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New York City Billionaires #1
The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry
A grumpy, reclusive New York billionaire meets his match in the maid who makes his bed (in more ways than one) . . .
When an older guy with a dirty grin and an expensive suit flirts with me from the next barstool, I don’t realize I’m about to have a one-night stand with the man I desperately want to work for.
After a night that leaves my world (and body) shaken, I start my summer job housekeeping in a five-star hotel even though I’m determined to kickstart my career in tech. As I dust and polish the Park Suite, in walks Mr. Dirty Grin -- now with an icy glare.
Why is the man from last night who was so charming (and good with his tongue) so furious this morning? As I piece together the puzzle, I discover the guest in the Park Suite is none other than Ben Fort, the reclusive tech mogul I want to work for.
Ben has kept his identity hidden for years and he wants to know how I figured him out overnight.
As he questions me, I don’t waste time telling him he’s a (super-hot) grump who needs to lighten up -- and give me a job.
I don’t want to sleep my way to the top, and he doesn’t trust me. But neither of us can resist the sizzling sparks that fly every time I fluff his pillows.
When an older guy with a dirty grin and an expensive suit flirts with me from the next barstool, I don’t realize I’m about to have a one-night stand with the man I desperately want to work for.
After a night that leaves my world (and body) shaken, I start my summer job housekeeping in a five-star hotel even though I’m determined to kickstart my career in tech. As I dust and polish the Park Suite, in walks Mr. Dirty Grin -- now with an icy glare.
Why is the man from last night who was so charming (and good with his tongue) so furious this morning? As I piece together the puzzle, I discover the guest in the Park Suite is none other than Ben Fort, the reclusive tech mogul I want to work for.
Ben has kept his identity hidden for years and he wants to know how I figured him out overnight.
As he questions me, I don’t waste time telling him he’s a (super-hot) grump who needs to lighten up -- and give me a job.
I don’t want to sleep my way to the top, and he doesn’t trust me. But neither of us can resist the sizzling sparks that fly every time I fluff his pillows.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2024
2722 people are currently reading
1907 people want to read
About the author
Louise Bay
77 books7,498 followersInternational, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author, Louise Bay writes contemporary romance novels that make you laugh - the kind she likes to read.
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
Ruined by the bonk-busters of the eighties, Louise was inspired by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, but wants to be Emily Henry when she grows up.
Louise loves the rain, RHOBH, London, days when she doesn't have to wear make-up, hanging out with her kid, elephants and champagne (not necessarily in that order).
She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 482 reviews
August 6, 2024
This story is hot from the beginning and that made it a pleasure to read from start to finish.
The interaction between the two main characters is perfection and even though this was a very quick read, I got so much enjoyment out of the story.
I love that the author did not shy away from the heat and didn’t make us wait for 75% of the story to capture the development of the physical side. Their connection was built on the sexy times and the chemistry is fire!
Bay developed amazing characters that burn brightly together. You can feel the sparks coming off the page and envelop you right into the story. The plot is both believable and entertaining. A witty, fun, age-gap, sizzle of a story that has you turning pages as fast as you can.
This is how I love my romance stories written! The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a fabulous winner of a book from Bay. My only regret is how quickly it ended! Cannot wait to read more in this series about the wonderful supporting characters.
~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-boss-the...
The interaction between the two main characters is perfection and even though this was a very quick read, I got so much enjoyment out of the story.
I love that the author did not shy away from the heat and didn’t make us wait for 75% of the story to capture the development of the physical side. Their connection was built on the sexy times and the chemistry is fire!
Bay developed amazing characters that burn brightly together. You can feel the sparks coming off the page and envelop you right into the story. The plot is both believable and entertaining. A witty, fun, age-gap, sizzle of a story that has you turning pages as fast as you can.
This is how I love my romance stories written! The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a fabulous winner of a book from Bay. My only regret is how quickly it ended! Cannot wait to read more in this series about the wonderful supporting characters.
~~~~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-boss-the...
September 15, 2024
the title is so unserious but this book is actually really cute 😭 i just need to get my silly romance book fix in before i start getting back to my fantasy roots
3.5⭐️
3.5⭐️
October 4, 2024
3.5 stars
Louise Bay books are always a palate cleanser for me. Exactly what I needed after my last read.
Sweet and straight to the point. No unnecessary drama. Lovable MCs, great side characters and cameos from some of my favorite characters from her other books.
You can never go wrong with a Louise Bay book tbh. Can’t wait for the stories of the rest of the friend group.
Louise Bay books are always a palate cleanser for me. Exactly what I needed after my last read.
Sweet and straight to the point. No unnecessary drama. Lovable MCs, great side characters and cameos from some of my favorite characters from her other books.
You can never go wrong with a Louise Bay book tbh. Can’t wait for the stories of the rest of the friend group.
August 8, 2024
#FunFact ⇒ Louise Bay is one of a very few authors that I re-read/listen to on a regular basis. The minute my brain goes into blah mode over the possibilities on my kindle/audible library, she is the author I turn to the most. Her stories make me happy; she entertains me and it’s very very rare I have any *blink* or *eyeroll* moments. Every.Single.Time. I just heart the heck out of her word wizardry #happyplace
Okay, but I digress LOL let’s chat about this story! I was so thoroughly engrossed in the storyline and all the shenanigans that I honestly did not want the story to end. Bennett & Efa had spark from the very beginning and I loved that what kicked off their story was a one-night stand. That made the story begin with a bang and that bang carried out through the whole book! Their chemistry was ridic and I just loved them!
The story also carried an air of intrigue and mystery that I enjoyed, and it fit these two perfectly! I wouldn’t even consider it conflict, more of a layer to their story for added depth to their journey. The age-gap they had between them also worked really well for their personalities and balanced each other well. I can’t say this enough, Louise Bay makes me happy! I can’t wait to read a lot more from this group and get my hands on this audiobook!
Okay, but I digress LOL let’s chat about this story! I was so thoroughly engrossed in the storyline and all the shenanigans that I honestly did not want the story to end. Bennett & Efa had spark from the very beginning and I loved that what kicked off their story was a one-night stand. That made the story begin with a bang and that bang carried out through the whole book! Their chemistry was ridic and I just loved them!
The story also carried an air of intrigue and mystery that I enjoyed, and it fit these two perfectly! I wouldn’t even consider it conflict, more of a layer to their story for added depth to their journey. The age-gap they had between them also worked really well for their personalities and balanced each other well. I can’t say this enough, Louise Bay makes me happy! I can’t wait to read a lot more from this group and get my hands on this audiobook!
July 29, 2024
The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a spin-off of the Doctor’s series but can be read as a standalone, and is filled with spice and suspense!
Bennett Fordham (aka Ben Fort) is a reclusive tech billionaire and meets his match in the much younger, Elfa. A recent university graduate, she’s from London and in the USA working a temporary summer job while looking for her dream job in the tech industry.
I love how Bennett and Elfa meet by chance and have instant chemistry, and how she keeps him on his toes. She’s not fazed by his wealth or status, and it’s heartwarming to see that they genuinely enjoy spending time together. Love how he wasn’t a playboy and was smitten with her from the start, and how she is such a playful tease while maintaining her self-respect.
Elfa is genuine, clever and witty, and made me route for her the entire time. Bennett has a group of friends whom I am hoping each get a book of their own as they were very interesting supporting characters with personalities all their own. I love her close relationship with her sister, and her fiancé who is part of the Cove family, and how they all embraced Bennett who was raised by a single mom and had some issues that he had to overcome. Thankfully, he had the support of Efa who helped him look at his success in a different light.
This book has loads of sweet moments as they spend time together, loads of sexy times as their attraction is undeniable, and some angst as there is someone out to steal confidential data from Bennett’s company. I always learn something when reading a book by this author and enjoyed getting an inside view into the hotel industry and tech security.
Louise Bay has always been one of my favorite authors and writes with such much heart and soul. Her characters are so likeable and experience growth over the pages after much needed soul searching. Love how she ties up all the loose ends so when the pages end, you just feel like you were wrapped in a giant hug.
Looking forward to Leo finding love after heartbreak in The Play + The Pact = I Do.
Bennett Fordham (aka Ben Fort) is a reclusive tech billionaire and meets his match in the much younger, Elfa. A recent university graduate, she’s from London and in the USA working a temporary summer job while looking for her dream job in the tech industry.
I love how Bennett and Elfa meet by chance and have instant chemistry, and how she keeps him on his toes. She’s not fazed by his wealth or status, and it’s heartwarming to see that they genuinely enjoy spending time together. Love how he wasn’t a playboy and was smitten with her from the start, and how she is such a playful tease while maintaining her self-respect.
