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How to Win a Monroe #1
Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress
In the latest Harlequin Romance from Rachael Stewart, for this billionaire, spending the summer with his best friend’s little sister is complicated…by his forbidden feelings for the heiress!Forbidden attraction…or forever fling?I’ve always been drawn to heiress Avery Monroe, but I’ve also known how completely off-limits she is! We haven’t spoken since I rejected her kiss three years ago. Now, her brother’s meddling means Avery’s spending the summer with me at my castle in Croatia. I promised to protect her, but uncovering Avery’s secret battles, I can’t keep my true feelings hidden. Will our passion finally be unlocked?From Harlequin Be swept away by glamorous and heartfelt love stories.How to Win a MonroeBook 1: Off-Limits Fling with the HeiressBook 2: My Unexpected Christmas Wedding
- GenresContemporary
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About the author
Rachael Stewart
144 books101 followersRachael Stewart adores conjuring up romance stories for her readers, from the sweet to the sexy, but always with a happy ever after.
She's been writing since she could put pen to paper but believing publication to be a pipe dream, she pursued a sensible career in business and spent many years in the corporate world where she never truly belonged. Eventually, she found her way back to her happy place i.e. her stories. Writing is now her full-time job and passion. A dream come true.
A Welsh lass at heart, she now lives in Yorkshire with her husband and three children, and if she's not glued to her laptop, she's wrapped up in them or enjoying the great outdoors seeking fresh inspiration.
She's been writing since she could put pen to paper but believing publication to be a pipe dream, she pursued a sensible career in business and spent many years in the corporate world where she never truly belonged. Eventually, she found her way back to her happy place i.e. her stories. Writing is now her full-time job and passion. A dream come true.
A Welsh lass at heart, she now lives in Yorkshire with her husband and three children, and if she's not glued to her laptop, she's wrapped up in them or enjoying the great outdoors seeking fresh inspiration.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
August 20, 2023
This one is moving and beautiful, a heroine, Avery Monroe who has a troubled past and a hero Gabe Curran who knows she is off limits but when Gabe steps up to help his best friend this will have them spending time together time that sets their hearts on fire.
Aiden Monroe is pushing the bond of caring for his sister and has asked Gabe to look after her in his castle in Croatia this leads to a night of passion on his yacht one that will never be forgotten.
Gabe’s family life has not always been the best he has a domineering father and the only love he ever found was staying with the Monroe family so Gabe says he doesn’t know how to love, so one night and short flings is all for him but he soon discovers that one night with Avery will never be enough.
Avery will never stop loving Gabe will he ever learn that he can love?
This really is a wonderful story, there are so many emotions flowing from the pages seeing Avery overcome her past and make something of her future, by standing up to her brother had me cheering her on, and Gabe seeing him open his heart to love was the best, and the setting is amazing I adored my trip to Croatia. I do highly recommend this one it left me smiling, you never disappoint MS Stewart.
My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
Aiden Monroe is pushing the bond of caring for his sister and has asked Gabe to look after her in his castle in Croatia this leads to a night of passion on his yacht one that will never be forgotten.
Gabe’s family life has not always been the best he has a domineering father and the only love he ever found was staying with the Monroe family so Gabe says he doesn’t know how to love, so one night and short flings is all for him but he soon discovers that one night with Avery will never be enough.
Avery will never stop loving Gabe will he ever learn that he can love?
This really is a wonderful story, there are so many emotions flowing from the pages seeing Avery overcome her past and make something of her future, by standing up to her brother had me cheering her on, and Gabe seeing him open his heart to love was the best, and the setting is amazing I adored my trip to Croatia. I do highly recommend this one it left me smiling, you never disappoint MS Stewart.
My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
August 29, 2023
Delicious slow-burn romance
5 stars
You know that feeling you get when you’ve finally arrived at your holiday villa, you sit down at the table at the terrace admiring the gorgeous view, relaxing as you take that first sip of cool, crisp white wine… well that’s the exact feeling I got while reading this book. It’s got that perfect blend of relaxed holiday vibes, a delicious slow-burn romance with enough sexual tension to rival the scorching holiday sun.
This book is the first in a new duo from Rachael Stewart about the Monroe siblings - a successful and rich brother and sister dealing with, among other things, grief over the death of their father. This book tells the story of younger sister, Avery and family friend, Gabe, who happens to be older brother, Aidan’s, best friend. Aiden appears very briefly in this story but gets his own story in the next book, My Unexpected Christmas Wedding. Each stands alone.
When we first meet Avery she’s at a low point in her life. She’s going down the wrong path and feeling lost and alone to boot. She’s young (20) at the start of the book and while she may act a bit bratty, I couldn’t help but fall in love with her. She was obviously misunderstood and a little lost - but she still kept her sass and spirit. When we jump ahead 3 years, I loved Avery even more. She had blossomed into a smart, independent and admirable woman but didn’t lose her cheekiness or her vulnerabilities. She had used her experiences to shape her rather than break her and boy did I cheer for her.
Our hero, Gabe, showed his hand from the moment he burst onto the page and marched Avery away from the trouble he was sure she was getting herself into. Overbearing, domineering, bossy and grumpy - oh how I loved him. He was such a good man and I love, love, loved the fact that he was genuinely loyal to his best friend, Aiden yet so tortured by his feelings and need for Avery. He really tries his hardest - poor soul. He really thought he could protect himself from love!
