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The Rory Brothers #1
Two Truths and a Marriage
The grumpiest billionaire accidentally scores a sunshiny fake fiancee and pure chaos in this hilarious, sweet, and deliriously steamy romance by Wall Street Journal bestselling author Nicole Snow.
I can still pinpoint the exact second when my life became two truths and a lie.
You don't forget delivering a mountain of fresh-baked sweets to a man like Dexter Rory.
I never wanted to see his scowling, bossy, brutally godlike face again, no matter how well he tipped.
If you told me I'd wind up wearing his ring, I would've died laughing.
But here I am, trying to cling to my sanity while I confront the undeniable.
Truth #1: I'm spiritually allergic to this man.
He's as grumpy as a storm, twice as unpredictable, and he thinks my life's work is the devil.
Truth #2: I need his money—it's the only Hail Mary I have to keep my family bakery alive.
That's why we're living a ginormous lie that can't last.
I mean, who would believe we're engaged when we can barely share the same oxygen?
But Dexter can be wickedly convincing when he needs a win.
And the way he kisses me dizzy right in front of my adoring grandmother...
Hello, butterflies.
What happens when the truth matters less by the day?
What happens when you start falling in love with a lie?
This standalone read brings heat, heart, and mammoth feels all the way to the happily ever after. Witness two opposites attract, collide, and go down fighting the beautiful truth called love.
I can still pinpoint the exact second when my life became two truths and a lie.
You don't forget delivering a mountain of fresh-baked sweets to a man like Dexter Rory.
I never wanted to see his scowling, bossy, brutally godlike face again, no matter how well he tipped.
If you told me I'd wind up wearing his ring, I would've died laughing.
But here I am, trying to cling to my sanity while I confront the undeniable.
Truth #1: I'm spiritually allergic to this man.
He's as grumpy as a storm, twice as unpredictable, and he thinks my life's work is the devil.
Truth #2: I need his money—it's the only Hail Mary I have to keep my family bakery alive.
That's why we're living a ginormous lie that can't last.
I mean, who would believe we're engaged when we can barely share the same oxygen?
But Dexter can be wickedly convincing when he needs a win.
And the way he kisses me dizzy right in front of my adoring grandmother...
Hello, butterflies.
What happens when the truth matters less by the day?
What happens when you start falling in love with a lie?
This standalone read brings heat, heart, and mammoth feels all the way to the happily ever after. Witness two opposites attract, collide, and go down fighting the beautiful truth called love.
476 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2024
6195 people are currently reading
2313 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Snow
114 books6,526 followersNicole Snow is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author. She found her love of writing by hashing out love scenes on lunch breaks and plotting her great escape from boardrooms. Her work roared onto the indie romance scene in 2014 with her Grizzlies MC series.
Since then Snow aims for the very best in growly, heart-of-gold alpha heroes, unbelievable suspense, and swoon storms aplenty.
Current fan favorites include her Enguard Protectors series, accidental love novels, plus long beloved MC romance thrillers like the Grizzlies and Deadly Pistols.
Find more about Nicole here:
Website: http://nicolesnowbooks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolesnowbo...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nicol...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NicoleSnowBooks
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Snow/e/...
Since then Snow aims for the very best in growly, heart-of-gold alpha heroes, unbelievable suspense, and swoon storms aplenty.
Current fan favorites include her Enguard Protectors series, accidental love novels, plus long beloved MC romance thrillers like the Grizzlies and Deadly Pistols.
Find more about Nicole here:
Website: http://nicolesnowbooks.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolesnowbo...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/nicol...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NicoleSnowBooks
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Snow/e/...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 414 reviews
May 2, 2024
this girl is so fucking dumb i can’t
March 29, 2024
This is good, but does it really need to be 470+ pages? 😅 Although I never got bored with the whole plot, there are scenes that felt unnecessary and could've been removed to make this a bit shorter. I liked the writing style and the storytelling of this author. How most of her MCs started as enemies until they became an official couple and the fact that almost all of her Hs had a military background.
Juniper (24) has been handling her family's bakery, and unfortunately, it's not doing so well, and most of the time they were on the red. She felt pressured to keep this afloat because this has been their business for a very long time.
Then one day, Dexter (32) came into her shop to order pastries for his client. He was a rude jerk in this first meeting—not grumpy, just plain rude. But Junie needs the money, and he's a customer.
When Dex met his client, he was impressed by the sweet goods and asked him if he could add the bakery as part of the transaction. Wanting to lock down the deal, Dex agreed to it and told the client that it wouldn't be a problem seeing as the owner is his fiancee (which is a lie!) And this is how the fake engagement started.
This was insta-lust, I would say, but they did nothing intimate until the 53% mark. But reading their POVs is more than enough to know how much they have hots for one another. The fake engagement didn't happen quickly because Junie wasn't interested, but Dex was persistent, and he offered her help and negotiated terms with her. They eventually compromised, and she agreed to do it for the next six months.
These two were attracted to one another but couldn't help themselves from throwing barbs at each other. The "enemy" part felt real but ended quickly once the attraction became too strong. I think this has the "she falls first, but he falls harder" trope because it was Junie who was so open with her feelings most of the time, in her POV and inner monologues.
Although I see that Dex is falling for her, he tried to fight it off because of his experience when his father died and his mom was left brokenhearted. He thought love wouldn't do any good but only make a person miserable and empty.
As for Junie, her ex left her and made her think and feel that she wasn't enough. She's been single for the last two years and has never tried to step foot in the dating scene again.
Then they had to live together because Junie's apartment flooded and Dexter wouldn't want her to stay anywhere else. With the forced proximity and mutual attraction, things eventually happened, and gaaawd the smut. 🥵 For some reason, I feel like they are more emotionally connected when they're having sexy times, and I think that's what makes those scenes hot. 🤭
Then suspense was thrown into the plot. I kind of expected this; this is always present in Ms. Snow's books. It was okay, and this part didn't take too much part in the story, but I feel like the villain got away easily.
Overall, this was good; I enjoyed it. I loved the banter and the shift from enemy to civil to roommates-with-benefits and to becoming an official couple. 💓
Book info:
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Fake engagement
- Grumpy-sunshine
- Forced proximity
- Suspense
- Age gap (8)
- No cheating, OMD
- Non-virgin MCs (h - celibate 2 years, H - no info, but doesn't give a hoe vibe)
- Unsafe sex; no talk about STDs or BC
- OWD (see notes)
- Third act breakup (2 weeks)
- HEA (4 months, married)
- Bonus epilogue (3 years later, pregnant)
Note:
- OWD. Not really, a fellow Marine that Dex served with overseas is now a police officer. He slept with her once, but said that it was years ago. He asked for her help regarding the villain, and how to stop him. This OW talked to Junie as well, but in a more professional manner regarding the case. And Junie figured it out immediately that the OW and Dex used to know one another. Tbh, though she seems nice, I really don't need this info, wish it wasn't part of the story.🤷♀️
Juniper (24) has been handling her family's bakery, and unfortunately, it's not doing so well, and most of the time they were on the red. She felt pressured to keep this afloat because this has been their business for a very long time.
Then one day, Dexter (32) came into her shop to order pastries for his client. He was a rude jerk in this first meeting—not grumpy, just plain rude. But Junie needs the money, and he's a customer.
