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The Boss on the Brain
The arrogant man I gave my V-card to years ago, only to get dumped, is my new billionaire boss,
When I run into Desmond McKinley ten years later, he’s a billionaire while I’m a struggling small business owner. He controls the country’s largest luxury hotel company, but I still hated him for breaking my heart in the worst possible way.
I never wanted to see the infuriating man again.
But who’s the billionaire saving my failing business? My first love.
As per the contract, I’m forced to work with Desmond. Resisting his charms and the way he fills out his bespoke suits. I try to not get distracted by his commanding gaze in meetings or think about how frustratingly single he is. As my boss, he’s strictly off-limits, especially if one powerful glance from him reminds me of the night we once shared.
Forbidden or not, Desmond seems determined to rekindle what we had.
I’m not ready to trust him again. But one steamy incident in the office convinces me to forget my fears for a while. I give in, and our time in bed is hotter than before.
It’s only physical.
Just because he’s back, I’d never fall for the man I spent years getting over. The man who shouldn’t be given a second chance.
Desmond may be the boss of my body in bed,
But at work, he’s just the boss on the brain.
When I run into Desmond McKinley ten years later, he’s a billionaire while I’m a struggling small business owner. He controls the country’s largest luxury hotel company, but I still hated him for breaking my heart in the worst possible way.
I never wanted to see the infuriating man again.
But who’s the billionaire saving my failing business? My first love.
As per the contract, I’m forced to work with Desmond. Resisting his charms and the way he fills out his bespoke suits. I try to not get distracted by his commanding gaze in meetings or think about how frustratingly single he is. As my boss, he’s strictly off-limits, especially if one powerful glance from him reminds me of the night we once shared.
Forbidden or not, Desmond seems determined to rekindle what we had.
I’m not ready to trust him again. But one steamy incident in the office convinces me to forget my fears for a while. I give in, and our time in bed is hotter than before.
It’s only physical.
Just because he’s back, I’d never fall for the man I spent years getting over. The man who shouldn’t be given a second chance.
Desmond may be the boss of my body in bed,
But at work, he’s just the boss on the brain.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2024
382 people are currently reading
143 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 5, 2025
I found that I disliked Desmond and had no respect for Ava. When Desmond’s mother died, he felt guilty because he had been with Ava at the time and didn’t answer his phone. So, he decided to punish both Ava and himself by breaking things off with her in the most brutal and painful way possible. He told her that he had never seen a future with her or intended to stay with her long-term and had planned to break off with her as soon as the school year was over. Then, he said that once he “came out of the daze eight months later” and realized that he still loved her, she was dating someone else. At that time, at the very least, he should have explained and apologized for the way he treated her, but he did nothing.
Ten years later, they reconnected because his company invested in her restaurant. He apologized for treating her badly but lied to her about his reasons for breaking up with her. He told her that he was “emotionally unavailable” and that he could see he was hurting her, so he broke up with her for her sake which was total bull$hit.
However, even though Ava still believed that he had used her and always intended to dump her when he went off to university, all she could think of was how hot he was and how she still had feelings for him and wanted to be with him.
DNF
Ten years later, they reconnected because his company invested in her restaurant. He apologized for treating her badly but lied to her about his reasons for breaking up with her. He told her that he was “emotionally unavailable” and that he could see he was hurting her, so he broke up with her for her sake which was total bull$hit.
However, even though Ava still believed that he had used her and always intended to dump her when he went off to university, all she could think of was how hot he was and how she still had feelings for him and wanted to be with him.
DNF
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
Desmond & Ava are great characters. Throughout the book I saw them grow and fell in love. I'm not a big fan of Second chance romance but it was very well done. I understand why Desmond did what he did. The spice was good too especially if you barely read spice. I enjoyed the banter. Would have been 5 stars if there were flashbacks of their old relationship and if there was a bit more tension.
February 20, 2024
- billionaire romance
-workplace romance (CEO/barista)
- high school sweethearts
-multiple break ups
- death of loved ones
-second chance romance
I didn't really feel the chemistry between Desmond and Ava. And I hated how Desmond just broke up with Ava every time something hard happened in his life
Thank you for the eARC!