Avery and Gabe have a lot of similarities and shared experiences and yet it’s their differences that make them perfect for the other. They fit together so wonderfully - each bringing out the best in the other and helping them to see and experience the world in a different way. There’s also the slowly simmering, always just below the surface, sexual tension between the two that was so delicious. A look here, a touch there, a tease, a shared moment - it built until Gabe, Avery and me as a reader, just couldn’t take it anymore and everything…happened. It was satisfaction all round. There was just enough detail to keep up with the intimacy yet it wasn’t overly described. It fit the book to a T.
Rachael Stewart always crafts such a detailed, intricate and romantic tale and I adore her writing style. She brings me into the story and makes me love the characters from the first page. I was in Croatia, felt the sun on my face and watched as Gabe and Avery fell in love. Or Gabe realised and admitted that he was in love with Avery as she was with him. The end was everything I could have hoped for and we even get an epilogue - without any spoilers for Aiden’s book.
This is definitely another winner from Rachael Stewart. If you want your romance with some late summer vibes and the delicious push and pull of a slow burn - you’ll definitely want to get your hands on this book. 5 stars.
September 14, 2023
Avery Monroe is an heiress, with a wild child past. Now twenty-three, she has made positive changes in her life but continues to rebel against unreasonable expectations. She's determined to live life how she sees fit regardless of what her family thinks. When her brother suggests she spend the summer at his friend's Croatian estate, she accepts the offer. After all, she needs the money, and will allow her to do what she wants...and to be closer to the one she has an attraction to.
Gabriel "Gabe" Curran has known his best friend's little sister for years. He once helped her out of a tricky situation and since then has managed to avoid her presence... because she's now all grown up...and a potential distraction! When his best friend asks for a favour, he reluctantly agrees to help. Avery needs a job and he needs assistance at his castle in Croatia. Only, he's wondering how he can avoid her...because she's a temptation he's not sure he can resist any more!
Both protagonists are perfect, in a non-perfect way. They each have a troubled past and are struggling with their familial expectations. Personal loss is a common shared trait. Gabe, after experiencing Avery's troubling issues first hand, is sympathetic and encouraging. He wants what's best for his best friend's sister but is equally conflicted with his own feelings for her. Avery is twelve years younger than her brother and his best friend, however, she has the maturity to view Gabe's family issues with new insight. She wants what is best for him too, whilst struggling to fight her attraction to him.
It's so good, I read it twice! Once again, a fabulous novel from a favourite author. I particularly enjoyed the emotional journeys the protagonists took as individuals and together. Avery for her strength and stubbornness to pursue a life and career on her terms and for Gabe to finally confront his past head-on. I've always enjoyed imperfect characters and therefore this novel is so satisfying, especially with an equally heartfelt happy ending.
Lucky for us readers, we will get to know more about Avery's brother/Gabe's best friend, Aiden in the next novel by Ms. Stewart. We've seen a glimpse of him already and I can't wait to read about him soon!
***arc received courtesy of the publisher***
Gabriel "Gabe" Curran has known his best friend's little sister for years. He once helped her out of a tricky situation and since then has managed to avoid her presence... because she's now all grown up...and a potential distraction! When his best friend asks for a favour, he reluctantly agrees to help. Avery needs a job and he needs assistance at his castle in Croatia. Only, he's wondering how he can avoid her...because she's a temptation he's not sure he can resist any more!
Both protagonists are perfect, in a non-perfect way. They each have a troubled past and are struggling with their familial expectations. Personal loss is a common shared trait. Gabe, after experiencing Avery's troubling issues first hand, is sympathetic and encouraging. He wants what's best for his best friend's sister but is equally conflicted with his own feelings for her. Avery is twelve years younger than her brother and his best friend, however, she has the maturity to view Gabe's family issues with new insight. She wants what is best for him too, whilst struggling to fight her attraction to him.
It's so good, I read it twice! Once again, a fabulous novel from a favourite author. I particularly enjoyed the emotional journeys the protagonists took as individuals and together. Avery for her strength and stubbornness to pursue a life and career on her terms and for Gabe to finally confront his past head-on. I've always enjoyed imperfect characters and therefore this novel is so satisfying, especially with an equally heartfelt happy ending.
Lucky for us readers, we will get to know more about Avery's brother/Gabe's best friend, Aiden in the next novel by Ms. Stewart. We've seen a glimpse of him already and I can't wait to read about him soon!
***arc received courtesy of the publisher***
August 6, 2023
Oh Rachael you've done it again with a beautiful book. This book is addictive, it's hot and it's filled with so many heartwarming moments.
The story is a slow build up to to such a electric ending and I savoured the whole thing. I just didn't want it to end and I am so excited for book 2 to come out.
Rachael is one of my go to authors and her books get better and better.
Another amazing 5⭐️ read.
The story is a slow build up to to such a electric ending and I savoured the whole thing. I just didn't want it to end and I am so excited for book 2 to come out.
Rachael is one of my go to authors and her books get better and better.
