The Mogul Meets Her Match

by Julia Underwood

CEO Eleanor Clairice Beauchamp’s rules for
#1: Business always comes first
#2: Succeed
#3: Don’t fail
#4: Never fall in love

Clairice “Claire” Beauchamp has spent her adult life escaping poverty and reaching the top of her industry by adhering to her rules. But staying there may prove to be the most difficult challenge yet. Lotus Enterprises’ next big project requires owning an entire city block, and one last property owner refuses to sell. So, Claire goes undercover to scope out the café owner. She expects to discover the source of her resistance and negotiate a deal. She doesn’t expect to be so drawn to her.

Genres: Romance, Lesbian

240 pages, Paperback

Published December 10, 2024

Reviews

[Rosi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story has two very different protagonists. Claire is a successful, arrogant, and unscrupulous businesswoman who's set on buying the property where Abby's cafe is located. Since Abby hasn't accepted any of her offers, Claire decides to go in person to check out the place. She never expected the impact Abby would have on her.

Abby doesn't live to work. She's totally content with her morning-only business, her volunteer work, and her little family. She doesn't want or need anything more, which is why she's not paying attention to the offers coming in to buy her business.

But all those differences aren't going to stop Abby and Claire from getting to know each other and starting a relationship that, despite being unexpected, has been anything but boring.


Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to send me a copy via Netgalley for an honest review

[___Isha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Claire, a powerful CEO used to getting her way, faces an unexpected challenge when Abby, the last business owner on a city block she wants to buy, refuses to sell. Going undercover to win her over, Claire finds more than she bargained for.

The dynamic between Claire and Abby is immediately compelling. Claire, confident and calculated, finds herself thrown off by Abby’s warmth and boldness. Their chemistry builds slowly, with emotional tension simmering beneath the surface as Claire struggles with her growing feelings and the weight of her secret.

The slow-burn pacing allows their relationship to develop with authenticity, showing real growth and vulnerability on both sides. It’s a thoughtful, engaging romance full of charm, challenges, and heartfelt moments.

Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 3 out of 5]

I waded through. I would even describe it as half a slow burn, and not the burn part. I just felt it was a long time waiting for the plot bump trailed in the synopsis. Fortunately when it happened the impact wasn't dragged out as some misunderstanding. It was a barrier but more on one side than the other. I was more engaged with the last quarter which meant I rounded up!

[Red Dragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire and Abby - both business owners but worlds apart - big business meets small business.
A story of corporate takeover mogul versus the independent business owner who’s just bought a business she previously worked in.
Ice queen meets her match in a story of ‘will they won’t they’ as one has always put business first the other won’t compromise of being put before business.
The book is well written, a humorous, slow burn that keeps you turning the pages, throw in some intrigue and a tarantula and you have a really enjoyable romance.

Thanks to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.

[Carol Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intriguing romance!

Claire is at the top of her game and as CEO facing her biggest challenge yet in owning an entire city block. She’s worked hard to get to where she is and has known poverty, so when Abby, the last business owner on the block refuses to sell, Claire goes undercover.

I had a lot of fun reading this story. Claire on the surface definitely appeared to be the ultimate ruthless ice queen of business, and she had the ultimate office pet to prove it! (Honestly it was terrifying, but despite my personal preferences to the type of pet, I have to share it was a genius idea on Julia’s part to include in the story). I just adored how Claire was taken by surprise when she met Abby, because that woman was ready to challenge her in more ways than one, and despite an attraction they shared, Claire was definitely threatened. All she knew was being tested and yet she couldn’t throw her authority about to make things happen, so I admired how well she handled her undercover task.

Abby was welcoming of Claire, obviously not knowing who she really was at first, so she didn’t hold back on being flirty and playing to the attraction. In a way that was perfect for Claire as it put her in control of what could or couldn’t happen, but it was also risky because of her concealing her really identity and that put her on edge when she realised she had feelings for Abby that would only complicate everything further. It was quite slow burn in that respect, but that worked really well for Claire and Abby really building up a relationship that was strong and based on truths, since Claire did remain very true to herself without revealing all.