-workplace romance (CEO/barista)
- high school sweethearts
-multiple break ups
- death of loved ones
-second chance romance
I didn't really feel the chemistry between Desmond and Ava. And I hated how Desmond just broke up with Ava every time something hard happened in his life
Thank you for the eARC!
February 9, 2024
Boss on the Brain by Meg Garnet is a nifty little contemporary romance. We see plenty of our favorite tropes such as billionaire, second chance, groveling, secret romance, etc., as well as triggers including death of parents (not on page), health scares, grief, and third act break ups. I do feel like this book comes off as a little formulaic when it comes to the genre. That does mean that you know exactly what you are walking into when picking up this book, which I can see being a big positive for a lot of people.
The story is fairly typical of second chance romances, in my experience. The main characters feel reasonably fleshed out with actual flaws that I can see manifesting out of their backstories. I loved their interactions in the beginning of the book, their banter was good, and their conversations felt real. Some of that realism went away, for me, toward the middle and the end of the book. It would have been nice to keep their romance on simmer to build a little more tension, so when they were finally ready to act on their feelings, it felt a little more impactful. I would have loved to, maybe, see flashbacks between them when they were together before, to build more of that history and tension between them. I also would have loved more impactful side characters. They seemed to be there only for the purpose of pushing Ava back into Desmond's orbit, and it would have been nice to see them play a bigger role in Ava's growth, much like Brody did for Des toward the end of the book.
The spice was fine. It wasn't the spiciest thing I've read, but for someone who is just dipping their toes into spicy romance, it's a great starting point. it was fairly vanilla by my standards, but vanilla doesn't mean bad at all. The times they were together felt nice and intimate, which at the end of the day is what you really want to see out of a steamy romance. The only real hold up I had regarding their romantic relationship were their pet names for each other. They just didn't feel natural or sincere, to me. That being said, it's easy to get past the feeling and its definitely not a reason I wouldn't recommend the book.
All in all, it's a really solid beginner contemporary romance that gives a really safe space for a person to explore a new trope or try out a new trigger when they aren't sure if it's something that they are into. I can easily see this book and the future of this series being a comfort read for a lot of people.
overall four stars
spice two stars
The story is fairly typical of second chance romances, in my experience. The main characters feel reasonably fleshed out with actual flaws that I can see manifesting out of their backstories. I loved their interactions in the beginning of the book, their banter was good, and their conversations felt real. Some of that realism went away, for me, toward the middle and the end of the book. It would have been nice to keep their romance on simmer to build a little more tension, so when they were finally ready to act on their feelings, it felt a little more impactful. I would have loved to, maybe, see flashbacks between them when they were together before, to build more of that history and tension between them. I also would have loved more impactful side characters. They seemed to be there only for the purpose of pushing Ava back into Desmond's orbit, and it would have been nice to see them play a bigger role in Ava's growth, much like Brody did for Des toward the end of the book.
The spice was fine. It wasn't the spiciest thing I've read, but for someone who is just dipping their toes into spicy romance, it's a great starting point. it was fairly vanilla by my standards, but vanilla doesn't mean bad at all. The times they were together felt nice and intimate, which at the end of the day is what you really want to see out of a steamy romance. The only real hold up I had regarding their romantic relationship were their pet names for each other. They just didn't feel natural or sincere, to me. That being said, it's easy to get past the feeling and its definitely not a reason I wouldn't recommend the book.
All in all, it's a really solid beginner contemporary romance that gives a really safe space for a person to explore a new trope or try out a new trigger when they aren't sure if it's something that they are into. I can easily see this book and the future of this series being a comfort read for a lot of people.
overall four stars
spice two stars
January 27, 2025
I don't even know where to begin.
This book had a lot of promise, but the delivery fell flat. This seems like the work of a new author, someone who is still trying to figure out their style and how to tie things up together in a story, so the whole book felt amateurish.