Another amazing 5⭐️ read.
August 8, 2023
Another delicious romance from RS. She always manages to create a real sense of place and this is beautifully executed in this book. I love the way RS can create characters whom you may dislike at the beginning of the book, but whom you totally love by the end. This is absolutely true here. RS deals with complex and complicated issues but never at the expense of the romance. Brilliant.
Gabe and Avery are both damaged by their past but the way they learn to love and trust each other is so fabulous. A totally satisfying, emotional journey with interesting people - what more could you ask for?
Gabe and Avery are both damaged by their past but the way they learn to love and trust each other is so fabulous. A totally satisfying, emotional journey with interesting people - what more could you ask for?
September 24, 2023
A summer spending together, can feelings be ignored once again?
Avery Monroe has been searching herself for several years. Being an heiress for sure always put her in the spotlight, showing everyone every kind of error she made. Now she is going to spend the summer with her brother’s best friend Gabe Curran, in his Croatian castle. But Avery knows that her brother Aidan would never have agreed with it, if he would have known about that one rejected kiss three years ago. And three years is exactly the time that has passed since Avery and Gabe last saw each other… Spending the summer together, Gabe not only is fighting against the attraction he always had towards Avery, but he also learns that Avery is fighting not only the same, but she is also fighting her own battles…
What a delight this latest book from Rachael Stewart was! If you would ask me what my favourite trope would be, I would definitely be having a difficult time picking a favourite one, but for sure ‘brother’s best friend’ would be rather on top of that list! And having this amazing author writing just in that trope, how can I possibly resist?
At the start it’s obvious that Avery is trying to find herself, and as it’s normal to do, she does it with trial and error. So being forced somehow following a path that isn’t her, and struggling with the consequences of her choices (right or wrong), made me truly pity her.
Avery acts her age, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, but having a spotlight on her every step she takes, cannot make her position any easier.
To make things even worse for her, she always had a crush on her brother’s best friend, Gabe, but he sees her more as a little sister than the woman she is.
So when he sees her on a night out, his ‘big brother’ protectiveness emerges. And while I liked Gabe for that, I also wanted him to realize that Avery is not his little sister.
I was left a bit surprised to read that after one kiss, we fast – forward three years, and learn that in those three years, there was absolutely no contact between Avery and Gabe. (yes, I know it’s mentioned in the blurb, but I am the kind of person that doesn’t even read the blurb when a loved author brings out a new book 😊)
And all the above is just the beginning of the book!!!
Three years later, I was happy to see how Avery found her true passion. Yet it also broke my heart to see how her own family still didn’t understand her, or would persuade her to follow her passions. But despite finding her passion, it saddened me even more to see how Avery still feels as the odd one out in her own family…
Gabe isn’t as easy as a character either… He too is struggling, with his own family. His mother left them, and Gabe clearly feels her absence even after so many years. And his father for sure would never win an award for Best Father Of The Year.
Despite their history, that kiss three years ago, in Gabe’s castle, they start to see the real Avery and Gabe. Being secluded in a way, also gives them the opportunity to truly understand each other, and learn from each other, take each other’s advice too. And obviously that brings them closer, even realizing that that simmering attraction they once had, is still there, ready to erupt.
This book is truly a slow – burning kind of story. Rachael Stewart put more into character development, making sure that the readers understand this isn’t a story or a relationship based on physical attraction. But the characters go through an individual journey, together, making them understand what their heart perhaps have been trying to tell them for a long time.
For sure it was a story filled with ‘will they will they not’, and a revelation that came as a surprise for Gabe, but to be honest, not to me completely. But there were also funny moments, truly heart – warming moments, showing that despite the inner turmoil people are going through, there is always room for a laugh.
Rachael Stewart wrote once again a wonderful story, about two people being in each other’s lives for ever, but finding each other once again in a way that brings them courage, love and happiness. And a feeling that won’t be stopped by fear.
I truly enjoyed reading this story and cannot wait for the next one! 😊
Avery Monroe has been searching herself for several years. Being an heiress for sure always put her in the spotlight, showing everyone every kind of error she made. Now she is going to spend the summer with her brother’s best friend Gabe Curran, in his Croatian castle. But Avery knows that her brother Aidan would never have agreed with it, if he would have known about that one rejected kiss three years ago. And three years is exactly the time that has passed since Avery and Gabe last saw each other… Spending the summer together, Gabe not only is fighting against the attraction he always had towards Avery, but he also learns that Avery is fighting not only the same, but she is also fighting her own battles…
What a delight this latest book from Rachael Stewart was! If you would ask me what my favourite trope would be, I would definitely be having a difficult time picking a favourite one, but for sure ‘brother’s best friend’ would be rather on top of that list! And having this amazing author writing just in that trope, how can I possibly resist?
At the start it’s obvious that Avery is trying to find herself, and as it’s normal to do, she does it with trial and error. So being forced somehow following a path that isn’t her, and struggling with the consequences of her choices (right or wrong), made me truly pity her.
Avery acts her age, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, but having a spotlight on her every step she takes, cannot make her position any easier.
To make things even worse for her, she always had a crush on her brother’s best friend, Gabe, but he sees her more as a little sister than the woman she is.