Elfa is genuine, clever and witty, and made me route for her the entire time. Bennett has a group of friends whom I am hoping each get a book of their own as they were very interesting supporting characters with personalities all their own. I love her close relationship with her sister, and her fiancé who is part of the Cove family, and how they all embraced Bennett who was raised by a single mom and had some issues that he had to overcome. Thankfully, he had the support of Efa who helped him look at his success in a different light.
This book has loads of sweet moments as they spend time together, loads of sexy times as their attraction is undeniable, and some angst as there is someone out to steal confidential data from Bennett’s company. I always learn something when reading a book by this author and enjoyed getting an inside view into the hotel industry and tech security.
Louise Bay has always been one of my favorite authors and writes with such much heart and soul. Her characters are so likeable and experience growth over the pages after much needed soul searching. Love how she ties up all the loose ends so when the pages end, you just feel like you were wrapped in a giant hug.
Looking forward to Leo finding love after heartbreak in The Play + The Pact = I Do.
October 26, 2024
3.5 stars. There were some plot holes and cringe moments. I actually skipped the HEA. It was too over-the-top for me. There was some decent angst.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2025
“All beautiful things in this world attract darkness. That’s the way life is.”
This story follows Efa, a 21-year-old from London, who is spending time in New York to work and potentially find a way into her dream job. She takes on a maid position at a fancy hotel. While checking out the hotel before starting the next day, she meets a man at the hotel bar and has an unforgettable night with him back at her place. Little does she know that the next day, while cleaning a guest's bathroom, the man from the previous night shows up—and he doesn’t look happy to see her again.
I loved Efa and Ben together. Ben is very grumpy, private, and struggles to trust people due to a past filled with loss and a desire to stay out of the public eye. Efa is young, beautiful, and eager to live in the moment and experience New York. The chemistry between them was great, and the spice was perfect. I will say that I did guess who was behind the security breach attacks on Ben. Overall, it was an enjoyable audiobook and story. Also, if you get the audiobook, the very last chapter is an interview with the author, and I loved hearing her take on memories of working in a hotel and turning them into a beautiful story.
If you love:
🔹Enemies To Lovers
🔹Age Gap (23yrs)
🔹Grumpy Sunshine
🔹Billionaire
🔹Secret Identity
🔹Perfect Amount Of Spice
Genre/Type: Romcom Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 55mins
Narrators: Zara Hampton-Brown and Robert Hachet - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Enemies To Lovers, Age Gap (23yrs), Grumpy Sunshine, Billionaire, Forced Proximity, Secret Identity, One Night Stand, Chemistry, Sneaking Around, Grand Gesture, Made Me Laugh, Alcohol, Cursing and Sexual Content
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
This story follows Efa, a 21-year-old from London, who is spending time in New York to work and potentially find a way into her dream job. She takes on a maid position at a fancy hotel. While checking out the hotel before starting the next day, she meets a man at the hotel bar and has an unforgettable night with him back at her place. Little does she know that the next day, while cleaning a guest's bathroom, the man from the previous night shows up—and he doesn’t look happy to see her again.
I loved Efa and Ben together. Ben is very grumpy, private, and struggles to trust people due to a past filled with loss and a desire to stay out of the public eye. Efa is young, beautiful, and eager to live in the moment and experience New York. The chemistry between them was great, and the spice was perfect. I will say that I did guess who was behind the security breach attacks on Ben. Overall, it was an enjoyable audiobook and story. Also, if you get the audiobook, the very last chapter is an interview with the author, and I loved hearing her take on memories of working in a hotel and turning them into a beautiful story.
If you love:
🔹Enemies To Lovers
🔹Age Gap (23yrs)
🔹Grumpy Sunshine
🔹Billionaire
🔹Secret Identity
🔹Perfect Amount Of Spice
Genre/Type: Romcom Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 7hrs 55mins
Narrators: Zara Hampton-Brown and Robert Hachet - Dual
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone
Tropes or Themes: Enemies To Lovers, Age Gap (23yrs), Grumpy Sunshine, Billionaire, Forced Proximity, Secret Identity, One Night Stand, Chemistry, Sneaking Around, Grand Gesture, Made Me Laugh, Alcohol, Cursing and Sexual Content
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫
All Round Romance Reader
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Everand | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫
August 11, 2024
DNF 30%. The writing was… not good. And the characters were cringy. He’s a tech billionaire who’s crazy secretive about his identify; she’s a 21 yr old Brit who’s looking for a tech job, but working as a maid in NYC. Turns out it’s at his hotel and she ends up cleaning his room. The first meeting in the hotel bar and ONS was ridiculous. He growls at her in the bar and the bar “shakes”?? She then takes the big, intimidating older guy home to her apt. Safety much? Just no. And then this guy who trusts no one, suddenly trusts her and is taking her away for the weekend and letting her listen in on all his business calls. This when he’s especially paranoid bc he’s convinced someone is trying to hack him. Meanwhile, she’s just prancing around naked everywhere. Plus, did I mention the writing is thin and awkward? I just couldn’t take it anymore.
August 23, 2024
This was such a good book! Exactly the fun, sexy, and satisfying kind of romance I’ve come to expect from Louise Bay.
I loved so many of the characters in this book! Obviously the semi-reclusive billionaire MMC and the younger, open and optimistic FMC were both fantastic. But this story also had a bunch of great supporting characters. The MMC, Bennet, has a strong group of best friends, all of whom could easily have books of their own (and I think more is coming). The FMC, Efa, has an amazing psuedo-family from her sister’s engagement, and hearing about all of her brothers-in-law made me want to know more about those men. Her sister also likely has a great story of how she met her billionaire fiancée, which I’d love to read.
Louise Bay never disappoints. I read this book all in one day, it was so cute. It is a comforting, warm-fuzzy kind of book with medium angst. Would definitely recommend and I look forward to the next in the series: The Play + The Pact = I Do.
Key Tropes:
💰Billionaire MMC
😍Insta-Love
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Medium Spice
💼Boss/Employee (If You Squint, lol)
💻Computer Science Professions
🇬🇧British FMC
Thanks to the author for providing me with a free ARC of this book. I am voluntarily providing this review and it accurately reflects my opinion of the book.
I loved so many of the characters in this book! Obviously the semi-reclusive billionaire MMC and the younger, open and optimistic FMC were both fantastic. But this story also had a bunch of great supporting characters. The MMC, Bennet, has a strong group of best friends, all of whom could easily have books of their own (and I think more is coming). The FMC, Efa, has an amazing psuedo-family from her sister’s engagement, and hearing about all of her brothers-in-law made me want to know more about those men. Her sister also likely has a great story of how she met her billionaire fiancée, which I’d love to read.
Louise Bay never disappoints. I read this book all in one day, it was so cute. It is a comforting, warm-fuzzy kind of book with medium angst. Would definitely recommend and I look forward to the next in the series: The Play + The Pact = I Do.
Key Tropes:
💰Billionaire MMC
😍Insta-Love
🌶️🌶️🌶️ Medium Spice
💼Boss/Employee (If You Squint, lol)
💻Computer Science Professions
🇬🇧British FMC
Thanks to the author for providing me with a free ARC of this book. I am voluntarily providing this review and it accurately reflects my opinion of the book.
July 31, 2024
Bennett and Efa’s relationship starts the way many do — Bennett decides to try and pick Efa up at a bar (which is successful), and they enjoy the night together at her apartment 🥵. Imagine Bennett’s shock when Efa is the maid cleaning his hotel room a couple of days later (meanwhile, the job Efa really wants is at Fort, Inc., and being a maid is just temporary).
Bennett is a reclusive billionaire who masks his identity because of his past, and Efa is all about honesty. Bennett doesn’t trust people easily and has a close group of friends that he trusts. However, when someone is suddenly attacking Bennett’s business and trying to hack into his systems, Bennett begins questioning everyone around him, including Efa.
The spice was definitely spicing in this one, and every scene was perfection (the desk…IYKYK 🥵). Bennett and Efa were truly perfect together in every way. Honestly, during several parts of this book, it was giving Maid in Manhattan vibes (the early 2000s movie with J-Lo and Ralph Fiennes, a personal favorite!). This wasn’t my first book by Louise Bay, and it definitely won’t be my last! I have loved every book I have read by her, and this one is no exception to that rule!
Bennett is a reclusive billionaire who masks his identity because of his past, and Efa is all about honesty. Bennett doesn’t trust people easily and has a close group of friends that he trusts. However, when someone is suddenly attacking Bennett’s business and trying to hack into his systems, Bennett begins questioning everyone around him, including Efa.
