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Secret Billionaires #1
Working Stiff
An office romance where the hot-shot lawyer pines for his unattainable paralegal: think Suits with a slow-burn, royal twist.
Casimir van Amsberg—a top Hollywood entertainment lawyer with a cocky closer attitude—is obsessed with his curvy, smart aleck paralegal, but she’s married. Caz never goes after married women.
He fell first and hard, and he pines for her every moment they work together, hiding his true feelings.
Because. She’s. Married.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Roxanne O’Neil isn’t married.
When she joined the law firm, the other girls warned her that hot, hunky Casimir was a heartbreaker, so she bought herself a ring of the finest cubic zirconia and declared herself off-limits.
But then they became friends.
His emerald eyes sparkle with mischief when they’re together.
And then Rox accidentally ends up living with him.
Platonically, of course.
But sometimes, the softness in his eyes and “accidental” touches make her yearn for more.
What’s a working stiff to do when she falls in love with the boss?
INCLUDES YOUR FAVORITE TROPES:
✓ Friends to Lovers
✓ Secret Royals
✓ Over the Top Romantic Suspense
✓ and always, Thrillers that Bang!
Casimir van Amsberg—a top Hollywood entertainment lawyer with a cocky closer attitude—is obsessed with his curvy, smart aleck paralegal, but she’s married. Caz never goes after married women.
He fell first and hard, and he pines for her every moment they work together, hiding his true feelings.
Because. She’s. Married.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Roxanne O’Neil isn’t married.
When she joined the law firm, the other girls warned her that hot, hunky Casimir was a heartbreaker, so she bought herself a ring of the finest cubic zirconia and declared herself off-limits.
But then they became friends.
His emerald eyes sparkle with mischief when they’re together.
And then Rox accidentally ends up living with him.
Platonically, of course.
But sometimes, the softness in his eyes and “accidental” touches make her yearn for more.
What’s a working stiff to do when she falls in love with the boss?
INCLUDES YOUR FAVORITE TROPES:
✓ Friends to Lovers
✓ Secret Royals
✓ Over the Top Romantic Suspense
✓ and always, Thrillers that Bang!
Kindle Edition
First published May 11, 2016
1879 people are currently reading
2619 people want to read
About the author
Blair Babylon
120 books2,242 followersIf you like my books and want to know when I've got a new one out--
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Blair Babylon often releases ebooks at a special release-day price of 99c.
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Blair Babylon is the nom de plume of an award-winning, USA Today-bestselling author who used to publish literary fiction. Because professional reviews of her other fiction usually included the caveat that there was too much deviant sex and too much interesting plot, she decided to abandon all literary pretensions, let her freak flag fly, and write hot, sexy, erotic romance.
FOLLOW ME HERE ON GR.
Blair Babylon often releases ebooks at a special release-day price of 99c.
To never miss a sale, CLICK HERE: http://smarturl.it/Babylon-Email
Blair Babylon is the nom de plume of an award-winning, USA Today-bestselling author who used to publish literary fiction. Because professional reviews of her other fiction usually included the caveat that there was too much deviant sex and too much interesting plot, she decided to abandon all literary pretensions, let her freak flag fly, and write hot, sexy, erotic romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 327 reviews
August 15, 2021
Okay I lie, I dnf'd it, so technically not read. I don't know why I pick these books up because I always hate them. This one I was "okay" with for a little, even though I pegged it as college age romantic fantasy early on. When the author lost me? ::And I'm laughing even now at the ridiculousness of it as I write this::...
So yeah, after that? "nope"
So yeah, after that? "nope"
May 3, 2017
DNF at 50%
I read a lot of free kindle downloads and my tolerance for crappy outlandish contemporary romances is really high. Yet, I despise this book.
Rox (short for Roxanne) is a paralegal for Cash (short for Casimir). She lied about being married when she was hired so that Cash, who is a notable womanizer, would not hit on her and so she can keep working with him.
One good thing: the sex scenes are well written
Bad things in no particular order:
- Rox goes back and forth being confident at work and incredibly insecure, throwing back every nice word Cash has by replying "you say that to all the girls"
- my lifetime quota of reading the word 'chubby' has been reached. In one book. Rox keeps using that word on herself either before or after Cash tells her she is beautiful.
- every other female person is stupid. All the women in the office fawn over Cash and have slept with him. They can't keep themselves from hitting on him so he can't work with them.
- the I-am-married lie was carried on for way too long. It was clear that Cash was conflicted about his emotion and attraction for Rox and she let the lie go on.
- there are living together while she was pretending to be married. Another stupid move.
- there are too many side events. In one instance, Rox negotiates a contract alone (she is not a lawyer, just a paralegal) while being fed lines and advice by Cash from a hidden earpiece. You see, Roxanne is named after the character in Cyrano de Bergerac and so it is a humorous way of playing it out. I am sure the author thought is was clever.
Sorry about the ranting, I haven't hated a book this much in a long time, and I did not even finish it. I don't know why I read so much of it. I was hoping there was a secret second book and that this story line would end around that mark. But no, this book lacks direction.
I read a lot of free kindle downloads and my tolerance for crappy outlandish contemporary romances is really high. Yet, I despise this book.
Rox (short for Roxanne) is a paralegal for Cash (short for Casimir). She lied about being married when she was hired so that Cash, who is a notable womanizer, would not hit on her and so she can keep working with him.
One good thing: the sex scenes are well written
Bad things in no particular order:
- Rox goes back and forth being confident at work and incredibly insecure, throwing back every nice word Cash has by replying "you say that to all the girls"
- my lifetime quota of reading the word 'chubby' has been reached. In one book. Rox keeps using that word on herself either before or after Cash tells her she is beautiful.
- every other female person is stupid. All the women in the office fawn over Cash and have slept with him. They can't keep themselves from hitting on him so he can't work with them.
- the I-am-married lie was carried on for way too long. It was clear that Cash was conflicted about his emotion and attraction for Rox and she let the lie go on.
- there are living together while she was pretending to be married. Another stupid move.
- there are too many side events. In one instance, Rox negotiates a contract alone (she is not a lawyer, just a paralegal) while being fed lines and advice by Cash from a hidden earpiece. You see, Roxanne is named after the character in Cyrano de Bergerac and so it is a humorous way of playing it out. I am sure the author thought is was clever.
Sorry about the ranting, I haven't hated a book this much in a long time, and I did not even finish it. I don't know why I read so much of it. I was hoping there was a secret second book and that this story line would end around that mark. But no, this book lacks direction.
April 30, 2016
Working Stiff is such a wonderfully intriguing and beautifully touching story of two people who long to be loved and seen for who they truly are. The tremendous emotion that flows through these pages is delightfully offset by the warm humor that finds its way into the most intense situations at times. While I have loved each of Blair Babylon’s books, this one had a very different yet vibrant feel to it. It was rich, decadent, and yet still very much down to earth and true to the author’s heart. I honestly couldn’t get enough of the amazing characters found throughout this journey. They all played a necessary role that transformed this story into so much more and literally made it come alive.
Rox has her life mostly planned out. She has worked hard and attained her dream job. She enjoys her co-workers and even enjoys working with her boss Cash. No matter how much she longs for more with her boss Cash, she knows she is much better off with the strong and beautiful friendship they share. Cash has secretly longed for so much more then friendship from the breathtaking Rox. She has turned his world upside down and yet he isn’t able to show her what she means to him because she has placed solid boundaries between them. He chooses to cherish her friendship if that is all he is allowed to have. When unforeseen danger comes looking for them, they must decide if hiding their heart from the other is really the best thing for both of them. Can they walk away from something that could be better than their wildest dreams for fear of having their heart torn apart, or will the danger that hunts them take that opportunity out of their hands?
Rox and Cash were completely amazing! They are unlike any other characters that I had read from this author, and I completely enjoyed getting to know them. Watching the stumble around each other while their heart slowly withered in their iron grasp nearly tore my own heart apart. Lies and lies by omission never did anyone any good. I think if we are to even attempt to be happy, we need to lay our hearts on the line and take a chance since it could be the best decision that you ever made. If not, then you live and learn, but to not even take that chance is almost criminal to both parties.
Blair Babylon never fails to surprise and entertain. The infusion of her heart into each of her books is what transforms them into a living and breathing masterpiece. They will hold you captive while they make you evaluate the more important things in your life. Above all else, they will make you fee. You can’t walk away and not be effected by some part of her incredible story. It will haunt your waking thoughts and seep into your heart until you surrender to it. This is one author that has stolen my heart, and I never want it back.
Rox has her life mostly planned out. She has worked hard and attained her dream job. She enjoys her co-workers and even enjoys working with her boss Cash. No matter how much she longs for more with her boss Cash, she knows she is much better off with the strong and beautiful friendship they share. Cash has secretly longed for so much more then friendship from the breathtaking Rox. She has turned his world upside down and yet he isn’t able to show her what she means to him because she has placed solid boundaries between them. He chooses to cherish her friendship if that is all he is allowed to have. When unforeseen danger comes looking for them, they must decide if hiding their heart from the other is really the best thing for both of them. Can they walk away from something that could be better than their wildest dreams for fear of having their heart torn apart, or will the danger that hunts them take that opportunity out of their hands?
Rox and Cash were completely amazing! They are unlike any other characters that I had read from this author, and I completely enjoyed getting to know them. Watching the stumble around each other while their heart slowly withered in their iron grasp nearly tore my own heart apart. Lies and lies by omission never did anyone any good. I think if we are to even attempt to be happy, we need to lay our hearts on the line and take a chance since it could be the best decision that you ever made. If not, then you live and learn, but to not even take that chance is almost criminal to both parties.
Blair Babylon never fails to surprise and entertain. The infusion of her heart into each of her books is what transforms them into a living and breathing masterpiece. They will hold you captive while they make you evaluate the more important things in your life. Above all else, they will make you fee. You can’t walk away and not be effected by some part of her incredible story. It will haunt your waking thoughts and seep into your heart until you surrender to it. This is one author that has stolen my heart, and I never want it back.
April 17, 2017
DNF at 57% because I just can't anymore! This is, hands down, one of the worst books I've ever read.
It's already three times as long as it should be at 57% which wouldn't be a problem if it were interesting, but it isn't. It's as dull as dust. Boring, boring, boring!
The writer doesn't seem to have done any research and has clearly never met a lawyer. They don't behave that way. They certainly don't just dismiss concerns that something is wrong, without first asking to see the evidence with their own eyes, on blind faith in someone else. What utter tosh.
I can't get the really unattractive image out of my head of two people who really don't fit together. One is freakishly tall and lean and the other is short and fat. Every time they interact in the book it looks horribly wrong in my head and all awkward. This also makes the sex scenes, which are boring to start with, a bit gross.
The characters are all horribly immature. Who decides to go binge drinking on a school night, at a sex club, just cause someone else made a half-hearted comment about you not being able to keep up? How old is she? Five?
Everything about this book is annoying, unattractive, and off putting. It's so rare that I don't finish a book. That's how bad it is.
It's already three times as long as it should be at 57% which wouldn't be a problem if it were interesting, but it isn't. It's as dull as dust. Boring, boring, boring!
The writer doesn't seem to have done any research and has clearly never met a lawyer. They don't behave that way. They certainly don't just dismiss concerns that something is wrong, without first asking to see the evidence with their own eyes, on blind faith in someone else. What utter tosh.
I can't get the really unattractive image out of my head of two people who really don't fit together. One is freakishly tall and lean and the other is short and fat. Every time they interact in the book it looks horribly wrong in my head and all awkward. This also makes the sex scenes, which are boring to start with, a bit gross.
The characters are all horribly immature. Who decides to go binge drinking on a school night, at a sex club, just cause someone else made a half-hearted comment about you not being able to keep up? How old is she? Five?
Everything about this book is annoying, unattractive, and off putting. It's so rare that I don't finish a book. That's how bad it is.
April 9, 2017
To be honest, I could not finish this book. The moment I read the supposed full name and history (I really did not see that coming) of the main male character I bailed. Dear Blair, you did know you were using the name of a very well respected (royal) person who tragically died way too young, a couple of years ago, didn’t you?
Then why?
Then why?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2016
Book: Working Stiff: Casimir (Runaway Billionaires #1)
Author: Blair Babylon
Publication Date: 5/17/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
*May contain spoilers *
I have read quite a few books by this author and I am going to say I think this one is my favorite so far. One thing I love is we hear of others from previous series, which I always love when an author does that.
In this story, we have Casimir aka Cash. Cash lives in California and he is a lawyer in a firm who deals with high players. Rox is his personal assistant and unlike all the other women who work there, she has no pull on Cash or at least she does not realize she does. Cas has always had feelings for Rox but she has a wedding band on so has been off limits. After some major thing happens, Rox ends up staying with Cas and well many things take place for these two. Of which includes a trip to Cas' real home and a visit with his family. Rox learns many things that no one else knows about. What will happen for this couple? Well grab a copy and get reading it is good.
The story, the plot, the couple and others make this book worth reading.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review
Blair Babylon
Author: Blair Babylon
Publication Date: 5/17/2016
Reviewed by: Tammy Payne- Book Nook Nuts
My Rating: 5 Stars
REVIEW
*May contain spoilers *
I have read quite a few books by this author and I am going to say I think this one is my favorite so far. One thing I love is we hear of others from previous series, which I always love when an author does that.
In this story, we have Casimir aka Cash. Cash lives in California and he is a lawyer in a firm who deals with high players. Rox is his personal assistant and unlike all the other women who work there, she has no pull on Cash or at least she does not realize she does. Cas has always had feelings for Rox but she has a wedding band on so has been off limits. After some major thing happens, Rox ends up staying with Cas and well many things take place for these two. Of which includes a trip to Cas' real home and a visit with his family. Rox learns many things that no one else knows about. What will happen for this couple? Well grab a copy and get reading it is good.
The story, the plot, the couple and others make this book worth reading.
I was gifted a copy of this book for my honest review
Blair Babylon
August 14, 2021
It’s weird to read about my country, The Netherlands like its some fairy tale romance country and not with the right facts. And the Friso was one of the royal family who was the brother of our king but he died in an tragic accident years ago. So to me this is not right and offensive. Won’t finish the book.
August 22, 2021
This book is the first of two and ends with a cliff-hanger. Apparently the author split the book in two in April 2021, Goodreads still has Cash's story as one book, Amazon sells it as "Working Stiff" and "Hard Work".
I liked the blurb, downloaded the book and started reading. I liked the story until the accident happened: NO WAY. My pet peeve is non-existend research and I get furious when some googling would provide the author with results.
I am ranting about the car crash which is complete bull....t. Cash drives a luxurious Mercedes Maybach, one of the safest cars there is, on a freeway in LA, there is a lot of traffic and the speed should be 65m.p.h.. It is just not possible for that kind of car to do cartwheels after colliding with a car suddenly pulling in front of it. A Maybach has extended assistence systems controlling distance, steering and lane changing. When danger threatens driving assistence systems respond according to the situation and mitigate the severity of possible collision or even avoid them. Even if there were a collision, around five airbags would reduce injuries. A ruptured spleen at 65m.p.h. is hardly believable. Cuts all over the arms and legs ??? Windshields are made of glass that crumbles into round pieces, no cutting possible. Didn't he wear a suit?
Ignoring facts and exaggerating injuries to turn a plot into the right direction makes me mad and doesn't entice me to read more novels by an author. It shows a lack of creative inspiration.
The use of names of living or recently deceased royalty or nobility is just awkward for a European, why not invent names or kingdoms? Again my advice: google names of present royalty plus relatives, don't use them but google other dutch names (Adriaan, Cornelis, Claas).
The script definitely needed a good scan by an editor to eliminate all the twofold paragraphs and actions, and a proof reader for the randomly set commas.
I am not interested in spending more money and reading another 340 pages
I liked the blurb, downloaded the book and started reading. I liked the story until the accident happened: NO WAY. My pet peeve is non-existend research and I get furious when some googling would provide the author with results.
I am ranting about the car crash which is complete bull....t. Cash drives a luxurious Mercedes Maybach, one of the safest cars there is, on a freeway in LA, there is a lot of traffic and the speed should be 65m.p.h.. It is just not possible for that kind of car to do cartwheels after colliding with a car suddenly pulling in front of it. A Maybach has extended assistence systems controlling distance, steering and lane changing. When danger threatens driving assistence systems respond according to the situation and mitigate the severity of possible collision or even avoid them. Even if there were a collision, around five airbags would reduce injuries. A ruptured spleen at 65m.p.h. is hardly believable. Cuts all over the arms and legs ??? Windshields are made of glass that crumbles into round pieces, no cutting possible. Didn't he wear a suit?
Ignoring facts and exaggerating injuries to turn a plot into the right direction makes me mad and doesn't entice me to read more novels by an author. It shows a lack of creative inspiration.
The use of names of living or recently deceased royalty or nobility is just awkward for a European, why not invent names or kingdoms? Again my advice: google names of present royalty plus relatives, don't use them but google other dutch names (Adriaan, Cornelis, Claas).
The script definitely needed a good scan by an editor to eliminate all the twofold paragraphs and actions, and a proof reader for the randomly set commas.
I am not interested in spending more money and reading another 340 pages
April 9, 2020
(audiobook) I don’t care much about doing things in order if I can. I’m rebellious like that. So after enjoying Arthur’s story in Stiff drink and Hard liquor, I came back to the beginning of the series and listened to Working stiff, Casimir’s story. And what a story!
This book is packed high with everything--it’s a billionaire romance + royal romance + office romance + romantic suspense, with a lot of pining, a lot of steam and even a touch of BDSM. A little something for everyone to enjoy!
I found the same problem as the other books: some things are repeated several times and it becomes annoying.
As for the narration, it was very good! First work I’ve listened to from a high profile of the narrating world, and I became an addict. Although it’s a long book--about 12 hours--I couldn’t stop listening and finished the book in less than 24 hours. I only had one problem--but it’s my fault--with the female character’s southern accent. When she speaks fast, I sometimes had trouble understanding what she said. To my defense, I’m not a native speaker.
I highly recommend the series, especially this book! You won’t get bored.
Quickie
Series: Runaway billionaires #1 (standalone)
Hashtags: #billionaire romance #playboy #curvy girl #romantic suspense #office romance #royal romance
Trigger: depiction of facial disfigurement, details on car accidents, mention of suicide and suicide attempt
Main couple: Roxanne Neil & Casimir Friso van Amsberg
Hotness: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
+ Casimir is the most honorable man in the universe
- the suspense part seemed a bit farfetched
This book is packed high with everything--it’s a billionaire romance + royal romance + office romance + romantic suspense, with a lot of pining, a lot of steam and even a touch of BDSM. A little something for everyone to enjoy!
I found the same problem as the other books: some things are repeated several times and it becomes annoying.
As for the narration, it was very good! First work I’ve listened to from a high profile of the narrating world, and I became an addict. Although it’s a long book--about 12 hours--I couldn’t stop listening and finished the book in less than 24 hours. I only had one problem--but it’s my fault--with the female character’s southern accent. When she speaks fast, I sometimes had trouble understanding what she said. To my defense, I’m not a native speaker.
I highly recommend the series, especially this book! You won’t get bored.
Quickie
Series: Runaway billionaires #1 (standalone)
Hashtags: #billionaire romance #playboy #curvy girl #romantic suspense #office romance #royal romance
Trigger: depiction of facial disfigurement, details on car accidents, mention of suicide and suicide attempt
Main couple: Roxanne Neil & Casimir Friso van Amsberg
Hotness: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
+ Casimir is the most honorable man in the universe
- the suspense part seemed a bit farfetched
May 30, 2016
When Rox was hired by Cash, she knew his legendary reputation he was a one and done type man. He made no bones about sampling any woman who offered, as long as she was not married. Rox knew herself enough to know that if Cash made a pass, she probably would accept so she chose to pretend she was married. Three years later, Rox and Cash are a great work team. The southern belle keeps Cash on his toes and Cash can be himself with Rox.
However, when Cash gets into a situation where he needs Rox by his side, she is there. The attraction grows and Rox's little lie is making her want to confess. Once she does though, can she believe Cash is sincere about his feelings or is it only a matter of time before he dumps her?
There is so much to this story that I am not going to delve into but, it is an irresistible read. Loved the interaction between Rox and Cash, they are funny and blunt. This was one of those books you sit down with a smile and have it throughout. Will definitely pick up more from this author.
However, when Cash gets into a situation where he needs Rox by his side, she is there. The attraction grows and Rox's little lie is making her want to confess. Once she does though, can she believe Cash is sincere about his feelings or is it only a matter of time before he dumps her?
There is so much to this story that I am not going to delve into but, it is an irresistible read. Loved the interaction between Rox and Cash, they are funny and blunt. This was one of those books you sit down with a smile and have it throughout. Will definitely pick up more from this author.
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July 30, 2025
5 star Review Working Stiff (Runaway Billionaires #1) by Blair Babylon
Working Stiff is a hot, steamy and spicy book which I read in two sessions. I was totally invested in the story and had a hard time putting it away.
Cash is certainly swoon worthy and I loved the friendship between him and Rox. There is only one type of woman he will not touch and that is a married one.
Having heard the rumours of his love them and leave them attitude, Rox decides to put up a barrier between them by pretending to be married. As his para-legal she has seen the number of women Cash has gone through.
Complications arise when Rox suddenly finds herself in need of a place to stay and Cash offers up his home.
Temptation will test both Cash and Rox’s resolve and it certainly led to some fun times. This book was well written, witty, romantic, suspenseful as well as intriguing and all in all a great book to read.
Working Stiff is a hot, steamy and spicy book which I read in two sessions. I was totally invested in the story and had a hard time putting it away.
Cash is certainly swoon worthy and I loved the friendship between him and Rox. There is only one type of woman he will not touch and that is a married one.
Having heard the rumours of his love them and leave them attitude, Rox decides to put up a barrier between them by pretending to be married. As his para-legal she has seen the number of women Cash has gone through.
Complications arise when Rox suddenly finds herself in need of a place to stay and Cash offers up his home.
