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Slumming It
Reese Murdock. He doesn't do nice. He doesn't get involved. And he never, ever falls in love. Until her. Desperation. It makes people do funny things, which is why Emily Quinn shouldn't be shocked to find herself pretending to be something she's not – the new bed buddy of Reese Murdock, the billionaire bigshot himself.The plan isn't just crazy. It's beyond reckless. The guy practically screams danger – the scary kind and the good kind, meaning the kind that makes nice girls go bad in spite of their very best intentions.Payback. Served hot or cold, Bad Boy Developer Reese Murdock always gives as good as he gets, which is blazing bad news for Emily Quinn and her beloved small town. He's rich, ruthless, and never bluffs. He wasn't always this way. But these days, he has the power to build and the power to destroy, which makes all of this a game he'll never lose.Sure, there might some collateral damage along the way, but the school of hard knocks has taught him a lesson he won't soon forget. People are disposable. Replaceable. Forgettable.And yes, this includes Emily Quinn.Until it doesn't.***This nice-girl billionaire romance is a fun, full-length smalltown enemies-to-lovers standalone with a guaranteed happily-ever-after! If you like grumpy alpha males and small town girls with big hearts, you'll love this latest release from USA Today Bestselling Author Sabrina Stark!***
- GenresRomance
367 pages, ebook
Published January 19, 2024
251 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
January 24, 2024
I find something really, really readable about Sabrina Stark’s writing style. It’s just like catnip to me. It’s not perfect and sometimes it’s a little clunky, but you always know the structure of her books and that makes them so easy to read. I sped through this, and found it really hard to put down.
So, I found this really entertaining, even if I did have a few issues with it as a whole. The plot didn’t make much sense to me and their ‘bargain’ was confusing and a bit forced. It all made sense by the end, but it was a bit annoying at the beginning.
Reese was also so hard to like as a character. He was so unpleasant, especially in the first half of the book, and his switch to liking her was very sudden and didn’t quite work for me. His behaviour was just too much. It was played for laughs, but it wasn’t very funny. He just felt like a really childish, immature character.
All that said…I really did feel their chemistry and the book overall was very fun. I wish that Reese had been more likable and less childish, but the book kept me entertained, despite the somewhat flimsy plot.
Content Notes: Hate-to-love, bargains/deals/wagers, small town, millionaire/billionaire.
Warnings:
Other: .
So, I found this really entertaining, even if I did have a few issues with it as a whole. The plot didn’t make much sense to me and their ‘bargain’ was confusing and a bit forced. It all made sense by the end, but it was a bit annoying at the beginning.
Reese was also so hard to like as a character. He was so unpleasant, especially in the first half of the book, and his switch to liking her was very sudden and didn’t quite work for me. His behaviour was just too much. It was played for laughs, but it wasn’t very funny. He just felt like a really childish, immature character.
All that said…I really did feel their chemistry and the book overall was very fun. I wish that Reese had been more likable and less childish, but the book kept me entertained, despite the somewhat flimsy plot.
Content Notes: Hate-to-love, bargains/deals/wagers, small town, millionaire/billionaire.
Warnings:
Other: .
January 23, 2024
Reese Murdock is wealthy, intelligent, suspicious of everyone, and can be a certified jerk with a heart of gold buried deep deep deeply hidden. Emily Quinn is quirky, sweetheart, wants the best for her family, and works hard but she finds herself in a predicament when it comes to Reese and him staying at their rundown motel. Reese’s past plays a big part in what shaped him into being this cold-hearted man, but he has also been burned by others trying to tie themselves to his name to know he can’t trust anyone and the girl who was hiding under his bed is someone he thinks can never be trusted. Emily tries hard to get through the exterior of this cold calculated man, but it seems impossible until the more time they spend together, and we see Reese’s heart slowly melt, just not all the way. Revenge is the plan that Reese has in mind and not just for Emily but other reasons as well, but things seem to change at some point until Reese finally pushes Emily to her limit and ultimately away. The feelings, the heat, and chemistry are intense but is it just a ploy that Reese is using or is there something more going on? I really enjoyed this read because the banter between them is spot on and Emily holds her own while holding on to her own morals and dignity yet can give it back just as good.