So when he sees her on a night out, his ‘big brother’ protectiveness emerges. And while I liked Gabe for that, I also wanted him to realize that Avery is not his little sister.
I was left a bit surprised to read that after one kiss, we fast – forward three years, and learn that in those three years, there was absolutely no contact between Avery and Gabe. (yes, I know it’s mentioned in the blurb, but I am the kind of person that doesn’t even read the blurb when a loved author brings out a new book 😊)
And all the above is just the beginning of the book!!!
Three years later, I was happy to see how Avery found her true passion. Yet it also broke my heart to see how her own family still didn’t understand her, or would persuade her to follow her passions. But despite finding her passion, it saddened me even more to see how Avery still feels as the odd one out in her own family…
Gabe isn’t as easy as a character either… He too is struggling, with his own family. His mother left them, and Gabe clearly feels her absence even after so many years. And his father for sure would never win an award for Best Father Of The Year.
Despite their history, that kiss three years ago, in Gabe’s castle, they start to see the real Avery and Gabe. Being secluded in a way, also gives them the opportunity to truly understand each other, and learn from each other, take each other’s advice too. And obviously that brings them closer, even realizing that that simmering attraction they once had, is still there, ready to erupt.
This book is truly a slow – burning kind of story. Rachael Stewart put more into character development, making sure that the readers understand this isn’t a story or a relationship based on physical attraction. But the characters go through an individual journey, together, making them understand what their heart perhaps have been trying to tell them for a long time.
For sure it was a story filled with ‘will they will they not’, and a revelation that came as a surprise for Gabe, but to be honest, not to me completely. But there were also funny moments, truly heart – warming moments, showing that despite the inner turmoil people are going through, there is always room for a laugh.
Rachael Stewart wrote once again a wonderful story, about two people being in each other’s lives for ever, but finding each other once again in a way that brings them courage, love and happiness. And a feeling that won’t be stopped by fear.
I truly enjoyed reading this story and cannot wait for the next one! 😊
July 12, 2024
5 Ding Dang Stars
Tropes: Brother's Best Friend, Straitlaced/Wild Child, Age Gap
In the author's note, Stewart calls Avery "spectacularly flawed" which should have been a sign I was going to adore this book. There is nothing I vibe with more than an "unlikeable" heroine.
Gabriel Curran runs into his best friend's younger sister, Avery Monroe, at a club, and decides to stage an impromptu intervention. It reveals a lot about her personal struggles, and comes to an abrupt halt with a kiss that he cuts off, leaving both of them feeling raw and jagged.
Three years later, Rachael takes a summer job as Gabe's housekeeper to help pay her way through college. He is determined to keep his distance, but as they spend more time together, being closer is all they want.
I really appreciated both Avery and Gabe as characters. Avery struggles with depression in the wake of her father's death and despite being a fun firecracker has a lot of insecurities about how unloved she feels by her family. I appreciate that she takes steps to improve her mental health, going to therapy and using anti-depressants. Gabriel has to convince her that she is worthy of love. Gabe, meanwhile, has his own problems. Abandoned by his mother and raised by his emotionally stunted father, he neither believes in most emotional connection nor wants it. Avery has to get him to analyze his past and reconsider some assumptions to move forward.
This is also one of the few times I've ever really bought Brother's Best Friend as a real conflict. The only friend Gabe has is Avery's brother, Aiden, so he is terrified of messing up his most meaningful relationship. The age gap also added some extra tension to that conflict, as well.
Avery and Gabriel's chemistry was phenomenal. Their banter was immaculate and I felt their tension through the pages, both physical and emotional. It was a slow burn, giving these two all the time to simmer into being head over heels before an absolutely devastating third-act breakup and heartwarming resolution. Incredible use of Croatia as a backdrop and familial secondary characters to heighten the emotion, as well.
I did, in fact, cry at the end of this, and I'm not mad about it. A fantastic contemporary romance from start to finish. No notes.
Tropes: Brother's Best Friend, Straitlaced/Wild Child, Age Gap
In the author's note, Stewart calls Avery "spectacularly flawed" which should have been a sign I was going to adore this book. There is nothing I vibe with more than an "unlikeable" heroine.
Gabriel Curran runs into his best friend's younger sister, Avery Monroe, at a club, and decides to stage an impromptu intervention. It reveals a lot about her personal struggles, and comes to an abrupt halt with a kiss that he cuts off, leaving both of them feeling raw and jagged.
Three years later, Rachael takes a summer job as Gabe's housekeeper to help pay her way through college. He is determined to keep his distance, but as they spend more time together, being closer is all they want.
I really appreciated both Avery and Gabe as characters. Avery struggles with depression in the wake of her father's death and despite being a fun firecracker has a lot of insecurities about how unloved she feels by her family. I appreciate that she takes steps to improve her mental health, going to therapy and using anti-depressants. Gabriel has to convince her that she is worthy of love. Gabe, meanwhile, has his own problems. Abandoned by his mother and raised by his emotionally stunted father, he neither believes in most emotional connection nor wants it. Avery has to get him to analyze his past and reconsider some assumptions to move forward.