Temptation will test both Cash and Rox’s resolve and it certainly led to some fun times. This book was well written, witty, romantic, suspenseful as well as intriguing and all in all a great book to read.
May 26, 2021
I loved this book! I loved the characters Rox and Cash ana how they built their relationship. Rox was such a southern bell and yet so strong for herself and Cash whenever needed. I loved the ending! ❤️❤️❤️
August 16, 2022
Cliff-hanger warning!
For the last three years working as Cash's paralegal Rox has lied about her relationship status so Cash won't "hit it and quit it," like he has all the other female office workers and some clients. She likes her job and doesn't want to lose it by screwing the boss and then being ghosted by him like all the others. But when she gets evicted from her apartment because of her cats he opens his home to her and her Motley-Crew. She only plans to stay a day or two until she can find a place to stay that will take her and her cats when Cash is in a car wreck that could have taken his life. When he refuses the help of anyone else, Rox decides to stay and help with his recovery. Working from home and lliving together bring these two closer.
There are plenty of questions that are left hanging by the end of this book. Will Cash tell Rox all his secrets? Why are the partners at the law firm so shady? Who was spying on Cash's house? And was his car accident really just an accident? I really can't wait to find out where this is all leading. What I can wait for, if there is more, is Rox's constant calling herself chubby, and saying "I bet you say that to all the girls," really it was over the top and so frequent that I found myself rolling my eyes every time she said it.
For the last three years working as Cash's paralegal Rox has lied about her relationship status so Cash won't "hit it and quit it," like he has all the other female office workers and some clients. She likes her job and doesn't want to lose it by screwing the boss and then being ghosted by him like all the others. But when she gets evicted from her apartment because of her cats he opens his home to her and her Motley-Crew. She only plans to stay a day or two until she can find a place to stay that will take her and her cats when Cash is in a car wreck that could have taken his life. When he refuses the help of anyone else, Rox decides to stay and help with his recovery. Working from home and lliving together bring these two closer.
There are plenty of questions that are left hanging by the end of this book. Will Cash tell Rox all his secrets? Why are the partners at the law firm so shady? Who was spying on Cash's house? And was his car accident really just an accident? I really can't wait to find out where this is all leading. What I can wait for, if there is more, is Rox's constant calling herself chubby, and saying "I bet you say that to all the girls," really it was over the top and so frequent that I found myself rolling my eyes every time she said it.
December 19, 2019
Brilliant Story & Audible Listen🎧 Captivating & Hot🔥
Working Stiff
Runaway Billionaires, Book 1
By: Blair Babylon
Narrated by: Joe Arden
I loved everything about this book, from Blair Babylon’s wonderful writing style to the storylines and characters she created to Joe Arden’s fabulous narration. There is a lot of story in this book, it is well written and plotted and completely engrossing. Do not let the length of the book scare you off, it goes by very quickly. The characters are complex and well developed, I adored Rox right from the start, she is likable with a great disposition and is easy to relate to. Cash, her smoking hot boss is a player and serial dater who has a reputation with the women in the office, as a love them and leave them type of guy. Rox did not want to fall in that category so she pretended to be married. She has built a good rapport with Cash, they became friends and they work well together. When he finds out she got evicted from her apartment he told her to stay with him. The two become even closer and Cash does not cross the line with married woman he find he is attracted to Rox, Rox is attracted to him but knows he only winds up dumping his woman and is afraid he will break her heart. I loved the chemistry between these two also loved how everything plays out in this book, the drama, angst, action, the great twists and surprises, the mystery and thrilling suspense, the heartfelt moments and the slow burn friends to lovers romance as well as the smoking hot sexy times. Also loved how the author kept me on my toes and had me wondering about a few things. It was great to find out more about Cash, it was great meeting his two friends and then family too. Blair Babylon, thank you for the amazing story, I hope the rest of the series comes out on Audible soon.
I listened to the Audible edition, Joe Arden is an amazing narrator and voice artist. He performs the voices of all the characters, giving each their own unique sound and personality. He does a great job with the different accents too. You could hear how much heart he puts into his work as he projects the characters emotions and passion into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen🎧
Working Stiff
Runaway Billionaires, Book 1
By: Blair Babylon
Narrated by: Joe Arden
I loved everything about this book, from Blair Babylon’s wonderful writing style to the storylines and characters she created to Joe Arden’s fabulous narration. There is a lot of story in this book, it is well written and plotted and completely engrossing. Do not let the length of the book scare you off, it goes by very quickly. The characters are complex and well developed, I adored Rox right from the start, she is likable with a great disposition and is easy to relate to. Cash, her smoking hot boss is a player and serial dater who has a reputation with the women in the office, as a love them and leave them type of guy. Rox did not want to fall in that category so she pretended to be married. She has built a good rapport with Cash, they became friends and they work well together. When he finds out she got evicted from her apartment he told her to stay with him. The two become even closer and Cash does not cross the line with married woman he find he is attracted to Rox, Rox is attracted to him but knows he only winds up dumping his woman and is afraid he will break her heart. I loved the chemistry between these two also loved how everything plays out in this book, the drama, angst, action, the great twists and surprises, the mystery and thrilling suspense, the heartfelt moments and the slow burn friends to lovers romance as well as the smoking hot sexy times. Also loved how the author kept me on my toes and had me wondering about a few things. It was great to find out more about Cash, it was great meeting his two friends and then family too. Blair Babylon, thank you for the amazing story, I hope the rest of the series comes out on Audible soon.
