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Hearts and Holdings #1
Bet on a Billionaire
A previous cover edition for this ASIN can be found here
INDIES TODAY 2023 BEST ROMANCE WINNER
Grant Harrington is CEO of a global enterprise.
He has looks, charm, and billions in the bank.
There’s one thing he hasn’t got ... a wife.
With four failed marriages behind him and a playboy image to rival Hefner, Grant Harrington’s public image has hit the rocks. Even worse—his position as CEO is under threat.
His daughter Sierra has the perfect solution: hire squeaky-clean Julia Stanton to be the next Mrs Harrington.
The question is: how?
As the new owner of Heritage Publishing, Sierra knows exactly how to get struggling author Julia to help clean up Grant’s image. Julia either marries her dad or finds a new publisher.
Saying “I do” is only the start of Julia’s worries. First, she receives a threatening note. Next, her husband's secretary is abducted. But when Grant is accused of murder, Julia smells a rat.
What started as a boardroom betrayal is now a threat to his freedom.
Can Grant’s wife-on-hire turn into his bride-in-shining-armor?
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in Nellie Steele’s Hearts and Holdings series. Fans of fake marriage, billionaire, grumpy sunshine, clean romance will love this new series with all its spills and billionaire thrills. And the will they, won’t they love story starts right here.
INDIES TODAY 2023 BEST ROMANCE WINNER
Grant Harrington is CEO of a global enterprise.
He has looks, charm, and billions in the bank.
There’s one thing he hasn’t got ... a wife.
With four failed marriages behind him and a playboy image to rival Hefner, Grant Harrington’s public image has hit the rocks. Even worse—his position as CEO is under threat.
His daughter Sierra has the perfect solution: hire squeaky-clean Julia Stanton to be the next Mrs Harrington.
The question is: how?
As the new owner of Heritage Publishing, Sierra knows exactly how to get struggling author Julia to help clean up Grant’s image. Julia either marries her dad or finds a new publisher.
Saying “I do” is only the start of Julia’s worries. First, she receives a threatening note. Next, her husband's secretary is abducted. But when Grant is accused of murder, Julia smells a rat.
What started as a boardroom betrayal is now a threat to his freedom.
Can Grant’s wife-on-hire turn into his bride-in-shining-armor?
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in Nellie Steele’s Hearts and Holdings series. Fans of fake marriage, billionaire, grumpy sunshine, clean romance will love this new series with all its spills and billionaire thrills. And the will they, won’t they love story starts right here.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
423 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
Nellie H. Steele
119 books501 followersNellie H. Steele lives in the South Hills of Pittsburgh with her family and her many fur-babies. When she isn't writing, she enjoys teaching Statistics at a local university or watching her dogs and cats play in the yard.
Nellie is the author of the Cate Kensie Mystery Series, a cozy mystery series following the adventures of Dr. Catherine Kensie, a history professor turned Scottish Countess, and her beloved dog, Riley, as they navigate their new lives in their quirky Scottish highlands castle, solving mysteries along the way! She is the creator of the Shadow Slayers series, a suspenseful series with a supernatural twist! Follow the Shadow Slayers through time as they fight to banish darkness from the world. Nellie also writes an adventure series, Maggie Edwards Adventures. Follow Maggie Edwards as she travels the world solving mysteries and finding unique treasures!
Check out all Nellie offers at www.anovelideapublishing.com/novels, sign up for our newsletter to get the latest news about book releases or like us on facebook (facebook.com/anovelideapublishing) to keep up with us!
Nellie is the author of the Cate Kensie Mystery Series, a cozy mystery series following the adventures of Dr. Catherine Kensie, a history professor turned Scottish Countess, and her beloved dog, Riley, as they navigate their new lives in their quirky Scottish highlands castle, solving mysteries along the way! She is the creator of the Shadow Slayers series, a suspenseful series with a supernatural twist! Follow the Shadow Slayers through time as they fight to banish darkness from the world. Nellie also writes an adventure series, Maggie Edwards Adventures. Follow Maggie Edwards as she travels the world solving mysteries and finding unique treasures!
Check out all Nellie offers at www.anovelideapublishing.com/novels, sign up for our newsletter to get the latest news about book releases or like us on facebook (facebook.com/anovelideapublishing) to keep up with us!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
February 12, 2024
Mystery, Intrigue, Murder? A very enjoyable read. The characters are interesting and play off of each other well.
I was expecting the usual trope about a wealthy businessman and a down on her luck woman. This book is NOT that
There were twists and turns aplenty.
Meet Grant & Julia. Like me, you'll be waiting for the next installment of their story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was expecting the usual trope about a wealthy businessman and a down on her luck woman. This book is NOT that
There were twists and turns aplenty.
Meet Grant & Julia. Like me, you'll be waiting for the next installment of their story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 12, 2024
Grant Harrington a CEO of a Global Enterprise is having problems with the company so his daughter suggests he marry Julia an author to improve his image to be his 5th marriage and Julia is to be his wife just for a year and shortly after their
marriage his secretary dissappears and he is accused of murder and Julia does some investigating on her own to prove Grant's innocence.
Nellie writes the best stories and I look forward to the next book.
marriage his secretary dissappears and he is accused of murder and Julia does some investigating on her own to prove Grant's innocence.
Nellie writes the best stories and I look forward to the next book.
