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Wordplay
The Bottom Line
The Hating Game meets By a Thread
When the return on investment is love…
Self-sacrificing Stella Daniels put her competitive finance career on ice, passing up promotions to help her elderly grandfather manage his struggling funeral home. Now with the mortuary in danger of closing, Stella must hustle for a promotion at the firm she’s been neglecting. But when she snaps at a rude--and dangerously handsome--customer at the funeral home, who happens to be a transferring employee competing for the same promotion, Stella’s professional and personal worlds collide.
Investment manager Jameson Brooks had it all—the car, the career, and the swanky flat—until news of his mother’s illness forced him to move to the States. In the wake of her death, Jameson’s estranged father offers him a job at his investment firm. The catch? No one can learn he’s the bastard son of the boss. However, under pressure to succeed at work and berated by a father he can’t please, Jameson’s mental health spirals, sending him back to old self-harming habits.
With the promotion to Project Manager on the table, Jameson and Stella fight to one up each other, but amidst the sabotage and late nights at the office, they’re both surprised to discover their rival might be the one bright spot in their increasingly dark days. But to bask in the sunshine, they’ll have to choose their greatest investment yet—themselves.
This enemies to lovers brings the fire with a tenacious, ball-busting heroine who won't give up and a cinnamon roll disguised as an alpha in need of a little support. Come along for the ride as one bossy Brit tries to keep his heart and his secrets from the headstrong woman destined to break down his walls.
The Bottom Line is an adult romance that features mature themes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences. Reader discretion is advised. For all content warnings, check the author's website.
When the return on investment is love…
Self-sacrificing Stella Daniels put her competitive finance career on ice, passing up promotions to help her elderly grandfather manage his struggling funeral home. Now with the mortuary in danger of closing, Stella must hustle for a promotion at the firm she’s been neglecting. But when she snaps at a rude--and dangerously handsome--customer at the funeral home, who happens to be a transferring employee competing for the same promotion, Stella’s professional and personal worlds collide.
Investment manager Jameson Brooks had it all—the car, the career, and the swanky flat—until news of his mother’s illness forced him to move to the States. In the wake of her death, Jameson’s estranged father offers him a job at his investment firm. The catch? No one can learn he’s the bastard son of the boss. However, under pressure to succeed at work and berated by a father he can’t please, Jameson’s mental health spirals, sending him back to old self-harming habits.
With the promotion to Project Manager on the table, Jameson and Stella fight to one up each other, but amidst the sabotage and late nights at the office, they’re both surprised to discover their rival might be the one bright spot in their increasingly dark days. But to bask in the sunshine, they’ll have to choose their greatest investment yet—themselves.
This enemies to lovers brings the fire with a tenacious, ball-busting heroine who won't give up and a cinnamon roll disguised as an alpha in need of a little support. Come along for the ride as one bossy Brit tries to keep his heart and his secrets from the headstrong woman destined to break down his walls.
The Bottom Line is an adult romance that features mature themes and content that may not be suitable for all audiences. Reader discretion is advised. For all content warnings, check the author's website.
349 pages, ebook
Published March 14, 2024
About the author
Tobie Carter
6 books85 followersTobie Carter is a fiction writer of contemporary romance and suspense who will die on the hill saying that there was absolutely enough room on that plank for both of them. Her stories are fast-paced, angsty, high heat, and feature relatable characters who refuse to settle for less than they deserve.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
May 19, 2024
🌟🌟🌟 3 stars | 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 3/5 spice
Synopsis
Stella spends her days as an investor, while also helping her grandfather keep his family business, a morgue, afloat. Enter Jameson, a mysterious transfer from the UK who suddenly shows up at her investment firm. Their manager pits them against each other, declaring that whoever can land the largest client will earn the next available promotion. What ensues is a classic enemies-to-lovers scenario, as Jameson and Stella compete fiercely for the coveted promotion with a side of romance .
Thoughts
I’ll be honest this book wasn’t my cup of tea but I did get through reading it in a single day hence the three star rating.
They fell a bit too quickly - Stella and Jameson fell for each other a bit too quickly. Even though it’s not an overly long novel, a good enemies-to-lovers story still needs some build-up for me.
The twists were a bit out there –
February 1, 2024
Wow 🥹, I finished reading it in 1day and I loved how different and unique this story is. It is rear to find a vulnerable MMC and I loved how raw it was.
I love that it shows that men go through mental health issues, abuse, and therapy too, and it should not be a measure of their “manliness”.
Jameson and Stella went through a lot, I love how strong and determined they are, they have my heart.
“Just because you can’t see his scars doesn’t mean they aren’t there”
“Healing Isn’t Linear”
“We were both drowning in our own silent battles and needed each other”
I love that it shows that men go through mental health issues, abuse, and therapy too, and it should not be a measure of their “manliness”.
Jameson and Stella went through a lot, I love how strong and determined they are, they have my heart.
“Just because you can’t see his scars doesn’t mean they aren’t there”
“Healing Isn’t Linear”
“We were both drowning in our own silent battles and needed each other”
September 25, 2026
~Arc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
~The Bottom Line by Tobie Carter~
“It’s not your fault you had shitty parents. It wasn’t your responsibility to make them love you. Parents should love and protect their children’s dreams, not crush them.”
♡This was my first read by Tobie Carter & I devoured it in less then 24hrs. Once I started reading I honestly got so into this story & it's characters I couldn't put the book down & all of my responsibilities for that day went out the window!
