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The Temp

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Driven and efficient businesswoman Vivienne Alexander reluctantly finds herself at a speed-dating night after her friend buys her a ticket. It'll probably be a waste of time anyway, she tells herself. She doesn’t need a relationship to make her whole.

So, when an alluring stranger with bright smiles and a riot of auburn hair predicts Vivienne will be in her bed by the end of the night, she’s not sure which is more the sheer cockiness or the thrill that shoots through her.

Free-spirited temp Carla Cooke loves living life to the fullest but has decided it’s time to put down some roots. She’s pumped to start her new job working for a finance company until she discovers who she’ll be working for. Who knew the icy woman she’d teased at speed dating would be her temporary boss?

Now sparks and daggers are both flying. How can this possibly end well?

A lesbian age-gap story that puts some extra sizzle into an office romance.

413 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 28, 2023

138 people are currently reading
544 people want to read

About the author

Donna Jay

39 books462 followers
In 2016, Donna Jay published her first sapphic romance. Since then, she has published eighteen more books, three of which made the number one spot in lesbian fiction.

Her stories feature resilient women, thought-provoking storylines, have plenty of heat, and are all set against the stunning backdrop of her home country, New Zealand.

She also writes sweet romances under the name Diana Jayne.

When she’s not writing, Donna can be found with her nose stuck in a book, or her backside glued to the sofa, binge-watching post-apocalyptic movies.

Sign up for her newsletter here - https://donnajayauthor.com/subscribe

Connect with Donna Jay

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

Email - donna.jay.books@hotmail.com

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5 stars
330 (35%)
4 stars
316 (34%)
3 stars
181 (19%)
2 stars
72 (7%)
1 star
19 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
Profile Image for Conny B.
324 reviews53 followers
July 24, 2023
Corporate Lines is still one of my favourite Donna Jay books. A book that is set in an office, at least partly. So when I heard about this new book being set fully in an office I couldn’t wait to read it.

Let me tell you one thing, if you thought Nadia in Corporate Lines was cocky it feels like it’s nothing against Carla in this story. Carla the temp who is very soon the biggest temptation for Vivienne (the boss). Vivienne the one who is always in control at least on the outside. She really tries hard to keep Carla away from her, but what Carla predicted very early on seems to be harder not to come true.

The chemistry between these two is top notch right from the beginning. I definitely felt the heat between them jumping from the pages right to wherever I was just reading. And well maybe one thing reading at work or in public could get risky. Even though I’m sure Carla would love exactly that. Carla who just loves the risk would definitely be very happy if you get all flustered because this is what she does daily in her job. But on the other hand she is way more than just a temptation. She is actually excellent in her job and knows how to handle the people around her. She also has very sweet side, but this one is reserved for special people. And like you’re going to notice in this story there are more people than only Vivienne who are special to her.

This actually brings me to something I also love in Donna’s stories which are the tiny twists she waves in her stories. I was surprised more than once and every time I am like wow I expected something else. These are definitely the things that will keep you on your toes, at least that’s what happened to me. I never felt like the story slowed down to a level that was too slow. For me it was always just right. Be it in the intimate moments but also in other scenes like the my beloved sightseeing trips through New Zealand. 😍

I just realised I was so busy talking about Carla that I haven’t said much about Vivienne. And the thing is it doesn’t mean I loved her any less than Carla. It was probably because Carla keeps us so busy. I somehow sense that’s exactly what Donna intended to do. But like I said she also got me to love Vivienne. Her reserved persona has its reasons and when her layers get uncovered my heart went out to her more than once. And have I told you about the heat level? I think I have. Lol But for me it was more than just heat and kink how some people call it. The intimacy level in these scenes was just wonderful and perfect.

I realise I have said so much by now, so I probably better stop and let you enjoy. Because this is what I did, I enjoyed every page and got reminded over and over again why I’m a huge fan of Donna Jay‘s. For me her talent is exceptional and this story deserves to be read.
Profile Image for Karin A.
153 reviews19 followers
August 6, 2023
Loved this read. It’s sweet, it’s hot, it has 2 total opposite characters with an age gap and there is no unnecessary drama but the realistic struggles any couple likely goes through.

The 2 different personalities in Vivienne (work versus private) were well written and it perfectly matched Carla’s character.

Lovely relaxing read and funny too!
67 reviews4 followers
August 2, 2023
If WW3 had broken out yesterday afternoon I wouldn’t have known because I was so drawn into Vivienne and Carla’s world.

This story, for me, has such a light, fresh feeling about it. Quick lively banter and sexual tension which is off the charts. I mean really off the charts, scorching, white hot sexual tension. Having said that, the relationships between the MC’s and their friends, family and colleagues makes the story even better. It has everything you expect to get from a Donna Jay novel.

