proposition . .. a merger- marriage. Like it's a business deal! What an ass! ( ooops again! ) I don't like Holt. Ugh.
But then as the story progresses, the more I saw the other side of the coin. What I saw as a heartless Holt is a caring , loving person that is just totally misunderstood. I saw how he cared so much not only for their baby but for Mayson too. And Mayson? the sweetest! She is adorable, caring , passionate and a no-nonsense kind of a person. And I love it how she can make Holt open up. They are perfect for each other!
Though the story was quite simple and even predictable...Addison Fox makes it better with her good choice of words. She really knows how to put it at the right place and at the right time. The only problem is, I can feel that there is still something missing? Like more swoon worthy moments ? Or perhaps more drama? Or I'm looking forward for something more from Holt and Mayson?
The ending was cut short. Like everything was resolved too fast. Maybe it's just me, expecting much from this book. How I wish it would be a mind blowing.. giddy fest kind of ending. Nevertheless, it was still a good and sweet story .
May 13, 2013
My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2013/05...
Mayson McBride has never been one to walk on the wild side. However, when Mayson meets Holt Turner — the handsome best friend of her new brother-in-law — at her sister’s wedding, she throws caution to the wind for a single night. It was the perfect night…until Mayson realizes that her plan for no-strings-attached sex had some life-changing consequences.
Holt can’t get Mayson out of his mind, but when he sees her again a few months after their one-night stand he’s shocked to learn that he’s going to be a father. For Holt, Mayson’s pregnancy sparks a need for permanency he’s never felt before. But Mayson doesn’t want a merger of a marriage, she wants love. Can Holt convince her there’s more between them than a baby? He might not have a chance, if someone from his past has their way…
Merger to Marriage is flirty, fun, and wholly entertaining. Author Addison Fox drew me into Mayson and Holt’s story from the very first page and I found myself devouring the tale in one fell swoop.
Mayson and Holt are two people brought together first by passion and then by the results of said passion. Though the news came as a shock to both of them, I like that both Mayson and Holt handled the surprise pregnancy in an adult manner. Holt’s desire to marry Mayson and protect her from his mother’s machinations is logical, particularly since Ms. Fox shows how ragingly manipulative his mother is. Though Holt screws up from time to time, I was rooting for him to realize he loves Mayson and wants to marry her for emotional as well as practical reasons. As for Mayson, she’s a heroine I have to adore. She’s smart, caring, and doesn’t back down from a fight. She and Holt are a great pair and the chemistry they have is palpable all throughout Merger to Marriage . The only thing that kept Merger to Marriage from being the perfect read (to me) was the plotline involving Holt’s mother. While I found this storyline to be interesting, the resolution of it was rushed and took place primarily offstage, which left me feeling a bit disappointed.
Merger to Marriage is the second book in Ms. Fox’s Boardrooms & Billionaires series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. Though I haven’t read the first book, Tempting Acquisitions, after finishing Merger to Marriage I’ll definitely be picking up Keira McBride’s story. I love all three McBride sisters and their relationship was every bit as compelling as the romance between Holt and Mayson. All in all, I recommend Merger to Marriage . Ms. Fox is an author whose books I adore and I can’t wait to read more about the fabulous McBrides!
Mayson McBride has never been one to walk on the wild side. However, when Mayson meets Holt Turner — the handsome best friend of her new brother-in-law — at her sister’s wedding, she throws caution to the wind for a single night. It was the perfect night…until Mayson realizes that her plan for no-strings-attached sex had some life-changing consequences.
Holt can’t get Mayson out of his mind, but when he sees her again a few months after their one-night stand he’s shocked to learn that he’s going to be a father. For Holt, Mayson’s pregnancy sparks a need for permanency he’s never felt before. But Mayson doesn’t want a merger of a marriage, she wants love. Can Holt convince her there’s more between them than a baby? He might not have a chance, if someone from his past has their way…
Merger to Marriage is flirty, fun, and wholly entertaining. Author Addison Fox drew me into Mayson and Holt’s story from the very first page and I found myself devouring the tale in one fell swoop.