Stella & Jameson have become one of my new favorite couples! Their story is full of emotion, healing, banter for days, & a perfect portrayal of the struggle mental health causes. If you love a good workplace romance with enemies to lovers vibe & a well worth the wait hea look no further you found it.♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
~Thank you Tobie & Crown The Invisible for this Arc, all thoughts are my own~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶
~The Bottom Line by Tobie Carter~
“It’s not your fault you had shitty parents. It wasn’t your responsibility to make them love you. Parents should love and protect their children’s dreams, not crush them.”
♡This was my first read by Tobie Carter & I devoured it in less then 24hrs. Once I started reading I honestly got so into this story & it's characters I couldn't put the book down & all of my responsibilities for that day went out the window!
Stella & Jameson have become one of my new favorite couples! Their story is full of emotion, healing, banter for days, & a perfect portrayal of the struggle mental health causes. If you love a good workplace romance with enemies to lovers vibe & a well worth the wait hea look no further you found it.♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
~Thank you Tobie & Crown The Invisible for this Arc, all thoughts are my own~
January 3, 2025
Once I started I couldn’t put this book down and finished it in one day. Definitely helps to show how much we all struggle and nobody would even know. And of course being from San Antonio I loved picturing all the scenes with all the places since i knew them all.
September 23, 2026
Format: ebook
Non-Spoiler ARC Review:
This story sucked me in, literally from THE first page. I went in completely blind yet again and enjoyed every single page. I loved the workplace rivalry and competitive vibes, the never ending banter between Jameson and Stella and of course, the undeniable chemistry they shared. Not to mention, the FMC was feisty, beautiful and loyal.
The Bottom Line was a sweet, yet intense romance that started out as enemies-to-lovers. There was banter, angst, spice, and chemistry between two people who deserved to be loved.
Thank you, Crown the Invisible for the ARC.
Non-Spoiler ARC Review:
This story sucked me in, literally from THE first page. I went in completely blind yet again and enjoyed every single page. I loved the workplace rivalry and competitive vibes, the never ending banter between Jameson and Stella and of course, the undeniable chemistry they shared. Not to mention, the FMC was feisty, beautiful and loyal.
The Bottom Line was a sweet, yet intense romance that started out as enemies-to-lovers. There was banter, angst, spice, and chemistry between two people who deserved to be loved.
Thank you, Crown the Invisible for the ARC.
September 18, 2026
This was my first time reading Tobie Carter, and I really enjoyed it! Give me workplace rivals, enemies-to-lovers tension, and two stubborn people trying to outdo each other while very obviously developing feelings, and I am IN.
I really liked Stella and Jameson, especially because they both had so much going on beneath the surface. Their chemistry was fun, but I also appreciated that the story wasn’t afraid to dig into some heavier emotional territory, especially when it came to Jameson’s struggles with mental health.
There was a nice balance of romance, angst, humor, and spice, and I enjoyed watching these two slowly figure out that maybe their biggest competition wasn’t actually each other. Also, a romance involving a funeral home? That definitely got my attention.
Overall, The Bottom Line was a really enjoyable introduction to Tobie Carter’s writing. I’ll absolutely be checking out more from her.
Thanks to Tobie Carter for gifting me an eARC of The Bottom Line. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really liked Stella and Jameson, especially because they both had so much going on beneath the surface. Their chemistry was fun, but I also appreciated that the story wasn’t afraid to dig into some heavier emotional territory, especially when it came to Jameson’s struggles with mental health.
There was a nice balance of romance, angst, humor, and spice, and I enjoyed watching these two slowly figure out that maybe their biggest competition wasn’t actually each other. Also, a romance involving a funeral home? That definitely got my attention.
Overall, The Bottom Line was a really enjoyable introduction to Tobie Carter’s writing. I’ll absolutely be checking out more from her.
Thanks to Tobie Carter for gifting me an eARC of The Bottom Line. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 19, 2024
Good combo of story with spice. Interesting main characters, especially Jameson with his well-represented mental health issues. Stella is working to help keep her family funeral home possibly the to the detriment of her career in finance. Loved the character of Pop-pop, funny and wise at the same time. Thanks to netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 15, 2025
Stumbled across this book on a social media post by the author and figured I’d give it a try. It was very well done, especially for one of this author’s first books! Lots of heavy topics that were handled well
September 23, 2026
4.5 🌟 The Bottom Line was so good. As soon as I saw this was workplace rivals to lovers, I knew I was going to devour this. There was angst, humor, spice - a little bit of everything that had me turning the pages.
Stella and Jameson definitely pulled on my heartstrings. (I just want to wrap Jameson up in a hug because this man 🥺) The mental health rep was handled really well, especially with the MMC. Definitely enjoyed this read.
Stella and Jameson definitely pulled on my heartstrings. (I just want to wrap Jameson up in a hug because this man 🥺) The mental health rep was handled really well, especially with the MMC. Definitely enjoyed this read.
January 16, 2024
I fell into this book so easily and quickly and I finished it in less than 24 hours!
There is so amazing mental health representation in this book along with some very strong-willed main characters.
Stella - our FMC - just wants to support her family and take care of everything and everyone...
When it comes to Jameson - our MMC - I just want to give him a hug because I feel like all he needs is a hug from the right person... He's so damn grumpy and sweet... Ugh... My heart is feeling things again.
Watching these two battle it and go round and round and fall for each other was just a rollercoaster, and damnit... I loved it!
There was some really good character growth for both our mains and while my heart broke at some moments... It was for good reasons!
I will very much be recommending this book to friends!
If you like Lucy Score type of books then this book is totally for you!!!
There is so amazing mental health representation in this book along with some very strong-willed main characters.
Stella - our FMC - just wants to support her family and take care of everything and everyone...