The spice was definitely spicing in this one, and every scene was perfection (the desk…IYKYK 🥵). Bennett and Efa were truly perfect together in every way. Honestly, during several parts of this book, it was giving Maid in Manhattan vibes (the early 2000s movie with J-Lo and Ralph Fiennes, a personal favorite!). This wasn’t my first book by Louise Bay, and it definitely won’t be my last! I have loved every book I have read by her, and this one is no exception to that rule!
August 13, 2024
The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is hotter than this italian Summer, but don't be too quick to judge it because this novel is also packed with a lot of emotions.
After Efa graduated the college she went to New York for the Summer, but she didn't expect that meeting an handsome man in a bar will make her stay in the city ten times more complicated and exciting.
I loved Efa and Bennett story. The spirited Efa is the right person for Bennett to make him loosen up. Their relationship is passionate from the start, but as the days go by they open up to each other, confiding their pasts and developing feelings for one another.
I'd like to have a friend like Efa because she is very smart, lively and lovely.
Louise Bay portrayed some vibrant, charming and intriguing characters, with some depth and a lot of spiciness.
I highly recommend any of this author work. I can't wait for the next mogul book.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
March 1, 2025
wasn’t really feeling the chemistry tbh
April 9, 2025
3,5 ⭐
Bajo el paraguas de un argumento del todo acostumbrado y típico en lo referente el género en el que se encuadra, Química con el jefe es el ejemplo más cercano de una novela romántica directa, en la que los clichés se hacen con el control de la historia. A través de las páginas de este libro, se da forma a una historia en la que tras un encuentro fruto de la atracción instantánea, iniciarán una relación en la que lo físico y lo emocional se mezclan con gran armonía. Aunque si bien, la relación entre ambos se entabla demasiado pronto, su desarrollo se afana por prestar una sutil atención a los detalles que ayuden a completar el libro.
Efa y Bennet conforman una pareja que, a pesar de la diferencia de edad, se complementan bien. Son protagonistas muy bien definidos, aunque no traten de beber de las fuentes de la madurez más condimentada. Sus figuras como personajes principales, apuestan por un atractivo algo lineal, pero no por ello se les resta ningún matiz de interés. Ambos, son una pareja que crece sobre un escenario literario no demasiado tendente a sorprender, pero si a provocar en el lector esa sensación de comodidad y certera conexión.
Louise Bay es una de las autoras que mejor saben capturar la importancia de la sencillez en el terreno de la romántica. Pocas son las veces, que sus historias no convencen y es que su entretenimiento siempre es notable.
Finalmente, solo cabe destacar que es, como ya acostumbra la autora, un libro que se lee en apenas unas horas, una lectura muy liviana y de extensión normal.
Bajo el paraguas de un argumento del todo acostumbrado y típico en lo referente el género en el que se encuadra, Química con el jefe es el ejemplo más cercano de una novela romántica directa, en la que los clichés se hacen con el control de la historia. A través de las páginas de este libro, se da forma a una historia en la que tras un encuentro fruto de la atracción instantánea, iniciarán una relación en la que lo físico y lo emocional se mezclan con gran armonía. Aunque si bien, la relación entre ambos se entabla demasiado pronto, su desarrollo se afana por prestar una sutil atención a los detalles que ayuden a completar el libro.
Efa y Bennet conforman una pareja que, a pesar de la diferencia de edad, se complementan bien. Son protagonistas muy bien definidos, aunque no traten de beber de las fuentes de la madurez más condimentada. Sus figuras como personajes principales, apuestan por un atractivo algo lineal, pero no por ello se les resta ningún matiz de interés. Ambos, son una pareja que crece sobre un escenario literario no demasiado tendente a sorprender, pero si a provocar en el lector esa sensación de comodidad y certera conexión.
Louise Bay es una de las autoras que mejor saben capturar la importancia de la sencillez en el terreno de la romántica. Pocas son las veces, que sus historias no convencen y es que su entretenimiento siempre es notable.
Finalmente, solo cabe destacar que es, como ya acostumbra la autora, un libro que se lee en apenas unas horas, una lectura muy liviana y de extensión normal.
August 24, 2024
This is a romance with a bit of a mystery, too.
It’s not a typical romance book.
I don’t even know when I read a romance novel last. However, I did enjoy this story.
It was light, well written, fast paced & just what I needed for a change of pace.
It’s not a typical romance book.
I don’t even know when I read a romance novel last. However, I did enjoy this story.
It was light, well written, fast paced & just what I needed for a change of pace.
August 8, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
'What happens in the hotel, stays in the hotel. Louise Bay toes and then crosses the line between boss/guest and employee, forbidden desires, and plenty of action in and out of the sheets. *Clears throat* Housekeeping! - The British Bibliophile
Thank you to Louise Bay & her assistant for sending me an Advanced Reader Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her influencer/ARC team. This is a fair and honest review of this book.
NOTE - This review will be spoiler-free as standard, but will contain references to elements within the book's blurb. If you wish to go into this read as blind read without knowing a single thing about it, please exit my review now :)
📖 Tropes 📖:
💙 Boss & Employee
💜 One Night Stand That Comes Back To Bite
💙 Lover To Enemies To Lovers
💜 Secret Billionaire
💙 Forced Proximity
💜 Reclusive Billionaire
💙 New York City Romance
💜 New Girl In Town
💙 Grumpy/Sunshine
💜 Maid/Hotel Guest
💙 Spicy
💜 Age Gap
📚 Genres 📚:
• Romance, Contemporary Romance, Standalone
--------------------
The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a brand new book from the one and only Louise Bay, spinning off from her The Doctors series. Same world, new set of books with a brand new set of adventures within them. Some familiar names/faces will make an appearance, but the main focus is on our two new main characters.
If you have yet to read Louise's The Doctors series, this is your official sign to do so. The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a standalone read within this new series, but there will be minor details that might be spoiled if you haven't caught up on all the Cove brothers before branching off with a Cadogan (who is linked to one of said Cove brothers), and her soon-to-be man. If you want to jump in here without catching up on those, have fun!
What attracted me to reading this book, other than it being written by one of my favourites, is the fact that it's a series branching off of one that I've come to adore so much. Out of the entire The Doctors series, Dr. CEO and Dr. Single Dad were my two top reads. Something spoke to me through Vincent and Dax above all the other Coves, and after finishing the latter I genuinely felt it too hard to say goodbye. Imagine both my surprise and delight when before turning the final pages that we were told our world would not be ending but expanding? Best. Surprise. Ever!
Ladies and gentlemen, take your seats and prepare for landing. Welcome to New York. Local time, ready to meet Efa and Ben.
When you go to a bar, one of a few things may happen. You can dip out early, drink your worries away or option three? Pick up someone and spend one night with them, filled with nothing but pleasurable things, no inhibitions and all cards off the table. That's exactly what Efa does when she goes into the bar of a local hotel in New York, succumbing to the flirting of a man on the barstool next to hers. Only, she doesn't realise who he is and what he would soon become to her.
Leaving said man and their one night stand behind her, Efa is shaken both metaphorically and literally. She's starting her summer job as a housekeeper/maid at a five-star hotel--despite wanting to hit the ground running in her dream job within the tech world--, and she's determined to do a great job. Brand new into her temporary placement and while cleaning the prestigious Park Suite room, she comes across something--or rather, someone--walking in as she does so. It's none other than her one-night stand who was never meant to meet her again. They were never meant to meet again.
Yet, here they both are.
Efa can't help but wonder why the man from the previous night who at the time was as charming with his mouth as he was his tongue, is standing in front of her now like a bull billowing out smoke from its nose. Quite the contrast from their pleasure-filled evening.
As she pieces together parts of the puzzle, eventually getting to a point where she can see enough of the picture clearly, it dawns on her that the man before her--resident of the Park Suite room--is none other than billionaire recluse Ben Fort. If that wasn't enough to knock her socks off, Ben Fort also happens to be the man, the billionaire and CEO of the tech company that she's had her eyes on and is in this very city to acquire a job in.
Ben has managed to keep his identity a hidden one for quite some time, so it's no wonder that he's steaming mad and is in a state of quiet panic, when a girl he's met no more than twenty-four hours prior has managed to connect the dots as to what his name is and who he is in a matter of seconds once she has her lightbulb moment.
The questions soon start to fly from his lips to her ears, demanding answers he needs to know to put his mind and racing heart at rest. This however, doesn't stop Efa from informing him, very brazenly, that not only does she find him 'super-hot', but that she also wants a job from him and to work at/for his company. Completely bypassing the traditional channels of applying for a job AND the ways things are done at his company specifically.