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January 24, 2024Sabrina's back with her humour and a fake relationship with more going on than you think!
Reece has rolled into this small town in his Ferrari with a massive attitude and a reputation of being a complete and utter tw∆t!
Then him and Emily meet, it's definitely not ordinary setting - she's actually hiding under his bed!
When he decides he wants her to make up for it by pretending to be his date - then he's all for making her look the fool and I'm thinking man, he really is a tw∆t! Why? You just know there's something else at play....
Then the billionaire catches feelings and doesn't know how to process them so you can guess what comes next 🤦🏻♀️ I have to admit though - I did like him! He's so freaking sneaky with words and his attitude and it made me giggle - and scoff!!
Then we have Emily who always tries to the right thing, she's not a material person, she's actually a really good person with a dose of naivety!
Sparks fly, good times as well as secrets.
A good read with plenty of dry wit, I enjoyed it.
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 3.5/4
Reece has rolled into this small town in his Ferrari with a massive attitude and a reputation of being a complete and utter tw∆t!
Then him and Emily meet, it's definitely not ordinary setting - she's actually hiding under his bed!
When he decides he wants her to make up for it by pretending to be his date - then he's all for making her look the fool and I'm thinking man, he really is a tw∆t! Why? You just know there's something else at play....
Then the billionaire catches feelings and doesn't know how to process them so you can guess what comes next 🤦🏻♀️ I have to admit though - I did like him! He's so freaking sneaky with words and his attitude and it made me giggle - and scoff!!
Then we have Emily who always tries to the right thing, she's not a material person, she's actually a really good person with a dose of naivety!
Sparks fly, good times as well as secrets.
A good read with plenty of dry wit, I enjoyed it.
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 3.5/4
January 28, 2024
So many mixed feelings. Sabrina Stark is one of my favorite authors. Her dialogue is witty, quick and sharp. I never eat waffles without thinking of Flipping His Script! The heroines are spunky and lovable and that includes Emily. The hero’s can be a mix. Usually softies under a lot of mystery and complicated angst.
Reese pushed it too far for me. He’s more than arrogant and cranky - he was cruel. It’s a fine line but about 20% in the book during the scene in the car it built and then the title of the book became clear. I wasn’t entertained and found it so off putting I stopped reading.
Eventually I started reading a little more here and there and although Reese’s 180 soon after that scene was confusing it helped get me through to the end. I don’t fully understand his end goal with some of his actions because they didn’t seem to be setting up a fall for anyone. In the end I’m glad I pushed through but I could see a lot of readers not getting past the beginning. I am looking forward to Vivian’s story and it sounds like there might be 2 other partners.
3.5-3.75
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Reese pushed it too far for me. He’s more than arrogant and cranky - he was cruel. It’s a fine line but about 20% in the book during the scene in the car it built and then the title of the book became clear. I wasn’t entertained and found it so off putting I stopped reading.
Eventually I started reading a little more here and there and although Reese’s 180 soon after that scene was confusing it helped get me through to the end. I don’t fully understand his end goal with some of his actions because they didn’t seem to be setting up a fall for anyone. In the end I’m glad I pushed through but I could see a lot of readers not getting past the beginning. I am looking forward to Vivian’s story and it sounds like there might be 2 other partners.
3.5-3.75
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2024
3* I struggled finishing this one, putting it down often, then skimming through parts to finally finish the book.
I should start my review by mentioning that I don't care for revenge plots since the whole "I'm taking revenge on you/family member on some horrible thing but I *insert big misunderstanding* so please forgive me for my horrible actions that far surpassed the initial grievence" is a hard issue to overcome in a believable manner. I did chose to read this book because I enjoy Stark's writing.
I don't know why Emily liked, let alone loved Reece. I also couldn't see how someone that belligerent in their belief of past events would somehow get over himself. I've really liked Stark's past work, so will continue on with the series, but hope that I won't have to deal with another revenge theme. Overall, an ok story, but not my cup of tea. I received an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I should start my review by mentioning that I don't care for revenge plots since the whole "I'm taking revenge on you/family member on some horrible thing but I *insert big misunderstanding* so please forgive me for my horrible actions that far surpassed the initial grievence" is a hard issue to overcome in a believable manner. I did chose to read this book because I enjoy Stark's writing.