When it comes to Jameson - our MMC - I just want to give him a hug because I feel like all he needs is a hug from the right person... He's so damn grumpy and sweet... Ugh... My heart is feeling things again.
Watching these two battle it and go round and round and fall for each other was just a rollercoaster, and damnit... I loved it!
There was some really good character growth for both our mains and while my heart broke at some moments... It was for good reasons!
I will very much be recommending this book to friends!
If you like Lucy Score type of books then this book is totally for you!!!
January 25, 2024
2 Reviews in 1: Professional Me & Regular Me
Professional me: This book made my therapist heart so happy. Well done in representing a population that doesn’t get enough attention! I enjoyed having an insight into the characters coping techniques & loved when we were able to see the trauma that led to his mental health struggles and maladaptive coping. He’s a courageous character that inspires others to do the long-term work for their mental health. I also really appreciated the scene where he is in an actual session- the conversation between him and his therapist is pretty spot on to how therapy should be (we are not there to tell to exactly what to do, but to dive deeper, process, & empower).
PS. I know for a fact that clients miss their appointments when they need them the most. If this sounds like you, make the appointment & show up for yourself!
Regular me: This book had all the things I love- enemies to lovers, the banter, the best friend every girl needs, the complicated family relationships, plot twists, and of course…the spice! Also, pop-pop is a vibe…I wish I had him in my life. I love when an author delivers that perfect combo of well rounded, witty, believable characters, who have struggles & ridiculous moments we can all identify with & maybe even learn something from.
Professional me: This book made my therapist heart so happy. Well done in representing a population that doesn’t get enough attention! I enjoyed having an insight into the characters coping techniques & loved when we were able to see the trauma that led to his mental health struggles and maladaptive coping. He’s a courageous character that inspires others to do the long-term work for their mental health. I also really appreciated the scene where he is in an actual session- the conversation between him and his therapist is pretty spot on to how therapy should be (we are not there to tell to exactly what to do, but to dive deeper, process, & empower).
PS. I know for a fact that clients miss their appointments when they need them the most. If this sounds like you, make the appointment & show up for yourself!
Regular me: This book had all the things I love- enemies to lovers, the banter, the best friend every girl needs, the complicated family relationships, plot twists, and of course…the spice! Also, pop-pop is a vibe…I wish I had him in my life. I love when an author delivers that perfect combo of well rounded, witty, believable characters, who have struggles & ridiculous moments we can all identify with & maybe even learn something from.
April 13, 2024
I liked this spicy workplace enemies to lovers romance. It did become a little repetitive in moments where there could have been more details into the plot or other parts of the story. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC
September 25, 2026
This book had me from the funeral home meet-cute, which might be one of the strangest sentences I have ever written in a romance review.
Stella is helping at her grandfather’s funeral home when she meets a ridiculously hot British guy who immediately manages to make a terrible first impression. He’s rude, dismissive, clearly wants to get out of there as quickly as possible, AND she catches him checking her out.
She clocks him as a jerk and assumes she never has to see him again.
Then she walks into her financial advising job and discovers he’s her competition for the promotion she desperately needs.
YES. I was immediately here for this.
I really loved Stella. She’s sassy and incredibly selfless, and she’s trying to keep her own career moving while doing everything she can to help her grandfather and his struggling funeral home. She also just ended a relationship with a pretty awful ex, so adding workplace competition with a man she should not be interested in is exactly the complication she does not need.
The family drama in this one gets MESSY, and both characters are carrying things that affect how they handle their relationship. I especially loved that when things went sideways, the story didn’t take the easiest route back to an HEA. They actually had to work through what happened and figure out whether there was a way forward.
There were also some seriously good lines from this MMC. Every once in a while he would say something to Stella and I was immediately like, okay SIR, you have my attention.
One of my favorite things about this story was how believable so much of the conflict felt. It wasn’t cookie cutter, I genuinely didn’t know exactly where everything was going, and the HEA felt earned after everything these two had to sort through.
I had such a good time with this one and I’m really excited to eventually experience Stella and her hot British complication all over again in audio.
Tropes: workplace rivals, forbidden romance, hot British MMC, sassy FMC, he falls first, family drama, mental health representation, BIPOC characters, second chance, hard won HEA
Stella is helping at her grandfather’s funeral home when she meets a ridiculously hot British guy who immediately manages to make a terrible first impression. He’s rude, dismissive, clearly wants to get out of there as quickly as possible, AND she catches him checking her out.
She clocks him as a jerk and assumes she never has to see him again.
Then she walks into her financial advising job and discovers he’s her competition for the promotion she desperately needs.
YES. I was immediately here for this.
I really loved Stella. She’s sassy and incredibly selfless, and she’s trying to keep her own career moving while doing everything she can to help her grandfather and his struggling funeral home. She also just ended a relationship with a pretty awful ex, so adding workplace competition with a man she should not be interested in is exactly the complication she does not need.
The family drama in this one gets MESSY, and both characters are carrying things that affect how they handle their relationship. I especially loved that when things went sideways, the story didn’t take the easiest route back to an HEA. They actually had to work through what happened and figure out whether there was a way forward.
There were also some seriously good lines from this MMC. Every once in a while he would say something to Stella and I was immediately like, okay SIR, you have my attention.
One of my favorite things about this story was how believable so much of the conflict felt. It wasn’t cookie cutter, I genuinely didn’t know exactly where everything was going, and the HEA felt earned after everything these two had to sort through.
I had such a good time with this one and I’m really excited to eventually experience Stella and her hot British complication all over again in audio.
Tropes: workplace rivals, forbidden romance, hot British MMC, sassy FMC, he falls first, family drama, mental health representation, BIPOC characters, second chance, hard won HEA
September 29, 2026
BRILLIANT STORY ON SOME TOUGH TOPICS!!