An up and down slow burn romance with lots of great moments and really cute sentiments throughout.

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story with romance, high finance wheeling and dealing, sad childhood declarations and new beginnings. The dialogue is natural and fun. The 2 main characters are interesting, along with a cast of very supportive family and friends. There is one sex scene, which is fine, but it was not very hot due to all the conversation and jokes before, during and after. The kissing in the first half was hotter.
Overall cute story.
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[cloverxheart · Rating 2 out of 5]

I just couldn't get into it and I felt nothing but boredom while reading it.

The story wasn't interesting enough, the main characters were fine but I really didn't like Abby, the side characters were annoying and the romance wasn't believable to me.
I simply didn't care, which is really sad since I was excited for this book.

[AJ Sneed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Julia Underwood’s The Mogul Meets Her Match is an enchanting tale that beautifully navigates the realms of ambition, love, and personal discovery, all set against the backdrop of a small-town café and a high-stakes corporate world. The story centers around Abby, a passionate café owner who has dedicated years to cultivating her dream of providing warmth and nourishment to her community, and Claire, a successful CEO on a mission to absorb Abby’s beloved establishment into her corporate empire.

From the outset, Underwood skillfully contrasts Abby's warmth with Claire's corporate rigidity. Abby’s refusal to sell her café, despite numerous lucrative offers, is not just a matter of business; it represents years of hard work, passion, and a deep-rooted sense of identity. Claire, determined to secure a pivotal piece for her IT Consolidation project, initially appears as the embodiment of ambition. However, her character is layered, revealing her own vulnerabilities and the inner conflict that arises when she meets Abby.

The chemistry between the two women is electric, fueling the narrative as Claire goes undercover to understand the woman behind the café. This decision sets off a chain of events that not only challenges Claire’s professional goals but also her rules—rules that have served her well in her career but begin to crumble in the face of genuine connection. Underwood captures this internal battle with finesse, highlighting the emotional stakes that rise as Claire grapples with her feelings for Abby while trying to adhere to her hard-earned business principles.

Underwood's writing shines with sharp dialogue and profound emotional depth. The pacing is well-judged, allowing readers to savor the moments of tension and tenderness between Abby and Claire. The impasse created by Claire’s deception adds layers to the story, keeping readers on edge as they wonder how the two women will reconcile their vastly different worlds. Underwood's talent for crafting relatable characters and realistic situations makes the emotional resolution both fair and satisfying.

As this was my first experience with Julia Underwood's work, I found myself thoroughly impressed by her character development and storytelling ability. The layers of ambition, honesty, and the complicated dance of love versus duty are portrayed with authenticity and heart. It's particularly refreshing to see two strong women navigating their own paths, each with their own dreams and obstacles, encouraging readers to root for their eventual union.

Ultimately, The Mogul Meets Her Match is a delightful and thought-provoking read. It explores the risks of falling in love while being anchored in one's values, making it a compelling narrative of personal growth and transformation. Underwood’s ability to blend humor with deeper themes leaves a lasting impression, proving that sometimes, the most challenging rules to break are the ones we impose on ourselves. I look forward to delving into more of Underwood's work, eager to see how she continues to explore the intricate balances of life, love, and ambition.

[Kaye · Rating 4 out of 5]

(3.5 Stars) Claire Beauchamp has built her empire following a list of rules. Number one is, business always comes first. She is still haunted by her childhood living in poverty. When her next building expansion is being held up by one local cafe owner she decides to take matters into her own hands. Abby Pita purchased her vegetarian cafe only six months prior but she worked there for over ten years. She was a single mother at 21 and raised her daughter on her own. Claire is impressed when she meets the warm and flirty Abby. She shares her leftover food in the evenings with the local homeless.