When Dex met his client, he was impressed by the sweet goods and asked him if he could add the bakery as part of the transaction. Wanting to lock down the deal, Dex agreed to it and told the client that it wouldn't be a problem seeing as the owner is his fiancee (which is a lie!) And this is how the fake engagement started.
This was insta-lust, I would say, but they did nothing intimate until the 53% mark. But reading their POVs is more than enough to know how much they have hots for one another. The fake engagement didn't happen quickly because Junie wasn't interested, but Dex was persistent, and he offered her help and negotiated terms with her. They eventually compromised, and she agreed to do it for the next six months.
These two were attracted to one another but couldn't help themselves from throwing barbs at each other. The "enemy" part felt real but ended quickly once the attraction became too strong. I think this has the "she falls first, but he falls harder" trope because it was Junie who was so open with her feelings most of the time, in her POV and inner monologues.
Although I see that Dex is falling for her, he tried to fight it off because of his experience when his father died and his mom was left brokenhearted. He thought love wouldn't do any good but only make a person miserable and empty.
As for Junie, her ex left her and made her think and feel that she wasn't enough. She's been single for the last two years and has never tried to step foot in the dating scene again.
Then they had to live together because Junie's apartment flooded and Dexter wouldn't want her to stay anywhere else. With the forced proximity and mutual attraction, things eventually happened, and gaaawd the smut. 🥵 For some reason, I feel like they are more emotionally connected when they're having sexy times, and I think that's what makes those scenes hot. 🤭
Then suspense was thrown into the plot. I kind of expected this; this is always present in Ms. Snow's books. It was okay, and this part didn't take too much part in the story, but I feel like the villain got away easily.
Overall, this was good; I enjoyed it. I loved the banter and the shift from enemy to civil to roommates-with-benefits and to becoming an official couple. 💓
Book info:
- Enemies-to-lovers
- Fake engagement
- Grumpy-sunshine
- Forced proximity
- Suspense
- Age gap (8)
- No cheating, OMD
- Non-virgin MCs (h - celibate 2 years, H - no info, but doesn't give a hoe vibe)
- Unsafe sex; no talk about STDs or BC
- OWD (see notes)
- Third act breakup (2 weeks)
- HEA (4 months, married)
- Bonus epilogue (3 years later, pregnant)
Note:
- OWD. Not really, a fellow Marine that Dex served with overseas is now a police officer. He slept with her once, but said that it was years ago. He asked for her help regarding the villain, and how to stop him. This OW talked to Junie as well, but in a more professional manner regarding the case. And Junie figured it out immediately that the OW and Dex used to know one another. Tbh, though she seems nice, I really don't need this info, wish it wasn't part of the story.🤷♀️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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April 17, 2024dnf 16%. i think i’m over this authors mmcs getting so bent out of shape over baked goods lmao. and they’re straight up assholes like it’s not even “grumpy” no they’re just rude as fuck for no reason
“If she was stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, I’d have to think long and hard about whether I stopped to help.” likeeee okay bud. they had like two interactions where she didn’t fall at his feet but still saved his ass with a big order
“If she was stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire, I’d have to think long and hard about whether I stopped to help.” likeeee okay bud. they had like two interactions where she didn’t fall at his feet but still saved his ass with a big order
July 10, 2025
DNF @ 40%. Unfortunately this has really started to drag and I’ve lost interest. There’s still over 200 pages to read so I’m definitely not forcing that on myself.
Stop at page 188/471
Stop at page 188/471
March 30, 2024
Just okay
I was looking for a palate cleanser, and this was exactly that... though I think I've already forgotten the plot. I love a good fake engagement romance and the blurb sounded right up my alley, so I decided to jump in. It started off promising, with an opposites attract dynamic and a buttoned-up suit who hates sugar paired with a sweetheart of a baker. The premise worked, but there weren't a whole lot of surprises in the plot. It was all pretty standard, and some of the things I was most intrigued by ended up being the things that were the most underdeveloped - I definitely didn't get the swoons from this relationship. Snow's books are always too long (and it was), but somehow the relationship still felt very surface level by the end. Ultimately, it's certainly not a bad book, but it did remind me exactly why it's been a few years since I've read anything by the author.
The story follows Juniper, a woman who is struggling to make her family's bakery thrive. When she receives a last-minute order from a grumpy man in a suit, she immediately dislikes the man. If his grouchy disposition wasn't bad enough, the man also has a clear disdain for sweets. So no one is more surprised than Juniper when Dexter asks her to fake an engagement with him. Turns out, Juniper's sweets are an integral part of him sealing a business deal, and playing the role of fake fiancée is the cherry on top. The two couldn't be more different and neither one is particularly enthusiastic about the arrangement, but it's not long before Juniper is seeing a different side of Dexter.
This was at least 100 pages too long, which meant I started skimming after a while. The story itself isn't bad, but there were a few things that rubbed me the wrong way and not enough that rubbed me the right way. I was immediately put off by Dexter's description of his sweets-loving potential business partner, but I really did like the concept of a baker paired with a man who doesn't like desserts. There was definitely more that could've been done with that. I didn't really feel the chemistry between them, though there is a decent amount of heat. I had forgotten that Snow's characters rarely use protection, that was pretty jarring, lol. Haven't seen that in a while! I liked the opposites attract vibes and the way Dexter softens around Juniper, which was sweet. There's also a little bit of suspense, but I was kinda over the story by the time that kicked in. This did help get me out of the book hangover I was in, but it didn't fully live up to its potential.
I was looking for a palate cleanser, and this was exactly that... though I think I've already forgotten the plot. I love a good fake engagement romance and the blurb sounded right up my alley, so I decided to jump in. It started off promising, with an opposites attract dynamic and a buttoned-up suit who hates sugar paired with a sweetheart of a baker. The premise worked, but there weren't a whole lot of surprises in the plot. It was all pretty standard, and some of the things I was most intrigued by ended up being the things that were the most underdeveloped - I definitely didn't get the swoons from this relationship. Snow's books are always too long (and it was), but somehow the relationship still felt very surface level by the end. Ultimately, it's certainly not a bad book, but it did remind me exactly why it's been a few years since I've read anything by the author.
The story follows Juniper, a woman who is struggling to make her family's bakery thrive. When she receives a last-minute order from a grumpy man in a suit, she immediately dislikes the man. If his grouchy disposition wasn't bad enough, the man also has a clear disdain for sweets. So no one is more surprised than Juniper when Dexter asks her to fake an engagement with him. Turns out, Juniper's sweets are an integral part of him sealing a business deal, and playing the role of fake fiancée is the cherry on top. The two couldn't be more different and neither one is particularly enthusiastic about the arrangement, but it's not long before Juniper is seeing a different side of Dexter.
This was at least 100 pages too long, which meant I started skimming after a while. The story itself isn't bad, but there were a few things that rubbed me the wrong way and not enough that rubbed me the right way. I was immediately put off by Dexter's description of his sweets-loving potential business partner, but I really did like the concept of a baker paired with a man who doesn't like desserts. There was definitely more that could've been done with that. I didn't really feel the chemistry between them, though there is a decent amount of heat. I had forgotten that Snow's characters rarely use protection, that was pretty jarring, lol. Haven't seen that in a while! I liked the opposites attract vibes and the way Dexter softens around Juniper, which was sweet. There's also a little bit of suspense, but I was kinda over the story by the time that kicked in. This did help get me out of the book hangover I was in, but it didn't fully live up to its potential.