Do yourself a favour and go and get a copy as soon as you can because I am sure you will enjoy reading it as much as I did.

I was sent an ARC for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Aunt Missa.
301 reviews29 followers
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April 5, 2025
This is my second try reading this author. The Temp is a DNF for me. CC, or Carla, is just awful as a character. Her terrible behavior was just so over the top and unrealistic in every way. Vivienne seemed to have some potential, but I can’t get through the harassment that she tolerates from someone who WORKS FOR her.
Profile Image for Vi.
51 reviews3 followers
December 22, 2023
I'm a little surprised at the amount of high reviews on this book.

By the 15% mark, Carla's character was irredeemable.

She is gross and constantly sexually harassing her boss both in and out of the work place even after being asked to stop. It also makes all the characters unbelievable because in any reality she would have been fired on her first day.

Also, Vivienne is labeled as an ice queen, but she does not fit that archetype at all. She is friendly and sweet to people she knows, the only time she is cold is when shes being harassed by Carla which is justified and doesn't an ice queen make.

What bothers me the most about books like this is it helps normalize bad behavior. This is not a relationship that I wanted to see manifest. It's abusive and disgusting. If a male character did the things Carla did in this book, he'd be the villain and yet the book is framed in a way that we are supposed to cheer her on and be happy about their relationship.
Profile Image for Victoria.
527 reviews82 followers
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August 1, 2023
I think there's a thin line between adorable cocky and annoying cocky. And for me, Carla fits into the latter.
I have mixed feelings about this book and have concluded that this book it's just not for me. Hence I leave a review without a rating...
Profile Image for Jamie (TheRebelliousReader).
6,887 reviews30 followers
May 4, 2025
✔Sapphic Book Bingo Challenge 2025 🌈✨: Main Board - Set Down Under

5 stars. Carla is now my favorite heroine from Donna Jay. I’ve read quite a few of Jay’s works and I’ve enjoyed them all but this is definitely my favorite thus far. It has some of my favorite things. Age gap, Boss/Employee, and D/s dynamics. And it was all done so well.

Carla, my love. I’m obsessed with her. She’s full of charm and she’s such a flirt. She knows what she wants and she has no problem going after it so when her and Vivienne meet for the first time at a speed dating event she couldn’t help teasing and flirting with her. And then of course when she starts her new temp job surprise surprise Vivienne is her new boss! Vivienne is a lot more reserved and can come across as a bit stuffy but I loved her as well. She and Carla’s chemistry was so good and sexy. Carla has a dominant streak and Vivienne is submissive and the sex scenes in this were incredibly hot and intimate. We even got a scene using whip cream. 🔥🔥🔥 So. Good!

The drama in this felt real and I liked how the third act was handled. There’s no third act breakup but there is a but there is a problem that comes up for the ladies and I loved how it was done.

Overall, this was so romantic and sexy with fantastic leads and lovable side characters. Would definitely read again.
Profile Image for Donna.
Author 39 books462 followers
Read
April 13, 2025
My latest book The Temp by Donna Jay The Temp is now available for purchase!!


Amazon US - https://www.amazon.com/ebook/dp/B0CBW...
Amazon UK -https://www.amazon.co.uk/ebook/dp/B0C...
Amazon AU - https://www.amazon.com.au/ebook/dp/B0...
Amazon Canada - https://www.amazon.ca/ebook/dp/B0CBWK...
Smashwords - https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...

Driven and efficient businesswoman Vivienne Alexander reluctantly finds herself at a speed-dating night after her friend buys her a ticket. It'll probably be a waste of time anyway, she tells herself. She doesn’t need a relationship to make her whole.

So, when an alluring stranger with bright smiles and a riot of auburn hair predicts Vivienne will be in her bed by the end of the night, she’s not sure which is more surprising: the sheer cockiness or the thrill that shoots through her.

Free-spirited temp Carla Cooke loves living life to the fullest but has decided it’s time to put down some roots. She’s pumped to start her new job working for a finance company until she discovers who she’ll be working for. Who knew the icy woman she’d teased at speed dating would be her temporary boss?

Now sparks and daggers are both flying. How can this possibly end well?

A lesbian age-gap story that puts some extra sizzle into an office romance.

* Age gap
* Office Romance
* Boss/employee
* Opposites Attract
* Hot for the Boss
* One-night to Forever
* New Zealand Setting
* Sexy and flirty
* Handcuffs & Whipped Cream
Profile Image for Tempe Luvs Books.
553 reviews2 followers
August 6, 2023
This is Donna Jay at her finest. It’s flirty, witty, fun, cute, sexy and of course comes with a nice dose of steamy scenes.