Mayson and Holt are two people brought together first by passion and then by the results of said passion. Though the news came as a shock to both of them, I like that both Mayson and Holt handled the surprise pregnancy in an adult manner. Holt’s desire to marry Mayson and protect her from his mother’s machinations is logical, particularly since Ms. Fox shows how ragingly manipulative his mother is. Though Holt screws up from time to time, I was rooting for him to realize he loves Mayson and wants to marry her for emotional as well as practical reasons. As for Mayson, she’s a heroine I have to adore. She’s smart, caring, and doesn’t back down from a fight. She and Holt are a great pair and the chemistry they have is palpable all throughout Merger to Marriage . The only thing that kept Merger to Marriage from being the perfect read (to me) was the plotline involving Holt’s mother. While I found this storyline to be interesting, the resolution of it was rushed and took place primarily offstage, which left me feeling a bit disappointed.
Merger to Marriage is the second book in Ms. Fox’s Boardrooms & Billionaires series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. Though I haven’t read the first book, Tempting Acquisitions, after finishing Merger to Marriage I’ll definitely be picking up Keira McBride’s story. I love all three McBride sisters and their relationship was every bit as compelling as the romance between Holt and Mayson. All in all, I recommend Merger to Marriage . Ms. Fox is an author whose books I adore and I can’t wait to read more about the fabulous McBrides!
May 2, 2016
Review originally posted at Ramblings From This Chick
I have been excited to read Merger to Marriage (Boardrooms & Billionaires Book #2) by Addison Fox since I first saw the cover! It definitely drew me in, and after reading the blurb I knew for sure that it was something I wanted to check out. I was a little apprehensive about it at first, because I haven't read book #1 (Tempting Acquisitions). I'm sure that if I would have read book #1 first, that I would have had more insight into some of the characters, but I had no problems navigating through this one or feeling lost. This book can be read as a stand alone.
Merger to Marriage is the story of Mayson McBride and Holt Turner. They meet at Mayson's sister's wedding and the attraction is instant. They have a one night stand, in which she gives him her middle name (Elizabeth) and leaves the next day without leaving a trace. Even though both Mayson and Holt planned on only one night, they both quickly realize that they cannot stop thinking about each other and the night they shared. A party at Mayson's sister's house offers them both the chance to reconnect and pursue the possibility of more nights together.
I really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't seem to get into it. I kept waiting for something to change and really draw me in, but it never happened. I never felt the connection between Mayson and Holt, and I didn't feel connected to them either. It just didn't seem real to me. The whole thing seemed rushed and forced. I wanted to like Mayson, but I found her character to be extremely wishy washy. One minute she was upset that Holt was proposing marriage even though at the time he didn't love her, and the next she was upset that he was saying they had no future because he felt guilty for some troubles in his past. I felt the same way about Holt. He would say one thing and then turn around and do the complete opposite. I am usually a huge fan of the one night stand to marriage/lovers trope, but this one just didn't seem to offer anything new or fresh.
Unfortunately for me, even the secondary characters were mostly unlikeable. I found Holt's mother to be completely horrid, and Mayson's father wasn't much better. I also didn't understand how the entire book her father was so not interested in Mayson and her sisters and did everything to basically undermine them at every turn. Then suddenly towards the end of the book he is offering advice to Mayson and playing the role of supportive dad. It just seemed like an abrupt switch in personalities. Overall, I just never felt the emotions were there and I never could get invested in the hero and heroine. Sadly, this is not a book I would recommend.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
I have been excited to read Merger to Marriage (Boardrooms & Billionaires Book #2) by Addison Fox since I first saw the cover! It definitely drew me in, and after reading the blurb I knew for sure that it was something I wanted to check out. I was a little apprehensive about it at first, because I haven't read book #1 (Tempting Acquisitions). I'm sure that if I would have read book #1 first, that I would have had more insight into some of the characters, but I had no problems navigating through this one or feeling lost. This book can be read as a stand alone.
Merger to Marriage is the story of Mayson McBride and Holt Turner. They meet at Mayson's sister's wedding and the attraction is instant. They have a one night stand, in which she gives him her middle name (Elizabeth) and leaves the next day without leaving a trace. Even though both Mayson and Holt planned on only one night, they both quickly realize that they cannot stop thinking about each other and the night they shared. A party at Mayson's sister's house offers them both the chance to reconnect and pursue the possibility of more nights together.