April 14, 2024
No
Why the f*** was this book 500 pages?? They were both insufferable and had no personality. The longest “miscommunication” book I’ve ever read
Why the f*** was this book 500 pages?? They were both insufferable and had no personality. The longest “miscommunication” book I’ve ever read
September 25, 2024
the villain uses cupcakes to smuggle goods
November 2, 2024
Give a Nicole Snow book a try, how bad can it be I thought. Turns out it can be absolute s***. I did this on audible and if I hadn’t been able to speed up to 3x I would not have finished this. I hate wasting audible credits on something I feel like I should be financially compensated for listening too.
Until the third act this book wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t doing anything for me at all, but I didn’t hate it. Then the third act happened. The fmc’s actions are those of a toddler the whole thing is ridiculous and when she finally realizes it she’s like “we both made mistakes”. BS the fmc made mistakes and needs to grown the hell up and realize it’s not all about her. Neither of these characters was particularly likable and they were very incompatible they just randomly start hooking up. Great sex is important but it can’t be the entire basis of a relationship. Oh and let’s not talk about the absolute absurdity of how the mmc beats the bad guy you have got to be kidding me 🙄
Until the third act this book wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t doing anything for me at all, but I didn’t hate it. Then the third act happened. The fmc’s actions are those of a toddler the whole thing is ridiculous and when she finally realizes it she’s like “we both made mistakes”. BS the fmc made mistakes and needs to grown the hell up and realize it’s not all about her. Neither of these characters was particularly likable and they were very incompatible they just randomly start hooking up. Great sex is important but it can’t be the entire basis of a relationship. Oh and let’s not talk about the absolute absurdity of how the mmc beats the bad guy you have got to be kidding me 🙄
March 28, 2024
Sweet & sunshine baker, grumpy & broody anti-sugar real estate mogul meet (not?) cute
Nicole Snow has done an exceptional job once again! Two Truths And A Marriage (Rory Brothers Book 1?) hooked me from the new release blurb/cover reveal and kept me firmly wrapped up to the very end. Dexter and Juniper's journey encompasses enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, broken & broody alpha hero, extreme opposites attract, walled off to love, Heroine in danger, suspenseful reading adventure to the must have HEA and so much more. These characters keep things interesting as they bump heads, disagree, resist and deny. The slow burn makes things extra steamy when the attraction can no longer be denied, but that build up! It just might have you sweating.
I have yet to encounter a character or couple created by this author that I did not like. Male/female, doesn't matter. Every single one of them have been awesome in a general sense, but with serious emotional depth. The theme might be similar (grumpy/broken, sweet/sunshine-y) but every one of them differ from the other. Dexter is a perfectly flawed grumpy, broody, broken, bossy alpha with a heart of gold he is reluctant to share, but just can't help himself when it comes to Junie. Junie on the other hand, is still a sweetheart despite having her heart, hopes and dreams dashed causing her to swear off men. Especially those men who are more successful than she is. But Dexter proves different and her heart overrules her head. What I love about Dexter and Junie is that despite the financial disparity and their extreme opposite views (on sugar of all things lol), they find common ground and connection.
As a long time reader fan of Nicole Snow books, I have never felt like I'm reading the same thing twice. Two Truths And A Marriage delivers a page turner experience, edge of your seat suspense, soul searching for the future, heartbreaking emotions, gut wrenching heartache, wonderful cast of supporting characters and nuggets of characters and settings from previous books sprinkled throughout.
The plot and sub-plots were mesmerizing and intriguing. Something is afoot within Dexter's business dealings and Ms. Snow had me guessing! There were so many ways this part of the story could have gone and my imagination was spinning as the story unfolded. Additionally, Dexter's brothers play a major role in this book and so I am hoping there is more to come! Maybe the Rory brothers are going to stir things up in Kansas City and beyond as they take the Luxury Rental Real Estate scene by storm?
Overall, this is a page turner for sure and has so much more to offer beyond the character's interactions, developing relationship and blooming love. Dexter and Junie's epic love is not to be missed. I certainly enjoyed and loved this wild, adventurous read.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
Merged review:
Sweet & sunshine baker, grumpy & broody anti-sugar real estate mogul meet (not?) cute
Nicole Snow has done an exceptional job once again! Two Truths And A Marriage (Rory Brothers Book 1?) hooked me from the new release blurb/cover reveal and kept me firmly wrapped up to the very end. Dexter and Juniper's journey encompasses enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, broken & broody alpha hero, extreme opposites attract, walled off to love, Heroine in danger, suspenseful reading adventure to the must have HEA and so much more. These characters keep things interesting as they bump heads, disagree, resist and deny. The slow burn makes things extra steamy when the attraction can no longer be denied, but that build up! It just might have you sweating.
I have yet to encounter a character or couple created by this author that I did not like. Male/female, doesn't matter. Every single one of them have been awesome in a general sense, but with serious emotional depth. The theme might be similar (grumpy/broken, sweet/sunshine-y) but every one of them differ from the other. Dexter is a perfectly flawed grumpy, broody, broken, bossy alpha with a heart of gold he is reluctant to share, but just can't help himself when it comes to Junie. Junie on the other hand, is still a sweetheart despite having her heart, hopes and dreams dashed causing her to swear off men. Especially those men who are more successful than she is. But Dexter proves different and her heart overrules her head. What I love about Dexter and Junie is that despite the financial disparity and their extreme opposite views (on sugar of all things lol), they find common ground and connection.
As a long time reader fan of Nicole Snow books, I have never felt like I'm reading the same thing twice. Two Truths And A Marriage delivers a page turner experience, edge of your seat suspense, soul searching for the future, heartbreaking emotions, gut wrenching heartache, wonderful cast of supporting characters and nuggets of characters and settings from previous books sprinkled throughout.
The plot and sub-plots were mesmerizing and intriguing. Something is afoot within Dexter's business dealings and Ms. Snow had me guessing! There were so many ways this part of the story could have gone and my imagination was spinning as the story unfolded. Additionally, Dexter's brothers play a major role in this book and so I am hoping there is more to come! Maybe the Rory brothers are going to stir things up in Kansas City and beyond as they take the Luxury Rental Real Estate scene by storm?
Overall, this is a page turner for sure and has so much more to offer beyond the character's interactions, developing relationship and blooming love. Dexter and Junie's epic love is not to be missed. I certainly enjoyed and loved this wild, adventurous read.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
Nicole Snow has done an exceptional job once again! Two Truths And A Marriage (Rory Brothers Book 1?) hooked me from the new release blurb/cover reveal and kept me firmly wrapped up to the very end. Dexter and Juniper's journey encompasses enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, broken & broody alpha hero, extreme opposites attract, walled off to love, Heroine in danger, suspenseful reading adventure to the must have HEA and so much more. These characters keep things interesting as they bump heads, disagree, resist and deny. The slow burn makes things extra steamy when the attraction can no longer be denied, but that build up! It just might have you sweating.
I have yet to encounter a character or couple created by this author that I did not like. Male/female, doesn't matter. Every single one of them have been awesome in a general sense, but with serious emotional depth. The theme might be similar (grumpy/broken, sweet/sunshine-y) but every one of them differ from the other. Dexter is a perfectly flawed grumpy, broody, broken, bossy alpha with a heart of gold he is reluctant to share, but just can't help himself when it comes to Junie. Junie on the other hand, is still a sweetheart despite having her heart, hopes and dreams dashed causing her to swear off men. Especially those men who are more successful than she is. But Dexter proves different and her heart overrules her head. What I love about Dexter and Junie is that despite the financial disparity and their extreme opposite views (on sugar of all things lol), they find common ground and connection.