Regardless the uncertainty and unpredictable nature that now surrounds them both, Efa is certain of one thing. She doesn't want to sleep her way to the top. Ben of course, doesn't trust her now that she has figured out who he is. Despite this, the two of them simply cannot ignore the blatant sparks that ignited the previous night and that are now once more reignited when they meet again in his hotel room. Especially when she's the one who is bending over, on his bed, fluffing the pillows that he'll be laying his handsome head down on to sleep or...do other things on.
Expectations were high after the ending of the main series, with Dax Cove still lingering in the front of my mind, for this next branch of the Louise Bay tree to as good for its own unique reasons. I set these expectations myself, which can sometimes prove a fatal mistake as a reader. Not this time. Getting to know Efa, Ben and read where their story took them entertained and enthralled me just as much as the main series--and its characters--did, taking things in a different yet familiar direction. Blending both familiar and new together perfectly. Louise won't ever steer us wrong, and this offshoot story proved just that with this read and where the series has the potential to go in future instalments.
Considering the small proximity of the settings--i.e. a multitude of places weren't on the cards, just a few--, Louise managed to keep things interesting, the plot moving and of course, a signature surprise to shake things up. I love a good spanner in the works just when things seem to be going perfectly, and she's one of my favourites for throwing it into the story to bring us back around to a nice happily ever after.
For my own reading tastes, I would've preferred to see some things play out on the pages after monumental or possible hints of things would be happening, but I respect where Louise has taken things here and I'm on the whole really and truly thrilled with where things have started for us with this series.
This is going to be such a fun one to listen to when I get the chance to sit down and grab the audiobook when it comes out. I'm crossing my fingers that a certain gentleman I know and am 'slightly' obsessed with, will be narrating Ben. Louise knows who that person is. My fellow readers know who that person is. Only time will tell if that comes true, or if we're lucky to get another retuning voice for both both the MMC and FMC's parts.
Looking forward to only the best things from where we'll be taken to next, with the author taking us there.
--------------------
💜 Reading Order 💙:
• The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry ( Efa & Ben )
• The Player + The Pact = I Do ( TBC & TBC )
🇬🇧 UK Order Link 🇬🇧: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Boss-Maid-Chemistry-Louise-Bay-ebook/dp/B0CYQGCRRP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2WNPA5VCE7UWR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Sgq1FKaevbLJzFIYW45PY5-BxpmqXenn0mdQNjPM1ujGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.0Rizcq8GpXCFeU2vllQghtbafPPhG_75M78VJgwpbyM&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+boss+%2B+the+maid+chemistry&qid=1723074170&sprefix=the+boss+%2B+the+%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1
'What happens in the hotel, stays in the hotel. Louise Bay toes and then crosses the line between boss/guest and employee, forbidden desires, and plenty of action in and out of the sheets. *Clears throat* Housekeeping! - The British Bibliophile
Thank you to Louise Bay & her assistant for sending me an Advanced Reader Copy for me to read and leave an honest review as part of her influencer/ARC team. This is a fair and honest review of this book.
NOTE - This review will be spoiler-free as standard, but will contain references to elements within the book's blurb. If you wish to go into this read as blind read without knowing a single thing about it, please exit my review now :)
📖 Tropes 📖:
💙 Boss & Employee
💜 One Night Stand That Comes Back To Bite
💙 Lover To Enemies To Lovers
💜 Secret Billionaire
💙 Forced Proximity
💜 Reclusive Billionaire
💙 New York City Romance
💜 New Girl In Town
💙 Grumpy/Sunshine
💜 Maid/Hotel Guest
💙 Spicy
💜 Age Gap
📚 Genres 📚:
• Romance, Contemporary Romance, Standalone
--------------------
The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a brand new book from the one and only Louise Bay, spinning off from her The Doctors series. Same world, new set of books with a brand new set of adventures within them. Some familiar names/faces will make an appearance, but the main focus is on our two new main characters.
If you have yet to read Louise's The Doctors series, this is your official sign to do so. The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry is a standalone read within this new series, but there will be minor details that might be spoiled if you haven't caught up on all the Cove brothers before branching off with a Cadogan (who is linked to one of said Cove brothers), and her soon-to-be man. If you want to jump in here without catching up on those, have fun!
What attracted me to reading this book, other than it being written by one of my favourites, is the fact that it's a series branching off of one that I've come to adore so much. Out of the entire The Doctors series, Dr. CEO and Dr. Single Dad were my two top reads. Something spoke to me through Vincent and Dax above all the other Coves, and after finishing the latter I genuinely felt it too hard to say goodbye. Imagine both my surprise and delight when before turning the final pages that we were told our world would not be ending but expanding? Best. Surprise. Ever!
Ladies and gentlemen, take your seats and prepare for landing. Welcome to New York. Local time, ready to meet Efa and Ben.
-A grumpy, reclusive New York billionaire meets his match in the maid who makes his
bed (in more ways than one).
When you go to a bar, one of a few things may happen. You can dip out early, drink your worries away or option three? Pick up someone and spend one night with them, filled with nothing but pleasurable things, no inhibitions and all cards off the table. That's exactly what Efa does when she goes into the bar of a local hotel in New York, succumbing to the flirting of a man on the barstool next to hers. Only, she doesn't realise who he is and what he would soon become to her.
Leaving said man and their one night stand behind her, Efa is shaken both metaphorically and literally. She's starting her summer job as a housekeeper/maid at a five-star hotel--despite wanting to hit the ground running in her dream job within the tech world--, and she's determined to do a great job. Brand new into her temporary placement and while cleaning the prestigious Park Suite room, she comes across something--or rather, someone--walking in as she does so. It's none other than her one-night stand who was never meant to meet her again. They were never meant to meet again.
Yet, here they both are.
Efa can't help but wonder why the man from the previous night who at the time was as charming with his mouth as he was his tongue, is standing in front of her now like a bull billowing out smoke from its nose. Quite the contrast from their pleasure-filled evening.
As she pieces together parts of the puzzle, eventually getting to a point where she can see enough of the picture clearly, it dawns on her that the man before her--resident of the Park Suite room--is none other than billionaire recluse Ben Fort. If that wasn't enough to knock her socks off, Ben Fort also happens to be the man, the billionaire and CEO of the tech company that she's had her eyes on and is in this very city to acquire a job in.
Ben has managed to keep his identity a hidden one for quite some time, so it's no wonder that he's steaming mad and is in a state of quiet panic, when a girl he's met no more than twenty-four hours prior has managed to connect the dots as to what his name is and who he is in a matter of seconds once she has her lightbulb moment.
The questions soon start to fly from his lips to her ears, demanding answers he needs to know to put his mind and racing heart at rest. This however, doesn't stop Efa from informing him, very brazenly, that not only does she find him 'super-hot', but that she also wants a job from him and to work at/for his company. Completely bypassing the traditional channels of applying for a job AND the ways things are done at his company specifically.
Regardless the uncertainty and unpredictable nature that now surrounds them both, Efa is certain of one thing. She doesn't want to sleep her way to the top. Ben of course, doesn't trust her now that she has figured out who he is. Despite this, the two of them simply cannot ignore the blatant sparks that ignited the previous night and that are now once more reignited when they meet again in his hotel room. Especially when she's the one who is bending over, on his bed, fluffing the pillows that he'll be laying his handsome head down on to sleep or...do other things on.
Expectations were high after the ending of the main series, with Dax Cove still lingering in the front of my mind, for this next branch of the Louise Bay tree to as good for its own unique reasons. I set these expectations myself, which can sometimes prove a fatal mistake as a reader. Not this time. Getting to know Efa, Ben and read where their story took them entertained and enthralled me just as much as the main series--and its characters--did, taking things in a different yet familiar direction. Blending both familiar and new together perfectly. Louise won't ever steer us wrong, and this offshoot story proved just that with this read and where the series has the potential to go in future instalments.
Considering the small proximity of the settings--i.e. a multitude of places weren't on the cards, just a few--, Louise managed to keep things interesting, the plot moving and of course, a signature surprise to shake things up. I love a good spanner in the works just when things seem to be going perfectly, and she's one of my favourites for throwing it into the story to bring us back around to a nice happily ever after.
For my own reading tastes, I would've preferred to see some things play out on the pages after monumental or possible hints of things would be happening, but I respect where Louise has taken things here and I'm on the whole really and truly thrilled with where things have started for us with this series.
This is going to be such a fun one to listen to when I get the chance to sit down and grab the audiobook when it comes out. I'm crossing my fingers that a certain gentleman I know and am 'slightly' obsessed with, will be narrating Ben. Louise knows who that person is. My fellow readers know who that person is. Only time will tell if that comes true, or if we're lucky to get another retuning voice for both both the MMC and FMC's parts.
Looking forward to only the best things from where we'll be taken to next, with the author taking us there.