I really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't seem to get into it. I kept waiting for something to change and really draw me in, but it never happened. I never felt the connection between Mayson and Holt, and I didn't feel connected to them either. It just didn't seem real to me. The whole thing seemed rushed and forced. I wanted to like Mayson, but I found her character to be extremely wishy washy. One minute she was upset that Holt was proposing marriage even though at the time he didn't love her, and the next she was upset that he was saying they had no future because he felt guilty for some troubles in his past. I felt the same way about Holt. He would say one thing and then turn around and do the complete opposite. I am usually a huge fan of the one night stand to marriage/lovers trope, but this one just didn't seem to offer anything new or fresh.
Unfortunately for me, even the secondary characters were mostly unlikeable. I found Holt's mother to be completely horrid, and Mayson's father wasn't much better. I also didn't understand how the entire book her father was so not interested in Mayson and her sisters and did everything to basically undermine them at every turn. Then suddenly towards the end of the book he is offering advice to Mayson and playing the role of supportive dad. It just seemed like an abrupt switch in personalities. Overall, I just never felt the emotions were there and I never could get invested in the hero and heroine. Sadly, this is not a book I would recommend.
**ARC provided by Publisher**
May 11, 2013
I was provided an ARC via Netgalley for an honest review
4 Well Done Stars
Fox has provided us with an Adult Contemporary novel that was both enjoyable and well written. After being in the NA genre for quite awhile now, I almost forgot how pleasurable it is to read real adult language without all the HS/college drama. This is not an Alpha male, angst ridden, caveman/simpering female story.
This is the 2nd book in this series about 3 sisters who have taken over their father's business and become solid, well respected businesswomen in their own right. They are savvy, sharp, and know what they want in life.
This story opens up after the wedding of the first sister in book#1. Mayson literally stumbles into Holt at the reception and after a bit of witty banter and chemistry laced moments, Mayson asks Holt to escort her up to her hotel room. These are two financially stable adults without the gushing insta love, but the chemistry is there.They share an exquisitely sensual night and appear to move on.
From this point the plot of the story begins to center around the what the blurb hints at, plus much more involving Holt's mother. These two conflicts drive the remainder of the novel and prevent both of these characters from being able to make informed decisions about their future.
Mayson struggles with her parents' failed marriage; Holt struggles with the cruelty of having a scam artist for a mother. They neither one see love in the picture at this point.
We have moments of Kiera and Nathan and the third sister, Camryn, plus Mayson's dad and some background on his failures in his marriage to their mom.
There is a buildup to the situation with Holt's mom and here lies the reason for the 4 star rating. I felt that Addison built up the vulgarity of his mother's life rather well, but the climax and resolution of her issue left me wanting more. It felt a bit rushed to me and happened so quickly.
I also wanted Mayson and Holt to both tell off Teddy Craddick to his face. His holier than thou attitude rubbed me the wrong way!
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All in all, this is a well written, adult novel that approaches family, pregnancy, and adult issues in an adult manner. The epilogue is sweet and a kodak moment. I truly enjoyed it and plan on going back to read the first novel
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4 Well Done Stars
Fox has provided us with an Adult Contemporary novel that was both enjoyable and well written. After being in the NA genre for quite awhile now, I almost forgot how pleasurable it is to read real adult language without all the HS/college drama. This is not an Alpha male, angst ridden, caveman/simpering female story.
This is the 2nd book in this series about 3 sisters who have taken over their father's business and become solid, well respected businesswomen in their own right. They are savvy, sharp, and know what they want in life.
This story opens up after the wedding of the first sister in book#1. Mayson literally stumbles into Holt at the reception and after a bit of witty banter and chemistry laced moments, Mayson asks Holt to escort her up to her hotel room. These are two financially stable adults without the gushing insta love, but the chemistry is there.They share an exquisitely sensual night and appear to move on.
From this point the plot of the story begins to center around the what the blurb hints at, plus much more involving Holt's mother. These two conflicts drive the remainder of the novel and prevent both of these characters from being able to make informed decisions about their future.
Mayson struggles with her parents' failed marriage; Holt struggles with the cruelty of having a scam artist for a mother. They neither one see love in the picture at this point.
We have moments of Kiera and Nathan and the third sister, Camryn, plus Mayson's dad and some background on his failures in his marriage to their mom.
There is a buildup to the situation with Holt's mom and here lies the reason for the 4 star rating. I felt that Addison built up the vulgarity of his mother's life rather well, but the climax and resolution of her issue left me wanting more. It felt a bit rushed to me and happened so quickly.
I also wanted Mayson and Holt to both tell off Teddy Craddick to his face. His holier than thou attitude rubbed me the wrong way!