As a long time reader fan of Nicole Snow books, I have never felt like I'm reading the same thing twice. Two Truths And A Marriage delivers a page turner experience, edge of your seat suspense, soul searching for the future, heartbreaking emotions, gut wrenching heartache, wonderful cast of supporting characters and nuggets of characters and settings from previous books sprinkled throughout.
The plot and sub-plots were mesmerizing and intriguing. Something is afoot within Dexter's business dealings and Ms. Snow had me guessing! There were so many ways this part of the story could have gone and my imagination was spinning as the story unfolded. Additionally, Dexter's brothers play a major role in this book and so I am hoping there is more to come! Maybe the Rory brothers are going to stir things up in Kansas City and beyond as they take the Luxury Rental Real Estate scene by storm?
Overall, this is a page turner for sure and has so much more to offer beyond the character's interactions, developing relationship and blooming love. Dexter and Junie's epic love is not to be missed. I certainly enjoyed and loved this wild, adventurous read.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
Merged review:
Sweet & sunshine baker, grumpy & broody anti-sugar real estate mogul meet (not?) cute
Nicole Snow has done an exceptional job once again! Two Truths And A Marriage (Rory Brothers Book 1?) hooked me from the new release blurb/cover reveal and kept me firmly wrapped up to the very end. Dexter and Juniper's journey encompasses enemies to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, broken & broody alpha hero, extreme opposites attract, walled off to love, Heroine in danger, suspenseful reading adventure to the must have HEA and so much more. These characters keep things interesting as they bump heads, disagree, resist and deny. The slow burn makes things extra steamy when the attraction can no longer be denied, but that build up! It just might have you sweating.
I have yet to encounter a character or couple created by this author that I did not like. Male/female, doesn't matter. Every single one of them have been awesome in a general sense, but with serious emotional depth. The theme might be similar (grumpy/broken, sweet/sunshine-y) but every one of them differ from the other. Dexter is a perfectly flawed grumpy, broody, broken, bossy alpha with a heart of gold he is reluctant to share, but just can't help himself when it comes to Junie. Junie on the other hand, is still a sweetheart despite having her heart, hopes and dreams dashed causing her to swear off men. Especially those men who are more successful than she is. But Dexter proves different and her heart overrules her head. What I love about Dexter and Junie is that despite the financial disparity and their extreme opposite views (on sugar of all things lol), they find common ground and connection.
As a long time reader fan of Nicole Snow books, I have never felt like I'm reading the same thing twice. Two Truths And A Marriage delivers a page turner experience, edge of your seat suspense, soul searching for the future, heartbreaking emotions, gut wrenching heartache, wonderful cast of supporting characters and nuggets of characters and settings from previous books sprinkled throughout.
The plot and sub-plots were mesmerizing and intriguing. Something is afoot within Dexter's business dealings and Ms. Snow had me guessing! There were so many ways this part of the story could have gone and my imagination was spinning as the story unfolded. Additionally, Dexter's brothers play a major role in this book and so I am hoping there is more to come! Maybe the Rory brothers are going to stir things up in Kansas City and beyond as they take the Luxury Rental Real Estate scene by storm?
Overall, this is a page turner for sure and has so much more to offer beyond the character's interactions, developing relationship and blooming love. Dexter and Junie's epic love is not to be missed. I certainly enjoyed and loved this wild, adventurous read.
I read an ARC of this book and voluntarily share my review.
April 24, 2024
Although this is an exciting story filled with suspense, betrayal; corporate espionage; really bad guys,;as well as laugh out loud mishaps, this story was 200 pages too long. Took way too long to get to the point.
Dex and Junie were a really cute couple, but it just went on and on.
June 4, 2024
3.5 cavity-inducing stars!
This was a quick read and I couldn't put it down. I just wish it has more depth and the main characters were so hard to love, especially at the beginning. They were both insufferable!
But I am glad to see some character development through out. And I also enjoyed the little suspense storyline. Overall, a good quick, fluffy read!
This was a quick read and I couldn't put it down. I just wish it has more depth and the main characters were so hard to love, especially at the beginning. They were both insufferable!
But I am glad to see some character development through out. And I also enjoyed the little suspense storyline. Overall, a good quick, fluffy read!
April 4, 2024
The Lies....
This book was good. I loved Dexter and his broody self. Juniper was a little nieve for me when I wanted her to listen and take heed, i but overall it was a nice enemies to lovers romance.
This book was good. I loved Dexter and his broody self. Juniper was a little nieve for me when I wanted her to listen and take heed, i but overall it was a nice enemies to lovers romance.
June 17, 2024
Gostei daquele momento de ação é por isso que dei quatro estrelas. É o meu primeiro livro desta autora e gostei bastante da maneira como ela escreve, contudo acho que esta história não teve aquele wow factor que me fizesse amar este livro como outros que já li.
April 23, 2025
girl. I really loved them together but I can't stand people making really naive and obviously dumb mistakes. the gasp I gusped having to manage her response to a certain stressful situation. I was on a plane and likely woke people up.
August 15, 2025
2-1/2*
January 26, 2025
Two Truths and a Marriage (The Rory Brothers, #1) is kind-of exactly as it says. A down-on-her-luck bakery owner, June, encounters a grumpy, rich guy, Dexter, who convinces her to become his fake fiancee in order to achieve what he thinks is the deal of the century for his real estate business.
If you think there’s anything more to it, you may be right. This book is a solid 2 ½ stars.
I was originally going to give the book two stars, maybe even drop it down to 1 ½ but I changed my mind when I realized Harry Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, became a minor character (mentioned, surprisingly, several times lol).
For the tl;dr crowd:
- The characters, especially the heroine, range from non-existent to annoying (looking at you, “unapologetically Junie”)
- The plot dies but is brutally and gruesomely “revived” with about 30% left to go, which means there’s a lot of unnecessary filler and manufactured drama that really ruins the Hero’s and Heroine’s relationship (also looking at you “unapologetically Junie”) between then - and after, too.
- The pacing, because this book could’ve been 100 pages shorter and still feel long without missing anything.
- The Hero calls the Heroine “Woman”. Like, “Listen to me, woman” kind of contexts. Who the hell finds that hot? Like, I get it if it's meant to be funny in an established camaraderie. Not as random as “grumpy” (asshole) dude saying it, usually condescendingly.
- Also, around the 70% mark and onwards, the heroine has to always repeat, “It’s a fake relationship, it’s not real, it was never real, blah, blah, wah!” and it’s like, ok. We’ve known this for the past 390 pages. We don’t need reminders or variations of the same fucking sentence in every other page in her perspective.
- The communication. Miscommunication is fun to an extent. But with the Hero and Heroine, how can I get with the program that they’re functioning adults? The Heroine especially never wants to have a conversation about what will happen after the contract timeline ends, and when the Hero tries to broach the subject, she’s throwing it back to him that he never loved her, it was all for fun/a lie/whatever. Like, girl, gtfo. She won’t talk, yet paradoxically, WON’T STOP TALKING.
