Bad Alpha Billionaire

by Zara Kingston

I went undercover to find out his dirty little secrets, but I never expected to become one of them.
My path collided with a brooding, powerful real estate mogul when I became his assistant.

Little did he know that I was actually a journalist sent to expose his alleged corruption—my golden ticket to career success. If I can pull this off, it’ll be the story of the year.

But to get to the truth, I had to get close to him… and I may have gotten too close.

Because this alpha CEO gets what he wants when he wants it.

He had me on my knees in more ways than one… and it was all caught on camera.

Now I find myself falling for the man behind the hardened façade, but he's not the only one with secrets.

Do I take the chance of falling in love with a criminal or do I risk it all for my career and bring his company down?

Genres: Steamy

282 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 24, 2023

Reviews

[Rachel Arthur · Rating 5 out of 5]

First time reading one of Zara's books and let me tell ya, I loved it! I loved how Killian only showed his soft side to Bree. The push and pull between these two was good, i wanted to scream at Bree at times and just shake Killian at some times but it was so worth all the angst we had to go through. The ending was really good.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kim Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the one I really wanted to read from the Billionaire Bossa Nova series. Now I definitely see why. This was my favorite from the whole series. It was back on familiar grounds for me when it comes to plot, characters and setting. The only different thing about it is that the heroine is the one going undercover and I loved this added essence of the story. I’ve read one other book that did this and I loved that for the heroine. There were many times I thought Bree would get figured out and caught, and I anticipated a whole big misunderstanding that would pull them apart. I was thinking he might catch her looking at his stuff, going through his office or viewing manuscripts she wasn’t supposed to view and I had this vision of Killian finding out and losing all trust in people, especially her. That wasn’t the case with this story, the author played this one out completely differently and added more shock value to it, while making it more reasonable so there wouldn’t be an unnecessary break up. Plus she added a sweet ending when Killian and Bree decide to go full course with their relationship. I loved how the author essentially built two different lives for Killian, and for Bree it was three. They both were able to flawlessly fall back into different personas when it came to their side lives, or I guess you could say hobbies. I loved reading about all the different aspects of it and the heat and steam between Bree and Killian caused me to need a fan. There were so many intense moments with them and I loved reading about it, especially the phone texts back when Killian and Bree didn’t know they were talking to each other as Reddit users. It all just ends up being a big meet cute start of a relationship and I loved what the author did with it. The personality difference once Killian and Bree started falling for each other was uncanny as they were completely different people with their guards dropped and not being serious all the time. I loved this and fell more in love with the characters over time. Their vulnerability was amazing and I love when characters get to this point in their relationship. It shows you who they really are and it shows. I’m sad this series is over but I am now a fan of this author and will be looking for more of her books in the future.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Investigator journalist Bree Klinez is going uncover to find out if a potential cover up of embezzlement and bribery is happening between city council persons and well known self-made billionaires of real estate, Marshall's Partners. This story, if proven, will not only expand Bree's career path with more money but she'll have her pick of stories at Global Intergrity. It also means getting close to one of the owners, alpha grump Killian Marshall, as his newly hired personal assistant. Sidenote: Bree also wants to be a romance novelist. She is also chatting with someone online who is trying to help her publish her story.

There are a great deal of details of places, clothes, makeup, buildings as Bree gets hired and has to get going on trying to find out if Killian is in fact guilty. Sometimes the extra events slowed the story down for me. For example: Bree going out to a club one night with her best friend Vivian and Vivian has sex with a guy she just danced with. Or the guy who was found hiding on a certain floor of Killian's work building. Or Bree's spa day. I wanted more of her sleuthing to uncover the truth and what that result would mean for her since she is attracted to him. If he's guilty, can she turn him in to the authorities etc?

For me, Killian is too cold. I think she should have looked at Matt, his business partner instead.😄 I liked Killian even less when he called Bree the office...blank. I can't write the word b/c my review will get flagged. Bree has stood up for herself before, but not in that instance, when I think it mattered most. Later she asks him why he doesn't respect her when they were in the limo on their way to the fundraiser party. I think, for me, he should have apologized. So there would be no misunderstandings going forward, like her question in the limo. They needed more of those open conversations.

There's plenty of spice but I didn't get the impression that they were falling in love with each other. It was more about the physical and not that emotional take my breath away feel. I won't spoil what happens. But this is my honest takeaway after reading the book. Overall 3.5 stars for me.

