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Secret Offer: A Standalone Forbidden Romance
We’ll marry her off to the highest bidder…but I’ll pay the price.
The Agency is an open secret among men of a certain tax bracket.
You need a wife who understands your lifestyle? We’ll hand-select options from the eligible daughters of men who’d love to cement a business alliance with you. Sometimes, the daughters don’t even know they’re being set up.
That’s my I run a Caribbean resort so exclusive it doesn’t even have a website, arranging meet-cutes between rich men and their future trophy wives.
I wasn’t looking for love myself.
Blair found me, brooding on a beach the week before my next client showed up.
She made me break my rule about never going back for more. Over and over again. Our one-week stand was hotter than July on the island.
And then my client introduced me to the daughter who doesn’t know he’s signed her with the Agency. The woman I’m in charge of setting up with one of the men her father has chosen for her.
Blair.
Secret Offer is the first book in the Agency Series, an exciting new world from Stella Gray featuring intrigue, angst, top-tier tropes, and spice.
The Agency is an open secret among men of a certain tax bracket.
You need a wife who understands your lifestyle? We’ll hand-select options from the eligible daughters of men who’d love to cement a business alliance with you. Sometimes, the daughters don’t even know they’re being set up.
That’s my I run a Caribbean resort so exclusive it doesn’t even have a website, arranging meet-cutes between rich men and their future trophy wives.
I wasn’t looking for love myself.
Blair found me, brooding on a beach the week before my next client showed up.
She made me break my rule about never going back for more. Over and over again. Our one-week stand was hotter than July on the island.
And then my client introduced me to the daughter who doesn’t know he’s signed her with the Agency. The woman I’m in charge of setting up with one of the men her father has chosen for her.
Blair.
Secret Offer is the first book in the Agency Series, an exciting new world from Stella Gray featuring intrigue, angst, top-tier tropes, and spice.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2024
256 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
About the author
Stella Gray
64 books746 followersStella Gray has always had her head in the clouds and has been writing since she was in high school. A contemporary romance author, she loves dark romances with morally gray men. When she’s not writing, she’s either in the kitchen testing out a new baking recipe or spending time in the great outdoors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 1, 2024
Well there we have it, my favourite read by Stella Gray!!
This is a standalone although I'm looking forward to more being released and finding out more about Sebastian's work partners.
Sebastian, the main man in this book is having a hard time when Blair arrives and makes him smile, it's as simple as that. They hit it off, they laugh, they enjoy each other and they have a LOT of chemistry.
All seems good - until it isn't!
Sebastian isn't just a tourist on the island, he's the owner of the hotel and a certain business that noone but the owners and clients even know about!
And Blair isn't just his sunshine, she's the daughter of one of his clients which means she is majorly off limits.
But what happens when it's too late and you've fallen for someone you can't have without ruining and loosing everything - do a Sebastian, be a coward and run! 🤦🏻♀️
When the truth comes out, Blair is gutted - rightly so! Is it too late for righting wrongs? Is this betrayal something you can move past?
Read and find out!
I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to more!!
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 4.5stars.
This is a standalone although I'm looking forward to more being released and finding out more about Sebastian's work partners.
Sebastian, the main man in this book is having a hard time when Blair arrives and makes him smile, it's as simple as that. They hit it off, they laugh, they enjoy each other and they have a LOT of chemistry.
All seems good - until it isn't!
Sebastian isn't just a tourist on the island, he's the owner of the hotel and a certain business that noone but the owners and clients even know about!
And Blair isn't just his sunshine, she's the daughter of one of his clients which means she is majorly off limits.
But what happens when it's too late and you've fallen for someone you can't have without ruining and loosing everything - do a Sebastian, be a coward and run! 🤦🏻♀️
When the truth comes out, Blair is gutted - rightly so! Is it too late for righting wrongs? Is this betrayal something you can move past?
Read and find out!
I really enjoyed this and I'm looking forward to more!!
*I voluntarily received an arc and this is my honest review. 4.5stars.
February 9, 2024
Oooh! I LOVED this book! This book captivated me very quickly and I didn’t want to put it down. I devoured it! Blair and Sebastian met very organically, but she knew she was on vacation and he knew she was vacationing so it was just a fling. Until it wasn’t. They were comfortable with each other and told each other things they hadn’t been able to say to anyone else. The chemistry was intense, but the emotions were real. They weren’t expecting the other and soon Sebastian finds out who Blair really is and halts everything. I couldn’t read this one fast enough to find out what would happen. The Agency is intriguing and I’m looking forward to Cruel Offer!
June 10, 2024
I wanted to love it, but it was just ok. Blair & Sebastian are good together, but the timeline felt rushed at the end.
June 3, 2024
Secret Offer by Stella Gray, is the first book in The Agency Series, Sebastian Argos, along with his three best friends, owns The Quattuor Group, who run several businesses, among which is providing matchmaking services between wealthy families who want that their single daughters are well married to successful single men who benefit not only from marrying a socialite, but this is accompanied by a very lucrative “dowry.” Sebastian is in charge of vetting families and possible candidates, as well as the resort in the Bahamas where meetings between the bachelorette and the matches take place before the auction, of course this is a very confidential business and only the clients know the term of the contracts and sign DNA. He is a taciturn and somewhat grumpy man, but he was not always like that, a loss in his life changed him and made him what he is today, that is why he dedicates himself to his work without giving anything else a chance. Before his next clients are scheduled to arrive at the resort he must travel there to train the new concierge, and one afternoon when he is with his thoughts on the resort's private beach a girl approaches him and begins to talk to him, although at the same time at first he thinks about pushing her away, her laughter awakens something in him and, captivated by her, he lets her approach and share an animated conversation that he hadn't had for a long time. Blair Tisdale is on vacation with her best friend, enjoying the island as part of her college graduation celebration and before vacationing with her parents. And although she is enjoying her time on the island, what excites her most is that when she returns from vacation she will take her place in managing the baseball team that her family owns, and for which she has been preparing since she was little. One afternoon, while she is walking along the beach looking for a place to have lunch, she meets a man who, despite his scowl, is a very handsome man. She babbles and doesn't seem to be able to control her mouth, but he seems not to be bothered, but rather enjoys it, but when the time comes to return to her friend, she finds herself not wanting to separate from him, so she ends up giving him her number in case they can see each other later. When Sebastian arrives at the bar where she is, one thing leads to another and they end up having an adventure, but they never give each other their names or talk about their lives outside the island and when the day of departure comes, each one goes their separate ways without a goodbye. But the surprise is enormous when upon meeting the family of the match he realizes that the daughter who is going to be auctioned, is none other than the girl from the beach. For him it's a shock and he knows that he must maintain his composure, his reputation and his job are at stake, so he must stay away from Blair, even if it kills him, but his job is all he has and he thinks he is no good for her, so she will get out of the way so potential matches can make a connection with her. Blair is surprised to find out who Sebastian really is, but she doesn't really know why they are there, she thinks it's to continue the vacation, so she continues to insist on keeping the adventure with him, but she is in for a bigget deception from her parents. And although the truth will come out, it may be too late for Sebastian to regain Blair's trust and love.