- Finally, the paragraph breaks. If you’ve read decent books and have taken notes on how they’re written, then you’ll know what I’m talking about here. Even if the topic of the paragraph is the same one, there’s an unnecessary enter/break, sometimes lasting three sentences (example in highlighted reactionary notes below). Don’t know what this trend is but I fucking hate it, thanks.
I’m going to mark everything below as spoilers, although I won’t spoil it too much. Just to be safe for those interested in trying out this book.
Firstly, the shift of the book, from how the plot is executed and reacted to by the characters, and the characters themselves, feel as though they changed around the 30% to 40% mark. I’ll admit, I didn’t start jotting down reactionary notes until about 50% to 60%. That’s when I really started noticing the differences compared to the first half, and man. Are. They. Bad. Annoyingly so. It's like a different author came in and wrote the rest of the book, that's how I was feeling.
Secondly, the characters. In every romance book, I’m usually on the side of the women. This is because women in these newer romance books are written in a way I can sympathize with, sometimes relate to. At least, compared to the male counterparts who are usually written as caricatures of the typical rich asshole guy.
HOWEVER, when that shift occurs, I found myself rooting for the Hero (Dex) to dump the Heroine’s ass (June) because she. Was. INSUFFERABLE and STUPID. Like, it’s rare that I think the male romantic interest can do better, but my god. If these were real people, he could seriously do better.
Thirdly, the plot itself. On its own, the fake fiancee contract is a good selling point to garner interest in readers, but it runs its course early on in the book. So what’s the author supposed to do to keep said interest?
Oh, how about a random ass mob guy using the Heroine’s bakery for his shady business. Reminder: this random ass plot point doesn’t start until 65% to 70%, hell maybe even 80% into the book, and by then, yes, the shift and characters (especially the Heroine) are really annoying. I skimmed this portion because idgaf honestly. Actually, I skimmed 90% and onward, which is poorly manufactured drama of “Will they? Won’t they?”
Spoilers: they will. You’ll just suffer through another 30 minutes of dogshit if you actually bother to read it through. Oh, and a sex scene that, for my reading speed, lasted 7 minutes at the end lol.
By the way, I was getting into this book because of the bakery/baking/cooking aspect. I’m a fattie at heart, I love food. I love desserts. I love quick silly romances that involve. The romance was neither silly and the bakery wasn’t even in the backseat—it was in the trunk. Seriously. The real estate part of the Hero’s story was focused on more than the Heroine’s life.
Fourthly, the world building. Ok. I get the book is set in Kansas City. They mention it many times throughout the book. That's it. Nothing else, like landmarks. And the timeline of the book isn’t that good either. I’m pretty sure if I bothered going back, months are going by but it doesn’t feel like months, it feels like days. Gun to my head, I would admit that the course of the book takes place within a single month.
Fifth, the honorable mentions: random ass interjections of people you’ve never met or heard before pop up. Poor writing choices there. Why even bother mentioning these things if they don’t matter? It just forces the reader into thinking there’s more to it when, in actuality, this is just to fill up that word counter. For example: Heroine mentions mean-spirited cousins, but they never show up and aren’t mentioned ever again (first half of the book, early on, can't remember exactly); Heroine also mentions having a friend, Ariannabelle or some shit, and not once is she mentioned before or after again (80ish to 90ish percent into book).
Sixth, and this is in favor of the characters OTHER than June: June in in the last quarter gets check constantly. Like other characters calling out her bullshit. As a reader, I love it when characters get checked, whether good or bad. It's real. However, June is written to be a dense dumbass so it doesn't really compute, and by the time it does, you've long stopped caring as a reader (at least in my experience).
And finally, here are my reactionary notes to specific scenes in the book. Maybe this will also show how much I didn’t like this book and prove my points above.
“His (male genital) rubs against me through his pants, but it’s not in charge like the other times. This is what lust feels like when it’s charged with raw emotion and trust implicit in every movement.”
- Huh?? Time in the book is non-existent. It feels like mere DAYS have passed since the initial meeting, and a day or 2 before she signed his fake fiancée contract. Legit, it feels like these people have only known each other for a month AT MOST.
-------
“‘Hell, don’t let anyone else ever see you naked.’”
- THEN DON’T HAVE SEX WITH HER ON THE BALCONY, BITCH.
-------
“‘I could have driven nails with this dick.’”
-I can’t remember who said this, and I can’t even fathom what this means. Is this construction talk or dirty talk at its finest?
-------
“The pleasure demolishes me.”
- The Heroine says this. This is the second sex scene. In the first one, I distinctly remember her saying “detonated” but I never highlighted it. Still: there’s more construction/real estate terminology than baking terminology. Not even an obligatory “creamed” or “cream pie” so far, MISSED OPPORTUNITY!
-------
“Gone is the gentle bear I’ve worshipped over the past few weeks.”
- Stop saying stupid shit like this, please. Get a grip.
-------
“Here, at his desk, I can’t take his hand or snuggle up against him. Just like I said, it’s corporate, a sudden chill divide between personal and professional.”
- Bitch, just a page ago you were saying how you sometimes forget the whole set-up is fake. Maybe, I don’t know, get a grip and choose what you want.
-------
“[Dexter’s pov]: ‘She isn’t in it for the money. That’s not my girl… Junie works better when people aren’t showering her with praise. Don’t you, sweetheart?’”
- There’s something off about this paragraph, character-behavior-wise. I don’t know how to explain it, but it’s there.
-------
[The infamous paragraph break, seriously.]
“This should be good news, even if I can’t help feeling it’s more like a prison sentence.
I look at her with her red hair coiled up and a pretty blue dress hugging her curves.
She bought that one with my money, and I stood back and let her.
I already want to rip it off her with my teeth the second I get the chance.
I’m in over my head, and I don’t just mean this deal with Haute.”
- LITERALLY. That’s how the book is written! Unnecessary. Breaks. So the paragraph doesn’t look bulky? It's just a stupid writing decision. Absolute dogshit. Can we focus on one cohesive thought for, like, a few sentences in a paragraph.
-------
“I love playing matchmaker and I’m annoyed that I have to miss my latest chance.”
- Uhm what? 64% into the book and “playing matchmaker” pops up for the first time. Also, that’s kind of an annoying personality trait when the groundwork for it never existed in the first place. This is a good time to mention that she’s rarely shown to be working after the 20-30% mark. So when the fuck does she like playing match-maker with her younger (college age) employees? GAG
-------
June’s perspective, regarding Jake and Emma/Emily, her employees: “I think his head grows another size. The kid doesn’t need another word of encouragement to get beside Emmy [another employee]. How she didn’t notice this poor boy falling down around her, who knows . . . [A page-ish later] At least Jake won't treat Emmy like Liam [ex who is only mentioned] treated me, though. He’s not capable of being a royal prick. But I also doubt he’ll treat her the way Dexter treats me.”
- Fuck off, June. Like having hot sex on a balcony (gag) is worthy of a lifelong partner. Seriously. Luv the weird flex bragging here. This pissed me off way more than it should have.
-------
“When I pull away, [Dexter] is looking at the photos on the wall. The ones of his parents, of Harry Truman, of Dex with his brothers. His family. His legacy. [a page or two later] ‘In the photo, his grandfather stands next to Harry Truman and his entourage, tall men in suits wearing proud smiles.”
- Self-explanatory for why this is here lol. I’m rooting for the Harry Truman character for sure.