Just so you understand a little of what I'm talking about, this is the whole description of a car ride that's supposed to last 40 min.
That's it. First, we don't read about her getting into the car, she's just suddenly in there, but ok. But then, they have a conversation that must not amount to 2 minutes and ta-daaaa, they magically get to their destination. The author didn’t even bother to include a single sentence like, “They continued chatting amicably the rest of the way.” Is it terrible? Yes, sorry, I’m not exactly brimming with creativity here lol. But honestly, I’d take that over what we got. This sort of thing happened repeatedly throughout the book, and I think it comes down to inexperience. A more seasoned author would likely handle these gaps more skillfully, creating smoother transitions and a more immersive flow.
Try it if you wish to, but there are many other better books in the genre. However, this author has promise and will likely improve her writing in the upcoming books.
This book had a lot of promise, but the delivery fell flat. This seems like the work of a new author, someone who is still trying to figure out their style and how to tie things up together in a story, so the whole book felt amateurish.
Just so you understand a little of what I'm talking about, this is the whole description of a car ride that's supposed to last 40 min.
“And thanks for the ride too,” I said, gesturing to the car. It would have been a one-hour ride in the subway, which would have meant skipping lunch. And I didn’t want to spend whatever I made on tips on a taxi ride across town. I was saving that stash for Gabriela’s birthday gift. I looked around the car. The interior was sleek and leather-padded. The car had a fresh, new smell about it, and the polished metal details gleamed. Desmond grinned. “You’re welcome.” He angled his body toward mine, his seat belt straining as he did so. “But I’m serious about getting you to spill the beans on what other things I’m terrible at.” “Or else you’ll break my fingers?” I joked. He nodded gravely. “Yes, my two skills, Ava. Snapping fingers and breaking them. It’s what helped me graduate to the nineteenth floor.” I grinned. “Let’s see. I would add attending social events to that list,” I added, and he raised his eyebrows. He shook his head decidedly. “Was,” he corrected. “I was terrible at it. Not anymore.” I laughed. “You once toppled the entire bowl of punch at Raylee’s birthday party, remember?” He chuckled and turned to look out the window just as the car slowed to a stop.
That's it. First, we don't read about her getting into the car, she's just suddenly in there, but ok. But then, they have a conversation that must not amount to 2 minutes and ta-daaaa, they magically get to their destination. The author didn’t even bother to include a single sentence like, “They continued chatting amicably the rest of the way.” Is it terrible? Yes, sorry, I’m not exactly brimming with creativity here lol. But honestly, I’d take that over what we got. This sort of thing happened repeatedly throughout the book, and I think it comes down to inexperience. A more seasoned author would likely handle these gaps more skillfully, creating smoother transitions and a more immersive flow.
Try it if you wish to, but there are many other better books in the genre. However, this author has promise and will likely improve her writing in the upcoming books.
February 29, 2024
"The Boss on the Brain" by Meg Garnet tells the story of Ava, a struggling business owner, who unexpectedly finds herself working for her billionaire ex-boyfriend, Desmond McKinley. Despite their rocky past, Ava must navigate her complicated feelings as she grapples with both resentment and lingering attraction towards Desmond.
Garnet crafts a tale filled with tension and emotion, capturing the complexities of workplace dynamics and past relationships. Ava's journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as she learns to confront her feelings for Desmond while also asserting her independence.
The characters are well-developed, with Ava portrayed as a strong and resilient woman, and Desmond as a complex figure with hidden depths. Their interactions are charged with chemistry, drawing readers into their tumultuous relationship.
While the storyline may follow a familiar pattern of enemies-turned-lovers, Garnet injects enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. The romance is sweet and heartwarming, with moments of steaminess that add to the allure of the story.
Overall, "The Boss on the Brain" is a satisfying romance novel that delivers on its promise of a second chance at love. While it may not break new ground in terms of plot, its compelling characters and emotional depth make it a worthwhile read for fans of the genre.
With a rating of 3.5 stars, this book offers a wholesome and enjoyable romance with a hint of spice.