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All in all, this is a well written, adult novel that approaches family, pregnancy, and adult issues in an adult manner. The epilogue is sweet and a kodak moment. I truly enjoyed it and plan on going back to read the first novel
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May 13, 2013
Addison Fox is a particular favorite of mine.. I do enjoy her Sons of the Zodiac Series and hope to see more of it.. but that's not what this review is about. Nope Ms Fox is taking us to the boardroom and the bedroom in this wonderful trilogy. Merger to Marriage is book two in the series and it's a sweet fun read!!
Mayson McBride has spent the past ten years rebuilding the company. She is the creative one and as most of us creative types know.. she has always been the one who "isn't living up to her potential" even when the three sisters rebuild the company daddy dearest manages to make her contribution seem less than her sisters. While she is brillant at what she does she does have to constantly fight that inner battle.
Holt Turner has raised himself from the gutter.. Taught himself how to be a better man and spent a lifetime trying to not only escape his past but pay for his mother's crimes. A man with a conscience . but not a man who even remotely knows how to trust.
When these two meet at the wedding of his best friend and Mayson's sister sparks fly and passions ignite.. One night of amazing sex and then life goes on. Mayson even manages to use her middle name.. so Holt won't know who she is. By the time she realizes that this could be more than just a one night stand it's too late to turn back.
Holt spends the next month trying to find "Elizabeth" but no one named Elizabeth was invited to the wedding so he decides to put it behind him. Until a weekend at his best friend's with his wife and her family brings "Elizabeth" front and center. Then things get interesting... Seems these two are part of that 1%.. you know the 1% where birth control didn't work and there is a baby on the way.
Holt has no clue how to handle this and is rather flustered and confused.. but he does offer Mayson a merger.. they marry and raise the child together.. it's good for business and their child win/win in his mind. Mayson, fortunately expects more out of life..
As they struggle to define their relationship and what they can have, they have to deal with interfering business associates and Holt's monster of a mother..
While this was not an earth shattering book it's an easy enjoyable read and I liked these two.. They are extremely well written characters with flaws and foibles that make them unique.. If you are looking for a way to spend a lazy afternoon, or want a nice easy bed time read, or want to take a book to work, or need a book to read while you are hiding from your kids *grins* then check this one out!! It's worth your time and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Merger to Marriage provided by netgalley
Mayson McBride has spent the past ten years rebuilding the company. She is the creative one and as most of us creative types know.. she has always been the one who "isn't living up to her potential" even when the three sisters rebuild the company daddy dearest manages to make her contribution seem less than her sisters. While she is brillant at what she does she does have to constantly fight that inner battle.
Holt Turner has raised himself from the gutter.. Taught himself how to be a better man and spent a lifetime trying to not only escape his past but pay for his mother's crimes. A man with a conscience . but not a man who even remotely knows how to trust.
When these two meet at the wedding of his best friend and Mayson's sister sparks fly and passions ignite.. One night of amazing sex and then life goes on. Mayson even manages to use her middle name.. so Holt won't know who she is. By the time she realizes that this could be more than just a one night stand it's too late to turn back.
Holt spends the next month trying to find "Elizabeth" but no one named Elizabeth was invited to the wedding so he decides to put it behind him. Until a weekend at his best friend's with his wife and her family brings "Elizabeth" front and center. Then things get interesting... Seems these two are part of that 1%.. you know the 1% where birth control didn't work and there is a baby on the way.
Holt has no clue how to handle this and is rather flustered and confused.. but he does offer Mayson a merger.. they marry and raise the child together.. it's good for business and their child win/win in his mind. Mayson, fortunately expects more out of life..
As they struggle to define their relationship and what they can have, they have to deal with interfering business associates and Holt's monster of a mother..
While this was not an earth shattering book it's an easy enjoyable read and I liked these two.. They are extremely well written characters with flaws and foibles that make them unique.. If you are looking for a way to spend a lazy afternoon, or want a nice easy bed time read, or want to take a book to work, or need a book to read while you are hiding from your kids *grins* then check this one out!! It's worth your time and guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Shauni
This review is based on the ARC of Merger to Marriage provided by netgalley
May 3, 2013
I haven't missed an Addison Fox book yet so I was excited to get an ARC of Merger to Marriage.