February 16, 2024
Love this new series by Nellie H. Steele!!! You will not be disappointed!! This is a page-turner! There are twists & turns and it will keep you on the edge of your seat until the end!! This would make a great movie!! Pre-order your copy today. Release date is February 14th, 2024!!
February 15, 2024
Grant Harrington will lose his company in a hostile coup unless he can change his image. His daughter, Sierra, decides to hold interviews for a temporary wife, 1 year of marriage for $5,000,000.00. Too bad all the applicants are shallow, vapid copies of his 4 previous ex-wives. Until Julia Stanton enters. Julia thinks she’s meeting the new owner, Sierra, of her publishing company and hopes to sell her latest manuscript. Quiet, demure, and introverted, Julia has no interest in becoming the next Mrs. Harrington. She hastily leaves the interview, forgetting her purse in the rush. Grant seizes the opportunity to do some subtle negotiation to change her mind.
What follows is a whirlwind wedding, a mysterious threat to Julia, and an arrest for Grant. Did Julia foolishly marry a murderer? Will she cut her losses and run? Just how far is someone willing to go to takeover Harrington Global Enterprises? The introductory novel in Nellie Steele’s Hearts & Holding series grabs the reader from page one. Expertly taking romance tropes and setting them on their head and weaving in a compelling mystery. Will these two opposites survive long enough to turn their fake marriage into something real? Eagerly looking forward to the next chapter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What follows is a whirlwind wedding, a mysterious threat to Julia, and an arrest for Grant. Did Julia foolishly marry a murderer? Will she cut her losses and run? Just how far is someone willing to go to takeover Harrington Global Enterprises? The introductory novel in Nellie Steele’s Hearts & Holding series grabs the reader from page one. Expertly taking romance tropes and setting them on their head and weaving in a compelling mystery. Will these two opposites survive long enough to turn their fake marriage into something real? Eagerly looking forward to the next chapter.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 2, 2024
Loved reading the wonderfully written romance story. When Julia goes to her meeting with the publisher hoping to get her book published, Julia meets Grant who needs her to pose as his wife. Read the highly recommended and a must read riveting romance story. Can't wait to read the next story in the series by the marvelous author, Nellie H. Steele!
January 13, 2024
Brilliant! Can see this book developed into a movie.
I really enjoyed it from beginning to end.
There was no spice in this one, but the storyline made up for that.
Julia is an amazing woman and Grant should count himself lucky to have her in his life.
I really enjoyed it from beginning to end.
There was no spice in this one, but the storyline made up for that.
Julia is an amazing woman and Grant should count himself lucky to have her in his life.
March 21, 2024
Although I have really enjoyed previous books written by Nellie Steele, I wasn’t sure about this new series—only because of it’s romance genre. Hasn’t been a favorite for me before, but liking this author’s writing style I thought Why not?
Try it you’ll like it? Yes!!!!
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in a new series—Hearts and Holdings—by author Nellie Steele. In it, Julia, a writer struggling to get published, is the main female character. A sweet lady to be sure. Grant, the main male character, is the CEO of his own company but has certainly struggled in his romantic relationships. To put it mildly—four failed marriages behind him!
His company’s board of directors is trying to oust him with a no confidence vote—citing his public image as a major distraction to the image they want the company to project. Problems. Grant’s daughter, Sierra’s idea, is to find him wife number five—but an ideal woman of character to shape up his public image in a hurry. Enter Julia.
They enter in a one year contract where she gets published, and he gets the ideal woman by his side to help restore his public image.
Then the story really begins…
No more spoilers. You will love this book!! I did.
Looking forward to book number two in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Try it you’ll like it? Yes!!!!
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in a new series—Hearts and Holdings—by author Nellie Steele. In it, Julia, a writer struggling to get published, is the main female character. A sweet lady to be sure. Grant, the main male character, is the CEO of his own company but has certainly struggled in his romantic relationships. To put it mildly—four failed marriages behind him!
His company’s board of directors is trying to oust him with a no confidence vote—citing his public image as a major distraction to the image they want the company to project. Problems. Grant’s daughter, Sierra’s idea, is to find him wife number five—but an ideal woman of character to shape up his public image in a hurry. Enter Julia.
They enter in a one year contract where she gets published, and he gets the ideal woman by his side to help restore his public image.
Then the story really begins…
No more spoilers. You will love this book!! I did.
Looking forward to book number two in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 23, 2024
yikes
Laughably one of the least realistic stories to ever be written. I was entertained solely with how bad this book was from the plot to the “romance” 😂
Laughably one of the least realistic stories to ever be written. I was entertained solely with how bad this book was from the plot to the “romance” 😂
January 25, 2024
♠️ ARC Review ♠️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in The Heart and Holdings series by Nellie Steele. I thought this was a great debut of the first book in the series with mystery, intrigue, murder, and a hint of romance (to come) with a cliffhanger that sets you up for the next book.
This book revolves around Grant, a CEO of Harrington Global Enterprises , who needs to clean up his image before he loses his company, and Julia a struggling author trying to get her manuscript published , who agrees to marry him for a year. I really liked Julia, she was down to earth, intelligent, and willing to do anything to help Grant in his time of crisis. At first, I didn’t really like Grant, he was the typical rich billionaire who was only worried about himself, but as the story went on I could see how loyal, kind, and sweet he was. I think both Julia and Grant’s character development flourished by the end of the story and I can’t wait to see how their relationship grows in the second book. I took one star off just because Grants daughter, Sierra, was the typical spoiled rich kid and was a little annoying, but you could tell she cared for her dad and wanted to protect him.