Thank you so much to BookSprout for the chance to ARC read!
Garnet crafts a tale filled with tension and emotion, capturing the complexities of workplace dynamics and past relationships. Ava's journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as she learns to confront her feelings for Desmond while also asserting her independence.
The characters are well-developed, with Ava portrayed as a strong and resilient woman, and Desmond as a complex figure with hidden depths. Their interactions are charged with chemistry, drawing readers into their tumultuous relationship.
While the storyline may follow a familiar pattern of enemies-turned-lovers, Garnet injects enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged. The romance is sweet and heartwarming, with moments of steaminess that add to the allure of the story.
Overall, "The Boss on the Brain" is a satisfying romance novel that delivers on its promise of a second chance at love. While it may not break new ground in terms of plot, its compelling characters and emotional depth make it a worthwhile read for fans of the genre.
With a rating of 3.5 stars, this book offers a wholesome and enjoyable romance with a hint of spice.
Thank you so much to BookSprout for the chance to ARC read!
March 7, 2024
Ava and Desmond....
I enjoyed the story, it definitely kept me engaged where I read this book in a day.
The chemistry between Ava and Desmond was there. I also felt that Ava's reaction after seeing Desmond after so long wasn't one I was expecting. If a guy I was in love with had broken my heart like Desmond did hers, I honestly don't think I would have been as gracious as her. Her composure was pretty impressive.
Desmond definitely had his work cut out for him, when all the regrets hit him after seeing Ava again. His reasoning for breaking up with her, was crushing. That fact that he loved her but not enough. It was painful, because in a way he blamed Ava for not being with his mom before she died. Letting her go was his biggest regret.
Their banter was amazing and inside jokes between them seemed natural. Ava's character is a very soft character who tries to be tough. Desmond, he hides himself behind this wall so he doesn't lose focus on his family, with a select few friends. His walks crumble the longer he spends around Ava.
The second time Desmond leaves her. I slightly hated him, especially after making promises to her. At least his cousin who's more like a brother talks some sense into him.
Ava forgave him way to easily in my opinion.
Wish there was more about Ava's ex in the story. It was made to believe he was going to attempt something with Ava. That part of the story fell flat to me. Why add that, if it was just going to fizzle into nothing and be briefly concluded in the epilogue?
💫 Second Chance
💫 Office Romance
💫 Billionaire Romance
💫 Witty Banter
💫 Dual POVs
I enjoyed the story, it definitely kept me engaged where I read this book in a day.
The chemistry between Ava and Desmond was there. I also felt that Ava's reaction after seeing Desmond after so long wasn't one I was expecting. If a guy I was in love with had broken my heart like Desmond did hers, I honestly don't think I would have been as gracious as her. Her composure was pretty impressive.
Desmond definitely had his work cut out for him, when all the regrets hit him after seeing Ava again. His reasoning for breaking up with her, was crushing. That fact that he loved her but not enough. It was painful, because in a way he blamed Ava for not being with his mom before she died. Letting her go was his biggest regret.
Their banter was amazing and inside jokes between them seemed natural. Ava's character is a very soft character who tries to be tough. Desmond, he hides himself behind this wall so he doesn't lose focus on his family, with a select few friends. His walks crumble the longer he spends around Ava.
The second time Desmond leaves her. I slightly hated him, especially after making promises to her. At least his cousin who's more like a brother talks some sense into him.
Ava forgave him way to easily in my opinion.
Wish there was more about Ava's ex in the story. It was made to believe he was going to attempt something with Ava. That part of the story fell flat to me. Why add that, if it was just going to fizzle into nothing and be briefly concluded in the epilogue?
💫 Second Chance
💫 Office Romance
💫 Billionaire Romance
💫 Witty Banter
💫 Dual POVs
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2024
Desmond and Ava were high school sweethearts planning a future together but then Desmond broke up with her in the worst way. Now ten years later, Ava is struggling after the death of her mother and taking over their failing restaurant. And just when she feels she's at her lowest, the only man she ever loved reenters her life... richer and more handsome than ever. And he's the CEO of the very corporation investing in her restaurant. Between the non-fraternization policy at the company and her strong mistrust of Desmond it should be easy to stay away. But the feelings from ten years ago never went away and they both feel it. Can they keep their second chance a secret or will it ruin them?