--------------------
💜 Reading Order 💙:
• The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry ( Efa & Ben )
• The Player + The Pact = I Do ( TBC & TBC )
🇬🇧 UK Order Link 🇬🇧: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Boss-Maid-Chemistry-Louise-Bay-ebook/dp/B0CYQGCRRP/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2WNPA5VCE7UWR&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Sgq1FKaevbLJzFIYW45PY5-BxpmqXenn0mdQNjPM1ujGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.0Rizcq8GpXCFeU2vllQghtbafPPhG_75M78VJgwpbyM&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+boss+%2B+the+maid+chemistry&qid=1723074170&sprefix=the+boss+%2B+the+%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1
August 11, 2024
Just Okay
I’m am getting so bored with the introduction of the H and h through one night stand after meeting at a bar and this book is no different.
Eva is a 21 year old Brit just out of college and looking for a job at Fort, Inc. that she views as the top tech company. In the meantime she works at a hotel as a maid. So all of this begs the question, how did she get a work permit to work in the States?
Bennet is a 34 year old who owns Fort and hides out in anonymity. Just curious,how that was able to work since his late mother was a famous actress and he goes by her last name?
Some of the gaps in the story:
Who was breaking into the apartments in Bennet’s building that had him move to his hotel?
What was the purpose of the hacker bringing down the hotel systems?
Just how did the hackers figure out Bennet really was since he was so secretive?
I’ve purchased and read other books by this author but this one is not one of my favorites.
I’m am getting so bored with the introduction of the H and h through one night stand after meeting at a bar and this book is no different.
Eva is a 21 year old Brit just out of college and looking for a job at Fort, Inc. that she views as the top tech company. In the meantime she works at a hotel as a maid. So all of this begs the question, how did she get a work permit to work in the States?
Bennet is a 34 year old who owns Fort and hides out in anonymity. Just curious,how that was able to work since his late mother was a famous actress and he goes by her last name?
Some of the gaps in the story:
Who was breaking into the apartments in Bennet’s building that had him move to his hotel?
What was the purpose of the hacker bringing down the hotel systems?
Just how did the hackers figure out Bennet really was since he was so secretive?
I’ve purchased and read other books by this author but this one is not one of my favorites.
July 26, 2024
This book is all the feels, spice, and depth.
The writing is fluid and easy to understand even for an non native reader. The story is told from both POV's in the first person, which helps me to be more invested in the characters, and I am.
The chemistry between Bennet and Efa is so tangible from the first moment they laid eyes on each other that it's only a matter of time when it errupts. I wrote Bennets pick-up line down as to the most unexpected and greatest line ever. And there are a few lines that touched my heart.
The main characters have depth and are relatable in their actions and being. I could understand their intentions and reasons very well.
There are so many heartmelting scenes, and the spice is not too short. It's the perfect balance between love, spice, and depth.
I've read this book in a few hours and couldn't put it even aside. The plott is amazing, and the story is a total pageturner.
Conclusion:
A pageturner love story full of emotions and a great plott (and heartmelting lines).
Content:
A grumpy, reclusive New York billionaire meets his match in the maid who makes his bed (in more ways than one).
When an older guy with a dirty grin and an expensive suit flirts with me from the next barstool, I don’t realize I’m about to have a one-night stand with the man I desperately want to work for.
After a night that leaves my world (and body) shaken, I start my summer job housekeeping in a five-star hotel even though I’m determined to kickstart my career in tech. As I dust and polish the Park Suite, in walks Mr. Dirty Grin—now with an icy glare.
Why is the man from last night who was so charming (and good with his tongue) so furious this morning? As I piece together the puzzle, I discover the guest in the Park Suite is none other than Ben Fort, the reclusive tech mogul I want to work for.
Ben has kept his identity hidden for years and he wants to know how I figured him out overnight.
As he questions me, I don’t waste time telling him he’s a (super-hot) grump who needs to lighten up—and give me a job.
I don’t want to sleep my way to the top, and he doesn’t trust me. But neither of us can resist the sizzling sparks that fly every time I fluff his pillows.
Info
I've got an advanced reader copy, which hasn't influenced my mind on the book.
This is a first in a new series by Louise Bay as a Spin-off to the Doctor series. The Coves have a little appearance as Efa is Eiras sister.
The writing is fluid and easy to understand even for an non native reader. The story is told from both POV's in the first person, which helps me to be more invested in the characters, and I am.
The chemistry between Bennet and Efa is so tangible from the first moment they laid eyes on each other that it's only a matter of time when it errupts. I wrote Bennets pick-up line down as to the most unexpected and greatest line ever. And there are a few lines that touched my heart.
The main characters have depth and are relatable in their actions and being. I could understand their intentions and reasons very well.
There are so many heartmelting scenes, and the spice is not too short. It's the perfect balance between love, spice, and depth.
I've read this book in a few hours and couldn't put it even aside. The plott is amazing, and the story is a total pageturner.
Conclusion:
A pageturner love story full of emotions and a great plott (and heartmelting lines).
Content:
A grumpy, reclusive New York billionaire meets his match in the maid who makes his bed (in more ways than one).
When an older guy with a dirty grin and an expensive suit flirts with me from the next barstool, I don’t realize I’m about to have a one-night stand with the man I desperately want to work for.
After a night that leaves my world (and body) shaken, I start my summer job housekeeping in a five-star hotel even though I’m determined to kickstart my career in tech. As I dust and polish the Park Suite, in walks Mr. Dirty Grin—now with an icy glare.
Why is the man from last night who was so charming (and good with his tongue) so furious this morning? As I piece together the puzzle, I discover the guest in the Park Suite is none other than Ben Fort, the reclusive tech mogul I want to work for.
Ben has kept his identity hidden for years and he wants to know how I figured him out overnight.
As he questions me, I don’t waste time telling him he’s a (super-hot) grump who needs to lighten up—and give me a job.
I don’t want to sleep my way to the top, and he doesn’t trust me. But neither of us can resist the sizzling sparks that fly every time I fluff his pillows.
Info
I've got an advanced reader copy, which hasn't influenced my mind on the book.
This is a first in a new series by Louise Bay as a Spin-off to the Doctor series. The Coves have a little appearance as Efa is Eiras sister.
July 30, 2024
This was such a fun, romantic book from Louise Bay. The dynamic and bit of banter between the MC’s, Efa and Bennett, was great.
Efa is a sassy breath of fresh air and a good, light counter to Bennett’s more reserved, cautious self. Bennett is confident/borderline arrogant but also has a quiet, fun sly side as well as a little bit of a sweetness to him.
I enjoyed Efa so much. Usually the MMC is my fave person in a book but I really liked her sense of humour and openness. I also liked that, despite Bennett’s paranoia, they just kind of slid in together - their personalities just gelled and made it so easy and right.
The first conversation they have in the bar was making me smirk/smile at the book ‘out loud’ - I couldn’t control my face lol Louise’s writing style and her characters are just so amusing to me, I enjoy it lots.
This is a story built off a one night stand, so a lot of their relationship revolves around (open door) sex and how hot they find each other but then their appreciation for each other’s personalities and hanging out together comes through nicely and builds the relationship well.
There’s a bit of intrigue in the book too, though easy to figure out, but it provides a nice bit of conflict for the characters to work through and keeps the story interesting.
The cast of characters is good with some small cameos from the Doctors series that this spins off from (don’t need to have read them at all - though I do recommend them!) and I’m also looking forward to the next books on Bennett’s friends; Leo seems like he’ll be a real hoot to read!
Overall, this was a fun read that is sexy and warm. I read it all in one sitting and that is easy to do, so I recommend it for a good, easy romance read.
4/5 ⭐️
I’ve received an advance copy of this book (which I would have bought anyway!) and am leaving my honest review.
Efa is a sassy breath of fresh air and a good, light counter to Bennett’s more reserved, cautious self. Bennett is confident/borderline arrogant but also has a quiet, fun sly side as well as a little bit of a sweetness to him.
I enjoyed Efa so much. Usually the MMC is my fave person in a book but I really liked her sense of humour and openness. I also liked that, despite Bennett’s paranoia, they just kind of slid in together - their personalities just gelled and made it so easy and right.
The first conversation they have in the bar was making me smirk/smile at the book ‘out loud’ - I couldn’t control my face lol Louise’s writing style and her characters are just so amusing to me, I enjoy it lots.
This is a story built off a one night stand, so a lot of their relationship revolves around (open door) sex and how hot they find each other but then their appreciation for each other’s personalities and hanging out together comes through nicely and builds the relationship well.
There’s a bit of intrigue in the book too, though easy to figure out, but it provides a nice bit of conflict for the characters to work through and keeps the story interesting.
The cast of characters is good with some small cameos from the Doctors series that this spins off from (don’t need to have read them at all - though I do recommend them!) and I’m also looking forward to the next books on Bennett’s friends; Leo seems like he’ll be a real hoot to read!
Overall, this was a fun read that is sexy and warm. I read it all in one sitting and that is easy to do, so I recommend it for a good, easy romance read.
4/5 ⭐️
I’ve received an advance copy of this book (which I would have bought anyway!) and am leaving my honest review.
August 11, 2024
5⭐️ I read this book in a few hours, couldn’t stop reading it! The story is hot from the beginning and the interaction between the main characters is pure perfection!
Bennett is a tech billionaire who is super private about his identity. He meets Efa at a bar, a young British woman who just finished her studies and wanted to come to NY for the summer to try to work for Bennett’s company, even though she doesn’t know at the time that is him, and they end up having a one night stand.
To support herself while living in NY she starts working at a hotel, and yes you guessed it Bennett also owns the hotel and they see eachother again when she goes to clean the suite he is staying in.
Their chemistry is there from the beginning and Efa is such a funny fmc I had to laugh so many times at the things she was blurting out😂
100% recommended! ♥️
“No more pretending to be anyone other than who I am. And who I am is a man in love with you. I want you. I want you more than my anonymity. I want you more than anything else in the world.”
Bennett is a tech billionaire who is super private about his identity. He meets Efa at a bar, a young British woman who just finished her studies and wanted to come to NY for the summer to try to work for Bennett’s company, even though she doesn’t know at the time that is him, and they end up having a one night stand.
To support herself while living in NY she starts working at a hotel, and yes you guessed it Bennett also owns the hotel and they see eachother again when she goes to clean the suite he is staying in.
Their chemistry is there from the beginning and Efa is such a funny fmc I had to laugh so many times at the things she was blurting out😂
100% recommended! ♥️
“No more pretending to be anyone other than who I am. And who I am is a man in love with you. I want you. I want you more than my anonymity. I want you more than anything else in the world.”
September 2, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5, 🌶️🌶️
At under 300 pages, it was a relatively quick enjoyable read.
At under 300 pages, it was a relatively quick enjoyable read.
November 14, 2024
DNF 50%. Hated from the first paragraph. The only reason I held on is the crateful of DNFs that I've piled up in the last week alone. This was so bad. The characters were cringey, their hook-up was a complete turn off, her three orgasms in five mins was epically ridiculous, and it was all downhill from there. Amateur writing, no respect for the FMC, MMC was a dick, the age difference made me squirm. 21 vs 34. Female narrator’s male voice was beyond terrible.
March 25, 2025
Un romance intenso donde las paranoias marcará el rumbo de dos corazones que laten al unísono
Química con el jefe de Louise Bay es un bello romance que pondrá a prueba a sus héroes a la hora de entregar su confianza y su corazón, una lectura donde Efa y Bennett aprenderá a abrazar lo que la vida les regala peleando por aquello que realmente es importante, aunque eso suponga romper con todo lo que ha guiado sus mundos.
➞ Link de la reseña completa: https://florecilladecereza.blogspot.c...
Química con el jefe de Louise Bay es un bello romance que pondrá a prueba a sus héroes a la hora de entregar su confianza y su corazón, una lectura donde Efa y Bennett aprenderá a abrazar lo que la vida les regala peleando por aquello que realmente es importante, aunque eso suponga romper con todo lo que ha guiado sus mundos.
➞ Link de la reseña completa: https://florecilladecereza.blogspot.c...
February 25, 2025
Efa ha terminado sus estudios y se muda a New York para pasar el verano, trabajar en un hotel e intentar meter la pierna en su empresa tecnológica favorita. Bennett es un millonario celoso de su identidad y algo paranoico, dueño de la empresa y que está viviendo en su propio hotel porque cree que los últimos allanamientos en el bloque de apartamentos en el que vive, son para encontrarle a él. Efa y Bennett no se conocen de nada cuando conectan en el bar del hotel, pasando una noche maravillosa, cuya relación se complicará cuando Bennett descubra que trabaja en el hotel.
¿Qué podéis encontrar?
🧹 Chico que crece en la fama y que después hace lo imposible para mantener el anonimato y triunfar por sí mismo.
🧹 Chica que busca perseguir sus sueños después de trabajar muy duro y tener una adolescencia complicada.
🧹 Relación difícil por sus diferencias, con una dinámica muy entretenida y atrevida, con apoyo y comunicación. (Y las paranoias de él, que son muy divertidas).
🧹 Grupo de amigos que quedan para (verse y hablar de sus cosas) ver deportes.
🧹 Historia spicy con mucha química.
🧹 Reflexión sobre las diferencias de poder en las relaciones.
🧹 Reflexión sobre la fama y sus consecuencias.
--
Efa has moved to NY to work during the summer in a hotel and try to find a job in her dream company. Bennett is the owner of the hotel and the company Efa loves. But that's something they don't know when they met and had an amazing night. The relationship gets complicated when they find out, but the attraction it's too big and they can't keep their hands to themselves. A very funny and mature romance that talks about fame and the differences in power in a relationship. Full of family and a group of friends I can't wait to know their story. And full of spicy scenes, of course 🤭
¿Qué podéis encontrar?
🧹 Chico que crece en la fama y que después hace lo imposible para mantener el anonimato y triunfar por sí mismo.
🧹 Chica que busca perseguir sus sueños después de trabajar muy duro y tener una adolescencia complicada.
🧹 Relación difícil por sus diferencias, con una dinámica muy entretenida y atrevida, con apoyo y comunicación. (Y las paranoias de él, que son muy divertidas).
🧹 Grupo de amigos que quedan para (verse y hablar de sus cosas) ver deportes.
🧹 Historia spicy con mucha química.
🧹 Reflexión sobre las diferencias de poder en las relaciones.
🧹 Reflexión sobre la fama y sus consecuencias.
--
Efa has moved to NY to work during the summer in a hotel and try to find a job in her dream company. Bennett is the owner of the hotel and the company Efa loves. But that's something they don't know when they met and had an amazing night. The relationship gets complicated when they find out, but the attraction it's too big and they can't keep their hands to themselves. A very funny and mature romance that talks about fame and the differences in power in a relationship. Full of family and a group of friends I can't wait to know their story. And full of spicy scenes, of course 🤭
June 21, 2025
So this one was cute, and spicy plus interesting with the plot. I really enjoyed reading it! It was a good romcom. The banter was fantastic.
This Contemporary Romance is a fun steamy read. The romance is more quick moving, as the couple starts off hot, and heavy. The book is very spicy. There are several spicy scenes throughout the book. The spicy scenes are descriptive, with all the works included. The book moves at a steady pace following Efa as she travels to New York. She is determined to get the job of her dreams. On her first night she ends up have an amazing one night stand, she just never expected to see that man again. Let alone who he is. The characters personal stories unfold throughout the book. This keeps you engaged, and invested in the story. The book has spice, romance, and even some mystery unfolding to keep you coming for more.
This Contemporary Romance is a fun steamy read. The romance is more quick moving, as the couple starts off hot, and heavy. The book is very spicy. There are several spicy scenes throughout the book. The spicy scenes are descriptive, with all the works included. The book moves at a steady pace following Efa as she travels to New York. She is determined to get the job of her dreams. On her first night she ends up have an amazing one night stand, she just never expected to see that man again. Let alone who he is. The characters personal stories unfold throughout the book. This keeps you engaged, and invested in the story. The book has spice, romance, and even some mystery unfolding to keep you coming for more.
August 9, 2024
This FMC mistook the MMCs “growling” for a fucking subway train or earthquake and I am supposed to take this book seriously?
This was tropey to the point of farce. I was imagining the Benny Hill theme
music playing in the background at times.
I’ve enjoyed many Louise Bay books but this will be the last one I read.
This was tropey to the point of farce. I was imagining the Benny Hill theme
music playing in the background at times.
I’ve enjoyed many Louise Bay books but this will be the last one I read.
August 10, 2024
✯✯5 Bennett & Efa Filled Stars!!!✯✯
Louise Bay is a MUST READ author for me. I don’t even have to have a blurb, character names or know what tropes are in the book and I’m already needing it and I’m preordering it.
I was so so so in love with the Cove brothers and their parents and the women they fell in love with and I was so upset when I got to Dr. Single Dad Bc I knew that Dax was the last one left to get his HEA and he did with Eira. Thanks to Eira we were introduced to our next character that we would follow to New York City.
Bennett Fordham is a reclusive tech billionaire but only a little more than five people know that. After his mom died he created the pseudonym of Ben Fort and went to open Fort Inc were he’s the CEO and in the last ten years they’ve developed the most important technology in the world. He was able to do that without anyone knowing who he was.
Lately Bennett feels like someone is following him and his apartment has been having trouble with break-ins so he’s on high alert to find out who’s behind them so he checks into the hotel he owns.
Efa Cadogan AKA Eddie a recent university graduate and her dream job is getting a job at Fort Inc but for the moment she’s in the USA working a temporary summer job housekeeping at the hotel The Avenue.
Efa goes to The Avenue the night before she starts her first day to get acquainted with it and decides to get a drink at the bar before she goes home and she sits down next to a gorgeous guy. After back & forth flirting they go back to her apartment where she’s staying for the summer for a fun night together.
After their night together they thought that was the last time they would see each other but fate had decided differently.
Efa goes to clean the hotel room and she walks in and comes face to face with Bennett. But, he’s definitely not happy to see her and she’s confused and when he wants her to leave she leaves.
Efa was shocked when he shows up at her place demanding to know who she is and what she wants with him. But, Efa’s smart and she puts 2+2 together and realizes that Bennett’s actually Ben Fort the one person she wants to work for and now she really doesn’t have a chance at working there anymore but she’s OK with that as long as she can continue spending time with Bennett.
Neither Bennett or Efa trust easily thanks to things that have happened before they have come into each other’s lives but for whatever reasons they find themselves believing each other more than they ever have anybody else.
When Efa offers to help Bennett look for who’s after him and his company he agrees and tells his assistant to give her full access she jumps right into the deep end without having a life preserver on and she comes up with a few people who could be behind it. The problem is that she knows that Bennett isn’t going to want to listen to her so she has to get answers first and then tell him.
But, Bennett realizes that she’s up to something and demands answers but when she tells him her theory he reacts like she knew he would.
Bennett has to get to the bottom of it before he can figure them out but when Efa tells him that she can’t live her life without being able to tell her sister exactly who she’s in love with Bc he chooses to live his life without anyone knowing who he is. He’s gotta choose between keeping his identity a secret and loose Efa or rip the bandaid off and let everyone know who Ben Fort is and keep Efa.
I legit LOVED LOVED this story!!! I had already been a fan of Efa from her sister’s story but I’m a bigger fan of hers after reading this and Bennett… Is the perfect match for her. They were made for each other. They brought out the best of each other.
I’m excited for the rest of Bennett’s friend group to get their HEA. Bc, poor Leo needs it after what he just went through.
Louise Bay is a MUST READ author for me. I don’t even have to have a blurb, character names or know what tropes are in the book and I’m already needing it and I’m preordering it.
I was so so so in love with the Cove brothers and their parents and the women they fell in love with and I was so upset when I got to Dr. Single Dad Bc I knew that Dax was the last one left to get his HEA and he did with Eira. Thanks to Eira we were introduced to our next character that we would follow to New York City.
Bennett Fordham is a reclusive tech billionaire but only a little more than five people know that. After his mom died he created the pseudonym of Ben Fort and went to open Fort Inc were he’s the CEO and in the last ten years they’ve developed the most important technology in the world. He was able to do that without anyone knowing who he was.
Lately Bennett feels like someone is following him and his apartment has been having trouble with break-ins so he’s on high alert to find out who’s behind them so he checks into the hotel he owns.
Efa Cadogan AKA Eddie a recent university graduate and her dream job is getting a job at Fort Inc but for the moment she’s in the USA working a temporary summer job housekeeping at the hotel The Avenue.
Efa goes to The Avenue the night before she starts her first day to get acquainted with it and decides to get a drink at the bar before she goes home and she sits down next to a gorgeous guy. After back & forth flirting they go back to her apartment where she’s staying for the summer for a fun night together.
After their night together they thought that was the last time they would see each other but fate had decided differently.
Efa goes to clean the hotel room and she walks in and comes face to face with Bennett. But, he’s definitely not happy to see her and she’s confused and when he wants her to leave she leaves.
Efa was shocked when he shows up at her place demanding to know who she is and what she wants with him. But, Efa’s smart and she puts 2+2 together and realizes that Bennett’s actually Ben Fort the one person she wants to work for and now she really doesn’t have a chance at working there anymore but she’s OK with that as long as she can continue spending time with Bennett.
Neither Bennett or Efa trust easily thanks to things that have happened before they have come into each other’s lives but for whatever reasons they find themselves believing each other more than they ever have anybody else.
When Efa offers to help Bennett look for who’s after him and his company he agrees and tells his assistant to give her full access she jumps right into the deep end without having a life preserver on and she comes up with a few people who could be behind it. The problem is that she knows that Bennett isn’t going to want to listen to her so she has to get answers first and then tell him.
But, Bennett realizes that she’s up to something and demands answers but when she tells him her theory he reacts like she knew he would.
Bennett has to get to the bottom of it before he can figure them out but when Efa tells him that she can’t live her life without being able to tell her sister exactly who she’s in love with Bc he chooses to live his life without anyone knowing who he is. He’s gotta choose between keeping his identity a secret and loose Efa or rip the bandaid off and let everyone know who Ben Fort is and keep Efa.
I legit LOVED LOVED this story!!! I had already been a fan of Efa from her sister’s story but I’m a bigger fan of hers after reading this and Bennett… Is the perfect match for her. They were made for each other. They brought out the best of each other.
I’m excited for the rest of Bennett’s friend group to get their HEA. Bc, poor Leo needs it after what he just went through.
August 11, 2024
4.5 stars
I really liked this story, though it took place over just a few months (summer fling), the couple became very close in a very short time, but of course real-world problems impact them: he lives in New York, is an established 34 year old CEO; she lives in England and is just starting her career after graduation at 21 years old. He's reclusive and paranoid about his identity; she's open, blunt and honest and does not deal well with secrets. On top of that, someone is hacking his company, and he begins to believe it might be her. She tries to help him find the hacker but gets accused herself. They break up for several weeks while he finds the true hacker, and then he finds her and apologizes. He can admit his mistakes. She forgives him but tells him due to their other issues, there's no point to continue their relationship. He is stunned. The main problem is his obsessive need for privacy to the point of not even going out together or telling her friends and family his true identity. She can't live like that.
He dwells on this problem while she gets ready to go back to England.
How does it end?? Hmmm...... 😉
MORE SPOILERS*****************************************************************
Tropes:
* MF Contemporary
* New York City
* boss/ employee
* grumpy/ sunshine
* age gap (he's 34, she's 21)
* forced proximity
* billionaire in hiding
* American tech billionaire MC
* British computer science degree/ hotel maid FC
* his mother was a famous Hollywood actress, died of cancer
* her parents died in helicopter crash when she was a teen; uncle stole all their trust money, then gave it back upon his death
* starts as a chance meeting in a bar/ ONS
* becomes a summer fling (he owns the hotel that she is a temporary maid/ receptionist)
* he has severe trust issues
* someone close is targeting his company
* he gets paranoid that she is the hacker
* break-up (3 weeks, no sex with others)
* he reveals his identity to the world to win her back
* full-blown committed relationship by fall
* HEA
I really liked this story, though it took place over just a few months (summer fling), the couple became very close in a very short time, but of course real-world problems impact them: he lives in New York, is an established 34 year old CEO; she lives in England and is just starting her career after graduation at 21 years old. He's reclusive and paranoid about his identity; she's open, blunt and honest and does not deal well with secrets. On top of that, someone is hacking his company, and he begins to believe it might be her. She tries to help him find the hacker but gets accused herself. They break up for several weeks while he finds the true hacker, and then he finds her and apologizes. He can admit his mistakes. She forgives him but tells him due to their other issues, there's no point to continue their relationship. He is stunned. The main problem is his obsessive need for privacy to the point of not even going out together or telling her friends and family his true identity. She can't live like that.
He dwells on this problem while she gets ready to go back to England.
How does it end?? Hmmm...... 😉
MORE SPOILERS*****************************************************************
Tropes:
* MF Contemporary
* New York City
* boss/ employee
* grumpy/ sunshine
* age gap (he's 34, she's 21)
* forced proximity
* billionaire in hiding
* American tech billionaire MC
* British computer science degree/ hotel maid FC
* his mother was a famous Hollywood actress, died of cancer
* her parents died in helicopter crash when she was a teen; uncle stole all their trust money, then gave it back upon his death
* starts as a chance meeting in a bar/ ONS
* becomes a summer fling (he owns the hotel that she is a temporary maid/ receptionist)
* he has severe trust issues
* someone close is targeting his company
* he gets paranoid that she is the hacker
* break-up (3 weeks, no sex with others)
* he reveals his identity to the world to win her back
* full-blown committed relationship by fall
* HEA
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2024
✨🎧ALC + ARC book Review 🎧✨
Title: The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry
Author: Louise Bay
Narrators: Robert Hatchet & Zara Hampton-Brown
Overall story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chili’s: 🌶️🌶️
Audio performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤
Dual narration
Steamy
One night stand
Workplace
Forbidden
Story overview:
Eva's summer in New York starts with the promise of an easy job and living her best life in the city that never sleeps. However, what she doesn’t expect is a hot and steamy one-night stand with a gorgeous stranger named Bennett. The plot thickens when Bennett unexpectedly reappears in Eva’s life, and she begins to uncover his secrets.
From the very start, this book delivers on the spice, with Eva and Bennett unable to stay away from each other despite knowing they should. The chemistry between Eva and Bennett is palpable, and their sneaking around adds an element of excitement and tension, and I enjoyed the hint of mystery towards the end. Eva’s sunny disposition perfectly balances Bennett’s grumpiness, leading to delightful banter that keeps the story lively and engaging.
Overall, this was a fun read with a perfect blend of romance, spice, and a touch of mystery. If you’re looking for a summer escape with a lot of heat and some engaging twists, this book is definitely worth picking up.
Audio performance review:
I really enjoyed the dynamic performances of grumpy Rob as Bennett and sweet, sunshiny Zara as Eva. Their chemistry and passion truly came to life through their narration. Zara’s upbeat British accent added a delightful touch to the story. Rob’s portrayal of Bennett’s gruff exterior and hidden vulnerability was spot on, making his character incredibly relatable. A great listen!
Thank you to author Louise Bay and MLA for the read & listen. It was my pleasure!
**These are my own honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
Title: The Boss + The Maid = Chemistry
Author: Louise Bay
Narrators: Robert Hatchet & Zara Hampton-Brown
Overall story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chili’s: 🌶️🌶️
Audio performance: 🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤
Dual narration
Steamy
One night stand
Workplace
Forbidden
Story overview:
Eva's summer in New York starts with the promise of an easy job and living her best life in the city that never sleeps. However, what she doesn’t expect is a hot and steamy one-night stand with a gorgeous stranger named Bennett. The plot thickens when Bennett unexpectedly reappears in Eva’s life, and she begins to uncover his secrets.
From the very start, this book delivers on the spice, with Eva and Bennett unable to stay away from each other despite knowing they should. The chemistry between Eva and Bennett is palpable, and their sneaking around adds an element of excitement and tension, and I enjoyed the hint of mystery towards the end. Eva’s sunny disposition perfectly balances Bennett’s grumpiness, leading to delightful banter that keeps the story lively and engaging.
Overall, this was a fun read with a perfect blend of romance, spice, and a touch of mystery. If you’re looking for a summer escape with a lot of heat and some engaging twists, this book is definitely worth picking up.
Audio performance review:
I really enjoyed the dynamic performances of grumpy Rob as Bennett and sweet, sunshiny Zara as Eva. Their chemistry and passion truly came to life through their narration. Zara’s upbeat British accent added a delightful touch to the story. Rob’s portrayal of Bennett’s gruff exterior and hidden vulnerability was spot on, making his character incredibly relatable. A great listen!
Thank you to author Louise Bay and MLA for the read & listen. It was my pleasure!
**These are my own honest thoughts that I have provided voluntarily.
February 5, 2025
Este primer libro es un spin-off de la serie The doctors, pero puede leerse de forma independiente.
Efa (Eddie) y el resto de personajes relacionados con ella los hemos conocido en la serie anterior. Efa viaja a NY a trabajar en verano en un hotel con el objetivo de acercarse a la empresa de tecnología más difícil de acceder, que es su sueño laboral.
En el bar del hotel conoce a Bennett y pasan una increíble noche juntos, pero no intercambian mucha información. Aunque a él en ese momento le preocupa bastante la diferencia de edad de trece años.
Bennett es un hombre que no quiere revelar información sobre él, tendrás que leer el libro para saber más y sospecha de todo el mundo. Tiene una relación muy divertida con sus cinco amigos de los que seguro conocemos más en próximos libros.
Efa y Bennett volverán a encontrarse mientras ella limpia la suite de hotel donde se hospeda él y a partir de ahí, no podrán dejar de verse, provocando situaciones divertidas y también con mucha química.
Como novedad en este libro tenemos una trama de misterio que genera situaciones complicadas y resolverán al final. Aunque fuera previsible, le ha dado un nuevo toque al libro, diferente a otros de la autora.
Creo que Efa es una de las protagonistas que más me gustan de Louise, hacía tiempo que no leía una así. La forma en que se desenvuelve tanto en su relación con Bennett como con el resto, es de lo mejor del libro.
Buen comienzo para esta serie, que seguro seguiré leyendo.
Efa (Eddie) y el resto de personajes relacionados con ella los hemos conocido en la serie anterior. Efa viaja a NY a trabajar en verano en un hotel con el objetivo de acercarse a la empresa de tecnología más difícil de acceder, que es su sueño laboral.
En el bar del hotel conoce a Bennett y pasan una increíble noche juntos, pero no intercambian mucha información. Aunque a él en ese momento le preocupa bastante la diferencia de edad de trece años.
Bennett es un hombre que no quiere revelar información sobre él, tendrás que leer el libro para saber más y sospecha de todo el mundo. Tiene una relación muy divertida con sus cinco amigos de los que seguro conocemos más en próximos libros.
Efa y Bennett volverán a encontrarse mientras ella limpia la suite de hotel donde se hospeda él y a partir de ahí, no podrán dejar de verse, provocando situaciones divertidas y también con mucha química.
Como novedad en este libro tenemos una trama de misterio que genera situaciones complicadas y resolverán al final. Aunque fuera previsible, le ha dado un nuevo toque al libro, diferente a otros de la autora.
Creo que Efa es una de las protagonistas que más me gustan de Louise, hacía tiempo que no leía una así. La forma en que se desenvuelve tanto en su relación con Bennett como con el resto, es de lo mejor del libro.
Buen comienzo para esta serie, que seguro seguiré leyendo.
August 11, 2024
⭐ 3.5
This one was good. I liked Efa and Ben as a couple. Their relationship went from a one-night stand to unexpectedly meeting again. We already know Efa from previous books, and I enjoyed learning her story. She simply wanted a job at an elite tech company, but while working as a maid in a hotel, she crossed paths with Ben again. To say their relationship started on the right foot would be a lie, it was a bit chaotic. However, as they spent more time together, the spark grew. I particularly enjoyed the intrigue surrounding infiltrations and the small mystery the author wove into the plot. It was something new to read from her. Overall, it's a story that captures the author's essence, light to read and entertaining.
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
---
Este fue uno bueno, Efa y Ben me gustaron como pareja. Su relación pasó de ser solo de una noche a que no contaran con que luego se encontrarían nuevamente. A Efa la conocemos de libros anteriores y me gusto saber su historia, ella solo quería un trabajo en una empresa de elite informática y mientras estaba trabajando como mucama en un hotel y aquí es donde entra Ben, decir que su relación empezó con buen pie es mentira porque fue un poco caótico pero mientras más se cocina y estaban juntos la chispa iba creciendo, ahora bien me gusto mucho todo respecto a las infiltraciones y el pequeño misterio que nos dio la autora, eso fue algo nuevo que leer por parte de ella. Una historia que tiene la esencia de la autora, ligero de leer y entretenido.
This one was good. I liked Efa and Ben as a couple. Their relationship went from a one-night stand to unexpectedly meeting again. We already know Efa from previous books, and I enjoyed learning her story. She simply wanted a job at an elite tech company, but while working as a maid in a hotel, she crossed paths with Ben again. To say their relationship started on the right foot would be a lie, it was a bit chaotic. However, as they spent more time together, the spark grew. I particularly enjoyed the intrigue surrounding infiltrations and the small mystery the author wove into the plot. It was something new to read from her. Overall, it's a story that captures the author's essence, light to read and entertaining.
📌 I received an e-arc, and this is my honest opinion/review of it.
---
Este fue uno bueno, Efa y Ben me gustaron como pareja. Su relación pasó de ser solo de una noche a que no contaran con que luego se encontrarían nuevamente. A Efa la conocemos de libros anteriores y me gusto saber su historia, ella solo quería un trabajo en una empresa de elite informática y mientras estaba trabajando como mucama en un hotel y aquí es donde entra Ben, decir que su relación empezó con buen pie es mentira porque fue un poco caótico pero mientras más se cocina y estaban juntos la chispa iba creciendo, ahora bien me gusto mucho todo respecto a las infiltraciones y el pequeño misterio que nos dio la autora, eso fue algo nuevo que leer por parte de ella. Una historia que tiene la esencia de la autora, ligero de leer y entretenido.
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