-------
“There are wrinkles around the corners [of Dex’s Mom’s face], but they’ve been artificially smoothed to delay the inevitable march of age. I guess money can stall time itself if you’ve got enough.”
- Miss “Unapologetically Junie” is a judgmental bitch. This woman is trying to make you feel better and yet it feels like you’re giving her a backhanded compliment. Damn, maybe Junie is the problem in her life.
-------
“But if it’s all true, why is he so moody over [antagonist]? What isn’t he telling me?”
- My god bitch he told you [antagonist] was a shady bastard in a few chapters! He creeps you out too! Why are you so dim? It's just sad.
-------
“Dexter must be more worked up than ever. Probably pissed off. The last thing I need is a snarling grizzly bear at home, but he shouldn’t have told me to back off.”
- Please let her die. She deserves it at this point.
-------
“Jeez, I need a whole new life because I did not sign up for this, stalking around and sleuthing after creeps and crooks.”
- NO ONE WAS ASKING YOU TO?
-------
[June] "'You barely told me anything . . . All this was going on and you didn't tell me shit, Dexter.'"
- HE TRIED. You in your stupid little head thought he was over you/breaking up with you WITHOUT ever talking to him about it! My god she IS the problem in her own life!
-------
[Dex] "'I told you about the plates. I showed you proof [antagonist]'s shady as hell.'"
[June] "'You gave me the bare minimum to make sure I wouldn't get involved.'"
- Die, June. Die.
-------
[June] “You think I don’t know that? (...) You think I wasn’t scared out of my wits the whole time? When you grabbed me, my fricking life flashed in front of me. But this is my business. My life. My fight. I deserve to know what’s going on without having to stand around, waiting for you to play superhero.”
- And you’re not playing superhero, dumb bitch? JFC get a goddamn grip AND a mirror of self-reflection
--------
“‘I know how much you like seafood.’ [June’s] heart sinks. ‘Not so much lately,’ I mutter, thinking about that night I miraculously pulled off a lobster dinner in Dex’s kitchen.”
- Idk why this made me chuckle, but lobster and Harry Truman have just as many mentions as the other minor characters lol. Lobster and Harry Truman my beloveds <3
-------
And I stopped highlighting/making notes around the 88% mark because I just didn't give a shit anymore.
Of course, this is all my opinion. Others liked this book, and others didn't mind it. Read it for yourself, you might just like it or you might just hate it, or you might just forget about it once you finish it.
If you think there’s anything more to it, you may be right. This book is a solid 2 ½ stars.
I was originally going to give the book two stars, maybe even drop it down to 1 ½ but I changed my mind when I realized Harry Truman, the 33rd President of the United States, became a minor character (mentioned, surprisingly, several times lol).
For the tl;dr crowd:
- The characters, especially the heroine, range from non-existent to annoying (looking at you, “unapologetically Junie”)
- The plot dies but is brutally and gruesomely “revived” with about 30% left to go, which means there’s a lot of unnecessary filler and manufactured drama that really ruins the Hero’s and Heroine’s relationship (also looking at you “unapologetically Junie”) between then - and after, too.
- The pacing, because this book could’ve been 100 pages shorter and still feel long without missing anything.
- The Hero calls the Heroine “Woman”. Like, “Listen to me, woman” kind of contexts. Who the hell finds that hot? Like, I get it if it's meant to be funny in an established camaraderie. Not as random as “grumpy” (asshole) dude saying it, usually condescendingly.
- Also, around the 70% mark and onwards, the heroine has to always repeat, “It’s a fake relationship, it’s not real, it was never real, blah, blah, wah!” and it’s like, ok. We’ve known this for the past 390 pages. We don’t need reminders or variations of the same fucking sentence in every other page in her perspective.
- The communication. Miscommunication is fun to an extent. But with the Hero and Heroine, how can I get with the program that they’re functioning adults? The Heroine especially never wants to have a conversation about what will happen after the contract timeline ends, and when the Hero tries to broach the subject, she’s throwing it back to him that he never loved her, it was all for fun/a lie/whatever. Like, girl, gtfo. She won’t talk, yet paradoxically, WON’T STOP TALKING.
- Finally, the paragraph breaks. If you’ve read decent books and have taken notes on how they’re written, then you’ll know what I’m talking about here. Even if the topic of the paragraph is the same one, there’s an unnecessary enter/break, sometimes lasting three sentences (example in highlighted reactionary notes below). Don’t know what this trend is but I fucking hate it, thanks.
I’m going to mark everything below as spoilers, although I won’t spoil it too much. Just to be safe for those interested in trying out this book.
Firstly, the shift of the book, from how the plot is executed and reacted to by the characters, and the characters themselves, feel as though they changed around the 30% to 40% mark. I’ll admit, I didn’t start jotting down reactionary notes until about 50% to 60%. That’s when I really started noticing the differences compared to the first half, and man. Are. They. Bad. Annoyingly so. It's like a different author came in and wrote the rest of the book, that's how I was feeling.
Secondly, the characters. In every romance book, I’m usually on the side of the women. This is because women in these newer romance books are written in a way I can sympathize with, sometimes relate to. At least, compared to the male counterparts who are usually written as caricatures of the typical rich asshole guy.
HOWEVER, when that shift occurs, I found myself rooting for the Hero (Dex) to dump the Heroine’s ass (June) because she. Was. INSUFFERABLE and STUPID. Like, it’s rare that I think the male romantic interest can do better, but my god. If these were real people, he could seriously do better.
Thirdly, the plot itself. On its own, the fake fiancee contract is a good selling point to garner interest in readers, but it runs its course early on in the book. So what’s the author supposed to do to keep said interest?
Oh, how about a random ass mob guy using the Heroine’s bakery for his shady business. Reminder: this random ass plot point doesn’t start until 65% to 70%, hell maybe even 80% into the book, and by then, yes, the shift and characters (especially the Heroine) are really annoying. I skimmed this portion because idgaf honestly. Actually, I skimmed 90% and onward, which is poorly manufactured drama of “Will they? Won’t they?”
Spoilers: they will. You’ll just suffer through another 30 minutes of dogshit if you actually bother to read it through. Oh, and a sex scene that, for my reading speed, lasted 7 minutes at the end lol.
By the way, I was getting into this book because of the bakery/baking/cooking aspect. I’m a fattie at heart, I love food. I love desserts. I love quick silly romances that involve. The romance was neither silly and the bakery wasn’t even in the backseat—it was in the trunk. Seriously. The real estate part of the Hero’s story was focused on more than the Heroine’s life.
Fourthly, the world building. Ok. I get the book is set in Kansas City. They mention it many times throughout the book. That's it. Nothing else, like landmarks. And the timeline of the book isn’t that good either. I’m pretty sure if I bothered going back, months are going by but it doesn’t feel like months, it feels like days. Gun to my head, I would admit that the course of the book takes place within a single month.
Fifth, the honorable mentions: random ass interjections of people you’ve never met or heard before pop up. Poor writing choices there. Why even bother mentioning these things if they don’t matter? It just forces the reader into thinking there’s more to it when, in actuality, this is just to fill up that word counter. For example: Heroine mentions mean-spirited cousins, but they never show up and aren’t mentioned ever again (first half of the book, early on, can't remember exactly); Heroine also mentions having a friend, Ariannabelle or some shit, and not once is she mentioned before or after again (80ish to 90ish percent into book).