I liked the easy relationship between these two even after all the hard feelings of the past. You could see how much he still cared for her right from the start. He made a big mistake in the past breaking up with her but he did have valid believable reasons for it and deep emotional scars. I love that he tried to help her through her own grief with his experiences. The story had likeable realistic characters and some great spice. The third act breakup was predictable but their HEA was worth it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I liked the easy relationship between these two even after all the hard feelings of the past. You could see how much he still cared for her right from the start. He made a big mistake in the past breaking up with her but he did have valid believable reasons for it and deep emotional scars. I love that he tried to help her through her own grief with his experiences. The story had likeable realistic characters and some great spice. The third act breakup was predictable but their HEA was worth it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 14, 2024
I was given this book for my honest review. I really enjoyed the story-line of this story. I love how they run into each other again outside when she starts working for him. I do wish that they had some of the flashbacks of when they were teens. I wanted to see how the two of them meant in high school and came to be back then. As those moments in the past are just as important as their moments in the book at current. So it was hard to see the two of them fall in love in the current book or their love further become deeper. I also wanted to see more personality from the two of them by themselves and together. We saw why Desmond was very on edge with his family's health through the book. But I needed more from her. I did enjoy the book and the witty comments that came back from both characters. I felt like I could get to know these characters but they were not my friend yet. I love to get to become friends with the main characters in the book. It makes me want to read more and possibly reread a book. The smut scenes are mild spicy but not bam...in your face. No loud declaration of love from either of them. It's a sweet book and one that I recommend checking out for sure.
March 6, 2024
Desmond and Ava were first in love in high school when, suddenly, he broke up with her. Ava runs into Desmond 10 years later and he has become a billionaire CEO while she runs the financially struggling restaurant her recently deceased mother left her. HIs company buys struggling businesses and Ava's restaurant is one that he wants. Part of the contract agreement is that she works for him in a cafe' while her restaurant is being renovated.
Desmond wants her back but there are several very painful betrayals on his part. When she finds out the reason for the first one, she forgives him, but the second one is huge. I struggled with how quickly she forgave his dishonesty. Granted, she was very attracted to him, and the sex was good, but I felt that her quick forgiveness was a weakness in her.
After several bumps in the road, they did find their HEA. 'The Boss on the Brain' was an enjoyable read and Ava and Desmond were interesting characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Desmond wants her back but there are several very painful betrayals on his part. When she finds out the reason for the first one, she forgives him, but the second one is huge. I struggled with how quickly she forgave his dishonesty. Granted, she was very attracted to him, and the sex was good, but I felt that her quick forgiveness was a weakness in her.
After several bumps in the road, they did find their HEA. 'The Boss on the Brain' was an enjoyable read and Ava and Desmond were interesting characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 11, 2024
Ava and Desmond were HS Sweethearts when Desmond suddenly broke up with Ava and left to attend Stanford. 10 years later, Ava and Desmond run into each other just as Ava is waiting on a blind date. After saving her from the worst date ever, Desmond and Ava exchange number and try to forget each other. Little does Ava know, he new investor in her failing restaurant is none other than Desmond. As the CEO of a hotel chain, he is effectively her boss, and with the new non fraternization policy at his company, their Second Chance might run into some snags.
This is an interesting Boss, Second Chance romance. There are a lot of story lines, along with the romance between Ava and Desmond, they are both dealing with grief, ailing family, and a sense of abandonment. There is also an embezzlement issue, an overzealous reporter, and a secret crush. Because of all these elements, this story is a bit on the long side but the story is anything but predictable. Overall, good story even though there was a lot there.