Absolutely love reading about matters that are relevant in today’s time, even if considered tough/hard topics, because it brings light and awareness to struggles so many people deal with. Discussing mental health issues, child abuse, trauma, and self-harm, (especially to anyone who has dealt with it themselves or with someone they care about), are pretty sensitive subjects and I feel that Tobie did an amazing job of not only describing these things in a delicate manner but also breaking down the stigmas surrounding them.
Stella and Jameson meet under strenuous circumstances at her family’s funeral home, and while he is a bit abrasive with her, there’s some heated chemistry too. Which only amplifies when Stella arrives at work to find out that Jameson is the hot new British co-worker competing for the same promotion she’s after. Hello spicy rivals-to-lovers trope!!
Stella is a strong FMC dealing with the everyday stress of trying to work on too many projects and pleasing too many people at the same time, while keeping her head and finances above water – which I can completely relate to!! Jameson is the troubled MMC battling his own personal demons and stressors, both work and family related, always feeling like he must work extra hard to prove himself worthy to his father, while also carrying family secrets and trying to keep past trauma from resurfacing.
The story definitely kept my interest peaked going through the scenes and emotions right along with the characters as they tackle facing their fears, reactions to their trauma, the angst, the secrets, a blooming relationship and a little bit of mystery mixed in. I enjoyed how Stella and Jameson came together, helping each other heal and grow, but especially loved the realization that the success of each of their healing journeys needed to come from within. Favorite quote: “A good woman doesn’t change you; she shows you potential and makes you want to change for yourself.” Perfect words to sum up the love, support and restorative journey through this story… recommend as an absolute must read!! 4⭐️ 4🌶️
Absolutely love reading about matters that are relevant in today’s time, even if considered tough/hard topics, because it brings light and awareness to struggles so many people deal with. Discussing mental health issues, child abuse, trauma, and self-harm, (especially to anyone who has dealt with it themselves or with someone they care about), are pretty sensitive subjects and I feel that Tobie did an amazing job of not only describing these things in a delicate manner but also breaking down the stigmas surrounding them.
Stella and Jameson meet under strenuous circumstances at her family’s funeral home, and while he is a bit abrasive with her, there’s some heated chemistry too. Which only amplifies when Stella arrives at work to find out that Jameson is the hot new British co-worker competing for the same promotion she’s after. Hello spicy rivals-to-lovers trope!!
Stella is a strong FMC dealing with the everyday stress of trying to work on too many projects and pleasing too many people at the same time, while keeping her head and finances above water – which I can completely relate to!! Jameson is the troubled MMC battling his own personal demons and stressors, both work and family related, always feeling like he must work extra hard to prove himself worthy to his father, while also carrying family secrets and trying to keep past trauma from resurfacing.
The story definitely kept my interest peaked going through the scenes and emotions right along with the characters as they tackle facing their fears, reactions to their trauma, the angst, the secrets, a blooming relationship and a little bit of mystery mixed in. I enjoyed how Stella and Jameson came together, helping each other heal and grow, but especially loved the realization that the success of each of their healing journeys needed to come from within. Favorite quote: “A good woman doesn’t change you; she shows you potential and makes you want to change for yourself.” Perfect words to sum up the love, support and restorative journey through this story… recommend as an absolute must read!! 4⭐️ 4🌶️
March 15, 2024
This was my first book by Tobie and I was so drawn in by the plot! I love a workplace romance and a feisty FMC!
Stella is burning the candle at both ends trying to be successful at her finance job and help her grandpa at his funeral home. There’s a promotion up for grabs, but she’ll have to compete for it against the new guy, Jameson. He’s the secret son of the boss… and the guy Stella yelled at that morning. As their competition ramps up, their passion for each other does as well. But with so many secrets between them, it’s inevitable that they’ll have some tough battles to fight.
Stella was so strong and loyal, putting everyone’s needs above her own. Her devotion to her loved ones made me like her, but it was her going after her dreams that made me love her. The compassion she has for Jameson was top tier and showed the kind of love people with mental health struggles deserve to have.
One thing I thought was interesting is that the MMC was the more emotionally vulnerable character. I feel like we constantly see strong alpha men in romance, so it was nice to see Jameson be more soft with his feelings. He was also very sweet to Stella and appreciated everything about her (we love a supportive king).
The mental health representation was so hard yet nice to read. It also felt extremely real based on what I know about this topic. Kudos to the author for the writing on this sensitive subject!
Please check the trigger warnings!!! I knew what they were and some of them hit very close to home. I’m glad I checked them before reading because it would have been a shock to me. There are a lot of mature and heavy topics.
Thank you to Tobie for my ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
Read if you enjoy:
🤎 Enemies-to-lovers
📈 Workplace romance
🤎 Forced proximity
📈 Mental health rep
🤎 Double POV
Stella is burning the candle at both ends trying to be successful at her finance job and help her grandpa at his funeral home. There’s a promotion up for grabs, but she’ll have to compete for it against the new guy, Jameson. He’s the secret son of the boss… and the guy Stella yelled at that morning. As their competition ramps up, their passion for each other does as well. But with so many secrets between them, it’s inevitable that they’ll have some tough battles to fight.
Stella was so strong and loyal, putting everyone’s needs above her own. Her devotion to her loved ones made me like her, but it was her going after her dreams that made me love her. The compassion she has for Jameson was top tier and showed the kind of love people with mental health struggles deserve to have.
One thing I thought was interesting is that the MMC was the more emotionally vulnerable character. I feel like we constantly see strong alpha men in romance, so it was nice to see Jameson be more soft with his feelings. He was also very sweet to Stella and appreciated everything about her (we love a supportive king).