This is my first story by this author and since I started reading it I couldn't put it down! These characters are all very interesting and complex and there are so many entanglements that when the truth begins to be revealed I felt sorry for Blair, but I loved that she was strong and even in her most difficult moment she try to move forward. Sebastian is a man tormented by what he lost, but it was wonderful to see him come out of his dark period thanks to Blair. These characters are charming and I loved this series, I'm intrigued by the other mens in the group and I can't wait for their stories. Highly recommended!
Secret Offer de Stella Gray, es el primer libro de la Serie The Agency, Sebastian Argos, junto a sus tres mejores amigos es dueño de The Quattuor Group, quienes manejan varios negocios, entre esos está el prestar servicios de casamenteros entre familias adineradas que quieren que sus hijas solteras sean bien casadas con hombres solteros exitosos que salen beneficiados no solo al contraer matrimonio con una socialite, sino que esto viene acompañado de una “dote” muy lucrativa. Sebastian se encarga de vetar familias y posibles candidatos, así como del resort en las Bahamas donde se llevan a cabo los encuentros entre los solteros antes de la subasta, por supuesto este es un negocio muy confidencial y solo los clientes conocen el término de los contratos y firman cláusulas de privacidad. Él es un hombre taciturno y algo gruñón, pero no siempre fue así, una perdida en su vida lo cambio y lo convirtió en lo que es hoy en día, es por eso que se dedica a su trabajo sin dar oportunidad a más nada. Antes de que sus próximos clientes tengan pautado llegar al resort él debe viajar allí para entrenar a la nueva conserje, y en una tarde donde esta con sus pensamientos en la playa privada del resort una chica se acerca a él y comienza a hablarle, aunque al principio piensa en alejarla, la risa de ella despierta algo en él y cautivado la deja acercarse y compartir una conversación animada que tenía mucho tiempo sin tener. Blair Tisdale se encuentra de vacaciones con su mejor amiga disfrutando de la isla como parte de la celebración de su graduación de la universidad y antes de las vacaciones con sus padres. Y aunque esta disfrutando de su tiempo en la isla lo que más la emociona es que al regresar de las vacaciones tomará su lugar en el manejo del equipo de beisbol del que su familia es dueña, y para lo que se ha venido preparando desde pequeña. Una tarde donde esta caminando por la playa buscando un sitio para almorzar se encuentra con un hombre que, a pesar de su ceño profundo, es un hombre muy guapo, ella balbucea y parece no poder controlar su boca, pero el parece no molestarse, sino que disfruta de ello, pero cuando llegar el momento de volver a su amiga se encuentra no queriendo separarse de él, por lo que termina dándole su numero por si pueden verse luego. Cuando Sebastian llega al bar donde ella está una cosa lleva a la otra y terminan teniendo una aventura, pero nunca se dan sus nombres ni hablan de sus vidas fuera de la isla y llegado el día de la partida cada uno toma su camino. Pero la sorpresa es enorme cuando al conocer a la familia del contrato y conoce a la la hija que van a subastar se da cuenta que es nada menos que la chica de la playa. Para él es un shock y sabe que debe mantener su compostura, esta su reputación y su trabajo en juego, por lo que deberá mantenerse alejado de Blair, aunque esto lo mate, pero su trabajo es todo lo que tiene y piensa que no es bueno para ella, por lo que se quitará de en medio para así los posibles match puedan hacer conexión con ella. Blair se encuentra sorprendida de conocer quién es en realidad Sebastian, pero ella no sabe realmente porque están allí, ella piensa que es para seguir las vacaciones, por lo que sigue insistiendo en mantener la aventura con él, pero nunca imaginará la decepción que le espera no solo de él sino también de sus padres. Y aunque la verdad saldrá a la luz, puede que sea muy tarde para Sebastian recuperar la confianza y el amor de Blair.
Esta es mi primera historia de esta autora y desde que comencé a leerla no pude soltarla! Estos personajes son todo muy interesantes y complejos y hay tantos enredos que cuando empieza a develarse la verdad lo sentí por Blair, pero me encantó que fue fuerte y aún en su momento más difícil busco salir adelante. Sebastian es un hombre atormentado por lo que perdió, pero fue maravilloso verlo salir de su etapa oscura gracias a Blair. Estos personajes son encantadores y me encantó esta serie, estoy intrigada por los demás chicos del grupo y no puedo esperar a sus historias. ¡Altamente Recomendada!
This is my first story by this author and since I started reading it I couldn't put it down! These characters are all very interesting and complex and there are so many entanglements that when the truth begins to be revealed I felt sorry for Blair, but I loved that she was strong and even in her most difficult moment she try to move forward. Sebastian is a man tormented by what he lost, but it was wonderful to see him come out of his dark period thanks to Blair. These characters are charming and I loved this series, I'm intrigued by the other mens in the group and I can't wait for their stories. Highly recommended!