This is also one of the few times I've ever really bought Brother's Best Friend as a real conflict. The only friend Gabe has is Avery's brother, Aiden, so he is terrified of messing up his most meaningful relationship. The age gap also added some extra tension to that conflict, as well.
Avery and Gabriel's chemistry was phenomenal. Their banter was immaculate and I felt their tension through the pages, both physical and emotional. It was a slow burn, giving these two all the time to simmer into being head over heels before an absolutely devastating third-act breakup and heartwarming resolution. Incredible use of Croatia as a backdrop and familial secondary characters to heighten the emotion, as well.
I did, in fact, cry at the end of this, and I'm not mad about it. A fantastic contemporary romance from start to finish. No notes.
February 29, 2024
Rachael Stewart’s Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress is a spellbinding and seductive contemporary romance that will steal every reader’s heart.
As his best friend’s little sister, Avery Monroe had always been off limits for Gabe. Despite his undeniable attraction towards her, Gabe has always been the perfect gentleman and kept things strictly platonic between the two of them – even when Avery had kissed him one night three years ago. Gabe hasn’t seen Avery since that fateful night and had intended on keeping her at arm’s length – so why had he agreed to his friend’s suggestion that Avery spend the summer working for him in his castle in Croatia?
Thrust together by fate, sparks quickly begin to fly between the two of them. Being in such close proximity quickly makes Gabe realise that there was far more to Avery than met the eye and the more time he spends with her, the more he realises what a layered, complex and beautiful woman she really is. Even though Gabe is falling for Avery, she is still his best friend’s little sister. Could the two of them ever find a way to be together? Does their love stand any hope of surviving when there are so many obstacles standing in their way? Or will secrets, fears and insecurities end up tearing them apart forever?
Rachael Stewart’s books are pure magic and she has done it again with Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress. An emotional, absorbing and captivating tale about illicit desire, forbidden attraction and everlasting love, Off-Limits Flings with the Heiress is a heart-melting contemporary romance that made me fall head over heels in love with Gabe and Avery’s enchanting story.
A first-rate page-turner from one of Harlequin Romance/Mills and Boon True Love’s brightest stars, Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress is an enjoyable charmer that should not be missed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
As his best friend’s little sister, Avery Monroe had always been off limits for Gabe. Despite his undeniable attraction towards her, Gabe has always been the perfect gentleman and kept things strictly platonic between the two of them – even when Avery had kissed him one night three years ago. Gabe hasn’t seen Avery since that fateful night and had intended on keeping her at arm’s length – so why had he agreed to his friend’s suggestion that Avery spend the summer working for him in his castle in Croatia?
Thrust together by fate, sparks quickly begin to fly between the two of them. Being in such close proximity quickly makes Gabe realise that there was far more to Avery than met the eye and the more time he spends with her, the more he realises what a layered, complex and beautiful woman she really is. Even though Gabe is falling for Avery, she is still his best friend’s little sister. Could the two of them ever find a way to be together? Does their love stand any hope of surviving when there are so many obstacles standing in their way? Or will secrets, fears and insecurities end up tearing them apart forever?
Rachael Stewart’s books are pure magic and she has done it again with Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress. An emotional, absorbing and captivating tale about illicit desire, forbidden attraction and everlasting love, Off-Limits Flings with the Heiress is a heart-melting contemporary romance that made me fall head over heels in love with Gabe and Avery’s enchanting story.
A first-rate page-turner from one of Harlequin Romance/Mills and Boon True Love’s brightest stars, Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress is an enjoyable charmer that should not be missed.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 14, 2023
This is the 1st book in the “How To Win A Monroe Series.” This is an entertaining read that started off a little slow and the more I read the more I enjoyed Avery and Gabe’s journey to romance. First up we have Avery who is an heiress and her brother Aiden who is an heir. Avery is 12 years younger than her brother Aiden making Gabe and Aiden pretty much the same age. Avery’s brother suggest that she spend some time at his friend Gabe Croatian estate who is a billionaire and Avery is all too ready to go. Gabe is need of an assistant so he gladly does the favor for Aiden by reluctantly letting Avery be his assistant and Avery is in need of money. Avery has crushed on her brother’s best friend Gabe for some time. Gabe has helped Avery out of a situation in the past. Gabe knows that Avery is off limits as she is his best friend’s younger sister. Gabe is fighting his attraction to Avery but she is definitely a distraction that he is finding it hard to resist. These two are great together as they both are fight their inter demons. Can’t to see what Rachael Stewart has for readers in Aiden books.
I received an ARC via the author and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC via the author and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
September 28, 2023
You’ll be rooting for Avery and Gabe’s HEA!
I feel for Avery who is struggling with life after her father’s passing. Enter her brother’s best friend Gabe who whisks her away from the club she walked in to before being caught by the press to post yet another bad press story on Avery. Yet when confronted with where she is staying, Gabe brings her back to his place which just starts a whole new can of worms between the two. But it is the kick start that Avery needed to take a new approach to life. Fast forward three years and an arranged innocent meeting of the two by her brother leads to a culmination that may have Avery repeating her exit. Will Avery & Gabe finally reunite with their respective families? Will Gabe realize what he lost? You have to read to find out!