Sixth, and this is in favor of the characters OTHER than June: June in in the last quarter gets check constantly. Like other characters calling out her bullshit. As a reader, I love it when characters get checked, whether good or bad. It's real. However, June is written to be a dense dumbass so it doesn't really compute, and by the time it does, you've long stopped caring as a reader (at least in my experience).
And finally, here are my reactionary notes to specific scenes in the book. Maybe this will also show how much I didn’t like this book and prove my points above.
“His (male genital) rubs against me through his pants, but it’s not in charge like the other times. This is what lust feels like when it’s charged with raw emotion and trust implicit in every movement.”
- Huh?? Time in the book is non-existent. It feels like mere DAYS have passed since the initial meeting, and a day or 2 before she signed his fake fiancée contract. Legit, it feels like these people have only known each other for a month AT MOST.
-------
“‘Hell, don’t let anyone else ever see you naked.’”
- THEN DON’T HAVE SEX WITH HER ON THE BALCONY, BITCH.
-------
“‘I could have driven nails with this dick.’”
-I can’t remember who said this, and I can’t even fathom what this means. Is this construction talk or dirty talk at its finest?
-------
“The pleasure demolishes me.”
- The Heroine says this. This is the second sex scene. In the first one, I distinctly remember her saying “detonated” but I never highlighted it. Still: there’s more construction/real estate terminology than baking terminology. Not even an obligatory “creamed” or “cream pie” so far, MISSED OPPORTUNITY!
-------
“Gone is the gentle bear I’ve worshipped over the past few weeks.”
- Stop saying stupid shit like this, please. Get a grip.
-------
“Here, at his desk, I can’t take his hand or snuggle up against him. Just like I said, it’s corporate, a sudden chill divide between personal and professional.”
- Bitch, just a page ago you were saying how you sometimes forget the whole set-up is fake. Maybe, I don’t know, get a grip and choose what you want.
-------
“[Dexter’s pov]: ‘She isn’t in it for the money. That’s not my girl… Junie works better when people aren’t showering her with praise. Don’t you, sweetheart?’”
- There’s something off about this paragraph, character-behavior-wise. I don’t know how to explain it, but it’s there.
-------
[The infamous paragraph break, seriously.]
“This should be good news, even if I can’t help feeling it’s more like a prison sentence.
I look at her with her red hair coiled up and a pretty blue dress hugging her curves.
She bought that one with my money, and I stood back and let her.
I already want to rip it off her with my teeth the second I get the chance.
I’m in over my head, and I don’t just mean this deal with Haute.”
- LITERALLY. That’s how the book is written! Unnecessary. Breaks. So the paragraph doesn’t look bulky? It's just a stupid writing decision. Absolute dogshit. Can we focus on one cohesive thought for, like, a few sentences in a paragraph.
-------
“I love playing matchmaker and I’m annoyed that I have to miss my latest chance.”
- Uhm what? 64% into the book and “playing matchmaker” pops up for the first time. Also, that’s kind of an annoying personality trait when the groundwork for it never existed in the first place. This is a good time to mention that she’s rarely shown to be working after the 20-30% mark. So when the fuck does she like playing match-maker with her younger (college age) employees? GAG
-------
June’s perspective, regarding Jake and Emma/Emily, her employees: “I think his head grows another size. The kid doesn’t need another word of encouragement to get beside Emmy [another employee]. How she didn’t notice this poor boy falling down around her, who knows . . . [A page-ish later] At least Jake won't treat Emmy like Liam [ex who is only mentioned] treated me, though. He’s not capable of being a royal prick. But I also doubt he’ll treat her the way Dexter treats me.”
- Fuck off, June. Like having hot sex on a balcony (gag) is worthy of a lifelong partner. Seriously. Luv the weird flex bragging here. This pissed me off way more than it should have.
-------
“When I pull away, [Dexter] is looking at the photos on the wall. The ones of his parents, of Harry Truman, of Dex with his brothers. His family. His legacy. [a page or two later] ‘In the photo, his grandfather stands next to Harry Truman and his entourage, tall men in suits wearing proud smiles.”
- Self-explanatory for why this is here lol. I’m rooting for the Harry Truman character for sure.
-------
“There are wrinkles around the corners [of Dex’s Mom’s face], but they’ve been artificially smoothed to delay the inevitable march of age. I guess money can stall time itself if you’ve got enough.”
- Miss “Unapologetically Junie” is a judgmental bitch. This woman is trying to make you feel better and yet it feels like you’re giving her a backhanded compliment. Damn, maybe Junie is the problem in her life.
-------
“But if it’s all true, why is he so moody over [antagonist]? What isn’t he telling me?”
- My god bitch he told you [antagonist] was a shady bastard in a few chapters! He creeps you out too! Why are you so dim? It's just sad.
-------
“Dexter must be more worked up than ever. Probably pissed off. The last thing I need is a snarling grizzly bear at home, but he shouldn’t have told me to back off.”
- Please let her die. She deserves it at this point.
-------
“Jeez, I need a whole new life because I did not sign up for this, stalking around and sleuthing after creeps and crooks.”
- NO ONE WAS ASKING YOU TO?
-------
[June] "'You barely told me anything . . . All this was going on and you didn't tell me shit, Dexter.'"
- HE TRIED. You in your stupid little head thought he was over you/breaking up with you WITHOUT ever talking to him about it! My god she IS the problem in her own life!
-------
[Dex] "'I told you about the plates. I showed you proof [antagonist]'s shady as hell.'"
[June] "'You gave me the bare minimum to make sure I wouldn't get involved.'"
- Die, June. Die.
-------
[June] “You think I don’t know that? (...) You think I wasn’t scared out of my wits the whole time? When you grabbed me, my fricking life flashed in front of me. But this is my business. My life. My fight. I deserve to know what’s going on without having to stand around, waiting for you to play superhero.”
- And you’re not playing superhero, dumb bitch? JFC get a goddamn grip AND a mirror of self-reflection
--------
“‘I know how much you like seafood.’ [June’s] heart sinks. ‘Not so much lately,’ I mutter, thinking about that night I miraculously pulled off a lobster dinner in Dex’s kitchen.”
- Idk why this made me chuckle, but lobster and Harry Truman have just as many mentions as the other minor characters lol. Lobster and Harry Truman my beloveds <3
-------
And I stopped highlighting/making notes around the 88% mark because I just didn't give a shit anymore.
Of course, this is all my opinion. Others liked this book, and others didn't mind it. Read it for yourself, you might just like it or you might just hate it, or you might just forget about it once you finish it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2024
Two Truths and a Marriage is an opposites attract, grumpy-sunshine, fake relationship romance with a touch of suspense!
This is another classic Nicole book about a grumpy hero with a heart of gold and a sunshiney heroine with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Dex and Junie don't start off with a good meeting but sparks fly as they continue to meet. After Dex tells a big client he's seeing Junie, he does everything he can to convince her to be his fake fiance. Her family bakery is in financial trouble so she feels backed into a corner. They may not start out as real, but feelings quickly become involved. I love how Junie sees past his gruff exterior to the real man underneath. And I love how Dex just wants to make her happy and to make her see her worth.
As tension rises around the big client being involved in illegal activities, Junie and Dex's relationship is put to the test. I love how they end up together! This story will keep you on your toes and the spice is perfect.
ARC review.