Secret Offer de Stella Gray, es el primer libro de la Serie The Agency, Sebastian Argos, junto a sus tres mejores amigos es dueño de The Quattuor Group, quienes manejan varios negocios, entre esos está el prestar servicios de casamenteros entre familias adineradas que quieren que sus hijas solteras sean bien casadas con hombres solteros exitosos que salen beneficiados no solo al contraer matrimonio con una socialite, sino que esto viene acompañado de una “dote” muy lucrativa. Sebastian se encarga de vetar familias y posibles candidatos, así como del resort en las Bahamas donde se llevan a cabo los encuentros entre los solteros antes de la subasta, por supuesto este es un negocio muy confidencial y solo los clientes conocen el término de los contratos y firman cláusulas de privacidad. Él es un hombre taciturno y algo gruñón, pero no siempre fue así, una perdida en su vida lo cambio y lo convirtió en lo que es hoy en día, es por eso que se dedica a su trabajo sin dar oportunidad a más nada. Antes de que sus próximos clientes tengan pautado llegar al resort él debe viajar allí para entrenar a la nueva conserje, y en una tarde donde esta con sus pensamientos en la playa privada del resort una chica se acerca a él y comienza a hablarle, aunque al principio piensa en alejarla, la risa de ella despierta algo en él y cautivado la deja acercarse y compartir una conversación animada que tenía mucho tiempo sin tener. Blair Tisdale se encuentra de vacaciones con su mejor amiga disfrutando de la isla como parte de la celebración de su graduación de la universidad y antes de las vacaciones con sus padres. Y aunque esta disfrutando de su tiempo en la isla lo que más la emociona es que al regresar de las vacaciones tomará su lugar en el manejo del equipo de beisbol del que su familia es dueña, y para lo que se ha venido preparando desde pequeña. Una tarde donde esta caminando por la playa buscando un sitio para almorzar se encuentra con un hombre que, a pesar de su ceño profundo, es un hombre muy guapo, ella balbucea y parece no poder controlar su boca, pero el parece no molestarse, sino que disfruta de ello, pero cuando llegar el momento de volver a su amiga se encuentra no queriendo separarse de él, por lo que termina dándole su numero por si pueden verse luego. Cuando Sebastian llega al bar donde ella está una cosa lleva a la otra y terminan teniendo una aventura, pero nunca se dan sus nombres ni hablan de sus vidas fuera de la isla y llegado el día de la partida cada uno toma su camino. Pero la sorpresa es enorme cuando al conocer a la familia del contrato y conoce a la la hija que van a subastar se da cuenta que es nada menos que la chica de la playa. Para él es un shock y sabe que debe mantener su compostura, esta su reputación y su trabajo en juego, por lo que deberá mantenerse alejado de Blair, aunque esto lo mate, pero su trabajo es todo lo que tiene y piensa que no es bueno para ella, por lo que se quitará de en medio para así los posibles match puedan hacer conexión con ella. Blair se encuentra sorprendida de conocer quién es en realidad Sebastian, pero ella no sabe realmente porque están allí, ella piensa que es para seguir las vacaciones, por lo que sigue insistiendo en mantener la aventura con él, pero nunca imaginará la decepción que le espera no solo de él sino también de sus padres. Y aunque la verdad saldrá a la luz, puede que sea muy tarde para Sebastian recuperar la confianza y el amor de Blair.
Esta es mi primera historia de esta autora y desde que comencé a leerla no pude soltarla! Estos personajes son todo muy interesantes y complejos y hay tantos enredos que cuando empieza a develarse la verdad lo sentí por Blair, pero me encantó que fue fuerte y aún en su momento más difícil busco salir adelante. Sebastian es un hombre atormentado por lo que perdió, pero fue maravilloso verlo salir de su etapa oscura gracias a Blair. Estos personajes son encantadores y me encantó esta serie, estoy intrigada por los demás chicos del grupo y no puedo esperar a sus historias. ¡Altamente Recomendada!
February 4, 2024
OH YES! I love a good billionaire romance story and Secret Offer did NOT disappoint. Stella Gray brought the steam along with some super-sexy wealthy men and a beautiful young lady who had her own brains and confidence to contribute to this fun, fast, easy read!
Blair is the young lady who after graduating from business school thought she was having some sun and fun in the islands before jumping into a job at her family-owned business. Little did she know that her parents had other plans for her, namely auctioning her future off to one of three eligible, very wealthy men. Too bad for them (and her) that she meets and falls hopelessly in love with Sebastian, the businessman arranging the auction behind her back! When she accidentally wanders onto his private beach, he's smitten. Of course, she has no idea who he is and he has no idea she's his next auction offering! Let the fun begin!
I loved the ease of this read. The characters were interesting and grabbed my imagination from the start. The story was a bit predictable at times, but it didn't detract or deter my interest in reading quickly and wanting to know what would happen next as I turned page after page. Everything wrapped up a little quicker than I would have liked at the end, but I enoyed it immensely nonetheless. If, like me, you enjoy a flawed, yet vulnerable wealthy man who goes "all-in" with his love for his woman, grab Secret Offer and enjoy!
Blair is the young lady who after graduating from business school thought she was having some sun and fun in the islands before jumping into a job at her family-owned business. Little did she know that her parents had other plans for her, namely auctioning her future off to one of three eligible, very wealthy men. Too bad for them (and her) that she meets and falls hopelessly in love with Sebastian, the businessman arranging the auction behind her back! When she accidentally wanders onto his private beach, he's smitten. Of course, she has no idea who he is and he has no idea she's his next auction offering! Let the fun begin!
I loved the ease of this read. The characters were interesting and grabbed my imagination from the start. The story was a bit predictable at times, but it didn't detract or deter my interest in reading quickly and wanting to know what would happen next as I turned page after page. Everything wrapped up a little quicker than I would have liked at the end, but I enoyed it immensely nonetheless. If, like me, you enjoy a flawed, yet vulnerable wealthy man who goes "all-in" with his love for his woman, grab Secret Offer and enjoy!
February 8, 2024
Amazon
One celebration getaway before Stella starts her career running her family's baseball team. Meeting and having a fling with a gorgeous guy certainly isn't what Stella ever imagined happening while on her island getaway, but Stella's having the time of her life even if she knows she and Sebastian will most likely never see each other again after. But when an revelation rocks her, she'll have to decide if she can go along with it.