The mental health representation was so hard yet nice to read. It also felt extremely real based on what I know about this topic. Kudos to the author for the writing on this sensitive subject!
Please check the trigger warnings!!! I knew what they were and some of them hit very close to home. I’m glad I checked them before reading because it would have been a shock to me. There are a lot of mature and heavy topics.
Thank you to Tobie for my ARC copy in exchange for my honest review!
Read if you enjoy:
🤎 Enemies-to-lovers
📈 Workplace romance
🤎 Forced proximity
📈 Mental health rep
🤎 Double POV
September 25, 2026
The opening scene in this novel hooked me on page one. The FMC, Stella, sleeps in coffins! Yes, you read that right. Her family owns a funeral home, and she is working hard to help her grandfather save it. A rude client walks in to get details on the burial of his mother, and she ends up arguing with him instead.
One of the aspects I enjoyed tremendously of this story was the author’s repetitive use throughout of mental health representation. The MMC, Jameson, suffers from severe anxiety disorder. His character attends therapy and mentions several coping mechanisms he uses and how they help. I personally feel that mental health is not represented enough and when I find a good novel that does, I am thrilled. His character is very aware of his mental state at all times and after years of therapy is able to recognize when different situations are affecting him. It was impressive to read and also, I feel could be viewed as an encouragement to readers who struggle with mental health.
I also liked how the author did not shy away from discussing the issues that sometimes arise for biracial couples both with the acceptance of their relationship in society and with their children. Reading how both Jameson and Stella had been affected throughout their lives in different ways was heartbreaking.
Both Stella and Jameson’s characters each have very good friends that they can rely on in both good times and bad. This author did a wonderful job exemplifying the importance of having close relationships like these.
I thoroughly enjoyed this love story. This is an enemies to lovers romance and is a slow burn. There is witty banter, moments of laughter, angst, heartbreak, and true love. I found it refreshing to read the depth of feelings that Jameson had for Stella.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content.
I received this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
One of the aspects I enjoyed tremendously of this story was the author’s repetitive use throughout of mental health representation. The MMC, Jameson, suffers from severe anxiety disorder. His character attends therapy and mentions several coping mechanisms he uses and how they help. I personally feel that mental health is not represented enough and when I find a good novel that does, I am thrilled. His character is very aware of his mental state at all times and after years of therapy is able to recognize when different situations are affecting him. It was impressive to read and also, I feel could be viewed as an encouragement to readers who struggle with mental health.
I also liked how the author did not shy away from discussing the issues that sometimes arise for biracial couples both with the acceptance of their relationship in society and with their children. Reading how both Jameson and Stella had been affected throughout their lives in different ways was heartbreaking.
Both Stella and Jameson’s characters each have very good friends that they can rely on in both good times and bad. This author did a wonderful job exemplifying the importance of having close relationships like these.
I thoroughly enjoyed this love story. This is an enemies to lovers romance and is a slow burn. There is witty banter, moments of laughter, angst, heartbreak, and true love. I found it refreshing to read the depth of feelings that Jameson had for Stella.
I recommend this novel for mature audiences only due to sexual content.
I received this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
March 7, 2024
Stella Daniels does all that she can to assist her grandfather with his struggling funeral business, even at the expense of her finance career. Determined to prevent the business closing, she is single-minded in obtaining a promotion. When she snaps a rude but handsome customer who hassles her grandfather, she is shocked to find he, Jameson Brooks, is also competing for the same promotion. Investment manager Jameson Brooks had all of life’s luxuries until news of his mother’s illness forced him to move to the States. In the wake of her death, Jameson’s estranged father offers him a job at his investment firm; however, he must tell no-one that he is the bastard son of the boss. Soon the pressure of the job and the feeling that nothing can please his father, Jameson’s mental health spirals, sending him back to old self-harming habits. This is all compounded by his drive and competition with Stella to obtain the promotion of Project Manager. Yet, despite finding themselves competing for the role, they are drawn to each other.
A steamy romance with two very dynamic characters. Stella is a strong-minded woman who is determined to clinch the promotion which alongside Jameson, makes for some intense scenes. Jameson presents himself as confident and brash, yet his vulnerability soon becomes apparent to Stella, making for an interesting read. The author handled Jameson’s mental health issue with sensitivity but didn’t shy away from the reality of the situation.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A steamy romance with two very dynamic characters. Stella is a strong-minded woman who is determined to clinch the promotion which alongside Jameson, makes for some intense scenes. Jameson presents himself as confident and brash, yet his vulnerability soon becomes apparent to Stella, making for an interesting read. The author handled Jameson’s mental health issue with sensitivity but didn’t shy away from the reality of the situation.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 24, 2026
🇬🇧The Bottom Line
By Tobie Carter
I went into this one expecting a fun workplace rivals-to-lovers romance, but what I got was so much more.
Stella and Jameson are both carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Stella is fiercely loyal, determined, and willing to sacrifice her own dreams for the people she loves. Jameson may come across as confident and untouchable at first, but underneath is a man fighting battles most people never see. Watching these two clash, challenge each other, and slowly tear down the walls they’ve built around themselves was one of my favorite parts of this story.
What really stood out to me was the way Tobie Carter handled mental health. It wasn’t there simply to move the plot along—it felt honest, raw, and deeply human. Jameson’s journey especially left an impression on me, and I appreciated seeing a male character portrayed with so much depth and complexity.
The chemistry between Stella and Jameson is undeniable, but it’s the emotional depth that kept me turning the pages. Their growth, both individually and together, made every victory feel earned. Add in family dynamics, secrets, career competition, witty banter, and just the right amount of spice, and I was completely invested.