If you go into thinking this is just a marriage of convenience, then you will be 100% surprised ! The mysterious and suspenseful plot was great and I cannot wait to read the next book in hopes that some of my questions get answered!
♠️Coming February 14th, 2024 ♠️
♠️ I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in The Heart and Holdings series by Nellie Steele. I thought this was a great debut of the first book in the series with mystery, intrigue, murder, and a hint of romance (to come) with a cliffhanger that sets you up for the next book.
This book revolves around Grant, a CEO of Harrington Global Enterprises , who needs to clean up his image before he loses his company, and Julia a struggling author trying to get her manuscript published , who agrees to marry him for a year. I really liked Julia, she was down to earth, intelligent, and willing to do anything to help Grant in his time of crisis. At first, I didn’t really like Grant, he was the typical rich billionaire who was only worried about himself, but as the story went on I could see how loyal, kind, and sweet he was. I think both Julia and Grant’s character development flourished by the end of the story and I can’t wait to see how their relationship grows in the second book. I took one star off just because Grants daughter, Sierra, was the typical spoiled rich kid and was a little annoying, but you could tell she cared for her dad and wanted to protect him.
If you go into thinking this is just a marriage of convenience, then you will be 100% surprised ! The mysterious and suspenseful plot was great and I cannot wait to read the next book in hopes that some of my questions get answered!
♠️Coming February 14th, 2024 ♠️
♠️ I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
February 25, 2024
Entering into this book, I expected the typical trope of a fake marriage storyline. While it does share some similarities with other tales in this genre, Steele manages to captivate readers' attention with finesse. I found myself engrossed from start to finish, unable to put the book down until I had devoured it in one sitting. The narrative flows seamlessly, leaving you yearning for more with each turn of the page—especially given its cliffhanger ending. Needless to say, I'll be eagerly picking up the next installment in the series to quell my suspense.
I truly relished reading this book. Julia emerges as a relatable, grounded, and intelligent character, while Grant embodies the quintessential CEO mindset and wealthy persona, yet also reveals layers of loyalty and kindness. Each character, from the spoiled daughter Sierra to the wise butler Worthington, is meticulously crafted and believable. Despite a few unexpected plot twists, the storyline remains easy to follow, heightening the suspense as secrets unravel and emotions escalate. For me, this book was an undeniable page-turner, compelling me to keep flipping through its pages in search of more. I wholeheartedly recommend it for those seeking a suspenseful yet clean romantic tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I truly relished reading this book. Julia emerges as a relatable, grounded, and intelligent character, while Grant embodies the quintessential CEO mindset and wealthy persona, yet also reveals layers of loyalty and kindness. Each character, from the spoiled daughter Sierra to the wise butler Worthington, is meticulously crafted and believable. Despite a few unexpected plot twists, the storyline remains easy to follow, heightening the suspense as secrets unravel and emotions escalate. For me, this book was an undeniable page-turner, compelling me to keep flipping through its pages in search of more. I wholeheartedly recommend it for those seeking a suspenseful yet clean romantic tale.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 15, 2024
ARC REVIEW
Based on the title, genre and cover, I came into this book expecting all the smut. I stayed for the characters, story and drama! There was no smut (so far) but I was hooked and am frantically looking for ways to read the next two books. I need to know more!! This book has the qualities of a romance book, along with mystery, and it was enough to capture my attention and I read it in less than 24 hours.
Fake relationship? CHECK
Murder? CHECK
Morally gray handsome billionaire? CHECK
I really did love everything about this book, from the marriage to save his image to the frame job. The butler is definitely trying to play Cupid and I am rooting for them to figure out this isn’t fake.
Also, writing style wise, I like how the POV changes from one chapter to the next, but also that the chapter starts a little farther back than when the last one ended, so you get a little overlap if their perceptions and versions of events.
Based on the title, genre and cover, I came into this book expecting all the smut. I stayed for the characters, story and drama! There was no smut (so far) but I was hooked and am frantically looking for ways to read the next two books. I need to know more!! This book has the qualities of a romance book, along with mystery, and it was enough to capture my attention and I read it in less than 24 hours.
Fake relationship? CHECK
Murder? CHECK
Morally gray handsome billionaire? CHECK
I really did love everything about this book, from the marriage to save his image to the frame job. The butler is definitely trying to play Cupid and I am rooting for them to figure out this isn’t fake.
Also, writing style wise, I like how the POV changes from one chapter to the next, but also that the chapter starts a little farther back than when the last one ended, so you get a little overlap if their perceptions and versions of events.
February 15, 2024
ARC REVIEW
Based on the title, genre and cover, I came into this book expecting all the smut. I stayed for the characters, story and drama! There was no smut (so far) but I was hooked and am frantically looking for ways to read the next two books. I need to know more!! This book has the qualities of a romance book, along with mystery, and it was enough to capture my attention and I read it in less than 24 hours.
Fake relationship? CHECK
Murder? CHECK
Morally gray handsome billionaire? CHECK
I really did love everything about this book, from the marriage to save his image to the frame job. The butler is definitely trying to play Cupid and I am rooting for them to figure out this isn’t fake.