Sebastian has finally met a woman who's making him feel, thawing his heart that's been on ice for too long. But Blair couldn't be more off-limits, as he soon realizes. Now he has to make a choice - let Blair go and return to his bleak existence, or choose Blair and the joy she brings to his world, and lose everything else at the same time.
I love Blair and Sebastian! They're perfect for each other and the way Sebastian rights his wrongs - so freaking swoony! Their chemistry is hot af, and I was really, really glad when they finally got on the same page and let themselves be in love.
ARC provided by Dangerous Press for an honest review.
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January 30, 2024
Secret Offer
(The Agency, Book 1)
By Stella Gray
Sebastian Argos prefers Manhattan to the Bahamas, some might think that strange but the island is where his hopes and dreams died three years ago.
Blair Tisdale, newly graduated from NYU, has a plan to start working at the family business after she and her parents have a holiday.
After spending one week with her bestie, Brooke, she is not looking forward to a week with her parents. The biggest reason is Sebastian. Blair and Sebastian hit it off. He opens up and she is helping him realize there is life after loss. Until she moves to the ritzy resort to meet up with her parents. She realizes that Sebastian isn’t there for a holiday, his job is running The Quattuor Group resort.
As it turns out the Tisdale family have also suffered a loss, that has caused Blair’s parents to build walls and worry about her being taken care of… which sends Blair off to find Sebastian. How will he be able to do his job at setting up meetings with three men who will be vying to win Blair’s hand. Even worse Blair has no idea what her parents have set this up.
The chemistry is high and very spicy between Sebastian and Blair and even if she has shattered the walls around his heart and emotions…she can never belong to him.
First I love this premise….it’s not uncommon for families of a similar status to try and arrange a marriage with a family. Blair’s parents are withholding information and once Sebastian realizes who she is…he knows feelings or not his job means she is off limits.
Secret Offer is well written, with sides of angst, spicy times between Blair and Sebastian and parents who never really delt with their grief. Sebastian’s business partners are going to be shocked when he tells them his secret….while a heart is breaking in Manhattan.
I found Secret Offer to be an enjoyable read and can’t wait to find out what book two will bring.
(The Agency, Book 1)
By Stella Gray
Sebastian Argos prefers Manhattan to the Bahamas, some might think that strange but the island is where his hopes and dreams died three years ago.
Blair Tisdale, newly graduated from NYU, has a plan to start working at the family business after she and her parents have a holiday.
After spending one week with her bestie, Brooke, she is not looking forward to a week with her parents. The biggest reason is Sebastian. Blair and Sebastian hit it off. He opens up and she is helping him realize there is life after loss. Until she moves to the ritzy resort to meet up with her parents. She realizes that Sebastian isn’t there for a holiday, his job is running The Quattuor Group resort.
As it turns out the Tisdale family have also suffered a loss, that has caused Blair’s parents to build walls and worry about her being taken care of… which sends Blair off to find Sebastian. How will he be able to do his job at setting up meetings with three men who will be vying to win Blair’s hand. Even worse Blair has no idea what her parents have set this up.
The chemistry is high and very spicy between Sebastian and Blair and even if she has shattered the walls around his heart and emotions…she can never belong to him.
First I love this premise….it’s not uncommon for families of a similar status to try and arrange a marriage with a family. Blair’s parents are withholding information and once Sebastian realizes who she is…he knows feelings or not his job means she is off limits.
Secret Offer is well written, with sides of angst, spicy times between Blair and Sebastian and parents who never really delt with their grief. Sebastian’s business partners are going to be shocked when he tells them his secret….while a heart is breaking in Manhattan.
I found Secret Offer to be an enjoyable read and can’t wait to find out what book two will bring.
February 16, 2024
Some might say our MMC, Sebastian Argos leads a charmed life since he spends half the year on a tropical island arranging high profile meet-cutes between wealthy men and their prospective wives. Lost in memories on the beach, our FMC, heiress Blair Tisdale, stumbles upon him as she seeks out a quiet spot to eat her lunch. She calls him Scowl when he doesn't smile or readily invite her to sit down. Her presence is like a ray of Sunshine in his gloomy thoughts. They share a light-hearted banter as she eats, but their real names are never revealed especially since Blair hopes for a little vacation fling. They not-so-coincidentally run into each other later that evening when her hopes become reality. When he finally meets his new clients, his professional life collides with his two-night stand, when he sees Sunshine sitting at the table with her parents, and realizes Blair is the daughter they're trying to arrange a marriage for, though she doesn't know it.
Through their interactions, you feel a more relaxed Sebastian enjoying Blair's company. She has dreams of taking over her father's business, especially his baseball team when her retires, but those aspirations are dashed when she finds out why her parents brought her on this specific vacation. We see a lot of different versions of Blair throughout the story, and I enjoyed her as the heroine. We learn a lot about Sebastian's past life when he finally opens up to Blair, but we don't get the full dynamic of him with his business partners in the Agency. I'm hoping in the next books that more is revealed with how they came to work together and whether there was fallout from some of the decisions Sebastian made in his story.
Through their interactions, you feel a more relaxed Sebastian enjoying Blair's company. She has dreams of taking over her father's business, especially his baseball team when her retires, but those aspirations are dashed when she finds out why her parents brought her on this specific vacation. We see a lot of different versions of Blair throughout the story, and I enjoyed her as the heroine. We learn a lot about Sebastian's past life when he finally opens up to Blair, but we don't get the full dynamic of him with his business partners in the Agency. I'm hoping in the next books that more is revealed with how they came to work together and whether there was fallout from some of the decisions Sebastian made in his story.
January 31, 2024
4.5⭐ Stella Gray is a new-to-me author and I'm ready for more! I loved this story! I found the dialogue funny and so honest. The a-ha moment for Sebastian made me fist pump.
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. Blair is a ray of sunshine. Open, honest and understanding. She has a strained relationship with her parents while still feeling empty from the loss of her sister. She is swept up by his charm, good looks and amazing skills in the bedroom. “This is what I want to remember forever. The feel of being completely swept away by this man.” She's a strong force to be reckoned with, and when she realizes the betrayal from her parents, she's gutted.