If you love:
🇬🇧 A swoony British billionaire hero
🇺🇸 A strong, sassy & determined American heroine
📈 Workplace rivals-to-lovers
🖤 An MMC battling demons behind closed doors
❤️ Emotional character growth
✨ Half-Brothers Ex
🔥 Witty banter and undeniable chemistry
🌶️ A romance with heart and heat
then The Bottom Line deserves a spot on your TBR.
Tobie Carter delivered a story that was equal parts swoony, emotional, and thought-provoking. I came for the romance but stayed for the characters, and by the end I was rooting for both Stella and Jameson to find not only love, but themselves. ❤️
By Tobie Carter
I went into this one expecting a fun workplace rivals-to-lovers romance, but what I got was so much more.
Stella and Jameson are both carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. Stella is fiercely loyal, determined, and willing to sacrifice her own dreams for the people she loves. Jameson may come across as confident and untouchable at first, but underneath is a man fighting battles most people never see. Watching these two clash, challenge each other, and slowly tear down the walls they’ve built around themselves was one of my favorite parts of this story.
What really stood out to me was the way Tobie Carter handled mental health. It wasn’t there simply to move the plot along—it felt honest, raw, and deeply human. Jameson’s journey especially left an impression on me, and I appreciated seeing a male character portrayed with so much depth and complexity.
The chemistry between Stella and Jameson is undeniable, but it’s the emotional depth that kept me turning the pages. Their growth, both individually and together, made every victory feel earned. Add in family dynamics, secrets, career competition, witty banter, and just the right amount of spice, and I was completely invested.
If you love:
🇬🇧 A swoony British billionaire hero
🇺🇸 A strong, sassy & determined American heroine
📈 Workplace rivals-to-lovers
🖤 An MMC battling demons behind closed doors
❤️ Emotional character growth
✨ Half-Brothers Ex
🔥 Witty banter and undeniable chemistry
🌶️ A romance with heart and heat
then The Bottom Line deserves a spot on your TBR.
Tobie Carter delivered a story that was equal parts swoony, emotional, and thought-provoking. I came for the romance but stayed for the characters, and by the end I was rooting for both Stella and Jameson to find not only love, but themselves. ❤️
January 19, 2024
I am mutuals with this author on social media and received an advance copy in return for an honest review. So...Honestly? I absolutely loved this book and stayed up waaaay too late last night to finish it. :) The Bottom Line is such a fresh take on enemies to lovers that's actually believable (rare to find that in a contemporary setting!) and I just adored the slide from "I hate you" to "I can't live without you." In fact, there were so many fun twists on classic tropes that I really enjoyed as a long-time romance reader (only one coffin, anyone?).
The female main character is bossy, spicy, and sweet and I think the author did a great job writing a multidimensional female character whose growth really rang true to me. Same goes with the male main character who is dealing with a ton of issues - his growth arc is really incredible and I loved how the author balanced these two very complex and strong character arcs. I feel like so many romances only focus on the FMC or one of the MC arcs, leaving the other's a bit flat. Not so in this case!!! I cannot wait to read anything else she puts out there!!
Final Note - This book does deal with some strong and serious mental health issues and I'd recommend visiting the author's website for the full CWs.
The female main character is bossy, spicy, and sweet and I think the author did a great job writing a multidimensional female character whose growth really rang true to me. Same goes with the male main character who is dealing with a ton of issues - his growth arc is really incredible and I loved how the author balanced these two very complex and strong character arcs. I feel like so many romances only focus on the FMC or one of the MC arcs, leaving the other's a bit flat. Not so in this case!!! I cannot wait to read anything else she puts out there!!
Final Note - This book does deal with some strong and serious mental health issues and I'd recommend visiting the author's website for the full CWs.
September 24, 2026
This story held my attention from the start. It's more than just a workplace romance. It's full of real situations and emotion.
Stella is trying to juggle keeping her Pop-Pop's funeral home open and maintain her Investment Manager position. She's torn between a job she is good at and a family business she will do whatever it takes to help it survive. Jameson is brought in from the UK to prive he can take over his father's business. Stella and Jameson soon find themselves in a competition over the position.
The story has a complicated family situation for Jameson. He wants nothing more than for his father to approve of him and love him. He's given up so much to to attempt to receive any type of positive emotion from his Dad.
I thought the mental health and self harm were done well. You could see it was a true daily struggle for Jameson. It was entwined into his story perfectly.
Stella became his calm, his quiet, and his safe space that he needed. She is strong, loyal to those she loves, and is on a journey to find what she really wants.
This story has heart, its emotional, there's banter, real struggles, secrets, growth, and some steamy moments!
Stella is trying to juggle keeping her Pop-Pop's funeral home open and maintain her Investment Manager position. She's torn between a job she is good at and a family business she will do whatever it takes to help it survive. Jameson is brought in from the UK to prive he can take over his father's business. Stella and Jameson soon find themselves in a competition over the position.
The story has a complicated family situation for Jameson. He wants nothing more than for his father to approve of him and love him. He's given up so much to to attempt to receive any type of positive emotion from his Dad.
I thought the mental health and self harm were done well. You could see it was a true daily struggle for Jameson. It was entwined into his story perfectly.
Stella became his calm, his quiet, and his safe space that he needed. She is strong, loyal to those she loves, and is on a journey to find what she really wants.
This story has heart, its emotional, there's banter, real struggles, secrets, growth, and some steamy moments!
November 4, 2024
This was so good!!! I wasn’t sure what to expect as this is a new author to me, but I really enjoyed this book.