I don't know why Emily liked, let alone loved Reece. I also couldn't see how someone that belligerent in their belief of past events would somehow get over himself. I've really liked Stark's past work, so will continue on with the series, but hope that I won't have to deal with another revenge theme. Overall, an ok story, but not my cup of tea. I received an ARC of this book from Hidden Gems and this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 20, 2024
I literally just finished reading this story and I love it. In true Sabrina Stark fashion gives us a mysterious story with a side of romance. I haven't heard from Sabrina Stark in a long time and was very excited when I found out she's got another book coming out. Emily is a good woman. She is sweet, pretty, optimistic and barely making ends meet. I love the fact she is down to earth girl. She found herself in a compromise position and fall into tangle of web. Reese is cold. He is handsome, filthy rich, mean and quiet. He is a man with very few words. Reese is out for revenge when something falls right in his lap unexpectedly. These two bantering is full of sparks. The writing was amazing as usual from Sabrina and flows throughout the book. This story is worth your time and money. Amazing work again Sabrina Stark! Welcome back ❤️
January 21, 2024
The real question that plagued me throughout the story was why Reece had gone to so much trouble to humiliate Emily. Payback? But for what? Sure, he’s an entitled, arrogant billionaire with a mysterious past, but Emily was a total stranger. Wasn’t she?
The scenario where Emily suggested she become Reece’s fake girlfriend for an unbelievably weak reason was beyond realistic in my opinion, and I struggled to buy into it. I also wondered why she went along with Reece’s ill treatment of her for as long as she did. It was annoying that she was fixated on his appearance and hotness throughout all this.
I received and Advance Reader Copy from Hidden Gems, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The scenario where Emily suggested she become Reece’s fake girlfriend for an unbelievably weak reason was beyond realistic in my opinion, and I struggled to buy into it. I also wondered why she went along with Reece’s ill treatment of her for as long as she did. It was annoying that she was fixated on his appearance and hotness throughout all this.
I received and Advance Reader Copy from Hidden Gems, and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2024
Reese returns to his hometown – only this time he is filthy rich. He is out for payback against Emily – only we don’t know why! Emily along with her sister are saving up to buy the old hotel. Emily is kind, caring and tries to see the good in people. Reese tends to be moody, bi-polar and can be just plain rude!
Their first meeting was a little awkward, and from there, Emily had no choice but to do whatever Reese wanted. He was going to take full advantage of using Emily for his payback – only she doesn’t realize what the payback is for.
Old memories, lies, secrets and truths are plenty. Add in a twist and you have Reese deciding that he no longer wants payback, or does he?
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Their first meeting was a little awkward, and from there, Emily had no choice but to do whatever Reese wanted. He was going to take full advantage of using Emily for his payback – only she doesn’t realize what the payback is for.
Old memories, lies, secrets and truths are plenty. Add in a twist and you have Reese deciding that he no longer wants payback, or does he?
I received a free copy of this book via Hidden Gems ARC’s and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 23, 2024
Oh my gosh I loved this novel! I have read other novels by this author and loved them and this novel did not disappoint. I was so excited to jump into reading this novel and once I did I could not put it down. I started reading and the next thing I knew was I stayed up throughout the night reading it. So worth it! This novel was such a fun read. I love an enemies to lovers and a bit of a slow burn novels, and this novel checked all my boxes, I loved the banter. I loved Reese and Emily. They were so much fun to watch what was coming next. I love when a novel can make me laugh out loud and at the end of the novel leaves me with a happy heart. This novel did exactly that, I loved it!
February 14, 2024
A great easy read 📚
I love Sabrina Stark so couldn't wait to start this one. I really enjoyed the story bit struggled a little with this one to understand how she had feelings for Reece when he'd done nothing but upset her. Putting that a side, it had some sweet moments and a few orr's but for me this one didn't have the usual emotional roller coaster I'm used to or the laugh out loud moments which I expected which is why I maybe lowered the score on this book. Still a great easy read but not one of my favorites.