Sebastian is working through a loss that years later, he's still trying to cope. He's a grumpy turned almost sunshine in Blair's presence. He's not looking for long term, just for now. When he meets Blair, he realizes that he wants more, but can't have more. But it's too late, he's fallen hard. His secret is going to break her and possibly destroy the prestigious company he and his business partners built from nothing. How will he reverse course and make everything alright?
You have to read it! What he does to win her back is pretty swoony!
Thank you Stella Gray and Paige Press Publishing for this ARC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
I really enjoyed getting to know the characters. Blair is a ray of sunshine. Open, honest and understanding. She has a strained relationship with her parents while still feeling empty from the loss of her sister. She is swept up by his charm, good looks and amazing skills in the bedroom. “This is what I want to remember forever. The feel of being completely swept away by this man.” She's a strong force to be reckoned with, and when she realizes the betrayal from her parents, she's gutted.
Sebastian is working through a loss that years later, he's still trying to cope. He's a grumpy turned almost sunshine in Blair's presence. He's not looking for long term, just for now. When he meets Blair, he realizes that he wants more, but can't have more. But it's too late, he's fallen hard. His secret is going to break her and possibly destroy the prestigious company he and his business partners built from nothing. How will he reverse course and make everything alright?
You have to read it! What he does to win her back is pretty swoony!
Thank you Stella Gray and Paige Press Publishing for this ARC. The above is my own and personal opinion.
February 10, 2024
Secret Offer is the first in Stella Gray’s new Agency series. While this author is newer to me, I am happy to have found her. This new series is a mix between found family, arranged marriage and billionaire romance.
Sebastian is a man with a broken heart, one that he is finally starting may be ready for mending. But after spending time with, things start to change. Brooke loves her family, but spending a week of vacation with them is not what she would call relaxing. Brooke wants to enjoy the time; she just graduated college and before she starts working for her family’s business, she wants to spread her wings and live her life.
On a wander around; Brooke finds herself walking down who other than Sebastian’s private beach. When Seb and Brooke meet, they hit it off, so much though she thinks she can fall in love with the guy. Too bad when she finds out that her parents are here to auction her off to the highest bidder, who just happens to be the mysterious man she found on the beach. Seb doesn’t care though, he is smitten with Brooke; she is smart, funny and a ray of sunshine in his bleak life.
The storyline moves quicker than I would like it to, but the plot is fun and easy to read. Gray’s characters are always entertaining and make the reader want to befriend them. Plus; who doesn’t love a wounded billionaire reading to find love again?
3.75 ⭐
2 🌶️
Sebastian is a man with a broken heart, one that he is finally starting may be ready for mending. But after spending time with, things start to change. Brooke loves her family, but spending a week of vacation with them is not what she would call relaxing. Brooke wants to enjoy the time; she just graduated college and before she starts working for her family’s business, she wants to spread her wings and live her life.
On a wander around; Brooke finds herself walking down who other than Sebastian’s private beach. When Seb and Brooke meet, they hit it off, so much though she thinks she can fall in love with the guy. Too bad when she finds out that her parents are here to auction her off to the highest bidder, who just happens to be the mysterious man she found on the beach. Seb doesn’t care though, he is smitten with Brooke; she is smart, funny and a ray of sunshine in his bleak life.
The storyline moves quicker than I would like it to, but the plot is fun and easy to read. Gray’s characters are always entertaining and make the reader want to befriend them. Plus; who doesn’t love a wounded billionaire reading to find love again?
3.75 ⭐
2 🌶️
April 16, 2024
How is this consider a "romance"?
1. I’m at almost 60% and Sebastian’s only concern is still the resort and the possible damage to it from his “fling” with Blair. Not once has it crossed his mind that he is betraying this poor girl, sleeping with her while keeping such a HUGE secret from her. He’s showing no signs of having any feelings for her at all; in fact, he went into an absolute panic when he realized she might have feelings for him.
2. I lost all respect for Blair when she kept pursuing Sebastian even after she saw him kissing another woman.
3. It wasn’t until 75% that Sebastian even admitted to himself he had feelings for Blair and decided to tell her everything.
4. Finally, at 80%, Blair found out about the auction and Sebastian’s part in it so obviously, she’s going to forgive him WAY too quickly.
5. Also, at 80%, Sebastian was still “overwhelmed” by the pain of losing his wife, Rachel.
6. At 82%, when Sebastian was talking to Rachel at the cemetery, he was still more concerned with his partners’ reaction to the loss of the Tisdale auction than what he did to Blair.
7. 94%. “I completely betrayed you and f*cked you over. I’m sorry.” “It’s ok. I love you so much!” God, I hate books like this.
1. I’m at almost 60% and Sebastian’s only concern is still the resort and the possible damage to it from his “fling” with Blair. Not once has it crossed his mind that he is betraying this poor girl, sleeping with her while keeping such a HUGE secret from her. He’s showing no signs of having any feelings for her at all; in fact, he went into an absolute panic when he realized she might have feelings for him.
2. I lost all respect for Blair when she kept pursuing Sebastian even after she saw him kissing another woman.
3. It wasn’t until 75% that Sebastian even admitted to himself he had feelings for Blair and decided to tell her everything.
4. Finally, at 80%, Blair found out about the auction and Sebastian’s part in it so obviously, she’s going to forgive him WAY too quickly.
5. Also, at 80%, Sebastian was still “overwhelmed” by the pain of losing his wife, Rachel.
6. At 82%, when Sebastian was talking to Rachel at the cemetery, he was still more concerned with his partners’ reaction to the loss of the Tisdale auction than what he did to Blair.
7. 94%. “I completely betrayed you and f*cked you over. I’m sorry.” “It’s ok. I love you so much!” God, I hate books like this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2024
I love this author. I am just starting to read her books and this one was on point. College girls on a graduation vacation, that really is more than meets the eye for Blair. Her parents are looking for her to settle down with someone they know will take care of her for life. Love is not really in their front of mind. They are looking for a truly comfortable life that she has become accustomed to. Sebastian, a little lost in life and spends his time working. Always working, he has build a brand with some friends, a brand they are known for match making for the elite. However, not all parties are in the know. Blair is taking some time for her on her girls trip and happens upon Sebastian….. sparks fly and …. There is lust, and vacation fun to be had. No real names exchanged and it is not until she checks into the next hotel to meet her parents that she is introduced to Sebastian and the game ice was planning all changes when he connects the dots…. Does his work life trump love? Let the true games begin and what are the consequences when Blair finds out everyone is playing her….. so good!