Also, writing style wise, I like how the POV changes from one chapter to the next, but also that the chapter starts a little farther back than when the last one ended, so you get a little overlap if their perceptions and versions of events.
Based on the title, genre and cover, I came into this book expecting all the smut. I stayed for the characters, story and drama! There was no smut (so far) but I was hooked and am frantically looking for ways to read the next two books. I need to know more!! This book has the qualities of a romance book, along with mystery, and it was enough to capture my attention and I read it in less than 24 hours.
Fake relationship? CHECK
Murder? CHECK
Morally gray handsome billionaire? CHECK
I really did love everything about this book, from the marriage to save his image to the frame job. The butler is definitely trying to play Cupid and I am rooting for them to figure out this isn’t fake.
Also, writing style wise, I like how the POV changes from one chapter to the next, but also that the chapter starts a little farther back than when the last one ended, so you get a little overlap if their perceptions and versions of events.
February 13, 2024
Grant and Julia fake marriage to fix grant playboy image to one that resembles a family man who is willing to setting down. 3 days into their marriage and tragedy strikes. Will they be able to over come the obstacles while something bubble under this marriage of convenience like love?
I think this was a great story with a lot of great concepts. I think I like how this story was written. I think a little more could have been given to us the reader about the progression of the relationship for book one. Everything seemed pretty rushed. The whole book 1 was about just on situation, but I’ll be homest I loved every bit of it. I was able to finish this book in 4hrs. I was not able to put it down. I will be looking out for book 2 to see the development of grant and Julia’s relationship. Great job Nellie Steel.
I think this was a great story with a lot of great concepts. I think I like how this story was written. I think a little more could have been given to us the reader about the progression of the relationship for book one. Everything seemed pretty rushed. The whole book 1 was about just on situation, but I’ll be homest I loved every bit of it. I was able to finish this book in 4hrs. I was not able to put it down. I will be looking out for book 2 to see the development of grant and Julia’s relationship. Great job Nellie Steel.
January 30, 2024
Bet on a Billionaire is Book 1 in the Hearts and Holdings by Nellie Steele. I like a sweet billionaire story. Grant is a bad boy 50s run through 4 wives and his BOD wants to replace him. He needs a sweet wife to help him clean up his image. Grant sees Julia and voila, perfection. If this is what you are expecting, you are in for a surprise! I found this book to be so interesting from page 1- talking Julia into marriage until the end. The author takes the reader on a surprising roller coaster of emotions and totally unexpected surprises. Bet on a Billionaire breaks the mold of "billionaire romance". I thought Nellie Steele did a great job of ending the story but leaves a to be continued. Please write book 2 soon! I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
February 17, 2024
Received as an ARC, I am leaving my honest review. The storyline is gripping and you soon find yourself immersed in the suspense filled plot. Julia gets more than she thought when she filled out an application for publishing her book. Suddenly thrown into the lavish lifestyle of a billionaire, she accepts the offer of marriage. What she doesn’t know, is that she will be a key player to solving a mystery that is life changing. What she discovers will have you holding your breath until the findings bring justice to a staged murder involving the setup for the downfall of her new husband. How it ends only makes you wanting the next book in the series.
April 10, 2024
Good read
To be honest, I thought I was going to be reading a fluffy romance but this one really had a compelling mystery to it and I am here for it! Can I just say that I totally love Worthington?
To be honest, I thought I was going to be reading a fluffy romance but this one really had a compelling mystery to it and I am here for it! Can I just say that I totally love Worthington?
June 16, 2024
interesting so far!
The premise of this book is very different for a romance novel.. it’s started like a crime/thriller novel with suspense and mystery. A CEO being framed and someone behind the scene plotting his downfall… a heroine saving the day for a change..
Looking forward to reading the next book…
The premise of this book is very different for a romance novel.. it’s started like a crime/thriller novel with suspense and mystery. A CEO being framed and someone behind the scene plotting his downfall… a heroine saving the day for a change..
Looking forward to reading the next book…
February 1, 2024
Julia is a mystery novel writer waiting to hear if her publishing house is keeping her on their list. A mix up over a meeting has Sienna the new owner of the company arranging for Julia to interview to be her fathers new bride. Grant, billionaire CEO is going to be ousted from the board of a company he built unless he can prove he has changed his wayward image. Sienna thinks a temporary wife is just what he needs.
With the promise of being able to write everyday, and a payoff to leave her comfortable Julia decides to go along with it. Everyone loves Julia, she’s down to earth and a refreshing change from Grant’s usual wives (he’s had four).
When someone (no spoiler) goes missing the police come looking for Grant. He’s the main suspect but Julia’s mystery writer brain starts to realise it’s a set up.
This story is good, I thought I’d guessed the ‘bad guy’ but I was wrong, which I liked. There’s obviously going to be a follow up to this book, given the title ‘Hearts and Holdings book 1’ if not it’s an odd ending.
I liked the characters, Grant is a good guy and well liked by those working for him, Sienna is a spoilt brat, but she’s supposed to be.
I’ll definitely look out for the next Hearts and Holdings books by this author.
With the promise of being able to write everyday, and a payoff to leave her comfortable Julia decides to go along with it. Everyone loves Julia, she’s down to earth and a refreshing change from Grant’s usual wives (he’s had four).
When someone (no spoiler) goes missing the police come looking for Grant. He’s the main suspect but Julia’s mystery writer brain starts to realise it’s a set up.