This is the second book in the trilogy and tells the story of Mayson - sister to the heroine, Kiera, from the first book - and Holt - best friend to the hero, Nathan, from the first book. This book starts off with a bang (literally!). After a one night stand at Kiera and Nathan's wedding, the two part ways but can't stop thinking about each other. They have the chance to meet again a few weeks later at a weekend house party and realize that not only is the spark still there but there may have been another consequence to their wild night.
As they get to know each other, other factors come in to play that could tear them apart. Holt feels tainted by his mother who is a thief and con artist and he worries that his background could come back to hurt Kiera. Kiera's parents marriage was one of appearance and she is afraid of making the same mistake. Both have been deeply affected by their upbringing and worry about whether they could ever have a real relationship. I liked the interaction between these characters and felt that they were believable as a couple.
I love Addison's writing. There is something about her overall style that makes her stories flow so well. This book had a lot of that, but there was a lot of mental extrapolation on Holts part to try to explain why he liked Mayson. I'm more of a "show me don't tell me" reader so it felt a little heavy handed to me at times. That being said, I also realize that with this book being only 166 pages, the author was somewhat limited in how far she could develop the characters within that format.
Holt did not suffer from lack of development though! The author always writes delicious heroes and Holt is no exception. Sexy, a little rough, a little tortured...perfectly yummy! The heroine was a little too saintly for me - I like her to have flaws that make her unique - but she and Holt worked well together. I appreciated that there were no drawn out secrets or Big Misunderstandings. Both Mayson and Holt were open with each other at the appropriate times.
Overall I think this was a great story that continues seemlessly with the story line introduced in the previous book, yet still strong enough to stand on it own. I look forward to reading Camryn's story.
This is the second book in the trilogy and tells the story of Mayson - sister to the heroine, Kiera, from the first book - and Holt - best friend to the hero, Nathan, from the first book. This book starts off with a bang (literally!). After a one night stand at Kiera and Nathan's wedding, the two part ways but can't stop thinking about each other. They have the chance to meet again a few weeks later at a weekend house party and realize that not only is the spark still there but there may have been another consequence to their wild night.
As they get to know each other, other factors come in to play that could tear them apart. Holt feels tainted by his mother who is a thief and con artist and he worries that his background could come back to hurt Kiera. Kiera's parents marriage was one of appearance and she is afraid of making the same mistake. Both have been deeply affected by their upbringing and worry about whether they could ever have a real relationship. I liked the interaction between these characters and felt that they were believable as a couple.
I love Addison's writing. There is something about her overall style that makes her stories flow so well. This book had a lot of that, but there was a lot of mental extrapolation on Holts part to try to explain why he liked Mayson. I'm more of a "show me don't tell me" reader so it felt a little heavy handed to me at times. That being said, I also realize that with this book being only 166 pages, the author was somewhat limited in how far she could develop the characters within that format.
Holt did not suffer from lack of development though! The author always writes delicious heroes and Holt is no exception. Sexy, a little rough, a little tortured...perfectly yummy! The heroine was a little too saintly for me - I like her to have flaws that make her unique - but she and Holt worked well together. I appreciated that there were no drawn out secrets or Big Misunderstandings. Both Mayson and Holt were open with each other at the appropriate times.
Overall I think this was a great story that continues seemlessly with the story line introduced in the previous book, yet still strong enough to stand on it own. I look forward to reading Camryn's story.
May 14, 2013
Books like this are totally my dirty little pleasure. I love negotiated relationships that turn into more. Yes, it's cliche, but there's a reason for cliches. They work! I love the comfortable story line, with the added twists and turns.
Mayson and Holt are a cute, and terrified couple. One of my favourite aspects of this book is the family. Mayson and her sisters have such a great connection, and I could really see the dedication and love in their work for the family business. Although this story had twists and turns with the bad apple in Holt's family, it didn't focus on how family can work you over. It focused on the importance of family, and the love they can share. I found this both endearing and inspirational. I loved the fact that the best advice that Mayson received was from the most unexpected place, restoring her faith in someone that she had long resented - such a breathtaking moment!
Why not a five star? There were a couple things that I wish were further elaborated in the story, that if explored, would have easily made this book a five star. I'm afraid of adding spoilers (which I hate to do) so please pardon my vagueness. I feel that Holt's history with his mother as well as his path to redemption could have been further elaborated. Mayson was so well developed, but Holt fell a little flat for me. This further exploration into his past as well as the consequences of his mother's action would have fleshed him out much better, making him easier to relate to as a character.