I feel for Avery who is struggling with life after her father’s passing. Enter her brother’s best friend Gabe who whisks her away from the club she walked in to before being caught by the press to post yet another bad press story on Avery. Yet when confronted with where she is staying, Gabe brings her back to his place which just starts a whole new can of worms between the two. But it is the kick start that Avery needed to take a new approach to life. Fast forward three years and an arranged innocent meeting of the two by her brother leads to a culmination that may have Avery repeating her exit. Will Avery & Gabe finally reunite with their respective families? Will Gabe realize what he lost? You have to read to find out!
October 2, 2023
Avery hits rock bottom when her brother cuts her off financially and Gabe rejects her after they kiss. Three years goes by before they see each other again. Gabe is doing his best friend a favor by letting Avery work for him while she continues her schooling. Avery sees this as her chance to apologize and make amends for her behavior. No one is willing to see that Avery's past mistakes are in the past and she's changed. They both still feel that pull of attraction but know they need to fight it. Gabe doesn't want to ruin his friendship with Avery's brother and she doesn't want to be rejected and judged again. Their story is a bit heartbreaking. I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
September 15, 2023
Off Limits Fling with the Heriress, is an easy to read romance novel by Rachael Stewart.
The novel follows Avery, who has a troubled past and Gabe who knows that she is off limits. Her brother, who is Gabe's best friend asks him to look after her in his castle and they end up having an unforgettable night.
The novel was easy to read and I was hooked from the very first page. The story was easy to follow and had a great cast of characters. A brilliant novel that I highly recommend.
💖 Thank you to Mills and Boon, Net Galley and the author, Rachael Stewart for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
The novel follows Avery, who has a troubled past and Gabe who knows that she is off limits. Her brother, who is Gabe's best friend asks him to look after her in his castle and they end up having an unforgettable night.
The novel was easy to read and I was hooked from the very first page. The story was easy to follow and had a great cast of characters. A brilliant novel that I highly recommend.
💖 Thank you to Mills and Boon, Net Galley and the author, Rachael Stewart for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for a honest review.
September 18, 2023
Avery and Gabe's forbidden romance is the first in the How to Win a Monroe series. Avery wants to live life her way, and at twenty, this means she makes some questionable choices. Gabe, her brother's best friend, saves her from one but then withdraws because he knows his attraction to her will damage his friendship. Both have complicated pasts, and this draws them together emotionally. The characters are likeable and relatable, and you are invested in their happiness. I like the passionate intensity of their relationship and the way the couple grew together emotionally. It is a lovely romantic tale with a happy conclusion.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
September 18, 2023
Avery and Gabe's forbidden romance is the first in the How to Win a Monroe series. Avery wants to live life her way, and at twenty, this means she makes some questionable choices. Gabe, her brother's best friend, saves her from one but then withdraws because he knows his attraction to her will damage his friendship. Both have complicated pasts, and this draws them together emotionally. The characters are likeable and relatable, and you are invested in their happiness. I like the passionate intensity of their relationship and the way the couple grew together emotionally. It is a lovely romantic tale with a happy conclusion.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
September 4, 2023
Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress is the first part in a duet featuring the Monroe siblings. Avery is a realistically drawn, imperfect heroine, with a crush on her brother's best friend. Gabe is fighting his own demons and struggles with his growing attraction to Avery. The ensuing back-and-forth had me going from gnashing my teeth to smiling and cheering them on to wanting to shake them. I loved the happy ending and can't wait to read Aiden's story.
I was lucky to have received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
I was lucky to have received an advanced copy from the author and am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly.
September 14, 2023
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to the author who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of her book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review.
This book is actually book number one in the wonderful, new ‘How To Win A Monroe’ series and its going to be an amazing series.
I really do love an Harlequin romance, especially ones with a billionaire trope - they definitely make my heart happy!
There is also another trope covered in this story and also another of my favourites - his best friends little sister…..
Such a lovely, emotional story that really did have me feeling all the feels and i loved it!
Set in the beautiful Croatia, it was a great bit of armchair travel and definitely good for the soul…….
This book is actually book number one in the wonderful, new ‘How To Win A Monroe’ series and its going to be an amazing series.
I really do love an Harlequin romance, especially ones with a billionaire trope - they definitely make my heart happy!
There is also another trope covered in this story and also another of my favourites - his best friends little sister…..
Such a lovely, emotional story that really did have me feeling all the feels and i loved it!
Set in the beautiful Croatia, it was a great bit of armchair travel and definitely good for the soul…….
October 5, 2023
This was an enchanting book. Avery is such a beautiful heroine (inside and out) and while she may have a troubled past, I loved her Gabe ignored all of his reservations and swooped in to help her (and try and win his heart). This book was perfect to read on a cold day that we had over the weekend as I curled up with my daughter 😊
I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review for free
I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review for free
March 28, 2025
Takes place in Croatia, which is cool because you don’t read about Croatia as a setting yet. But the author could have done a lot more by focusing on the setting. Instead, she focused a lot of time having Avery and Gabe arguing with each other over each other’s families and their feelings and life choices.
Read
September 3, 2023Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction, Family Life Fiction
Miniseries
How to Win a Monroe (Book #1)
Miniseries
How to Win a Monroe (Book #1)
October 4, 2023
An enjoyable romance - read in one sitting and enjoyed.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for allowing me an early look at this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for allowing me an early look at this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2024
Sweet romance, and easy to read.