June 2, 2024
What to do when you meet the only person who awakens all your emotio s, melt your icy heart, make you feel and smile for the first time and learn she is to be "sold" to a higher bidder? But of course the most cowardly think human possible....TURN AWAY AND ABANDON!
Well that is what you think this is going to be but let me tell you, redemption is for everyone! I loves the way Sebastian and Blair are written, especially our sunshine Blair, the woman who will bring Sebastian to his knees.....eventually!I loved their chemistry, their sexual tension that is the main page turner in this story, and I loved that, although his mistakes and all the flaws, Sebastian will come through at the end.
Secret offer is very creative book, with a very original story, full of deception, betrayal, twists and turns, strong emotions, parents to hate for wternity(I know I would!), well developed and written characters), passion, the best BFF anyone will ever need and the power to hold you well invested bc you will get awarded with a beautiful story with a HEA
Well that is what you think this is going to be but let me tell you, redemption is for everyone! I loves the way Sebastian and Blair are written, especially our sunshine Blair, the woman who will bring Sebastian to his knees.....eventually!I loved their chemistry, their sexual tension that is the main page turner in this story, and I loved that, although his mistakes and all the flaws, Sebastian will come through at the end.
Secret offer is very creative book, with a very original story, full of deception, betrayal, twists and turns, strong emotions, parents to hate for wternity(I know I would!), well developed and written characters), passion, the best BFF anyone will ever need and the power to hold you well invested bc you will get awarded with a beautiful story with a HEA
February 6, 2024
We've got a standalone coming from Stella Gray!! Usually, Stella's work comes in trilogies but this one was nice because I don't have to wait for their HEA!
Secret Offer is the story of Blair and Sebastian. He's haunted by his past and they meet that's what was happening. Blair managed to make him smile though. It was a hilarious meet-cute on the beach of a Caribbean island. Though Blair is there on what she thinks is a vacation, Sebastian is not. He owns a resort on the island that handles some side hustles.
Fate plays a screwed-up plan when Blair turns out to not only be a one-night stand for him, and vice versa. Blair is the daughter of one of his clients and will be auctioned to the highest bidder. At this point, I was thinking "Oh my gosh, how is this gonna play out?" because a plot like this can go in various directions.
🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔+𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒈𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒔🝮︎︎︎︎︎︎︎
• age gap
• angsty romance
• arranged/forced marriage
• billionaire romance
• forbidden romance
• forced proximity
• grumpy x sunshine
• island romance
• mutual pining
• one-night stand
• opposites attract
• Romeo & Juliet vibes
• secret society
February 8, 2024
This standalone is sweet and spicy, with some red hot chemistry between Blair and Sebastian. After an accidental meeting, they quickly fall in too deep and before he knows it, it’s the woman who he’s supposed to be helping with matchmaking.
Stella wrote the suitors as well as Blair’s parents in the perfect light— in the worst of it. Watching Sebastian fight with his desire to do right with the business and what’s actually best for Blair at the same time creates a great amount of tension and conflict. Only becoming significantly more intense as he figures out some secrets that even I would begin flipping tables over.
Overall, I already her writing and the plot for this one, even with the idea of a dating service of sorts where the suitors auction at the end is maybe a touch far fetched. But it worked perfectly here and I am so glad. I can’t wait for the next book in this series/universe!
Thank you to Paige Press and Stella Gray for the eARC!
Stella wrote the suitors as well as Blair’s parents in the perfect light— in the worst of it. Watching Sebastian fight with his desire to do right with the business and what’s actually best for Blair at the same time creates a great amount of tension and conflict. Only becoming significantly more intense as he figures out some secrets that even I would begin flipping tables over.
Overall, I already her writing and the plot for this one, even with the idea of a dating service of sorts where the suitors auction at the end is maybe a touch far fetched. But it worked perfectly here and I am so glad. I can’t wait for the next book in this series/universe!
Thank you to Paige Press and Stella Gray for the eARC!
July 7, 2024
Two people drawn together in more ways than one.
A different story line for a forbidden romance. Sebastian, along with his friends and partners, own The Regent Hotel in the Caribbean, The Regent Hotel in NYC and the Quattuor Group which arranges marriages for the Elite. He splits his time between the two. Blair’s father owns The New York Rockets baseball team and Tisdale Corporation. They meet in the Caribbean while she’s on vacation with her bestie. Sebastian and Blair hook-up, but he doesn’t know he parents are his clients who he is meeting here. They are like magnets drawn to one another. Wow, this is going to be a big problem. He is so torn about this. It’s a rocky road for him and for her it’s a smoother ride until it isn’t. Emotions run high and low and all around. The steam is definitely off the charts, though. Their issues and the anticipation keep you reading on throughout. I loved every minute of this story.
A different story line for a forbidden romance. Sebastian, along with his friends and partners, own The Regent Hotel in the Caribbean, The Regent Hotel in NYC and the Quattuor Group which arranges marriages for the Elite. He splits his time between the two. Blair’s father owns The New York Rockets baseball team and Tisdale Corporation. They meet in the Caribbean while she’s on vacation with her bestie. Sebastian and Blair hook-up, but he doesn’t know he parents are his clients who he is meeting here. They are like magnets drawn to one another. Wow, this is going to be a big problem. He is so torn about this. It’s a rocky road for him and for her it’s a smoother ride until it isn’t. Emotions run high and low and all around. The steam is definitely off the charts, though. Their issues and the anticipation keep you reading on throughout. I loved every minute of this story.