I also feel that the epilogue should have been perhaps placed a bit further in the future than it was, creating more closure to the story. The incident with Holt's mother still feeled left open to me, so an epilogue made further into the future would have been able to resolve her actions more fully.
Still, this was a fun story, and worth picking up for the few dollars that it is on preorder. Check it out folks!
Note: I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.
First posted at http://mamasreadingbreak.blogspot.com/
Mayson and Holt are a cute, and terrified couple. One of my favourite aspects of this book is the family. Mayson and her sisters have such a great connection, and I could really see the dedication and love in their work for the family business. Although this story had twists and turns with the bad apple in Holt's family, it didn't focus on how family can work you over. It focused on the importance of family, and the love they can share. I found this both endearing and inspirational. I loved the fact that the best advice that Mayson received was from the most unexpected place, restoring her faith in someone that she had long resented - such a breathtaking moment!
Why not a five star? There were a couple things that I wish were further elaborated in the story, that if explored, would have easily made this book a five star. I'm afraid of adding spoilers (which I hate to do) so please pardon my vagueness. I feel that Holt's history with his mother as well as his path to redemption could have been further elaborated. Mayson was so well developed, but Holt fell a little flat for me. This further exploration into his past as well as the consequences of his mother's action would have fleshed him out much better, making him easier to relate to as a character.
I also feel that the epilogue should have been perhaps placed a bit further in the future than it was, creating more closure to the story. The incident with Holt's mother still feeled left open to me, so an epilogue made further into the future would have been able to resolve her actions more fully.
Still, this was a fun story, and worth picking up for the few dollars that it is on preorder. Check it out folks!
Note: I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.
First posted at http://mamasreadingbreak.blogspot.com/
May 5, 2013
When Mayson and Holt meet at Mayson's sisters wedding they hit it off and have a one night stand. Mayson hasn't been able to get Holt off her mind, and Holt has thought of nothing but Mayson since their night spent together. As the weeks have gone by it has become obvious to Mayson that the night she and Holt spent together has left her with lasting consequences.
A weekend at Mayson's sisters is the perfect opportunity for Holt to finally see Mayson again, when Mayson see's Holt again she knows she has to tell him she's pregnant. With a past that Holt has worked hard to move away from and keep hidden Holt knows that the only way to keep Mayson and his baby safe is for them to get married. But Mayson wants a marriage based on love not a merger. Now Holt will have to decide if he can move past his childhood and give his heart to Mayson.
This is book two in Boardrooms & Billionaire, I didn't read book one and wasn't lost at all in this story. I'm sure I would have gotten more information into Mayson but I never felt lost or like I was missing anything important. This was an good read but I didn't feel invested all the times when reading about Mayson and Holt. Holt was great but I would have liked to have had more of his feelings for Mayson. This was a really quick light read I just was hoping for more emotions. The side characters were great but the flip with Mayson's dad was a little to quick. I loved seeing the villain get what was coming to him/her but I would have liked to have more of that as well, it's always nice when the bad guy gets whats coming (hee hee). Overall I liked this book but I think I would have liked it more if I felt more of a connection between Mayson and Holt.
**I was given a ARC copy to review for my honest opinion of this book by NetGallery, and I would like to thank them for this book**
A weekend at Mayson's sisters is the perfect opportunity for Holt to finally see Mayson again, when Mayson see's Holt again she knows she has to tell him she's pregnant. With a past that Holt has worked hard to move away from and keep hidden Holt knows that the only way to keep Mayson and his baby safe is for them to get married. But Mayson wants a marriage based on love not a merger. Now Holt will have to decide if he can move past his childhood and give his heart to Mayson.
This is book two in Boardrooms & Billionaire, I didn't read book one and wasn't lost at all in this story. I'm sure I would have gotten more information into Mayson but I never felt lost or like I was missing anything important. This was an good read but I didn't feel invested all the times when reading about Mayson and Holt. Holt was great but I would have liked to have had more of his feelings for Mayson. This was a really quick light read I just was hoping for more emotions. The side characters were great but the flip with Mayson's dad was a little to quick. I loved seeing the villain get what was coming to him/her but I would have liked to have more of that as well, it's always nice when the bad guy gets whats coming (hee hee). Overall I liked this book but I think I would have liked it more if I felt more of a connection between Mayson and Holt.
**I was given a ARC copy to review for my honest opinion of this book by NetGallery, and I would like to thank them for this book**
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