This story is good, I thought I’d guessed the ‘bad guy’ but I was wrong, which I liked. There’s obviously going to be a follow up to this book, given the title ‘Hearts and Holdings book 1’ if not it’s an odd ending.
I liked the characters, Grant is a good guy and well liked by those working for him, Sienna is a spoilt brat, but she’s supposed to be.
I’ll definitely look out for the next Hearts and Holdings books by this author.
April 13, 2024
Wow, wow!
You mystery? Great characters? A pacy plot? You’ve got it! BUT this is not book 1 of a series!! You are left with a ‘what! It can’t end now!’ Need book 2!
You mystery? Great characters? A pacy plot? You’ve got it! BUT this is not book 1 of a series!! You are left with a ‘what! It can’t end now!’ Need book 2!
May 12, 2024
Exciting with lots of twists and turns
I enjoyed the murder mystery romance. I loved Julia and her desire to find the truth. What a thrilling story.
I enjoyed the murder mystery romance. I loved Julia and her desire to find the truth. What a thrilling story.
January 22, 2024
This was a quick read not just because it was a short book, but also because the story was compelling. It’s written in a way that makes you want to know what happens next. Not really any romance to speak of, which I was kind of disappointed by, but it’s the first book and they’re both oblivious. Definitely makes you want to binge the series to know what happens next!!
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
January 24, 2024
Nellie Steele does not disappoint!!!
Even though a romance novel is not my usual wheelhouse, I decided to read this book because I’ve read another series by Nellie H Steele, and I loved the books.
I started reading this book and immediately became invested in the main character. I found it very hard to put down. There are surprises around the corner and now I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Even though a romance novel is not my usual wheelhouse, I decided to read this book because I’ve read another series by Nellie H Steele, and I loved the books.
I started reading this book and immediately became invested in the main character. I found it very hard to put down. There are surprises around the corner and now I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2024
This is the first of a new series of books written by Nellie Steele that is very different from the excellent mystery and crime with talking pets and tiny dragon and magic books I have read before I received an ARC copy of Bet On A Billionaire.
When I saw the word 'Romance' I must admit that I wondered where we were heading. I am so used to what other writers pop under the word romance that I was worried this was a direction Nellie was going to take.
I need not have worried, this is a romance for sure, but clean, honest, and true - and more importantly done Nellie style. There is a twist from the word go. Of course, this was never going to be an ordinary boy meets girl book - no. He, Grant, was a billionaire trying to save his skin and his company. His daughter, Sierra, owned a publishing house had a viscous tongue, and Julia was a writer trying to be the writer she wanted to be, but something was happening to the publishing house and there was this interview that she was blind to what it was about.
The romance was to be engineered into a business deal at first, with all the love and happiness just a large fee to be paid for a charade to save a billionaire’s company and fortune.
But this is a Nellie story, and soon enough there is a crime that did not add up and a mystery that needed to be investigated – and a man to be protected. And in this time, a clean, heartwarming romance is born that we see as the readers, but not seen by the characters alone. She let herself go, and felt the pull of 'that something', but due to others comments, felt used. He was well aware that this woman was so different from his previous wives, but was finding it hard to see beyond all the women he knew who were just seeking his money.
The story progresses so very well and the structure is superb. Nellie has such a skill with words and putting a truly meaningful story together.
By the end of the book, I had a lovely warm glow of having read a good romance book, albeit a quirky Nellie style, and I know for sure you as a reader will be looking forward to book 2. There is no spicy stuff etc, but this is after all a 'Clean Billionaire Romance.' and none of that is needed.
It is a great read, and romance Nellie style just works and reads so well. This story deserves the 5 stars for its style, quality, and downright fun to read. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I saw the word 'Romance' I must admit that I wondered where we were heading. I am so used to what other writers pop under the word romance that I was worried this was a direction Nellie was going to take.
I need not have worried, this is a romance for sure, but clean, honest, and true - and more importantly done Nellie style. There is a twist from the word go. Of course, this was never going to be an ordinary boy meets girl book - no. He, Grant, was a billionaire trying to save his skin and his company. His daughter, Sierra, owned a publishing house had a viscous tongue, and Julia was a writer trying to be the writer she wanted to be, but something was happening to the publishing house and there was this interview that she was blind to what it was about.
The romance was to be engineered into a business deal at first, with all the love and happiness just a large fee to be paid for a charade to save a billionaire’s company and fortune.
But this is a Nellie story, and soon enough there is a crime that did not add up and a mystery that needed to be investigated – and a man to be protected. And in this time, a clean, heartwarming romance is born that we see as the readers, but not seen by the characters alone. She let herself go, and felt the pull of 'that something', but due to others comments, felt used. He was well aware that this woman was so different from his previous wives, but was finding it hard to see beyond all the women he knew who were just seeking his money.
The story progresses so very well and the structure is superb. Nellie has such a skill with words and putting a truly meaningful story together.
By the end of the book, I had a lovely warm glow of having read a good romance book, albeit a quirky Nellie style, and I know for sure you as a reader will be looking forward to book 2. There is no spicy stuff etc, but this is after all a 'Clean Billionaire Romance.' and none of that is needed.
It is a great read, and romance Nellie style just works and reads so well. This story deserves the 5 stars for its style, quality, and downright fun to read. Enjoy.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 4, 2025
TLDR; Marriage for Convenience. Murder. Mystery. Intrigue. Say less.