Thank you for an ARC copy via Booksprout. I'm voluntarily leaving my review.

[Carrie O · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bree is a sharp and driven investigative journalist, with a deep creative side and a side interest in writing. Assigned a case of suspected corruption involving a high-visibility real estate developer and local politcians, she applies for a job with the developer and ends up interviewing for the executive assistant position. Killian is the developer in question, and he desperately needs a well functioning assistant, but is struck by Bree's beauty and uncertain if that's going to work in the long-run. He hires her based on her sass and capacity to stand up to him and speak her mind. Killian has a deep interest in a property that all other develops promise to raze and replace. He'd see it cleaned up, repaired and brought up to luxury standards, while employing local businesses and supporting the community long-term. In her position, Bree now has access to anything she needs to determine Killian's involvement in anything illegal... but will she be able to support their suspicions, or will she find something else?

Bree and Killian are both likeable. Although Bree cannot read Killian accurately when he holds so much to himself, the chemistry between them builds continually. Early exposition is a bit sloggish, but it builds the secondary plot line between Bree and an online supporter of her fictional book. Pacing feels a bit slow at times, but progress is steady and works us toward an honest endpoint. A bit too crass at points, for me, we do get to a sweet and caring relationship and eventually our HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leisel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honestly all these Billionaires I read about and to date it is a few, they seem to all hold this degree of alpha-ism and a sense of they are above everyone else, okay, I guess if they are Billionaires they have to be like that or simply they would only be Millionaires. Sometimes that Billionaire character can be a little unforgiving and I did find Killian at times with his behaviour or attitude was a little overbearing especially towards the lead female Bree, who I loved her sense of strength and integrity. But the whole idea that Bree is undercover researching Killian's company and his actions within the business world I guess that whole 'Alpha' dominance just sets the heat factor for what is to really occur. Of course I'm not going to spoil that for anyone wanting to venture down this track by saying anymore because it is everyone's choice to interpret the story to their liking and enjoyment level. But ask yourself when you get a book that you don't want to stop reading and simply need more with each page I think that says it all, and this was just one of those for me.
Great chemistry between the two main characters and that also built a nice level of heat and sexual tension, which is so great when it builds so high that you know that moment of breaking is simply going to be worth it. There were some great moments of humour too and that whole sense of righteousness of what might happen if Bree learns the truth.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Amie Kieffer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed how this book has a very strong female lead character (FLC) who's basically working 2 full time jobs while also writing a novel to fulfill her dream of being an author. Bree doesn't expect things to take the turn that they do at her new office job but is killing it though as an executive assistant for Killian even though he seems to be a cold, unfriendly boss. Her regular job as a journalist is to find out whether or not he's a bad guy...beyond his attitude. Her friend Viv who is also her co-worker at her "real job" along with her boss, Erin, are a great support system and are there to back her up in more ways than one.
Just to make things a bit more complicated there has to be some other characters to get in the way and cause problems for Bree and for Killian in business and their personal lives. So much going on but it will all make sense to you in the end. This is a HEA with no cliffhangers.

Once again Zara Kingston has created a well written story with some really hot and steamy scenes and included some mystery and suspense that makes you need to know what happens next and how the story ends...that said, I was hooked and couldn't stop reading!!

I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys bad boy office romances with mystery, suspense, and enemies to lovers themes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alyx Reese · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book about Bree and Killian. They’re both strong, determined people. Focused on their professional goals to the detriment to their personal lives. Bree is a journalist, sent undercover at Killian’s company to find out if he’s bribing the city council and mayor to get big construction bids.

It doesn’t take long for Bree and Killian to start butting heads, she refuses to let him walk all over her, and he needs her to submit to him. Their back and forth is hot and hilarious, though probably not as hot as some of their inner thoughts. Bree struggles, spying on Killian, while she is starting to have feelings for him, as well as beginning to think he’s not the bad guy. Killian has his own set of baggage to deal with. But the sparks fly between the two of them.

All of the characters are well written, the plot is full of wit, drama and steam and a few plot twists that came as a surprise. The supporting characters aren’t just placeholders, they have significant roles in the main characters development. The interaction between main and supporting characters is witty, dramatic or even suspenseful. The ending, yes there is a plot twist, was amazing. You have to love a really good last minute reveal. All in all this is a great book, lots of steam, suspense, and excitement.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Arc Review

ADHD - acknowledgement of disability was presented within the storyline. Congrats to Zara for not shying away. This brought forth Brees concerns on being an author. Therefore an outlook on early stages of an author. Their hopes, dreams, fears, expectations. Is this what it’s really like?

Killian - partner in Marshall’s Partners, real estate company, under undercover investigation from Global Integrity on blackmailing/bribing council members etc
‘Bree - tasked investigating Killian’s company. In between her investigation, she is also aspiring to publish her Rom book. Won’t spoil as this was a good read.
An enjoyable roller coaster. Schemes, bribery, investigations - such a lark.

Killian haas come full circle ⭕️ in seeking what he wants. Unbeknownst to him though, Bree was his challenge in more ways than one. Each had their own secrets, but as usual, secrets have a way of coming forth.
Was it sexy - Yes
Intriguing - Yes
Motivating - Yes
Enjoyable n- Yes. Enter the workday of scheming, judgement, expectations and outcomes.
A pleasurable read.

[Chris06 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book from the very first page to the end. Bree … her opening thoughts about past criticisms aimed at her and her joy in completing her first book.

Killian… all about his business and doing his best to NOT be like his dad. His passion for real estate, his growing addiction to Bree, and his side conversations with a new author he is helping get published.

Bree is so strong and knows what she wants.. she stands up for herself and pushes back. Killian is not used to people standing up to him and he finds that she has everything he looks for in a partner.

But … Bree has secrets. Killian has secrets. Someone is sabotaging his company. There is blackmail… there is a jerk guy storing stuff up, bribes, and at some point Brees truth must come out.

Couldn’t stop reading once I started ..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bree is an investigative journalist who is going undercover looking into whether a billionaire real estate developer is paying bribes in order to get his projects greenlit. She gets a job as his assistant, which puts her right up front for all of the action. Bree has also written her first romance novel and is chatting online with someone who is going to help get it published. Naturally, the more time Bree spends with Killian, the more sparks fly. Killian has been attracted to her since the first day that she came into his office. Bree is worried, though, that she won't be able to be objective if she finds something that makes him look guilty.

This is a creative take on the boss/employee relationship and there is plenty of spice and a HEA to be enjoyed as well. I did not care for Killian at first, but he kind of grows on you. Bree is smart and articulate. She speaks up and stands up for herself in a good way.

[Barbara Bear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story has a strong, intelligent, determined female who goes up against a hot, sexy, single-minded businessman in the real estate world. She is an undercover journalist who writes romance on the side and is tasked with getting the dirt on his company for possible bribery.

I loved the plot and story line. It was written as if it could actually happen in the real world. The chemistry and angst between the two characters was incredible. The background supporting characters were well detailed and everything flowed. You did not know what might happen next and was pulled into the story from the very first page. I loved how it played out to the very end.

I will be looking to read other stories from this author. I very much recommend this a must read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kazza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually really loved this book. It was a great topic to write about and was a nice change from what i have been reading. I don't think the title does the book justice. I think it needs a rethink. The book itself was really good. had great characters. Bree what a character, she had so many things going on in her life, i'm surprised she didn't fall ill, two jobs, writing a book, talking online and going on dates lol. What a woman. I loved how Bree gave Killian a run for his money and stood up to him like no other employee. I think the end surprised me as i thought Killian would be quite cross but the twist that follows i was not expecting. I loved that and couldn't put this book down, read in a day. Definitely a book worth reading. recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read several of Zara's books and they keep getting better and better. I have a hard time putting them down and I am sad when they end, and I have to wait for the next book. I love Bree and Killian's' characters in this book. They are two very strong people who want a lot out of their careers. When Killian starts to see how sexy Bree it's Hot. I also loved it when Matt told Bree that Killian had feelings for her when she was packing up her office. The ending is really good, and I was happy how it ended. I hope you Love this book as much as I did, and I defiantly will recommend it to my friends.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[K Webz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think you will enjoy this book as much as I did. Bree and Killian were a well written duo, who has great chemistry and the banter between the two was fantastic and funny at times. Loved the inner dialogue!

Bree is a journalist sent undercover the investigate Killian. The longer she is there, she starts to see another side of him that makes her wonder if the allegations are true.

All the characters were so well developed. And the storyline was great and didn’t feel it was being rushed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kristine L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a page-turning story of enemies to lovers. Bree goes undercover to get the scoop on Killian to see if he's part of the embezzlement and bribery between the city council. Bree becomes his personal assistant. Bree is also trying her hand as a romance novelist. The storyline was easy to read and kept me reading until the very end. There's lots of drama, quips, plot twists, suspense, and intense steam. Very enjoyable story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tahnia Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bree, a person who struggled with sitting still, was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 12. Presently, Bree works as an investigative journalist for Global Integrity, an online magazine, alongside her best friend Vivian. Recently, Bree was assigned to go undercover to investigate a tip about suspicious activities at Marshall's Partners, a real estate company. In order to do so, Bree took on the role of executive assistant to Killian Marshall, who co-manages the company with his close friend. This story contains intrigue, bribery, romance, and steam, ending in a HEA. Very highly recommended.

[Happyscribe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killian, you big overbearing brute of an alpha man - you're just the perfect romance hero that readers like me love to hate but would never kick out of bed. Zara Kingston writes another panty melting book - this time with Bree and Killian in the starring roles. These two were just so steamy and like two magnets that just couldn't keep away from each other - like the universe was deciding for them at every turn.

Thank GOD there's a HEA or I would have been howling!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mindy Lopez · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Book 3 in the Billionaire Bossa Nova Series by this author, and can be read as a standalone. It is an enemies to lovers office romance between Bree and her boss Killian. These flawed characters and the unique plot make for an entertaining read. It is a romantic adventure with enough drama, secrets, mystery, steam, sweetness, frustrating moments, twists and turns, and engaging secondary characters to keep the reader interested. A page turner with a happy ending.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[RSB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full of Spice, Love, and Office Romance!

Looooooved this novel! Bree really brought fire to Killian’s world.
The layers of genius in this novel kept me reading. I loved all the characters. The author is really good about fleshing out secondary characters and making you adore them.
The mystery element was so exciting, and I loved how it played out in the end. And the sex scenes were freaking fantastic. Definitely recommend reading this novel!

[Brailey Becker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was definitely a great read for me! I loved that it was not a typical story plot as well as it didn't have the third act break up. Killian keeps Bree on her toes and he is fighting those feelings for her so hard, only to ultimately succumb to them in the end. Bad Alpha Billionaire was one of my top reads for July!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Potter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great afternoon read

Zara Kingston delivers a 5 star read with Bree & Killian's story. Their story is a great combination of enemies to lovers, opposites attract between an alpha bad boy & the journalist who wants to uncover all his dirty secrets. Attraction flares & now she faces a choice - career or love. Which path will Bree take?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really liked both Bree and Killian, they are very career oriented however when they meet the chemistry between them is undeniable. I really enjoyed the bickering between the two of them. She is strong and doesn't let him walk all over her, and he needs her to submit to him. There were a few surprises that I wasn't expecting, especially at the end but I really enjoyed this story and I hope you do as well.

Received ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review

[L KQ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reporting an Explosion of Chemistry

Brew is a reporter investigating business practices of Killian. However, their attraction foreach other is explosive and they cannot resist each other. With some intriguing twists and turns, this story heats up in exciting ways.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Danee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killian and Bree's story gets off to a good start as sparks fly between them. The attraction and chemistry is great and there are many twists and turns in their story are great and hold your attention. This is a must read, it is very worthwhile.

I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review

[B. Erickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a story about a dream, taking an old, dilapidated building and transforming it into a beautiful dream. Two people meet, one a real estate mogul who is desperately trying to buy the building and the other a reporter who goes undercover to investigate his company. Ms. Kingston wrote a wonderful story!

[Merry Jelks-Emmanuel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bree goes undercover to expose illegal activities of Killian and his company but finds out he isn't what was described to her. She is drawn to the charismatic man but can't find anything to take him down. This is a
well written story with likable characters that drew me into this story.
I am volunteering to leave a review for an ARC of this book.

[Sammye · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an engaging enemies-to-lovers story with great characters. I enjoyed the plot.. It’s fast paced and easy to read. It held my attention all the way through. It’s a great read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Janie Heath · Rating 5 out of 5]

must read

Intriguing and keeps you guessing. I could not put it down. There were so many ways the story could have gone and I did not anticipate where the author took it. I read a lot of books each year but this was a definite favorite.

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed Killian and Bree’s book. It was a real page turner full of twists and turns. And am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Killeen’s company is under scrutiny and Bree is deep undercover to find out the inner dealings but it’s a different undercover assignment that has them both hot and panting for more. They butt heads and the banter is cosmic arcing with chemistry and hilarity. I couldn’t get enough of this awesome work by this prolific author . A very compelling read indeed.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.