Carla and Vivienne are opposites with an undeniable attraction. They met at an evening of speed dating. Neither wanted to go, but were coerced by friends. Vivienne introduced herself as the manager of a debt collection agency. Carla, thirteen years younger, plopped down in front of her and began a series of one-liners. When asked what she did, she replied that she predicted the future, such as that Vivienne would be in her bed before the evening was over. I laughed as I don’t know if I’ve ever met a character as “ballsy” as Carla.

Carla was employed by a Temp agency and was assigned as the receptionist for Vivienne’s debt collection agency. She was relentless with her heavy flirtations as she continued pursuing a relationship with Vivienne. Carla was charming, but also had the innate ability to turn an innocent comment into one dripping with innuendo and Vivienne could only shake her head in wonderment.

Vivienne continued to resist until she gradually gave in a little bit at a time, keeping the suspense alive. The adventure that was their relationship made me fall in love with the balance between them.

One of my joys in reading Donna Jay books is the exposure to New Zealand found in every book. I became distracted a few times when I left the story to search Google and study the country and various places mentioned. I just love how proud she is when shares her love of her country.
Profile Image for Linda.
233 reviews10 followers
March 22, 2024
The Temp was sassy and fun, besides who doesn't want to top the boss? My wife and I enjoyed this audiobook together for a few evenings. It's so much better than watching TV. I haven't read too many Donna Jay books but I like her pacing and sense of humor and we were digging the New Zealand accent...please forgive me for trying to copycat some of the pronunciations. The spice is high and angst is low. Nicely done.
Profile Image for Tattiana.
98 reviews1 follower
January 3, 2024
I enjoyed this book, very easy read with loveable characters. I actually found it humorous, Carla is kinda funny
256 reviews6 followers
July 30, 2023
I have enjoyed reading all of Donna Jay's books. But there is something extra special about The Temp. Vivienne is 42 and single. On a whim, she buys a ticket to a speed dating event. While at the event, she meets CC. A gorgeous woman who plays the jokester. Carla, CC, works at a temp agency. Vivienne is the boss at the debt collection, where Carla ends up. And the fun and jokes ensue. But Vivienne is a no-nonsense boss. And Carla gets on her last nerve. Or does she. There is a definite attraction between them. That Vivienne does not want to admit. I really enjoy the way Donna adds light heart fun into her books. I will be reading along and then laughing out loud. It is quite a talent Donna has. And I like the way she adds so much of New Zealand in the books. I always learn several new things. And just as good, if not better. Donna can definitely write spicy, sexy scenes. I could just feel the sparks flying between Vivienne and Carla. I highly recommend this book. And actually all of Donna Jay's books. Enjoy.
Profile Image for Imogen  Ann Paine.
118 reviews2 followers
July 30, 2023
Wonderful and outstanding

First of all congratulations to Ms Jay for another amazing book from her talented pen. Right so Vivienne successful business woman roped into a speed dating event by her so called best friend Enter Carla who comes crashing down on Vivienne like a force 10 hurricane what follows the next time they meet is wonderful and very scary, the chemistry off the charts and as long as Vivienne does as Ms CC tells her to do and as long as they don't fall in love right!!!! . Excellent book the MC's are supported by a good supply of side characters to add to the main story ,this is easy fantastic book amazing characters stop reading this and read it now you won't be disappointed.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
493 reviews6 followers
August 4, 2023
As I sit here having just finished this book, I feel sweetly content. And it's not just the mushroom mocha I'm drinking (high five Vivienne). I found this romance between the vivacious temp and her staid boss quite charming. Packed with plenty of humor, good communication and hot behind-closed-doors action, I found myself itching to get back to reading each time I was interrupted. I definitely see myself rereading this in the future.
Profile Image for Heather.
737 reviews11 followers
March 30, 2024
Age Gap Office Romance!