I have never read a billionaire romance but if had to guess the trope is probably very generic. A down on her luck woman needs help and a billionaire needs help and together they are able to help each other and then later find love.
This did not seem to follow that at all. This is the first book in an eight book series and let me tell you with how quickly I devoured the first book its going to take everything I have not to devour the entire series to see how it ends!
I did find the pacing in this story a little odd at first. It took me a second to really come to terms with the beginning of the book being purely business and having zero romance, so a fast paced interview to get married and signing a contract to get married to benefit each other makes complete sense from a business perspective.
What really set this apart from being a run of the mill romance novel is the fact that there is a murder mystery weaved into it from the start. Another thing that really set this apart for me is that is not any spice in this first book. It did not make either party falling for each seem too quick or realistic. If I had to guess the first novel probably covers only first 1-3 weeks of our MMC and FMC getting to know each and their contract is to be married for a full year.
I think the only thing I did not enjoy about this book is that there were times when the the view point would change from the MMC to the FMC, or vis versa, and it would feel like a tv show coming back from a commercial break where the same thing is being repeated almost like a reminder of what had just happened. Just from a different view point.
This is definitely the definition of a slow burn romance, especially considering in this first book there is absolutely zero romance. It is like beauty in the beast where for the first half of the movie there might have been something there that we, the reader, can see, but definitely nothing that our characters can see or understand.
I have so many questions at the end of this book that I'm hoping book two will shed light on or that will be answered by the end of the series. This is definitely a series I will be continuing. When I say curiosity may kill the cat, just consider me the cat at this point.
I have never read a billionaire romance but if had to guess the trope is probably very generic. A down on her luck woman needs help and a billionaire needs help and together they are able to help each other and then later find love.
This did not seem to follow that at all. This is the first book in an eight book series and let me tell you with how quickly I devoured the first book its going to take everything I have not to devour the entire series to see how it ends!
I did find the pacing in this story a little odd at first. It took me a second to really come to terms with the beginning of the book being purely business and having zero romance, so a fast paced interview to get married and signing a contract to get married to benefit each other makes complete sense from a business perspective.
What really set this apart from being a run of the mill romance novel is the fact that there is a murder mystery weaved into it from the start. Another thing that really set this apart for me is that is not any spice in this first book. It did not make either party falling for each seem too quick or realistic. If I had to guess the first novel probably covers only first 1-3 weeks of our MMC and FMC getting to know each and their contract is to be married for a full year.
I think the only thing I did not enjoy about this book is that there were times when the the view point would change from the MMC to the FMC, or vis versa, and it would feel like a tv show coming back from a commercial break where the same thing is being repeated almost like a reminder of what had just happened. Just from a different view point.
This is definitely the definition of a slow burn romance, especially considering in this first book there is absolutely zero romance. It is like beauty in the beast where for the first half of the movie there might have been something there that we, the reader, can see, but definitely nothing that our characters can see or understand.
I have so many questions at the end of this book that I'm hoping book two will shed light on or that will be answered by the end of the series. This is definitely a series I will be continuing. When I say curiosity may kill the cat, just consider me the cat at this point.
January 10, 2024
📚 Book Review 📚
Bet on a Billionaire
By
Nellie H. Steele
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bet on a Billionaire is the first in a new romance series by Nellie H. Steele, Hearts and Holdings Clean Romance Series. The story introduces us to Julia, an author who is desperately trying to get her new book published, and Grant Harrington, the billionaire CEO of a power and communication corporation. The Board of Directors of Grant’s company is considering removing Grant from his position due to their concerns about his ability to run the company. They plan on voting for a no-confidence resolution, and if the resolution is passed, Grant would lose his company. Grant needs to clean up his image, including that of his four, failed previous marriages. The plan is simple: find a new wife, a woman who would improve his image. His daughter, Sierra is all about image and has the perfect plan. Sierra is also the head of the publishing company that Julia is trying to have published her book. Through a series unfortunate (?) of events, Julia signs a one-year contract with Grant to marry him for a year and get paid 5 million dollars. Easy right? NO! Grant gets charged with murdering his secretary, is thrown in jail, and the board is voting to kick him out of the company.
I genuinely enjoyed reading this book. The character of Julia came across as a down-to-earth, earnest, intelligent, and very likable person. Grant displayed the CEO mindset and rich man persona, but was also loyal and kind. The book’s characters were well-written and believable, from Sierra, the spoiled daughter to Worthington, the wise butler. The storyline was easy to follow, even with a few unpredictable plot twists. Suspense abound not knowing the total involvement of certain characters, and the emotions escalated as the story developed. This book was a true page-turner for me, finding it hard to put down and turn the pages for more. I would highly recommend this book for a suspenseful, clean romantic story. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy
Bet on a Billionaire
By
Nellie H. Steele
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bet on a Billionaire is the first in a new romance series by Nellie H. Steele, Hearts and Holdings Clean Romance Series. The story introduces us to Julia, an author who is desperately trying to get her new book published, and Grant Harrington, the billionaire CEO of a power and communication corporation. The Board of Directors of Grant’s company is considering removing Grant from his position due to their concerns about his ability to run the company. They plan on voting for a no-confidence resolution, and if the resolution is passed, Grant would lose his company. Grant needs to clean up his image, including that of his four, failed previous marriages. The plan is simple: find a new wife, a woman who would improve his image. His daughter, Sierra is all about image and has the perfect plan. Sierra is also the head of the publishing company that Julia is trying to have published her book. Through a series unfortunate (?) of events, Julia signs a one-year contract with Grant to marry him for a year and get paid 5 million dollars. Easy right? NO! Grant gets charged with murdering his secretary, is thrown in jail, and the board is voting to kick him out of the company.