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is an interesting Boss, Second Chance romance. There are a lot of story lines, along with the romance between Ava and Desmond, they are both dealing with grief, ailing family, and a sense of abandonment. There is also an embezzlement issue, an overzealous reporter, and a secret crush. Because of all these elements, this story is a bit on the long side but the story is anything but predictable. Overall, good story even though there was a lot there.
I received an ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 22, 2024
This book was so sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. Ava and Desmond have known each other for years. They were dating and were in love with each other. Desmond’s mom got into a car accident and she was calling Desmond in her final hours alive, but he didn’t answer his phone because he was with Ava. That leaves a ton of guilt on him and out of his reaction, he breaks up with Ava and breaks her heart as well as his own. Years later these two meet up again and Ava is very surprised to see him. She steels up her defenses determined not to fall in love again with the man who broke her heart years ago. As these two began to spend time together and get closer than they’ve ever been, old feelings began to arise. Before you know it these two are back in love with each other. When the test comes for Desmond to choose Ava or break her heart again, will he choose her?
I received an arc copy and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received an arc copy and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
April 30, 2024
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed this book. I’m a sucker for a billionaire romance, and throw in workplace, forbidden love, and second chance romance and I’m hooked!
I fell in love with Desmond from the first time he was introduced. Add in the saving from the date, and all of the charm throughout the book, and he’s definitely made it into my top 10 book boyfriends.
I laughed at some parts of the book, I wanted to cry at others. As much as I love Desmond, I also wanted to scream and shake him at times. I think the author did a great job of handling grief/trauma in the book as well.
Overall, I thought the plot was great, there were definitely some curveballs I wasn’t expecting, the supporting characters really added to the story, and I absolutely loved Desmond and Ava. 10/10 recommend adding this
Book to your tbr list.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily**
I really enjoyed this book. I’m a sucker for a billionaire romance, and throw in workplace, forbidden love, and second chance romance and I’m hooked!
I fell in love with Desmond from the first time he was introduced. Add in the saving from the date, and all of the charm throughout the book, and he’s definitely made it into my top 10 book boyfriends.
I laughed at some parts of the book, I wanted to cry at others. As much as I love Desmond, I also wanted to scream and shake him at times. I think the author did a great job of handling grief/trauma in the book as well.
Overall, I thought the plot was great, there were definitely some curveballs I wasn’t expecting, the supporting characters really added to the story, and I absolutely loved Desmond and Ava. 10/10 recommend adding this
Book to your tbr list.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily**
October 3, 2024
This book offers an enjoyable second-chance romance with plenty of chemistry between the characters. The dynamic between the heroine and her first love turned billionaire boss, Desmond, is full of tension and sparks, which makes for some fun, steamy moments. The storyline of rekindling a past romance while navigating a professional relationship adds an interesting layer to their interactions.
That said, the plot follows a familiar pattern for this genre, and some elements, like the heroine’s internal conflict, can feel a bit repetitive. While the emotional depth isn't as strong as it could be, fans of billionaire romances will likely appreciate the attraction and tension between the leads.
Overall, it's a light, enjoyable read, perfect for anyone looking for a quick escape with a classic romance trope.
That said, the plot follows a familiar pattern for this genre, and some elements, like the heroine’s internal conflict, can feel a bit repetitive. While the emotional depth isn't as strong as it could be, fans of billionaire romances will likely appreciate the attraction and tension between the leads.
Overall, it's a light, enjoyable read, perfect for anyone looking for a quick escape with a classic romance trope.
February 13, 2024
What a lovely tale was woven with a couple of great characters. Just like in real life, people are affected by grief and make bad decisions, these characters resonated. The background characters were also plausible.
Desmond is hurt by some trauma and walks away as she is his constant reminder. He can't face his feelings. However on "bumping into her", he realises what he's missed, and tries to make up for it. The twists and turns of life impact him and her. They fall in love and then fate steps in to reignite some old fears and Desmond has to deal with it and consider whether he wants to live with or without Ava.....
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Desmond is hurt by some trauma and walks away as she is his constant reminder. He can't face his feelings. However on "bumping into her", he realises what he's missed, and tries to make up for it. The twists and turns of life impact him and her. They fall in love and then fate steps in to reignite some old fears and Desmond has to deal with it and consider whether he wants to live with or without Ava.....