January 29, 2024
My Rating: 5/5
My Thoughts: I love Stella Gray's books and writing. Blair is a recent college graduate enjoying an early vacation on a tropical island before she proceeds to enter the family business. She meets Sebastian, a mysterious, good-looking man. They have a few passionate hookups, unbeknownst to them that their lives will end up entwined in a bit of a mess. Sebastian owns an agency for the rich looking to arrange and forge relationships. His next client is none other than Blair. Blair is left in the dark throughout this book when it comes to mysterious men coming up to her, trying to get Sebastian's attention, and her parents changing subjects when she brings up the family business. Sebastian might have a few flaws, but he fully redeems himself. This book contains drama, spice, forbidden love, and betrayal. I loved this book and can't wait to read the rest of this series
My Thoughts: I love Stella Gray's books and writing. Blair is a recent college graduate enjoying an early vacation on a tropical island before she proceeds to enter the family business. She meets Sebastian, a mysterious, good-looking man. They have a few passionate hookups, unbeknownst to them that their lives will end up entwined in a bit of a mess. Sebastian owns an agency for the rich looking to arrange and forge relationships. His next client is none other than Blair. Blair is left in the dark throughout this book when it comes to mysterious men coming up to her, trying to get Sebastian's attention, and her parents changing subjects when she brings up the family business. Sebastian might have a few flaws, but he fully redeems himself. This book contains drama, spice, forbidden love, and betrayal. I loved this book and can't wait to read the rest of this series
February 7, 2024
“Secret Offer” was such an incredible story. Stella Gray has taken the concept of the bachelorette auction and made it into a spicy romantic age gap story. Blair is a confident 22-year-old whose parents own a baseball team but are so focused on meeting someone so she can get married. She wants to enjoy herself for the time being at this Carribean resort and relax.
Blair does end up meeting Sebastion at the resort, but he has secrets that he cannot share, leading Blair to be confused about where they stand. And she meets some other guys too much, to her parents’ happiness. However, Blair does become suspicious of all these “meet cutes.”
I loved Blair’s confident personality as well as her BFF. The chemistry between her and Sebastion was on fire—loved that. Their scenes together were spicy, and I thought the way everything came together was sweet.
Blair does end up meeting Sebastion at the resort, but he has secrets that he cannot share, leading Blair to be confused about where they stand. And she meets some other guys too much, to her parents’ happiness. However, Blair does become suspicious of all these “meet cutes.”
I loved Blair’s confident personality as well as her BFF. The chemistry between her and Sebastion was on fire—loved that. Their scenes together were spicy, and I thought the way everything came together was sweet.
February 14, 2024
Secret Offer is a well written dark romance by Stella Grey which features Sebastian, one of four owners who operate a matchmaking service and auction for the ultra rich, and Blair, the daughter of a MLB owner who expects to assist her father in its management since her she has completed her college degree. Sebastian manages the island hotel where Blair will unknowingly be introduced to the three men who will bid to become her future husband. This creative book has an original storyline, well developed characters, secrets, deception, personal losses, plot twists, strong emotions, and steamy attraction and passion. I highly recommended this excellent book. The second book in the Agency Series is Cruel Offer.
I received a free copy of this book via Paige Press and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book via Paige Press and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
June 1, 2024
Vacation Fling
I love how Sebastian "Scowl" Argos and Blair "Sunshine" Tisdale meet. It's not exactly a meet-cute, but it's funny. The fact that they don't know each other's name for about a third of the book just adds to the fun and their undeniable chemistry.
I really enjoyed this book. I may not like the idea that brought Blair into this... game, but I won't deny entertainment value. The turmoil, deception, stolen moments, and sizzle are so good.
Sebastian really needs to up his vetting process for these bachelors. Only one is even a little decent. 🤔😂
H = 30s; h = 22
I love how Sebastian "Scowl" Argos and Blair "Sunshine" Tisdale meet. It's not exactly a meet-cute, but it's funny. The fact that they don't know each other's name for about a third of the book just adds to the fun and their undeniable chemistry.
I’ve never been drawn to moody guys, but this was different. He wasn’t just having a bad day. He seemed like he was carrying something heavy on his shoulders. Something real. Something dark. Which I know all too much about, ever since…
-- Blair Tisdale
I really enjoyed this book. I may not like the idea that brought Blair into this... game, but I won't deny entertainment value. The turmoil, deception, stolen moments, and sizzle are so good.
Sebastian really needs to up his vetting process for these bachelors. Only one is even a little decent. 🤔😂
H = 30s; h = 22
February 8, 2024
We are greeted with Blair on a much needed vacation in the Islands with her college roommate Brooke after graduating from NYU. She is having a good time exploring the island and comes across a man on the beach she nicknames Scowl. She spends the rest of the week with this man getting to know him and him getting to know her until i5 is t8me to meet her parents at the lush Quattro Group resort.
Sebastian Argos aka Scowl is an owner of a resort for people of a certain tax bracket. The clients his resort attracts are usually parents wanting to match their daughters to eligible millionaire bachelors. The only problem is the daughters don’t know about the matchmaking.
Sebastian does the one thing he is never supposed to do and that is get involved with a bachelorette. Now that his heart is involved will he be able to go through with the auction.
I enjoyed the story and the couple in the beginning. I understand how grief can turn people into different people. I liked Sebastian and Blair’s interaction with each other before and after they knew who each other were. I hoped her parents would have come around at some point.
I can’t wait to see more from this group of friends.
Sebastian Argos aka Scowl is an owner of a resort for people of a certain tax bracket. The clients his resort attracts are usually parents wanting to match their daughters to eligible millionaire bachelors. The only problem is the daughters don’t know about the matchmaking.
Sebastian does the one thing he is never supposed to do and that is get involved with a bachelorette. Now that his heart is involved will he be able to go through with the auction.
I enjoyed the story and the couple in the beginning. I understand how grief can turn people into different people. I liked Sebastian and Blair’s interaction with each other before and after they knew who each other were. I hoped her parents would have come around at some point.
I can’t wait to see more from this group of friends.
March 31, 2024
I Loved both Blair and Sebastian. There characters are perfectly written. They have chemistry! the story is a bit slow at times, but it picks up and moves fast. It was a really good read. I wish it was in audible.
Blaire goes on vacation in the Carribean with her parents for a family vacation. However, she doesn't know her parents are there to auction her off to the highest bidder. Sebastian is part owner of an exclusive billionaire's club and resort. They hold secret auctions for their clients to sell off daughters of billionaires to other billionaires into marriage.
There is a wrench in the plan when Blair and Sebastian start having hot sex and fall in love!! I loved the ending HEA of the story!