I genuinely enjoyed reading this book. The character of Julia came across as a down-to-earth, earnest, intelligent, and very likable person. Grant displayed the CEO mindset and rich man persona, but was also loyal and kind. The book’s characters were well-written and believable, from Sierra, the spoiled daughter to Worthington, the wise butler. The storyline was easy to follow, even with a few unpredictable plot twists. Suspense abound not knowing the total involvement of certain characters, and the emotions escalated as the story developed. This book was a true page-turner for me, finding it hard to put down and turn the pages for more. I would highly recommend this book for a suspenseful, clean romantic story. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Readers Copy
March 11, 2025
1st reading: Decent prose with few grammatical or punctuation errors. The plot is somewhat predictable, and there are a few subplots. The characters, however, are a bit stereotypical, and while growth is hinted at, this is an eight-book series, so my assumption is that it's meant to be gradual and spans across the entire series.
My overall impression can be summed up in one word: LAME. To be fair, the writing isn't terrible, but after having recently read two extraordinary books in the romance genre, this one suffers greatly by comparison. The prose, though technically accurate, lacks flair and inspiration; it's often clunky and awkward, sometimes too formal and clinical, usually skimming the surface of who could be fascinating and compelling characters. The novel is dual POV, and when there's a switch from one perspective to the other, we're often subjected to a repeat of a scene (complete with dialogue we've already read) from the other character's point of view. There are more elegant ways to handle this.
In addition, the characters, who as I said could be intriguing if handled properly, come off as weak and uninteresting. Grant, billionaire CEO, appears to lack self-awareness and allows his spoiled brat of a daughter run roughshod over him (apart from moments of temper, for which we're given no explanation apart from the immediately obvious). Julia, meek mystery writer, resorts to calling her sister the cop to sort through plot points and evidence; if she's a mystery writer, shouldn't she be able to figure out at least some of this on her own? Mitchell, Grant's attorney, appears to be clueless for how to handle his client's case. By the end of the book, which leaves many questions unanswered in the hopes you'll continue to the next installment, I'm left not caring what happens to any of them - apart from hoping that Sierra (the spoiled daughter) gets put in her place.
I will not be continuing this series.
My overall impression can be summed up in one word: LAME. To be fair, the writing isn't terrible, but after having recently read two extraordinary books in the romance genre, this one suffers greatly by comparison. The prose, though technically accurate, lacks flair and inspiration; it's often clunky and awkward, sometimes too formal and clinical, usually skimming the surface of who could be fascinating and compelling characters. The novel is dual POV, and when there's a switch from one perspective to the other, we're often subjected to a repeat of a scene (complete with dialogue we've already read) from the other character's point of view. There are more elegant ways to handle this.
In addition, the characters, who as I said could be intriguing if handled properly, come off as weak and uninteresting. Grant, billionaire CEO, appears to lack self-awareness and allows his spoiled brat of a daughter run roughshod over him (apart from moments of temper, for which we're given no explanation apart from the immediately obvious). Julia, meek mystery writer, resorts to calling her sister the cop to sort through plot points and evidence; if she's a mystery writer, shouldn't she be able to figure out at least some of this on her own? Mitchell, Grant's attorney, appears to be clueless for how to handle his client's case. By the end of the book, which leaves many questions unanswered in the hopes you'll continue to the next installment, I'm left not caring what happens to any of them - apart from hoping that Sierra (the spoiled daughter) gets put in her place.
I will not be continuing this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
♠️ ARC Review ♠️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in The Heart and Holdings series by Nellie Steele. I thought this was a great debut of the first book in the series with mystery, intrigue, murder, and a hint of romance (to come) with a cliffhanger that sets you up for the next book.
This book revolves around Grant, a CEO of Harrington Global Enterprises , who needs to clean up his image before he loses his company, and Julia a struggling author trying to get her manuscript published , who agrees to marry him for a year. I really liked Julia, she was down to earth, intelligent, and willing to do anything to help Grant in his time of crisis. At first, I didn’t really like Grant, he was the typical rich billionaire who was only worried about himself, but as the story went on I could see how loyal, kind, and sweet he was. I think both Julia and Grant’s character development flourished by the end of the story and I can’t wait to see how their relationship grows in the second book. I took one star off just because Grants daughter, Sierra, was the typical spoiled rich kid and was a little annoying, but you could tell she cared for her dad and wanted to protect him.
If you go into thinking this is just a marriage of convenience, then you will be 100% surprised ! The mysterious and suspenseful plot was great and I cannot wait to read the next book in hopes that some of my questions get answered!
♠️Coming February 14th, 2024 ♠️
♠️ I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bet on a Billionaire is the first book in The Heart and Holdings series by Nellie Steele. I thought this was a great debut of the first book in the series with mystery, intrigue, murder, and a hint of romance (to come) with a cliffhanger that sets you up for the next book.