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 21, 2024
This is a contemporary, billionaire second chance romance. Restaurant owner Ava is on a horrid first date when she is rescued by her long lost high school sweetheart, Desmond. Ava, grieving the death of her mother, is in a bad place when she realises her Restaurant is about to go under so puts her trust into a new partnership firm. The CEO of said firm, being none other than Billionaire, Desmond. It’s been 10years but there are still long lost feelings involved, will Desmond & Ava be able to overcome everything thrown at them and be together once more? This was a great read, lots of suspense and some spice, but very enjoyable.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
March 2, 2024
2.5 ⭐
"I’m sorry, Ava. You deserve to be happy, and I’m just not the man who can make you happy anymore.”
Book should have ended here. I'm trying not to be harsh about it. But there's no chemistry, because every time someone get sick or hurt from his family he breakup with her, i loved first 50% of book. But didn't like how he didn't try more for her hotel, there was groveling.
What if he never met or try to mend her restaurant?
I love Ava but she is dumb- dude where's your anger ? He dumped you again and again you walk to him like fool.
Des- you might be handsome and smart but you lack braincells.
"I’m sorry, Ava. You deserve to be happy, and I’m just not the man who can make you happy anymore.”
Book should have ended here. I'm trying not to be harsh about it. But there's no chemistry, because every time someone get sick or hurt from his family he breakup with her, i loved first 50% of book. But didn't like how he didn't try more for her hotel, there was groveling.
What if he never met or try to mend her restaurant?
I love Ava but she is dumb- dude where's your anger ? He dumped you again and again you walk to him like fool.
Des- you might be handsome and smart but you lack braincells.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2024
“I’ve wanted to hold you again forever, Ava,” he said before his head dipped and he kissed me softly. “To kiss you again,” he added gently, building up to the crescendo as he covered me with kisses. “To touch you again,” he finished."
I actually did not see an enemies to lovers theme and I appreciated how grown up both characters acted about their history. They didn't let their history dictate their future at all. In fact this book is more about learning to heal in order to move on. The only reason I fight give it five stars is because sometimes the author told more than showed.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I actually did not see an enemies to lovers theme and I appreciated how grown up both characters acted about their history. They didn't let their history dictate their future at all. In fact this book is more about learning to heal in order to move on. The only reason I fight give it five stars is because sometimes the author told more than showed.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 19, 2024
This contemporary, billionaire second chance romance had be hooked from the start. Desmond and Ava had a past and a chance encounter years later brings us this enjoyable story, The Boss on the Brain. We discover they both have a past and just like real life everyone experiences grief differently and this story covers some of the emotions people face. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and would highly recommend it to anyone that loves a good second chance love story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2024
I am voluntarily leaving a review after receiving an ARC from Hidden Gems.
It was good. Desmond and Ava have a second chance with each other. It is a sweet romance without a lot of drama. Desmond and Ava dated in high school and were intensely in love. Desmond ended things when his mother died. It has now been 14 years, and Desmond's company is investing in Ava's restaurant. They start a new friendship that is filled with stolen glances. It becomes clear that they both want more than friendship.
I liked the story. It was an easy read.
It was good. Desmond and Ava have a second chance with each other. It is a sweet romance without a lot of drama. Desmond and Ava dated in high school and were intensely in love. Desmond ended things when his mother died. It has now been 14 years, and Desmond's company is investing in Ava's restaurant. They start a new friendship that is filled with stolen glances. It becomes clear that they both want more than friendship.
I liked the story. It was an easy read.