I loved Stella. She is so many of us trying to do balance everything in our lives and trying to keep our heads above water. Jameson has some mental health struggles that he is working through. I really enjoyed all the life lessons in this book. We love a wise Pop Pop! We love a downa— bff Rosay! We love a supportive bestie and wife Mike and Christine!
I’m not British, but all of the Jameson chapters really sounded legit from a tone to jargon standpoint. It made the reading experience that much better. I also didn’t fact check the mental health statistics, but they sounded good when I was reading it. It seems like the author does a good job of researching and being true to the characters she creates.
Great book throughout. I’m not going to say I didn’t think the first and last scenes weren’t a little strange to me 😂 but who am I to judge? Looking forward to reading more of Tobie Carter’s works!
I loved Stella. She is so many of us trying to do balance everything in our lives and trying to keep our heads above water. Jameson has some mental health struggles that he is working through. I really enjoyed all the life lessons in this book. We love a wise Pop Pop! We love a downa— bff Rosay! We love a supportive bestie and wife Mike and Christine!
I’m not British, but all of the Jameson chapters really sounded legit from a tone to jargon standpoint. It made the reading experience that much better. I also didn’t fact check the mental health statistics, but they sounded good when I was reading it. It seems like the author does a good job of researching and being true to the characters she creates.
Great book throughout. I’m not going to say I didn’t think the first and last scenes weren’t a little strange to me 😂 but who am I to judge? Looking forward to reading more of Tobie Carter’s works!
March 25, 2024
this book was won in a GR giveaways.
tw. self harm
honestly, i am extremely nitpicky most times. this book however was enjoyable, read well, and kept me on my toes a bit. personally, i don’t enjoy when characters in anything are drinking and drive themselves home. i struggled a bit to see past that in chapter 5, but getting through the rest of the book was worth it.
the MMC struggles with self harm in this book and its not something you see often portrayed. tobie portrayed the struggles of men’s mental health in a way that i didn’t take pity on the MMC but rather gained more understanding. i’m glad he took the space in the end and we were able to see his progress with art/therapy a bit.
i enjoyed that this book was set in texas. i grew up in san antonio and it was comforting to read about the riverwalk and other little things like that. well written, a great enemies to lovers book overall and i can’t wait to see more from tobie.
tw. self harm
honestly, i am extremely nitpicky most times. this book however was enjoyable, read well, and kept me on my toes a bit. personally, i don’t enjoy when characters in anything are drinking and drive themselves home. i struggled a bit to see past that in chapter 5, but getting through the rest of the book was worth it.
the MMC struggles with self harm in this book and its not something you see often portrayed. tobie portrayed the struggles of men’s mental health in a way that i didn’t take pity on the MMC but rather gained more understanding. i’m glad he took the space in the end and we were able to see his progress with art/therapy a bit.
i enjoyed that this book was set in texas. i grew up in san antonio and it was comforting to read about the riverwalk and other little things like that. well written, a great enemies to lovers book overall and i can’t wait to see more from tobie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2024
TW: self-harm
This is a relatively light-hearted, humorous take on enemies-to-lovers; Stella and Jameson get off on the wrong foot at Stella's grandfather's funeral home, but now they're being forced to work together at their financial firm even as they vie for the same promotion. Cue office sabotage and barely-restrained antagonism during meetings even as Stella and Jameson are immediately attracted to one another.
The sex scenes in this book are solid; standout moment is probably when he's eating her out while they take a client call, and I'm pretty sure they just disconnect the call midway so they can have sex.
Finally, it is worth noting this story deals with some pretty heavy subject-matter; the book depicts self-harm on-page, and there are discussions about people's misconceptions about self-harm and masculinity.
This is a relatively light-hearted, humorous take on enemies-to-lovers; Stella and Jameson get off on the wrong foot at Stella's grandfather's funeral home, but now they're being forced to work together at their financial firm even as they vie for the same promotion. Cue office sabotage and barely-restrained antagonism during meetings even as Stella and Jameson are immediately attracted to one another.
The sex scenes in this book are solid; standout moment is probably when he's eating her out while they take a client call, and I'm pretty sure they just disconnect the call midway so they can have sex.
Finally, it is worth noting this story deals with some pretty heavy subject-matter; the book depicts self-harm on-page, and there are discussions about people's misconceptions about self-harm and masculinity.
January 15, 2024
When you sit down for a good story, you’d never think the main character napping in a coffin would get you started.
As a single mom battling the what ifs and the never ending challenges of the current state of the world, I truly identified and understood the inner troubles of both Jameson and Stella. The pressure to make sure everything is just right was an internal monologue I understood.
The development over the course of the chapters had me cheering them on as the pieces came together for amazing growth and then getting their happy ending.
Having a male perspective of anxiety over mental health struggles being out in the open was portrayed beautifully. The easing of that by acceptance was probably my favorite development over the course of reading.
And of course…. The spice was *chefs kiss* 💋
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
I received an advanced copy of this book, but this review is entirely my own.
I came for the steamy romance but stayed for the emotional heart. From the very first sentence, which was both intriguing and laugh-out-loud because of my own experience, I was hooked. While it is an enemies-to-lovers story with all the wonderful things that trope implies, Carter's characters are in no way cliche. While Stella is attractive and smart and ambitious and sassy (everything I love in a female lead), she is so very human when faced with problems that seem to come from every angle of her life. Jameson is a scorching hot male lead (don't get me started), but his emotional journey really set him apart from a lot of male leads I've read--and I've read a lot of them.
I can't wait to reread this book and go through the sweet emotional rollercoaster that is The Bottom Line.