I like that you can see the friendship blooming between the pair but of course the obstacle is Claire’s business first rule. The side characters add to the story but they are brought in like we should already know them. I’ve read the author’s previous two books and I don’t think they connect into this story. I love that Claire has a pet tarantula she cares for. There is a mismatch of power in the story and along with that a lack of sharing information. It puts the will they or won't they firmly in Claire’s control. I enjoyed the story most when the two would talk and be flirty together. Otherwise it was a slow burn waiting to see when the information would come forward and what the fall out would be.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the digital copy and I am leaving a voluntary review.

[Leane · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object?

CEO Claire is at the top of her game. Her hard-won success has been achieved by following a simple and strict set of four rules:
1. Business always comes first
2. Succeed
3. Don’t fail
4. Never fall in love

Everything is going Claire's way, that is, until her latest project. In an effort to get a café owner to sell her property, Claire decides to go undercover to find out what the issue is.

Abby is finally winning at life and able to give back to everyone who helped her along the way. She's not interested in selling the café, no matter the offer. Some things can't be bought.

The sparks of attraction fly as soon as Claire and Abby meet, but is happy-ever-after a possibility for them?

Can Abby's warmth melt Claire's control and rules?
Can Claire see beyond the prison of her self-imposed rules and allow herself to be happy?

The attraction is instant and hot, and there's much to enjoy in this tale of people finding their person and allowing themselves to be vulnerable.

The pacing occasionally slows, but it's worth it as everything is brought together and a way forward is found.

Claire and Abby are a cute couple, and I enjoyed their story.


*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*

[Sue Plant · Rating 4 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

abby is living the dream... she is finally doing what she loves best and thats feeding the people that come into her cafe.... that someone wants to buy it really doesnt interest her at all.... she has spent years working hard to get to this point and nothing and nobody is getting in her way... so though she gets offers to buy her out she refuses

claire is very successful and nothing and nobody stands in her way.... that the owner of a cafe refuses all the offers of selling is a little disturbing but claire is at the top of her game and doesnt really see any obstacles..... but there is a time limit

so claire goes undercover to scope out this cafe and owner ....thats when her problems begin but all she has to do is remember her rules.... those very same rules that got her to the top of her empire

the only thing is claire wants to throw those rules away not long after she meets abby.... she must stick to her rules

a fun read when you realise how much claire has to fight her own rules to find peace it was an interesting fight and learning curve for her

[Bee Sherrard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire Beauchamps ‘has made her name by being the top money maker by buying property to redo and resell but this time her team has hit a little bump in the road. Most businesses were easily taken over but… She didn’t get where she was by backing down so she suggested offering more money. Everyone likes money, right but Claire cares only about having her way in business.
Abby Pita, owner and operator of ‘Sunshine and Sweets Cafe’ has worked hard to get where she was. Working and raising her daughter, Sophie, it had taken her a long time to save and afford to buy the restaurant,where she herself worked when it was put on the market. With lots of work and her skills as a baker her little cafe was finally making it. She couldn’t figure out what someone would want, buying her and everyone else's businesses. While others sold out she knew she never would.
Now Claire is trying to get Abby to sell her restaurant but how was that going to happen if she couldn’t talk Abby into selling. Ms. Underwood has given us a wonderful, fun read that I enjoyed very much
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books

[Celina · Rating 3 out of 5]

𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗠𝗘𝗦: 𝚂𝙰𝙿𝙿𝙷𝙸𝙲. 𝙲𝙾𝙽𝚃𝙴𝙼𝙿𝙾𝚁𝙰𝚁𝚈. 𝚁𝙾𝙼𝙰𝙽𝙲𝙴. 𝙵𝙾𝙾𝙳. ⁠
📖ᴀʀᴄ 🏳️‍🌈⁠
⁠
𝗦𝗨𝗠𝗠𝗔𝗥𝗬:⁠
It is interesting how ice queens are portrayed differently in every book. In this case, Claire was well-written. Her family story with her mom was really sad. Life circumstances will definitely make someone make choices that affect their life and decisions. ⁠
⁠
𝗖𝗛𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗖𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦:⁠ ⁠
There is a small cast which made it easier to follow the story. A dual POV, yes, but it was good. Abby was very easy to love. Her character traits were really sweet. Her relationship with her daughter and her daughter's girlfriend was very inspiring. The relations that Claire created after her struggle with life were also well-written. The emotional connection and chemistry between Claire and Abby was tender, the little miscommunication was annoying though, understandable, but still annoying because talking about things makes for better and deeper connection. ⁠
⁠
𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙪𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙍𝘾 𝙘𝙤𝙥𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙚𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙫𝙞𝙖 𝙉𝙚𝙩𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙮 𝙨𝙤 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙮 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬.⁠

[Rach · Rating 3 out of 5]

Firstly this is a well written book, the plot focuses on two POV’s set between a very successful CEO who started with nothing but grew up to gain everything she wanted (very rags to riches) and a down to earth restaurant / cafe owner who unfortunately won’t sell up! The story is a very, very slow burn story to the points that I found it so very slow and painfully edging forward to get into the main story. Lots of side characters, a set or rules the CEO eventually comprises on and a small amount of mystery. Lots of heartbreak however nothing really happens to cause this, a few passionate kisses and omission to tell the real truth. I did find throughout the story it was very sickening sweet with the family and general interactions at points this just felt weird as just bit to perfect world for me. It was a nice story but that’s it really, the characters are a bit older in life which was nice to see but unfortunately not real a wow factor story. Definitely worth a read but I would advise don’t expect too much out of this. Thank you to NetGalley for giving me an opportunity to read.

[Juniper L.H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this novel! Mostly! It was a good story with nice characters, well written and executed. I definitely was enjoying myself the entire way through. At the same time, I found that the story dragged at times and there was a frustrating lack of communication that left me somewhat on edge throughout the story. This novel had some wonderful character interactions, a badass pet tarantula, and a somewhat rushed and underwhelming insta-love romance. I keep waffling back and forth on a rating, but I think I have finally settled. I will be looking for more novels by this author, because it was good, so I think that is a solid endorsement.

My Rating: "B-"
GoodReads: 3-stars, rounded down

Highlights:
-The protagonists were cute! Very simply, I liked them, separate and together.
-There was a lot of character growth to be had! Claire goes on quite the journey. It was incredibly obvious and occasionally agonizing, but overall enjoyable and satisfying!
-Good writing. I felt like it flowed well, and I was engaged with the story the entire time. There were some good narrative devices used such as the rules, which I think were quite effective.
-There were a lot of parts that were fun, plain and simple. A lot of little bits I liked. I realize this is extremely vague, but it’s the simple truth!
-There was a secondary mystery in this novel which I liked, outside the main plot. It added a little something extra which was enjoyable, even if it was resolved quickly and off screen which was a disappointment. Regardless, I liked that there were a few extra elements thrown in on top of the main conflict which made the novel more interesting and feeling fuller.
-I loved the older ladies. Side character win.
-Loved the tarantula!

Nitpicks:
-It was a bit repetitive at times, sometimes on the same page. Almost like it was an editing issue? Not a big deal but it was noticeable enough it was a bit strange.
-Something felt off, as though this was a sequel but none of my googling can find a prior novel. The kid’s romance story kept getting referenced as though it was something we are supposed to be familiar with, but it was never properly explained. In fact, this happened a lot with a few different elements. If this is a sequel then it was the opposite of obvious, and if it wasn’t then there is some very strange writing choices made where I do not understand the objective.
-The characters spent far too much time simply not talking to each other about anything important. The plot dragged as a result, with very little development over large chunks of time/pages. The rational made sense for why it was like this, but that doesn’t mean that it was the best choice for a novel.
-The protagonists feelings progressed RAPIDLY for the amount of time they spent together and interactions that they had. Maybe all the absent pining did a lot of heavy lifting for the relationship development? It still felt very fast though.
-There is a trope that I dislike which was used near the end of this novel. Writing reviews without spoilers is annoying! They basically “cheated” on some character/relationship development and I think it could have been better done.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.