I love Sabrina Stark so couldn't wait to start this one. I really enjoyed the story bit struggled a little with this one to understand how she had feelings for Reece when he'd done nothing but upset her. Putting that a side, it had some sweet moments and a few orr's but for me this one didn't have the usual emotional roller coaster I'm used to or the laugh out loud moments which I expected which is why I maybe lowered the score on this book. Still a great easy read but not one of my favorites.
January 22, 2024
She is so desperate that she will do what ever she needs to get what she needs. She will become his bed buddy for everyone to think they are a couple. He is rich with a huge chip on his shoulder. How will it all go? Can she get away without any issues? See how she gets on
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
I received an advance copy from hidden gems and I want to review
February 9, 2024
loved it
Absorbing story the main characters were so much fun even tho Reese behaved like a total douche canoe to start with. Really liked the banter between them both and loved it when Emily finally stood up for herself. Hoping there’s a book to come about Emily’s sister and Slade.
Absorbing story the main characters were so much fun even tho Reese behaved like a total douche canoe to start with. Really liked the banter between them both and loved it when Emily finally stood up for herself. Hoping there’s a book to come about Emily’s sister and Slade.
January 22, 2024
I am voluntarily leaving a review after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
It was good. Enemies to lovers with a revenge plot. Reese is a self-made billionaire who made his fortune in the hospitality industry with his 3 partners. Reese has returned to a small town in Michigan that some happy yet painful memories to exact revenge in those who wronged him. He meets Emily, the daughter of family that had hurt him. Emily quickly undermines the plans Reese has for his revenge. The feelings that Emily invokes are feelings Reese can't ignore. Reese is at war with himself. Emily adds light to his darkness.
It is a cute story. Emily and Reese are very different. The story is told from both Emily and Reese's point of views.
It was good. Enemies to lovers with a revenge plot. Reese is a self-made billionaire who made his fortune in the hospitality industry with his 3 partners. Reese has returned to a small town in Michigan that some happy yet painful memories to exact revenge in those who wronged him. He meets Emily, the daughter of family that had hurt him. Emily quickly undermines the plans Reese has for his revenge. The feelings that Emily invokes are feelings Reese can't ignore. Reese is at war with himself. Emily adds light to his darkness.
It is a cute story. Emily and Reese are very different. The story is told from both Emily and Reese's point of views.
January 24, 2024
Overall, I liked the story, though at times how Reese treated Emily broke my heart. However, I didn't quite get how Reese's plan for payback (even his first one, before Emily entered the mix) was supposed to get back at the people he thought wronged him because they weren't the ones he was hurting.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 6, 2024
Woman tries to help a billionaire stranger, but it turns out he's so jaded that he can't believe her and finds multiple ways to humiliate her... as do others in the town.
This is another quirky banter filled novel from this author.
This is another quirky banter filled novel from this author.
January 27, 2024
Fun book
This book is a fun read. It’s has a happily ever after ending. I should love this book but I didn’t like any of the characters. They all fell flat for me.
This book is a fun read. It’s has a happily ever after ending. I should love this book but I didn’t like any of the characters. They all fell flat for me.
March 17, 2024
Emily was stupid!
February 8, 2024
Received as an ARC in return for my honest review
💵 Billionaire
💵 Revenge
💵 Enemies to lovers
💵 Fake relationship
Right, well first things first, Reese is an absolute cuntaloupe, can’t stand the guy! Did I however keep reading this to find out what the dick would do next, of course I did because I’m a glutton for punishment
I liked Emily as a character but generally love my FMCs to have a bit of sass and bigger balls than the guys, but that’s my personal preference
Overall I really liked the story and the narrative was where it needed to be for me to read this in a few hours. This was my first book by Sabrina and I look forward to reading others in the future
💵 Billionaire
💵 Revenge
💵 Enemies to lovers
💵 Fake relationship
Right, well first things first, Reese is an absolute cuntaloupe, can’t stand the guy! Did I however keep reading this to find out what the dick would do next, of course I did because I’m a glutton for punishment
I liked Emily as a character but generally love my FMCs to have a bit of sass and bigger balls than the guys, but that’s my personal preference
Overall I really liked the story and the narrative was where it needed to be for me to read this in a few hours. This was my first book by Sabrina and I look forward to reading others in the future
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews