Just a Client

Elmer, Texas #1

by Michelle Donn

“No one can ever know I met my new client when I was buck-naked holding a dead rat. Elmer, Texas is too small a town. I’d never survive the gossip.”

Cameron Morgan has been single mom extraordinaire for the past sixteen years, with the town of Elmer as her trusty sidekick (it takes a village, after all). But now, with her daughter off to college, Cameron's got a fresh chapter in sight. She’s accepted a role on TV’s newest home buying show, hoping to skyrocket her real estate career.

Wilson Phillips is a billionaire caught in the throes of a midlife crisis. While most men might opt for a shiny new sports car, he's set his sights on a vacation dream home. The last thing on his mind is moving permanently to the quirky town of Elmer, Texas. And falling for the widowed former beauty queen whom the reality show has cast as his real estate agent? Out of the question.

Heads butt and sparks fly when a naked first meeting lays the kindling for a slow-burning romance between a small-town Realtor who knows not to fall for an out-of-towner and an LA businessman whose fear of commitment is bigger than his fortune.

Can these two successfully navigate falling in love on camera in a small town, or will their hearts end up in foreclosure?

Hold on to your Kindle because you’re about to fall in love with Elmer, Texas, a one-of-a-kind town in the Hill Country where Generation X couples get their chance at a happily ever after. Be ready for steamy scenes, meddling townsfolk, Texas-sized laughs, and drunken bunco with the mayor.

Genres: Romance

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 2, 2023

About the author

Aim for the Heart!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3lf7xJ9
Facebook: https://bit.ly/30xPjuN
Website michelledonn.com

Michelle introduced herself to romance novels by stealing them off her mother’s bookshelf. She got caught red-handed when she destroyed a new book by dropping in the bathtub before her mom could read it. From stolen paperbacks to an overloaded iPad, Michelle’s passion for reading grew into her debut contemporary romance novel: Savannah Run.

She lives in the South Carolina with her real-life prince charming, three dogs and two horses. Most evenings, you will find her enjoying a cocktail, and working out the plot of her next book with her husband.

Reviews

[Dora Koutsoukou]

I liked the premise but it didn’t work for me.
It was slow burn, I couldn’t connect with neither main characters and I am sorry to say that their story couldn’t hold my interest.

Dnf @ 34%

[Donna McEachran · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book! Wilson Phillips (old joke) is looking to buy a holiday house in Elmer, Texas. He ends up on a reality show with the estate agent (Cameron) showing him a range of houses...but they had already met under funny circumstances. Both have been hurt before and are hesitant to open their hearts. This is the start of a great new series!

[CK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this smart, sexy, small town romance! It’s so cute and I loved the twists and turns to that perfect hea! Every time I read the name Wilson Phillips - I couldn’t help but just giggle as i loved the band! Lol! Loved it!

[Krista · Rating 4 out of 5]

Michelle Donn is a new to me author and I am seriously asking myself why I have not heard of her sooner!! I enjoyed this book so much! The small town charm, the sassy beauty queen and the out of towner. Big plus that the main H/h were over 40! This book had me laughing out loud. I can't wait for the next book in this series!!!

[Sonya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cameron and Wilson were so relatable. This story was a mashup of Big City meets Small Town Charm. Cameron is a widowed single mother who has aspirations of propelling her real estate career. Her life changes in ways she never imagined when she cross paths with Wilson Phillips, LA Billionaire bachelor.

This author writes stories for the grown and sexy. No storyline about high schoolers being bullied them sleeping around. Or college students doing much of the same. This author writes characters who are in their late 30's mid 40's. Individuals who have loved a life full of experiences and adventure. People who understand life, love and having goals worth striving for.

Cameron is working as Wilson's real estate agent for a new reality TV show that Wilson agreed to participate in as a way to Garner more advertising for his pharmaceutical company. A devote bachelor who has demons from the past causing him to not pursue women beyond 2 dates soon realize what is missing in his life once he meets Cameron.