I came for the steamy romance but stayed for the emotional heart. From the very first sentence, which was both intriguing and laugh-out-loud because of my own experience, I was hooked. While it is an enemies-to-lovers story with all the wonderful things that trope implies, Carter's characters are in no way cliche. While Stella is attractive and smart and ambitious and sassy (everything I love in a female lead), she is so very human when faced with problems that seem to come from every angle of her life. Jameson is a scorching hot male lead (don't get me started), but his emotional journey really set him apart from a lot of male leads I've read--and I've read a lot of them.
I can't wait to reread this book and go through the sweet emotional rollercoaster that is The Bottom Line.
March 6, 2024
•Tropes•
🤎Banter
🤍Double POV
🤎Enemies to Lovers
🤍Office Romance
🤎Forced Proximity
✨With her grandpas declining health, Stella is struggling with keeping up with work and helping the family business stay afloat. What she won’t do is put up with Jameson big ego he seems to be sporting when they meet.
✨Jameson is sent over to the states from the UK to prove to his father he can in fact, handle the business, when he has a rather crude encounter with Stella at the funeral home. She gets under his skin but thankfully he’ll never see her again..
✨Well that is until they find themselves working in the same office building and Stella’s been given the job to show him around. Heated banter and frustration forms between them, but that isn’t all…
✨This was a good easy read for me! I really enjoyed how these two fell for one another.
Thank you
🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️
🤎Banter
🤍Double POV
🤎Enemies to Lovers
🤍Office Romance
🤎Forced Proximity
✨With her grandpas declining health, Stella is struggling with keeping up with work and helping the family business stay afloat. What she won’t do is put up with Jameson big ego he seems to be sporting when they meet.
✨Jameson is sent over to the states from the UK to prove to his father he can in fact, handle the business, when he has a rather crude encounter with Stella at the funeral home. She gets under his skin but thankfully he’ll never see her again..
✨Well that is until they find themselves working in the same office building and Stella’s been given the job to show him around. Heated banter and frustration forms between them, but that isn’t all…
✨This was a good easy read for me! I really enjoyed how these two fell for one another.
Thank you
🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️🤎⭐️
March 16, 2024
This book was actually so interesting. It’s usually really hard to find a lead character who is a minority or who looks like me. So, I really felt a connection with this book. I really loved it. I am a sucker for enemies to lovers romance but this took the the cake for me. Stella, a young black women in the south, is a self-sacrificing women engaging in a finance career. I really connected with this main character who would do anything to help her family. At her family’s funeral home she meets Jamison who is a British man in finance whose mother died and ended up at Stella’s family funeral home. The many levels of this story is amazing and I really think the author, Tobie Carter, did amazing work on this. I received this book via NetGalley as an ARC. I hope you guys love it as much as I did and fellow black/brown girls could relate to it as I did.
March 14, 2024
Rooting for both of them
This is a love story with two main characters you can’t help but cheer for from page 1. The FMC is strong, direct and smart. The MC comes off mean but when you peel back his layers you’ll find a softie in a hard (no pun intended) shell. I loved the romance but also the angst and mystery that unravels as we discover more about characters’ family secrets.
This is a debut for this author and I can’t wait to see what other angsty, swoony, spicy, heartbreaking stories she has for us.
Take caution of CW as this does feature mental health and self harm. It’s an important topic not regularly addressed in romance novels, but shines a light on the importance of speaking out and seeking help.
This is a love story with two main characters you can’t help but cheer for from page 1. The FMC is strong, direct and smart. The MC comes off mean but when you peel back his layers you’ll find a softie in a hard (no pun intended) shell. I loved the romance but also the angst and mystery that unravels as we discover more about characters’ family secrets.
This is a debut for this author and I can’t wait to see what other angsty, swoony, spicy, heartbreaking stories she has for us.
Take caution of CW as this does feature mental health and self harm. It’s an important topic not regularly addressed in romance novels, but shines a light on the importance of speaking out and seeking help.
March 25, 2024
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway and was so excited to start reading!
Possible spoilers but I like to leave reviews to get a glimpse of what you’re reading without giving away too many details.
I enjoyed the book. It was a quick read and had a sweet story. I struggled slightly with the timeline. The characters kept saying weeks past or months past and to me it felt more like days? I felt like I missed out on days and times and found myself going back a page to see if I missed something. Other than that, it was very well written.
Trigger warnings: adult self harm, childhood trauma from abuse and neglect, close encounter with drowning, child abuse with a belt.
Spice 1/5 at about 60% and only one encounter in detail
3rd act breakup with a HEA
Possible spoilers but I like to leave reviews to get a glimpse of what you’re reading without giving away too many details.
I enjoyed the book. It was a quick read and had a sweet story. I struggled slightly with the timeline. The characters kept saying weeks past or months past and to me it felt more like days? I felt like I missed out on days and times and found myself going back a page to see if I missed something. Other than that, it was very well written.
Trigger warnings: adult self harm, childhood trauma from abuse and neglect, close encounter with drowning, child abuse with a belt.
Spice 1/5 at about 60% and only one encounter in detail
3rd act breakup with a HEA
September 21, 2024
There were a lot of things I liked about The Bottom Line - the chemistry between Stella and Jameson; peripheral characters of her grandfather and best friend and I felt the author handled the mental health aspect of the storyline realistically. The only detractor for me was a couple of Jameson's behaviors with regard to the job competition. It didn't feel credible to me that a grown adult would do that and it be so easily overlooked by the FMC; it wasn't necessary or central to the plot, so could have been left out so as not to make him seem so immature. Overall, I enjoyed this book and I found it refreshing to read a story that is different from your typical romance with a non-mainstream plot/topics.
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