I listened to the Audible edition, Joe Arden is an amazing narrator and voice artist. He performs the voices of all the characters, giving each their own unique sound and personality. He does a great job with the different accents too. You could hear how much heart he puts into his work as he projects the characters emotions and passion into his performance. He is an entertaining storyteller and a pleasure to listen to. Thank you for another fabulous listen🎧
July 29, 2025
Blair Babylon has done it again! I love this book!
I’ve been in love with Blair Babylon’s books for quite a while now. Each time I read a new one her stories continue to captivate me.
Working Stiff is the latest addition to her Billionaires in Disguise (BID) world but it’s also the start of a new series she’s titled Runaway Billionaires. This book is a standalone – no cliffhanger. Yay!! You don’t need to have read any of her other BID books to enjoy this one but you really should because they are great.
Rox doesn’t want to become another notch on her boss’s infamous belt so she tells him she’s married when he hires her.
Cash doesn’t mess with married women – ever – but being around Rox is sorely testing his resolve.
Fate throws the two of them together in more than just a day-to-day business way and the sparks fly (in more ways than one).
Blair has penned a captivating story filled with romance, mystery, intrigue and no small amount of humor. You will be more than satisfied with the conclusion of this story (there truly is no cliffhanger) but I think you will also be curious to read the upcoming stories for Cash’s friends Arthur and Maxence.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
P.S.
Don’t let anyone tell you romance novels are a bunch of crap written at grade school reading levels. Here are a few of the words I had to look up as I read this book:
teester
aesthete
musth
I’ve been in love with Blair Babylon’s books for quite a while now. Each time I read a new one her stories continue to captivate me.
Working Stiff is the latest addition to her Billionaires in Disguise (BID) world but it’s also the start of a new series she’s titled Runaway Billionaires. This book is a standalone – no cliffhanger. Yay!! You don’t need to have read any of her other BID books to enjoy this one but you really should because they are great.
Rox doesn’t want to become another notch on her boss’s infamous belt so she tells him she’s married when he hires her.
Cash doesn’t mess with married women – ever – but being around Rox is sorely testing his resolve.
Fate throws the two of them together in more than just a day-to-day business way and the sparks fly (in more ways than one).
Blair has penned a captivating story filled with romance, mystery, intrigue and no small amount of humor. You will be more than satisfied with the conclusion of this story (there truly is no cliffhanger) but I think you will also be curious to read the upcoming stories for Cash’s friends Arthur and Maxence.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
P.S.
Don’t let anyone tell you romance novels are a bunch of crap written at grade school reading levels. Here are a few of the words I had to look up as I read this book:
teester
aesthete
musth
May 17, 2016
This review is based on an ARC provided by the author and /or publisher via Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest opinion.
I liked this contemporary romance. Royalty and an honest to God honest attorney make up our Hero. Our heroine is a feisty southern spitfire. Parts of this book were so sweet and adorable you could chip a tooth. There was some action too. There was a lot of hot sex. They even tiptoed into BDSM. The author gives you a little of everything here.
******I will be spotlighting this author on my blog Friday May 20th at www.facebook.com/QueenTBook I best get a page visit so you can check her out:)
I liked this contemporary romance. Royalty and an honest to God honest attorney make up our Hero. Our heroine is a feisty southern spitfire. Parts of this book were so sweet and adorable you could chip a tooth. There was some action too. There was a lot of hot sex. They even tiptoed into BDSM. The author gives you a little of everything here.
******I will be spotlighting this author on my blog Friday May 20th at www.facebook.com/QueenTBook I best get a page visit so you can check her out:)
May 22, 2016
This book has so much potential. A sassy heroine and a swoon worthy hero with combustible chemistry, what more could you ask for? Sadly the author spoiled that by giving us a lot of page filler crap that gets more ridiculous as it goes on. There are just too much going on that at times it feels like wading through mud just to find a tiny bit of gold at the end.
December 25, 2019
This is the first book that I have listened to by this author but I am a huge fan of Joe Arden’s narration so I was pretty sure I was going to enjoy it.
This story ended up having so many layers to it that I was completely caught up in it and trying to figure out the secrets behind the characters. If you are on the fence about this book I would highly recommend it.
This story ended up having so many layers to it that I was completely caught up in it and trying to figure out the secrets behind the characters. If you are on the fence about this book I would highly recommend it.
February 5, 2020
Audio Review: Working Stiff (Runaway Billionaires #1) by: Blair Babylon (author) Joe Arden (narrator)
Babylon had me at hello. Working Stiff refuses to tiptoe around the heart. Rox and Cash stand firm in their passion and drag emotions along for the ride. There is no halfway when it comes to Blair Babylon. Her characters are a force of nature that demand to be noticed. Add in a voice like Joe Arden and there is no doubt that is going to happen. Arden brings a gentlemanly, class to a bad boy with an edge. Be still my beating heart. Babylon and company will steal the heart right out of your chest and leave you wanting more.
Babylon had me at hello. Working Stiff refuses to tiptoe around the heart. Rox and Cash stand firm in their passion and drag emotions along for the ride. There is no halfway when it comes to Blair Babylon. Her characters are a force of nature that demand to be noticed. Add in a voice like Joe Arden and there is no doubt that is going to happen. Arden brings a gentlemanly, class to a bad boy with an edge. Be still my beating heart. Babylon and company will steal the heart right out of your chest and leave you wanting more.
December 10, 2020
I don't...even know where to start. This was quite possibly the worst book I've ever read. Or at least the dumbest. The plotting, the writing, the characters...dumb, dumb, dumb. The only reason I didn't DNF is that I was laughing so hard--and not in a way the author intended.
September 15, 2022
This had the potential to get a great review, but this book is only a partial story - there's not a single story line that reaches a conclusion to justify the book ending where it does, instead cutting off abruptly in order to prompt the reader to purchase the next book.