What to Expect:

Small Town Charm
Widowed Single Mother
Billionaire from LA
Reality TV
Friends to Lovers
Slow Burn
A lot of laugh out loud moments

If you are looking for something for the grown and sexy that is more Plot than Spice then look no further. The spice is there but it is not the major factor in this story. This is a slow burn romance with two consenting adults over 40 giving this thing called "Love" another try.

[Mvm · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a delightful start to a series that brings together a local hometown real estate agent and an out-of-town rich billionaire who initially seem to have nothing in common. However, as the story unfolds, sparks fly between them, even though neither is actively seeking a relationship. The palpable sexual chemistry and angst between Cami and Wils add depth and tension to their developing connection.

One of the strengths of this book is the positively hilarious moments that punctuate the story, offering a refreshing contrast to the emotional tension that the main characters experience. Cami and Wils are both forced to confront their own vulnerabilities and fears, making their journey towards love all the more compelling. The story also benefits from an outstanding supporting cast of zany and eccentric characters who contribute to the overall charm of the book.

The author excels in character development, making it easy for readers to connect with and root for Cami and Wils. The downside is that the book ends, leaving readers eager for more. Overall, this book is a highly engaging and enjoyable read, and it sets a promising tone for the series to come. I was provided a copy of this book by the author, and am leaving this review that reflects my opinion of the book voluntarily.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

small town delight

I really enjoyed this very funny book that has a lot of heart. I smiled, chuckled, and laughed my way through many scenes. It starts with a very unique meet cute and goes on from there. The H and h are pretty fully developed, fully human, they make mistakes, they apologize, they try to “adult”. The chemistry between them felt real. The cast of supporting characters from the TV crew to the small town citizens added a lot to the story. The basic story is Cameron is a widowed realtor and single mom in her early 40’s. She gets pick to be on a tv series to show a wealthy client several expensive vacation homes. She needs the commission to send her daughter to college in the fall and to boost her career. Wilson is a wealthy bachelor, tired of his L.A. lifestyle and shallow women and looking to find a nice place for a getaway. He agrees to be on the show in exchange for lots of advertising for his company. He and Cameron have a rocky start, before their chemistry threatens their professional relationship. No spoilers. This is my first book by this author and I loved her humor. Looking forward to the next in this series.

[Barbara’s Booknalysis · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a really fun take on a small town romance. There are interfering neighbours, braying donkeys and a gossip-mill that would rival TMZ! I found myself laughing out loud quite a few times (and there may have even been a snort...).

I really enjoyed the sense of humour that was all through this story - the leading man's name is a hint that you can expect a light-hearted story ahead - but there is plenty here besides just the laughs. Wilson and Cameron have a little more experience under their belts but it comes with the scars and experiences that age brings with it. I really enjoyed the pace of their romance and I thought it was entirely believeable.

There is also plenty here to set up for a thoroughly enjoyable series to follow. The cast of Elmer, Texas, have plenty to offer (although I'm with Cameron - I wanted to slap her brother a time or two) and I look forward to others getting their moment to shine in future books.

Thank you to Michelle Donn for my copy of this ebook. My opinions are my own.

[Diane McConnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect romance set in a small Texas town!

Realtor Cameron Morgan needed the commission from selling a house so she could pay for her daughter’s college because she was tired of being the young widow raising her daughter with the help of Elmer, TX. But she never expected to meet the guy when she was trying to get a dead rat out of the pool at his rental house while trying to find the perfect vacation home for a billionaire.

Wilson Phillips just wanted to find a home to so he could relax and unwind from living in Los Angeles but there was something about Cameron Morgan especially since she was going to be the realtor trying to help him find the perfect vacation home on Vacation Dream Homes near Elmer.

I laughed every time with the Wilson Phillips song flashbacks because they are the perfect reminders of living in a small town.

Now to read the next book Just a One Night about Wilson’s sister Rae.

[Carmela Dimattia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curling up with this book was the perfect way to spend an afternoon. Michelle Donn has given us a delightful and very enjoyable romantic comedy with great, fun characters who will capture your heart and make you fall in love with them and their story. Cameron is a widowed for beauty pageant queen turned real estate agent who meets Wilson Phillips, a billionaire businessman, when he wishes to purchase a vacation home in her small town. What ensues is a fun journey as these two grow close and ultimately fall in love. Lots of moments to make you laugh and take this road with Cameron and Wilson but also with all the over protective residents of Elmer. Loved it and cannot wait to read more of these characters.

I received an arc copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Deanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! Billionaire businessman meets small town realtor in search of his vacation home with a reality tv twist.

Wils and Cami start off with chemistry before they know they will be working as a team on a reality tv show finding Mr. Phillips his dream vacation home in Camron’s small town of Elmer.

Cami wants to prove to her family and friends she can handle life and this show along with the commission of a sold house will set up not only Cami for life but will also set her daughter up for college next year!

Wilson needs to escape LA he is over everything about it and wants to find his getaway… or maybe something more than that.

His realtor is supposed to be someone he has worked with before but he is very surprised to learn not only does he know the fill in but there is something about her he cannot stop thinking about!

Great read, slow burn, billionaire romance meets small town.

[Cheryl A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michelle Donn has taken on the small town genre and has done an amazing job on it. I loved this book about Elmer Texas. Her writing takes you there and you just want to experience it through her eyes. This is small town real estate agent Cameron Morgan, a widow, trying to make a big commission to send her daughter to Vassar in the fall. She meets California billionaire Wilson Phillips, who is looking for his vacation home on this reality show in order to get publicity for his company. Neither are looking for relationships but there are sparks between them. This is a real page turner, easy read with steamy romance and an HEA. A well done read written by Michelle Donn and worth it. Looking forward to the next in the series.

[Stacey K · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Just A Client. It had me addicted from the first page. Cameron and Winston's first meeting is highly unusual and will have you laughing out loud. Get ready as they take you on a fun roller coaster ride, filled with lots of entertainment that will keep you turning the pages.

Bailey, the mayor, Sherriff, and many residents of Elmer will have you wanting to move there. Their endearing, but you don't want to get on their bad side. Or be the center of the small town gossip. But all of them add to what will keep you turning the pages of this one.

As usual, Michelle Donn provided us with an incredible read that's romantic with a side of heat. This is my favorite read of the year.

I received an ARC copy of this book.

[Amanda Workman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Billionaire Romance. Slow Burn. Forced Proximity. Texas. Older MCs.
Cameron Morgan is a single mom trying to fund her daughter’s college tuition through a real estate show. Wilson Phillips is a billionaire who is looking for a vacation home. Can Cameron and Wilson survive one another and find the perfect vacation home?
This story showed some small town meets big city mixes. Along with some old-fashioned small-town drama. The sexual chemistry between the two MCs is impossible to ignore. There are characters to love and some you will want to strangle at times.
I love that the characters are older than in most novels. It is a nice change.
This is my first novel by Michelle Donn and I cannot wait to read more of her books. I love the humor she writes into her work.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just a Client

This fun sexy well written story from Michelle Donn takes place in the quirky small Texas town of Elmer.
Cameron Morgan the beloved former pageant queen and successful realtor, Wilson Phillips a billionaire from California, who happens to be in the market for a vacation property, throw in a reality TV show, and what could possibly go wrong? Well Hold On to your seats because this slow burn sexy romance has some positively hilarious moments amid the angst that has Cami and Wils baring their souls and darkest fears as these two and an outstanding supporting cast of zany and eccentric characters help them realize what true love is all about. Great start to this series.

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book from Michelle Donn. This story reeled me in and kept me
involved and wanting to read it long after I should have called it a night. Wilson
and Cameron have an instantaneously connection. The first scene of them
meeting had me hooked. I loved the connection of the two characters. Michelle
has a way of telling a story that lets you think it is reality and not made up. I loved
reading about the town of Elmer and its residents. Another you don’t want to put
it down book from Michelle.

[Dara Sorah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was such a fun read. It had me from the start. In the first chapter I was laughing so hard and just new it was going be a great read. I loved that both main characters were older and had reservations about starting a new relationship. It was so refreshing. The side characters added so much fun and humor as well. I loved watching them work for their HEA. There was some spice which is always nice. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Grace Hayden Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect story of small-town romance with rich city client coming to town. I loved the hometown vibe everyone is all about protecting their own but also everyone knows every one's business which includes gossiping. The writing style is very easy to read and follow and I loved the whole storyline and all the fun interactions and small-town romance and family vibes. I could not put this book down! I just wanted to know how it was going to end. I would recommend if you love small-town romance with country vibes.

I received this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Pat Hopson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book very much, and loved the world and the characters that the author created for this series. She’s a very good writer who doesn’t use words not necessary, or add additional verbiage just because she picked up a dictionary or thesaurus.

The main characters are drawn to one another and through their interactions with each other we watch them fall in love. They are both fragile characters who, while they are confident in their careers and their lives with others, they are terrified of what falling in love could do to them, They avoid it until they meet each other and eventually figure out that they were destined to be together.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This is the first book in a new series, and it is an entertaining read that brings the laughter. You cannot go wrong when you combine small town feels with those quirky but loveable characters and throw in the premise of a reality tv based house hunting show. It creates a trifecta of pleasure to whittle away the hours of a day. Wilson and Cameron (insert the fan here) will just have you wanting more. I cannot wait for book two.

[🌻Jules Reads it all 🌻 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adored this book! This is a classic rom com set in the fictional town of Elmer, TX. Our two MC’s are over forty (yay!), and come with lots of baggage. They work through it together, and while there is a miscommunication trope, but it works in this story. I adored Cameron and Wilson together. I love how the people and town of Elmer are also a main character in the story.

Love Michelle Donn’s work! This might be my favorite of hers yet!

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to the quirky town of Elmer, Texas where a local hometown girl meets an out of town billionaire. The sparks really fly between these two as their journey takes off. It’s a captivating read with many emotional and laugh out loud moments as Wils and Cami face their pasts and face their fears. It’s a wonderful slow burn romance with some incredible characters especially some of the townsfolk and I enjoyed every bit of it.

[Cathy Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tropes include:
Small town
Slow Burn
Billionaire

I loved everything about this book! Michelle gives us a small town with a former pageant queen and a billionaire realtor couple!
Cameron and Wilson will have you laughing in a matter of minutes but will also show you their darkest fears! An absolute enjoyable read and a great beginning of a new series!

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brand new series by Michelle Donn and also her first rom com. This story was about a real estate agent Cameron and a billionaire Wilson who was on a house hunting reality TV show. Love the little town in Texas, wonderful characters and favorite scene was beginning of story where Cameron decided to strip down buck naked and retrieve a dead rodent in the pool only to be caught by Wilson. I almost fell off my chair laughing so hard. Can't wait for book 2

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! I had so much fun reading Wilson & Cameron’s story - getting to know them and all the unique and interesting people around them. I love their love story. I can’t remember the last time I laughed so much. The characters are so real and relatable. I love Elmer and hope to go back to visit before too long!

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

[Lisa Guertin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reminded me of how much I enjoy small town romance. It has all the best parts of a Hallmark movie: the gutsy, struggling single mom, the big city billionaire looking for a change, meddling townsfolk, cute animals and a big misunderstanding. Watching Cami and Wilson work through their personal demons and find their way to joint happiness was a blast. I’m looking forward to book two!

[Teresa Reitnauer · Rating 4 out of 5]

From their first meeting , Cameron and Wilson, butted heads. A TV show and a rich client with a huge budget adds spice to the story. Their bantering back and forth brought out their attraction for one another. Love the small town of Elmer. Look forward for more citizens of this lovely small town. I received a copy, and I'm voluntarily giving my honest review.

[NanaX8 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved everything about this slow burn, once bitten, twice shy about anything to do with falling in love again. It will have you laughing, crying, and falling in love with Cameron and Wilson right along with each other. Grab this small town, over 40 romance and enjoy!!!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun small town romance! If you're looking for a purely feel-good read, this one is for you. I laughed a bunch of times and smiled through the rest. Looking forward to seeing what happens with the other residents of Elmer!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored Just a Client (Elmer, Texas Book 1)! The story was entertaining and it was exciting to read a love story with "older" main characters. And that they were sexy and interesting.

And the donkeys..... such a fun addition to the story.

Can't wait to read the next book in the series!