April 4, 2024
I enjoyed Ava and Desmond. Second (third?) chance romance…i would love to have seen more high school relationship flashbacks and a bit more tension build up. The Kyle story line didn’t add anything so it was kinda unnecessary. It should have been more intense. Maybe Kyle breaking into her apartment since Desmond kept referencing how flimsy her door was. There should have also been more drama with Ellie and Desmond especially after he leaking company secrets to Bianca. If there’s a second book i probably wouldn’t read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2024
The Boss on the Brain by Meg Garnet is a cute second chance romance with a touch of spice. An enjoyable read that hooks you from the start. Only one part that made it 4 and not 5 stars was the part after Brody’s accident (which I will not spoil), it just ruined Des for me a bit. Overall I enjoyed the book and would recommend reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 24, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Honestly I think this book was too short. It was a good story, the spicy scenes were spicy, but I hated that it just abruptly ended. I know that the author has sequels which explain things further but I would’ve liked to see this fleshed out more in a longer book than more shorter ones. I’ll be reading the sequels for sure!
Honestly I think this book was too short. It was a good story, the spicy scenes were spicy, but I hated that it just abruptly ended. I know that the author has sequels which explain things further but I would’ve liked to see this fleshed out more in a longer book than more shorter ones. I’ll be reading the sequels for sure!
February 7, 2025
Desmond just came back to her life like nothing.
She didn’t ever seem upset because he was going to save her mom’s restaurant. That shouldn’t take away what he did.
No groveling, just back to having lunch and laughing like he didn’t break her heart.
This book has so many random side stories but her helping an Indian man getting jumped, then he takes her to Nordstrom. Then they go to a party. Girl you just met this man an hour ago. I don’t know it was weird.
She didn’t ever seem upset because he was going to save her mom’s restaurant. That shouldn’t take away what he did.
No groveling, just back to having lunch and laughing like he didn’t break her heart.
This book has so many random side stories but her helping an Indian man getting jumped, then he takes her to Nordstrom. Then they go to a party. Girl you just met this man an hour ago. I don’t know it was weird.
May 25, 2025
Middle ground
I liked parts of this book. It was a second Chance romance. Ava and Desmond got together in high school, where they were inseparable. Tragedy struck senior year, and Desmond drummped Ava and broke her heart. They meet again 10 years later. I found a lot of scenarios were repeated, and parts were a little boring. You could definitely feel the love they had for eachother but this book could of been shorter.
I liked parts of this book. It was a second Chance romance. Ava and Desmond got together in high school, where they were inseparable. Tragedy struck senior year, and Desmond drummped Ava and broke her heart. They meet again 10 years later. I found a lot of scenarios were repeated, and parts were a little boring. You could definitely feel the love they had for eachother but this book could of been shorter.
February 19, 2024
As an arc reader for this book I am so glad I had the chance to read it.
This is a Billionaire romance novel that captures your attention.
I read this book in a 24 hour period because I didn’t want to put it down.
So many lovable moments and interesting perspectives.
It had my heart breaking in one chapter and my mind going crazy in another.
Highly recommend
This is a Billionaire romance novel that captures your attention.
I read this book in a 24 hour period because I didn’t want to put it down.
So many lovable moments and interesting perspectives.
It had my heart breaking in one chapter and my mind going crazy in another.
Highly recommend
February 21, 2024
I loved this book, actually went to bed early to finish it. A contemporary romance of lost loves and new beginnings after meeting again. Ava and Desmond were great characters and you became involved in their lives, losses and family. Can't wait to read others in the series
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 1, 2024
This was definitly something that i felt i have read before. Spice level was good but the characters didnt seem special and the story was just another office romance nothing crazy i would give this a 3.7 rating. Well written and i still liked it but it read like all the other i have read. If you enjoy spicy office rich man romances this book is for you.
March 15, 2024
I really enjoyed reading about Desmond and Ava, lots of steam and history with these two. It was nice to read about their backgrounds and see where their future leads them. I look forward to reading another story by this author.
I received an advance reader copy for free and this is my honest review.
I received an advance reader copy for free and this is my honest review.
June 30, 2025
The storyline was pretty good but there was a lot lacking. Sometimes the writing was confusing and I'd have to go back a reread what just happed. The spice was LACKING description and length. At one point they have pet names for each other I find they just didn't go well and didn't suit the characters, it was detracting from the story.
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