September 18, 2023
Off-Limits Fling With The Heiress is another lovely read by Rachael Stewart. If you enjoy a good romance, with characters you’ll love, then look no further.
I absolutely loved Avery and Gabe’s story.
I could totally understand Gabe’s reluctance to give in to his attraction to his best friend’s younger sister, Avery. I could also completely understand Avery being so smitten with Gabe and not wanting to admit it, even to herself. They have both had difficult pasts and are struggling with grief. Neither of them wants to rock the boat with Avery’s brother, but why should they deny their chance for happiness for the sake of trying to keep others happy!? The chemistry between them is off the chart and they are just perfect for each other.
I was rooting for them from the start!
Yet another one of Rachael Stewart’s books I was completely captivated by, from the very first page to the very last. They always make me smile.
I can’t wait for book two!
** Many thanks to Rachael Stewart for my review copy **
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2023/09/1...
I absolutely loved Avery and Gabe’s story.
I could totally understand Gabe’s reluctance to give in to his attraction to his best friend’s younger sister, Avery. I could also completely understand Avery being so smitten with Gabe and not wanting to admit it, even to herself. They have both had difficult pasts and are struggling with grief. Neither of them wants to rock the boat with Avery’s brother, but why should they deny their chance for happiness for the sake of trying to keep others happy!? The chemistry between them is off the chart and they are just perfect for each other.
I was rooting for them from the start!
Yet another one of Rachael Stewart’s books I was completely captivated by, from the very first page to the very last. They always make me smile.
I can’t wait for book two!
** Many thanks to Rachael Stewart for my review copy **
https://chataboutbooks.blog/2023/09/1...
March 1, 2024
Rachael Stewart isn't the queen of romance for nothing, and this glorious book is another diamond in her crown!👑
This is the first book in the new Monroe Siblings duet, I don’t think I can take any more, but after this, I am seriously excited about the next especially as we have the merest glimpse of Avery’s brother Aiden and I’m intrigued – I want, no need to know more about Aiden, his story can’t come soon enough (luckily at the time of writing this, I have Aiden waiting in the wings to be shared with you).
My heart broke, was shattered and fused back together throughout this book, Avery and Gabe are a hurricane of emotion!💖
The opening is tense, when we first meet Avery and Gabe my first thought is; that they are so young and troubled. Avery alone is in a deep dark place, I have to admit that I couldn't take to her initially she came across as just a silly little girl who'd gone off the rails and was pushing the boundaries at every opportunity. Yet when we fast forward to when Gabe and Avery meet again years later you begin to understand her and her actions and my heart melts towards her, she isn't a tearaway after all but instead, she is hiding addiction, loneliness and fragility behind the brazen mask.
Gabe has always held a torch for Avery, though being her brother's best friend he knows she is well and truly off-limits to him, yet he can't deny that being in her presence is torture, it's overpowering his attraction towards her. He's seen her at her lowest and he sees her now as the courageous woman she has become, the longer she's in his orbit the stronger the feelings become until she ignites aflame within him.
Avery and Gabe are a wonderful couple, both equally troubled and damaged. Each of them has to fight through some really personal and very difficult issues which will resonate with so many people, but none of that overshadows the true love that is crackling between them.
It's true I did have my reservations about them at first, but those niggles were soon smoothed out by the impeccable storytelling. The journey they have to go on to find that elusive happiness and peace is deeply moving, Gabe and Avery are both damaged goods, and their pasts and circumstances have played a huge part in their loneliness and diminishing any happiness.
I will be perfectly honest that I am not a reader who favours first person narrative, I never have been but Rachael Stewart is one of the very few authors I read who writes in first person.
I can’t fully explain it, but there is real magic in the way Rachael Stewart creates such flawed, vulnerable emotionally driven and utterly heart-breaking characters. Each one touches your heart in so many ways, and more often than not each one of us in one way or another can relate to them on such a personal level.
Gabe and Avery are no different!
I know the older I become, the more Rachael’s characters speak to me in such a personal way, I have spoken about this before of how much these books touch upon topics that are so deeply embedded in my heart that I feel as though they could have been written for every reader who picks them up, and Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress is no different.
This is a roller-coaster of emotions with Rachael Stewart at the helm, steering us through rolling seas of angst and sexual tension to devastating sadness and grief to unprecedented joy and happiness.
Watch this space, Aiden’s next!!!😍
This is the first book in the new Monroe Siblings duet, I don’t think I can take any more, but after this, I am seriously excited about the next especially as we have the merest glimpse of Avery’s brother Aiden and I’m intrigued – I want, no need to know more about Aiden, his story can’t come soon enough (luckily at the time of writing this, I have Aiden waiting in the wings to be shared with you).
My heart broke, was shattered and fused back together throughout this book, Avery and Gabe are a hurricane of emotion!💖
The opening is tense, when we first meet Avery and Gabe my first thought is; that they are so young and troubled. Avery alone is in a deep dark place, I have to admit that I couldn't take to her initially she came across as just a silly little girl who'd gone off the rails and was pushing the boundaries at every opportunity. Yet when we fast forward to when Gabe and Avery meet again years later you begin to understand her and her actions and my heart melts towards her, she isn't a tearaway after all but instead, she is hiding addiction, loneliness and fragility behind the brazen mask.