December 20, 2022
This review:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sums up the majority of my issues with this book.
I do have a few others:
1. The MMC is named for a real person which squicks me out. A real person who died tragically and was a member of the Netherlands royal family.
2. Why was a real royal family/country used instead of making one up?
3. There's a cliffhanger at the end of of the book and nowhere in the description does it mention that.
All in all, didn't like, wouldn't recommend.
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Sums up the majority of my issues with this book.
I do have a few others:
1. The MMC is named for a real person which squicks me out. A real person who died tragically and was a member of the Netherlands royal family.
2. Why was a real royal family/country used instead of making one up?
3. There's a cliffhanger at the end of of the book and nowhere in the description does it mention that.
All in all, didn't like, wouldn't recommend.
December 6, 2022
Exciting slow burn cleverly crafted with secrets on both sides and a very relatable heroine.
Off to start Book 2 to see how this all ends.
Off to start Book 2 to see how this all ends.
June 24, 2024
It was going great until I realized I was at 96% of the book and the story was nowhere at the end. It has a cliffhanger.... #mustreadblurb
March 5, 2019
New update... Mar 19
So, still loving this book and Arthur's 2. Reread them at least each year.
STILL waiting on Max's book(s?).
***
Update: May 17
Well, the third book (part two of the second story) is due out very soon, so I reread bk1... and was able to completely let go of the little 'eerks' and just enjoy the book. AND by the time I finished, I upgraded from 3 to 4 stars.
****
Decisions, decisions! Now I really enjoyed this book... even tho it did have a few issues that have set me ranting in other books. What's the difference with this one? Well, for one, the story grabbed me and held on, and two, I loved the characters. I can forgive a lot if I'm really into the story, plus, most of 'the issues' were closer to the minor ('my preference would be', rather than the 'wtf') end of the scale.
Also, it wasn't the run of the mill 'billionaire playboy to billionaire in love' story either. There were two other story lines in there, and they weren't exactly 'fluff on the side' either.
On top of that, we meet the next billionaires, who I'm all ready to read about now... and here we find me trying to make decisions.
- The books seem well priced for what they are (I'm a complete cheapskate, but I have no issues with the next book being $4.)
- But, the next billionaire is Arthur... and the author has split it into two books... I am a LOUD opposer of books 'being split into chapters'. I hate it with a passion and always feel ripped off. Saying that, I am still tempted to bite the bullet and try Arthur's 2 parter (even if the idea does have me grinding my teeth, I'm hoping there is some valid reason for having two books).
- Arthur's second book isn't due out until mid May... so do I read now and prob forget details when the next book comes out, or do I wait for the next one?
- and then there is the third billionaire who I'm expecting a book for... Max. How long until his book comes out... and will it be a chapter book/multi book too?
And while I'm trying to decide all of that, the longer I wait for the next book, the more likely I am to remember all those 'issues' that bugged me, but got brushed off by the story :( Woe is me... first world problems suck!
17 18 19
So, still loving this book and Arthur's 2. Reread them at least each year.
STILL waiting on Max's book(s?).
***
Update: May 17
Well, the third book (part two of the second story) is due out very soon, so I reread bk1... and was able to completely let go of the little 'eerks' and just enjoy the book. AND by the time I finished, I upgraded from 3 to 4 stars.
****
Decisions, decisions! Now I really enjoyed this book... even tho it did have a few issues that have set me ranting in other books. What's the difference with this one? Well, for one, the story grabbed me and held on, and two, I loved the characters. I can forgive a lot if I'm really into the story, plus, most of 'the issues' were closer to the minor ('my preference would be', rather than the 'wtf') end of the scale.
Also, it wasn't the run of the mill 'billionaire playboy to billionaire in love' story either. There were two other story lines in there, and they weren't exactly 'fluff on the side' either.
On top of that, we meet the next billionaires, who I'm all ready to read about now... and here we find me trying to make decisions.
- The books seem well priced for what they are (I'm a complete cheapskate, but I have no issues with the next book being $4.)
- But, the next billionaire is Arthur... and the author has split it into two books... I am a LOUD opposer of books 'being split into chapters'. I hate it with a passion and always feel ripped off. Saying that, I am still tempted to bite the bullet and try Arthur's 2 parter (even if the idea does have me grinding my teeth, I'm hoping there is some valid reason for having two books).
- Arthur's second book isn't due out until mid May... so do I read now and prob forget details when the next book comes out, or do I wait for the next one?
- and then there is the third billionaire who I'm expecting a book for... Max. How long until his book comes out... and will it be a chapter book/multi book too?
And while I'm trying to decide all of that, the longer I wait for the next book, the more likely I am to remember all those 'issues' that bugged me, but got brushed off by the story :( Woe is me... first world problems suck!
17 18 19
April 22, 2021
2.5 stars, rounded up to three.
Casimir ("Cash") is a ho. He's also a gorgeous, wealthy, talented lawyer ... but still a ho. The reader quickly learns that he has "dated" every woman in the office, or, to quote the author: "fuck 'em & chuck 'em." That's right, after a tumble or two, he ghosts his victim & moves on to the next. I came close to *chucking* this book right away!
Yet Rox, Cash's best friend and paralegal is self-described as chubby, which is damn refreshing, and definitely caught my interest. She volunteers at an animal shelter. She is intelligent and caring. Beyond their profession, I don't see what these two have in common.
This story ends in a cliffhanger, postponing the inevitable HEA to book two (which I haven't read yet, but it's obvious). And not for the first time, I wondered how a story would really go if the author wasn't wed (sorry) to an HEA. How about this:
Rox moves on when she gets her first job as a lawyer in her own right. She and Cash part amicably.