This book revolves around Grant, a CEO of Harrington Global Enterprises , who needs to clean up his image before he loses his company, and Julia a struggling author trying to get her manuscript published , who agrees to marry him for a year. I really liked Julia, she was down to earth, intelligent, and willing to do anything to help Grant in his time of crisis. At first, I didn’t really like Grant, he was the typical rich billionaire who was only worried about himself, but as the story went on I could see how loyal, kind, and sweet he was. I think both Julia and Grant’s character development flourished by the end of the story and I can’t wait to see how their relationship grows in the second book. I took one star off just because Grants daughter, Sierra, was the typical spoiled rich kid and was a little annoying, but you could tell she cared for her dad and wanted to protect him.
If you go into thinking this is just a marriage of convenience, then you will be 100% surprised ! The mysterious and suspenseful plot was great and I cannot wait to read the next book in hopes that some of my questions get answered!
♠️Coming February 14th, 2024 ♠️
♠️ I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review!
April 3, 2025
This book completely took me by surprise! I have a habit of going into books blind—judging them by their covers, making assumptions about the story—so I definitely wasn’t expecting a murder mystery. I thought I was diving into a steamy billionaire romance, but instead, I got suspense, twists, and high-stakes danger. And honestly? I loved it. It was also a really quick read which was nice!
Grant and Julia’s dynamic is everything. Their light flirting and underlying tension are just the right amount for a first book, setting up what I can already tell will be an amazing slow-burn. Julia is thrown into Grant’s world, playing the role of his perfect wife, but the lines between real and pretend blur in the best way. Just as I was getting comfortable the story flipped on its head and the unraveling drama kept me hooked.
The pacing is spot-on, and the plot has more depth than I expected. The twists? Definitely there, and they delivered. But if there’s one thing I didn’t love, it was Grant’s daughter. She felt more like an overbearing friend than a daughter, which threw off the dynamic for me. I think I would’ve liked her more in a different role, but hopefully, she fades into the background as the series continues.
Either way, I’m so excited to see what happens next between Grant and Julia—between the mystery, the romance, and the danger, I know this series is only going to get better!
Grant and Julia’s dynamic is everything. Their light flirting and underlying tension are just the right amount for a first book, setting up what I can already tell will be an amazing slow-burn. Julia is thrown into Grant’s world, playing the role of his perfect wife, but the lines between real and pretend blur in the best way. Just as I was getting comfortable the story flipped on its head and the unraveling drama kept me hooked.
The pacing is spot-on, and the plot has more depth than I expected. The twists? Definitely there, and they delivered. But if there’s one thing I didn’t love, it was Grant’s daughter. She felt more like an overbearing friend than a daughter, which threw off the dynamic for me. I think I would’ve liked her more in a different role, but hopefully, she fades into the background as the series continues.
Either way, I’m so excited to see what happens next between Grant and Julia—between the mystery, the romance, and the danger, I know this series is only going to get better!
February 3, 2024
Nellie Steele’s novel starts as a Cinderella story but sort of gets lost when it veers into a who-done-it. Grant, a billionaire businessman is in trouble with his board of directors who are threatening to fire him. His daughter Sierra convinces him to marry a wholesome mystery writer, Julia. Julia is low on cash and needs to have her most recent book published by Sierra who runs a publishing company, and soon she finds herself in a marriage of convenience in the tony world of mansions and designer clothes. When Grant’s secretary is presumed murdered, Julia uses her mystery writer knowledge to try to solve the problem.
I liked the first half of the book but unfortunately, there was very little to swoon over in Julia and Grant’s May-December relationship. The slow burn was more glacial in its progression and in fact, just barely delivers a maybe-happy-for-now ending. Understanding that this book is part of a series, I assume one just has to wait and see in book two what will happen. Needless to say, that is disappointing. Steele needs to develop Grant and Julia’s relationship much more significantly for me to want to keep reading. There were also a lot of plot holes and logic problems in the mystery part of the story which was frustrating.
I received an advanced reader copy of this novel for free and this is my unbiased opinion.
I liked the first half of the book but unfortunately, there was very little to swoon over in Julia and Grant’s May-December relationship. The slow burn was more glacial in its progression and in fact, just barely delivers a maybe-happy-for-now ending. Understanding that this book is part of a series, I assume one just has to wait and see in book two what will happen. Needless to say, that is disappointing. Steele needs to develop Grant and Julia’s relationship much more significantly for me to want to keep reading. There were also a lot of plot holes and logic problems in the mystery part of the story which was frustrating.
I received an advanced reader copy of this novel for free and this is my unbiased opinion.
February 7, 2024
Grant Harrington is CEO of Harrington Holdings. His company supplies the whole east coast with power. He has spent 25 years growing the company into what it is today and now the board wants to vote him out. They are trying to deem him unfit for the position all because of his image. So that is something they will have to fix. His daughter Sierra thinks she has the perfect idea, she is going to do interviews for a wife and this wife will help him clean up his image, stay married for a year and then she can leave 5 million dollars richer. Finally, they have found what they think is the right person, Julia Stanton. She is gorgeous, wholesome and nothing fake about this woman. But Julia is a writer there to meet Sierra, her new publisher to drop off her manuscript not to apply to get married. Julia is not interested in money she just wants her book published. What happens from here? Do they get married? Can Julia live with a fake marriage? Does Grant get to keep the company? Do things at the company settle down? Wow so many questions and I know where you can find the answers. I highly recommend this book and hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did. This is the first book from Nellie Steele that I have read but it will not be the last I assure you!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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