Gabe has always held a torch for Avery, though being her brother's best friend he knows she is well and truly off-limits to him, yet he can't deny that being in her presence is torture, it's overpowering his attraction towards her. He's seen her at her lowest and he sees her now as the courageous woman she has become, the longer she's in his orbit the stronger the feelings become until she ignites aflame within him.
Avery and Gabe are a wonderful couple, both equally troubled and damaged. Each of them has to fight through some really personal and very difficult issues which will resonate with so many people, but none of that overshadows the true love that is crackling between them.
It's true I did have my reservations about them at first, but those niggles were soon smoothed out by the impeccable storytelling. The journey they have to go on to find that elusive happiness and peace is deeply moving, Gabe and Avery are both damaged goods, and their pasts and circumstances have played a huge part in their loneliness and diminishing any happiness.
I will be perfectly honest that I am not a reader who favours first person narrative, I never have been but Rachael Stewart is one of the very few authors I read who writes in first person.
I can’t fully explain it, but there is real magic in the way Rachael Stewart creates such flawed, vulnerable emotionally driven and utterly heart-breaking characters. Each one touches your heart in so many ways, and more often than not each one of us in one way or another can relate to them on such a personal level.
Gabe and Avery are no different!
I know the older I become, the more Rachael’s characters speak to me in such a personal way, I have spoken about this before of how much these books touch upon topics that are so deeply embedded in my heart that I feel as though they could have been written for every reader who picks them up, and Off-Limits Fling with the Heiress is no different.
This is a roller-coaster of emotions with Rachael Stewart at the helm, steering us through rolling seas of angst and sexual tension to devastating sadness and grief to unprecedented joy and happiness.
Watch this space, Aiden’s next!!!😍
December 8, 2023
Trigger Warnings
This book contains:
• References to drug and alcohol addiction
• Death of loved parents
• Depression.
Characters
Gabe is our strong, quiet hero who focuses on working hard and growing his father’s company. He’s always done the best he can to support his best friend Aiden, and Aiden’s younger sister, even if it’s put him in difficult positions.
Avery is our heroine who’s lived through the death and aftermath of her father. After her beloved father passed away, she lost her older brother Aiden to the family business and her mother to grief leaving her to try and cope with her out of control emotions. Which inevitably led her down a path her family doesn’t approve of.
Storyline
Gabe and Avery have some irresistible chemistry that Gabe is committed to denying. While Avery is convinced, she couldn’t be with anyone but Gabe, he remains standoffish and at arm’s length for the sake of his relationship with Aiden.
But that changes when Aiden asks Gabe for a favour, to help Avery.
Overall Thoughts
I was a bit confused at first because the first short portion of the book is set a few years before the time period of the blurb. Normally when I read books that have a start in the past, it’s a single prologue chapter, and then you’re into the current day (for the book).
Bu Rachael rarely does things the normal way, and instead of giving us just a barely there taste or a highly explained set up, she gives us the proper space for us to feel the pull of attraction between the two characters. As well as Gabe’s insistence on keeping things platonic and G rated between them, despite Avery’s attempts otherwise.
In the end, we get our typical style of romance that cuts RIGHT down to the wire (and yes, I was honestly worried we wouldn’t get a HEA in this book it cuts it THAT close!) but is also so magical. I know we’ll see these two again in the sequel coming out in a couple of months so I’m excited to see how they feature in that as well!
This book contains:
• References to drug and alcohol addiction
• Death of loved parents
• Depression.
Characters
Gabe is our strong, quiet hero who focuses on working hard and growing his father’s company. He’s always done the best he can to support his best friend Aiden, and Aiden’s younger sister, even if it’s put him in difficult positions.
Avery is our heroine who’s lived through the death and aftermath of her father. After her beloved father passed away, she lost her older brother Aiden to the family business and her mother to grief leaving her to try and cope with her out of control emotions. Which inevitably led her down a path her family doesn’t approve of.
Storyline
Gabe and Avery have some irresistible chemistry that Gabe is committed to denying. While Avery is convinced, she couldn’t be with anyone but Gabe, he remains standoffish and at arm’s length for the sake of his relationship with Aiden.
But that changes when Aiden asks Gabe for a favour, to help Avery.
Overall Thoughts
I was a bit confused at first because the first short portion of the book is set a few years before the time period of the blurb. Normally when I read books that have a start in the past, it’s a single prologue chapter, and then you’re into the current day (for the book).
Bu Rachael rarely does things the normal way, and instead of giving us just a barely there taste or a highly explained set up, she gives us the proper space for us to feel the pull of attraction between the two characters. As well as Gabe’s insistence on keeping things platonic and G rated between them, despite Avery’s attempts otherwise.
In the end, we get our typical style of romance that cuts RIGHT down to the wire (and yes, I was honestly worried we wouldn’t get a HEA in this book it cuts it THAT close!) but is also so magical. I know we’ll see these two again in the sequel coming out in a couple of months so I’m excited to see how they feature in that as well!
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