Cash continues his player ways, eventually getting snagged by some gorgeous model. Within 3 years, they have a bitter divorce, because he can't keep it in his pants. Rinse, repeat.
Rox meets a fellow volunteer at the animal shelter. He is neither gorgeous nor wealthy, but he has friendly brown eyes and a great sense of humour. They hit it off, marry, and have a child.
Years later, Cash and Rox cross paths at a conference. In the hotel lobby, he is chatting up a female half his age. His hair is starting to thin, he has crows feet around his eyes, but he still turns on the charm with his British accent and obvious wealth.
Rox is on her way through the lobby, pulling her rolling luggage along, having just checked out. She has put on a few more pounds and wears a gentle smile. She looks happy.
They say, "HI!!" and Cash's latest victim moves off. Rox and Cash spend a couple of minutes catching up, while each of them is obviously wondering what might have been.
They see each other for who they really are.
Rox explains she has a flight to catch and says good-bye. Cash is left sitting alone.
—fin—
This is the kind of ending I would enjoy a lot more. They would each get what they truly deserve.
Casimir ("Cash") is a ho. He's also a gorgeous, wealthy, talented lawyer ... but still a ho. The reader quickly learns that he has "dated" every woman in the office, or, to quote the author: "fuck 'em & chuck 'em." That's right, after a tumble or two, he ghosts his victim & moves on to the next. I came close to *chucking* this book right away!
Yet Rox, Cash's best friend and paralegal is self-described as chubby, which is damn refreshing, and definitely caught my interest. She volunteers at an animal shelter. She is intelligent and caring. Beyond their profession, I don't see what these two have in common.
This story ends in a cliffhanger, postponing the inevitable HEA to book two (which I haven't read yet, but it's obvious). And not for the first time, I wondered how a story would really go if the author wasn't wed (sorry) to an HEA. How about this:
Rox moves on when she gets her first job as a lawyer in her own right. She and Cash part amicably.
Cash continues his player ways, eventually getting snagged by some gorgeous model. Within 3 years, they have a bitter divorce, because he can't keep it in his pants. Rinse, repeat.
Rox meets a fellow volunteer at the animal shelter. He is neither gorgeous nor wealthy, but he has friendly brown eyes and a great sense of humour. They hit it off, marry, and have a child.
Years later, Cash and Rox cross paths at a conference. In the hotel lobby, he is chatting up a female half his age. His hair is starting to thin, he has crows feet around his eyes, but he still turns on the charm with his British accent and obvious wealth.
Rox is on her way through the lobby, pulling her rolling luggage along, having just checked out. She has put on a few more pounds and wears a gentle smile. She looks happy.
They say, "HI!!" and Cash's latest victim moves off. Rox and Cash spend a couple of minutes catching up, while each of them is obviously wondering what might have been.
They see each other for who they really are.
Rox explains she has a flight to catch and says good-bye. Cash is left sitting alone.
—fin—
This is the kind of ending I would enjoy a lot more. They would each get what they truly deserve.
April 7, 2019
Just can't get enough of Cash and Rox. This is the second time I have read this book and it is still pretty good. Friends to Romance/ excitement and of course so pretty good sex scenes is involved. Mainly I just love how it took these two 3 years to admit their true feelings. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
May 22, 2016
I tried...l
I'm sorry , I tried , I really did but these characters did nothing for me... Roc seemed soo smart and clever and resourceful ,but I swear on all that is holy if I had read about her calling herself a chubby chick one more time or a man that would want her a
" chubby chaser" one more thing me I was gonna scream , or tits this or boobs that ...F you Rox, either you a smart who loves her self ot your a stupid who defines herself by not being in the single digit size range an I say as someone in the + 20 size range from the south... Soo sick of female who sound like wonderful but made stupid over size... BS... Cash some need ok, especially compared to quote " perfect" billionaires or dirty billionaire or so many controlling,dominating jerks who disrespect woman and just treat them like living sex toys... On that score Cash was aces, but felt the lot was overly complicated,didn't need to foray in devilhouse and BDSM not matter how small wasn't needed and just felt thrown into like no the series not because it actually went w/the story.... I never connected w/the characters and I never really felt their connection... Felt myself skimming and just drifting along after a while... Overly complicated plot,characters that just stemmed there,like me... Honestly I found myself bored
;( Rox and Cash felt like they were going thru the motions just like me... I'll got to rereading New Species... Off to delete..
I'm sorry , I tried , I really did but these characters did nothing for me... Roc seemed soo smart and clever and resourceful ,but I swear on all that is holy if I had read about her calling herself a chubby chick one more time or a man that would want her a
" chubby chaser" one more thing me I was gonna scream , or tits this or boobs that ...F you Rox, either you a smart who loves her self ot your a stupid who defines herself by not being in the single digit size range an I say as someone in the + 20 size range from the south... Soo sick of female who sound like wonderful but made stupid over size... BS... Cash some need ok, especially compared to quote " perfect" billionaires or dirty billionaire or so many controlling,dominating jerks who disrespect woman and just treat them like living sex toys... On that score Cash was aces, but felt the lot was overly complicated,didn't need to foray in devilhouse and BDSM not matter how small wasn't needed and just felt thrown into like no the series not because it actually went w/the story.... I never connected w/the characters and I never really felt their connection... Felt myself skimming and just drifting along after a while... Overly complicated plot,characters that just stemmed there,like me... Honestly I found myself bored
;( Rox and Cash felt like they were going thru the motions just like me... I'll got to rereading New Species... Off to delete..
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