Blaire goes on vacation in the Carribean with her parents for a family vacation. However, she doesn't know her parents are there to auction her off to the highest bidder. Sebastian is part owner of an exclusive billionaire's club and resort. They hold secret auctions for their clients to sell off daughters of billionaires to other billionaires into marriage.
There is a wrench in the plan when Blair and Sebastian start having hot sex and fall in love!! I loved the ending HEA of the story!
February 7, 2024
This book is a blend of romance, intrigue, and forbidden love. Sebastian Argos, the enigmatic protagonist, leads readers through a world of clandestine matchmaking and hidden desires. His unexpected connection with Blair Tisdale sparks a passionate affair fraught with secrecy and societal expectations. Gray masterfully weaves together themes of betrayal and redemption, keeping me eagerly turning pages until the very end. While some plot points felt predictable, the characters' depth and chemistry kept me engaged. This story delivers a captivating tale of love, sacrifice, and the complexities of human relationships that left me eagerly anticipating more from the Agency series.
February 15, 2024
Gah! Stella Gray always pulls me in and leaves me wanting more. Secret Offer is book 1 in the Agency Series and it doesn’t disappoint. No cliffhangers here but tons of steamy scenes and some heartaches. Blair just finished college and is on vacation before she starts her future in her dream job. Sebastian is what I would call surviving after the tragic loss of his fiancé years before when Blair enters his life. Lines are crosses and lies are told but it doesn’t stop them from falling. These two are hot together and I wish Blair made him grovel a little more but I loved it and I’m excited for more.
Review by Raychel
Review by Raychel
May 27, 2024
Such a wonderful read. I rated this book a 4.5 stars but it doesn't allow half stars on here!
The suspense was hard hitting in this one. Kept me turning the page wanting to know what was going to happen. Briar is a strong, independent, head strong and career driven woman who knows what she wants. She wants to take over the team her father owns. However, her parents have different plans for her. There is so much sexual tension between Briar and Sebastian that it was amazing that her parents never picked up on it. There is some talk about past trauma. These two floated off the pages together in a swirl of passion and love.
The suspense was hard hitting in this one. Kept me turning the page wanting to know what was going to happen. Briar is a strong, independent, head strong and career driven woman who knows what she wants. She wants to take over the team her father owns. However, her parents have different plans for her. There is so much sexual tension between Briar and Sebastian that it was amazing that her parents never picked up on it. There is some talk about past trauma. These two floated off the pages together in a swirl of passion and love.
June 1, 2024
This is the first in a new series, and this is Blair and Sebastian’s story.
Sebastian is sworn off relationships after the tragic loss of his fiancé years before, and he and Blair, who is a ray of sunshine, meet on an island, and share a one night stand.
This is a well written story which has angst, intrigue, loss, instant attraction, alliances, betrayal, opposites attract, lies, an age gap, heartache, deceit, revelations, healing, forbidden love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, tragic, and spicy billionaire romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Sebastian is sworn off relationships after the tragic loss of his fiancé years before, and he and Blair, who is a ray of sunshine, meet on an island, and share a one night stand.
This is a well written story which has angst, intrigue, loss, instant attraction, alliances, betrayal, opposites attract, lies, an age gap, heartache, deceit, revelations, healing, forbidden love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, tragic, and spicy billionaire romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
June 3, 2024
Sebastian has a really unusual job. He arranges matches which lead to auctions among the group of matches, hopefully leading to a happily ever after. Of course this is a very expensive endeavor so it is very exclusive among the extremely wealthy. Blair is the daughter of a MLB team owner and it has always been her dream to own and manage the team when her father retires. Unbeknownst to her, her parents have made arrangements for her to be the next bachelorette. Not good! Great rather unusual plot. Both Blair and Sebastian have tragedy in their past and are broken. Loved everything about this book!!
February 1, 2024
Sebastian runs a match making agency for billionaires. Blair is secretly signed on as his client by her dad. Sebastian has to set her up with one of the men her father has chosen for her even though his heart is dying for her love.
Because it's a Stella Gray book, there are lots of angst... steam.. and sexiness. Love Sebastian and Blair. They are great characters. I love how they help each other to become their own person. Looking forward to reading book 2 in the series.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
Because it's a Stella Gray book, there are lots of angst... steam.. and sexiness. Love Sebastian and Blair. They are great characters. I love how they help each other to become their own person. Looking forward to reading book 2 in the series.
Thanks to the publisher for the arc.
February 10, 2024
This is book 1 in The Agency Series. We get to know Sebastian and Blair in this book. Sebastian doesn't open up until the end of the book, and I wish his feelings and full past would have come out earlier in the book. Blair was a sweet character, but I think she had a lot more spine in her than she was given credit for.
I look forward to more in this series. I will recommend this book to romance lovers who like a little extra spice. It wasn't really a dark romance, but it did include some dominance.
Thank you for the advanced copy, this is my honest opinion.
I look forward to more in this series. I will recommend this book to romance lovers who like a little extra spice. It wasn't really a dark romance, but it did include some dominance.
Thank you for the advanced copy, this is my honest opinion.
March 6, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶🌶/ 5
Kindle Unlimited [ ✕ ] YES [ ] NO
Stand-alone [ ✕ ]YES [ ] NO
POV: first person - dual POV
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes:
grumpy+ sunshine
forbidden romance
billionaire
age gap
My Thoughts: Secret Offer by Stella Gray is a forbidden romance novel and my first read by this author. The plot of the book was good. The writing was also good, but i just couldn't connect with the main characters as much as I wanted to. Overall, it was a fun read but not particularly special. Nonetheless, it was definitely worth the read.
Spiciness rating: 🌶🌶🌶/ 5
Kindle Unlimited [ ✕ ] YES [ ] NO
Stand-alone [ ✕ ]YES [ ] NO
POV: first person - dual POV
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes:
grumpy+ sunshine
forbidden romance
billionaire
age gap
My Thoughts: Secret Offer by Stella Gray is a forbidden romance novel and my first read by this author. The plot of the book was good. The writing was also good, but i just couldn't connect with the main characters as much as I wanted to. Overall, it was a fun read but not particularly special. Nonetheless, it was definitely worth the read.
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