[Aleana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.

Abby has works years as waitress to now owning Sunshine and Sweets Café she enjoys serving her community and protecting her values. Claire work her way into becoming a CEO who has never let anything distract her from her goals and it’s has cause her personal relationships but you learn why she has those walls up. When she learns that Abby the owner of cafe refuses to sell she goes undercover to get a read on the woman what she didn’t count is a attraction to Abby who warmth brings on feelings she tries to keep inside. This was enjoyable read both characters have chemistry I like the growth Claire goes through.

[Shannon Luchies · Rating 3 out of 5]

Claire, head of Lotus Enterprises, has a plan for a massive IT outlet. Only problem is, one small shop refuses to sell on the needed property.
Abby Pita has happily settled in owning her shop, Sunshine and Sweets. Despite the generous offers, she has no plans to sell. Then Claire walks into her store, scouting the place.
Now Claire finds herself unusually torn. On one hand they need the property, on the other Abby is a sweet, decent person whom Claire doesn't want to hurt.
Good romance, good characters, there is a third act breakup but at least it didn't feel dumb or badly plotted. I did feel like who the villain was wasn't set up very well...
3 stars out of 5.

[Jennabeebs79 · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Mogul Meets Her Match follows Claire Beauchamp, a successful businesswoman who meets Abby Pita, a passionate chef and café owner. Claire’s attempt to garner intel to facilitate a necessary buyout of Abby’s cafe sparks a deep connection, challenging Claire’s strict personal rules. Abby, vibrant and compassionate, balances her sunny disposition with fiery determination. Their growing relationship blends business, romance, and witty interactions, with strong support from their friends and Abby’s culinary expertise. The story offers sweet, angsty moments as Claire and Abby navigate their personal and professional lives. Grab your copy immediately!

[Amanda Lester · Rating 3 out of 5]

First, I want to thank Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for giving me the chance to read The Mogul Meets Her Match by Julia Underwood. I really enjoyed reading this story. It follows Abby, who is a successful cafe owner, but more than that, she gives back to her community. And then there is Claire, she owns and is CEO of Lotus Enterprises, and her company needs to purchase Abby's cafe in order to start working on their new IT project. There is a one-eyed dog named Boomer who steals any of the scenes he is in. I give this story 3 stars and definitely recommend if you enjoy reading "Ice Queens" with a warm heart stories.

[Nikki · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating: 🙂/3.25
Review: Romance with a small mystery with some substance and representation. A Horrible cover. Some of the business talk was a but long and pulled me out of the story. A book about food.
Format: 👩🏻‍💻
Source: #netgalley

[Tuba · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily sharing my feedback

.I really enjoyed this book.

The emotions run deep for both Claire and Abby, making their journeys compelling. I particularly connected with Claire—her reluctance to be in a relationship felt real and relatable. However, I found it a bit jarring when she suddenly decided to seek out Abby, showing up at her café and later at the places where Abby volunteers, especially the shelter. This shift felt somewhat abrupt and out of sync with her initial hesitation.

Claire’s past is heartbreaking, and I truly felt for her. Her struggles and resilience in overcoming poverty to establish herself as one of the best in her field were inspiring. I admired her determination and strength.Abby, on the other hand, has a bright and warm personality. Her past experiences have made her cautious about relationships, and I understood why she hesitated to open herself up. Even though she shared a connection with Claire, she refused to invest in something she believed would ultimately lead nowhere. That was heartbreaking in its own way.

While the story has its twists and turns, it ultimately feels like a sweet and cozy read. I would definitely recommend this book!