Well written and entertaining. The tension between the MCs was palpable. Their encounters were hot hot hot. Loved the ice queen at work and submissive in bed instead of the usual. The open communication was on point really from the get go although they don’t realize it at first lol.
Profile Image for LEAH.
120 reviews26 followers
January 1, 2024
5 ★ | Viv and Carla are a forced to be reckoned with! A perfect office, age-gap, boss / employee, romance. I love the persistence from Carla to persue Viv - even when she pretends she’s not interested and hates the attention & crude banter ;) 5 stars all the way!
Profile Image for Rowan.
310 reviews3 followers
August 2, 2023
brilliant

This is a fantastic book about Vivianne & Carla’s relationship. The ups & downs of seeing your boss and a little submissive behaviour thrown in. Vivienne and Carla meet on a speed dating event and Vivienne then turns out to be Carla’s new boss. Well written, with an interesting storyline and good main & supporting characters. A really good read that I couldn’t put down - would highly recommend
Profile Image for Erica.
344 reviews11 followers
August 16, 2023
Sweet and incredibly hot 🥵 story! Loved it🖤🖤
Profile Image for Tierney Moore.
Author 14 books93 followers
June 28, 2024
Both sweet and spicy! And some mild femdom never goes amiss 😇

Oh, and a super-sexy cover!
Profile Image for Vita L. Licari.
917 reviews46 followers
January 31, 2024
Such a HOT, funny, age gap/ Ice Queen love story! You can't help but love Carla (CC) as she melts her boss Vivienne! The side characters are fun and endearing. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Definitely 5 stars!!
Profile Image for AL.
684 reviews6 followers
August 3, 2023
Easy going reading

A nice book to read without surprises, easy going if I might say that. Predictable but definitely not boring. Well described characters, realistic dialogues. With a Happy Ending
78 reviews
October 20, 2025
a very fun read

This book has steamy moments and is sexy.. but the dialogue is fun, and flirting hilarious… I rarely laugh out loud but I did here, and smiled often. It was sweet, sexy and I learned more about New Zealand.
Profile Image for Valtier.
49 reviews
January 19, 2024
This book has so many puns and jokes that I was constantly in laughter! The characters are very likable and enjoyed reading their endeavor into the relationship!

This was my first book by this author, and I read it within a day. Most likely I will pick up another book of hers.
Profile Image for Sha.
206 reviews1 follower
October 17, 2023
The New Zealand scenery serves as a backdrop for this sweet unassuming story. I loved reading it. As is the case with most of this author’s books, the characters and the settings are everyday, and realistic, with people going about their day and holding real jobs, dealing with mundane problems. Nothing is over the top and yet everything is drawing you in. The story is paced well, stretching over a significant amount of time to let the MCs get their bearings and reach the right decisions. This almost slow pace echoes the laid-back atmosphere of the country and it is also reflected in the laid-back, tolerant approach assumed by the supporting characters. Even the opening scene, which is by far the most intense scene in the book (not counting sex scenes), is accommodating, capturing your interest and making the story accessible without pushing it too hard. I love that.
It shows real skill when an author manages to hold back and let us (readers) get to know the place and the people without rushing through it. The New Zealand lingo adds quite a bit of charm and I learned quite a lot about Kiwi history through the references in the book (which I googled, of course!).
Overall, this is a great book, entertaining and sexy.

T&T:
Tropes: erotic romance, office romance (hot for boss), speed-dating, age gap, opposites attract, BDSM, food play
Triggers: loss of a parent, earthquake, BDSM, open-door sex scenes, emotionally abusive ex (off-page)
Rating: 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Siddie.
549 reviews10 followers
September 12, 2024
At a speed dating event, outgoing Carla teases quiet Vivienne. Both women find an instant attraction, but subsequent events lead Vivienne to leave early.
Carla has just got another temp job as a receptionist. She is an expert at this, and with her intelligence, quick wit and outgoing nature, she always does well, but she really wants to find a permanent post at a place she likes.
Vivienne is boss at the Wellington branch of a debt recovery company, where Carla is the new receptionist. Both women are surprised by meeting again after the speed dating. Vivienne was incredibly turned on by Carla, and now she has to work with her without giving in to her desires.
This is a very well written book set in New Zealand, and we learn a fair amount about the country. Both Carla and Vivienne are lovely characters, and the sexual tension between them is so hot. Vivienne is the boss when at work, but in her private life she loves Carla to take the power. Such a steamy story at times.
Profile Image for JT.
465 reviews7 followers
October 10, 2023
Donna Jay did an incredible job with this book. It was full of angst, fun, reality and just about anything you might desire in a good WLW book. I really enjoyed that it is set in New Zealand. I am just now becoming acquainted with folks there and it was nice to read a book set in the locale. The characters in this book are full of snark and seriousness in bouts of transparency. I am going to put more of her books on my TBR list. Donna Jay has a true gift for grabbing the reader and made it super easy to immerse myself in the story from the first pages.
394 reviews7 followers
August 7, 2023
Great book

I really enjoyed this book and the interchange between the two main characters. The secondary characters were well rounded as well. In the beginning, Carla was a bit much, but that calmed down.
135 reviews
August 9, 2023
sweet

A good read as always. I love all DJ’s books.
The characters were lovable & funny.
I would recommend this book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews

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