This is another classic Nicole book about a grumpy hero with a heart of gold and a sunshiney heroine with the weight of the world on her shoulders. Dex and Junie don't start off with a good meeting but sparks fly as they continue to meet. After Dex tells a big client he's seeing Junie, he does everything he can to convince her to be his fake fiance. Her family bakery is in financial trouble so she feels backed into a corner. They may not start out as real, but feelings quickly become involved. I love how Junie sees past his gruff exterior to the real man underneath. And I love how Dex just wants to make her happy and to make her see her worth.
As tension rises around the big client being involved in illegal activities, Junie and Dex's relationship is put to the test. I love how they end up together! This story will keep you on your toes and the spice is perfect.
ARC review.
May 31, 2024
3⭐️, still in my book slump. I’m surprised that I was able to read this book. Even if it took a couple of weeks😂. I thought it was alright, the overall plot was interesting but it wasn’t anything above a 3. I hope that this author makes this a series because I feel like the stories of the other brothers would be nice to read.
July 28, 2024
This was a cute read! The first book I have read by Nicole Snow and I enjoyed her writing style!! Junnie and Dex DID frustrate me because they each thought the other person didn’t care and it took them forever to realize it. There was a twist I didn’t see coming and I enjoyed it. Definitely a good read!!
March 27, 2024
This is one of the sweetest reads I've read in awhile. I also really enjoy fake engagements turned real love.
Also who doesn't love a hard alpha man turned soft by the woman who was meant for him!?
I just hope we get books about the brothers.
Also who doesn't love a hard alpha man turned soft by the woman who was meant for him!?
I just hope we get books about the brothers.
July 5, 2024
Didn’t do it for me
The note i left in the book at 81%:
“She was going so well as a character, then she became the Guinness record breaking single celled organism with the amount of processing power her brain does not hold. Nil self preservation. She is on death row for all anyone knows, and she’s all about her woes and “I am a strong woman don’t tell me what to do”. Like… what the fuckity fucking fuck?
Do people like that even exist in real life? Here I thought self preservation was an instinctual behaviour essentially coded in our dna. Maybe she isn’t from earth since there is no other explanation to it. “
That about sums it up.
The note i left in the book at 81%:
“She was going so well as a character, then she became the Guinness record breaking single celled organism with the amount of processing power her brain does not hold. Nil self preservation. She is on death row for all anyone knows, and she’s all about her woes and “I am a strong woman don’t tell me what to do”. Like… what the fuckity fucking fuck?
Do people like that even exist in real life? Here I thought self preservation was an instinctual behaviour essentially coded in our dna. Maybe she isn’t from earth since there is no other explanation to it. “
That about sums it up.
March 27, 2024
Love this series
Love the Rory family
Junie and Dex intense emotional broken heartstopping arrangement insta love story
All the feels
Gripping
Ready for more Rorys
Love the Rory family
Junie and Dex intense emotional broken heartstopping arrangement insta love story
All the feels
Gripping
Ready for more Rorys
May 20, 2024
I like Snow's books, but this one died at about 85% in when it was mob oriented that fell flat and unbelievable. But a decent read.
March 31, 2024
This started off good. Loved the characters and my favorite trope is the grumpy man. But it fell a little flat in the middle and repetitive. I started to skip over pages to get to the end. Liked the book but didn't love it. Felt the story was overlong.
April 12, 2024
Junie 🤦🏻♀️🙄
The writing is good. And there were definitely some good parts but Junie’s immaturity almost took me out. This was not the book for me. I personally only finished it to make sure the author gets paid.
The writing is good. And there were definitely some good parts but Junie’s immaturity almost took me out. This was not the book for me. I personally only finished it to make sure the author gets paid.
April 15, 2024
Last 20% of the book was so nauseating like we get it you're happy. I would like to petition for a decent breakup reasons that aren't completely made up in main character's head or even if they are at least stick to it.
April 7, 2024
I’ve been thinking about Nicole’s books for a while now. It feels like it’s been a long time since I read one of her books but I think she comes out with 1-2 each year. This was different than her billionaire series, though I think it’s an extension of it, but instead of in Chicago, it’s in Kansas City. This one didn’t have the grit and intensity that I felt in her other series. This one was more tender and felt like more drama was attached to it than the others. It very distantly was related to the Chicago billionaires because I noticed some of their names pop up in this story. Anyway, after reading a slew of really gritty, intense, high stakes stories, this one didn’t pull me in like the others, though I really thought this book was well done. It felt like it was missing something the first half and then we get it the second half. I think it was the constant disagreements between Juniper and Dexter. They were hell bent on staying mad at each other but also were extremely stubborn. They refused to acknowledge the chemistry in the first half and it drove me crazy. I would think this could have been addressed in a more timely manner but I really felt like we were kept in the dark about a lot of Juniper and Dexter’s emotions. It’s like Nicole wanted to keep their masks on for the reader as well and I had a hard time following because I know what I noticed in the book but it’s like those feelings weren’t there and minimal background. Dexter was grumpy, and moody most of the book but he also had a sweet part of him, pun intended that he allowed Juniper to see in all its force. He wasn’t afraid that she might go and betray him, nor was he afraid to show that side of him, the real side. What I did like about this book, is the fact that Nicole made Dexter trust her easily once he got to know her. However, it was a hell of a time getting there and that’s where the lower rating comes in and why I couldn’t give this book a full 5. There’s only so much bashing you can read about what the hero and heroine are saying about each other. I felt like there was a big chunk of this in the book and it felt like a lot of negative energy that I just didn’t want to feel right now. In the other books I’ve read so far this year, there was negative vibes, but there was also a decent amount of good vibes too that balanced it out, which made it easier to get past the negative humps in the books. I felt like they earned it in those books though. With Dexter, I felt like he was just irritated just to be irritated but it could have been due to stress, the work load, relationship with his brothers and growing feelings for Juniper. In comparing the other books I’ve read this year so far, the positive outweighed the bad tone and crackle of anger that seemed to stick around. I felt more of this anger in this book, on Dexter’s side more than Juniper’s. I think that’s why it was a bit tough for me to get into as well. I didn’t find myself getting into the book until the moment Dexter realizes that he’s being ridiculous and couldn’t ignore his feelings anymore towards Juniper, and the moment he says, “tell me you feel this too” that’s when all bets were off and I found myself immersed in the story. It kept my interest throughout the rest of the book after that moment. What you get is the results of a man realizing that love doesn’t have to be this uphill battle and how it’s destined for failure because of examples in his own family life, not for him personally. He was basing how he viewed love growing up and when tragedy strikes, how it brought a person to their knees and slave to their own spiral and way it made a person feel. This was when all the layers get pulled back and we get an open door into why Dexter and Juniper were acting the way they were. In the end, love did conquer all and they both realized it was worth it for each other.
March 28, 2024
Juniper or Junie inherited the Sugar Bowl bakery when her Nana retired. Junie loves to bake but she doesn’t do business very well. There are a lot of repairs needed at the bakery but she doesn’t have the money. Until a grumpy man comes in with a proposal that is fake. Dexter is from a long line of wealthy family members. Dexter, Archer and Patton are the three brothers of the current Rory generation. They are trying to buy a place to build luxurious rental properties. Dexter found out that Forrest Haute is a big fan of pastries so he goes in to the Sugar Bowl to buy a lot of pastries. Dexter hates sugar. He meets Junie. When Junie brings the pastries to the meeting with Forrest she is surprised by the huge tip the grumpy man left. Forrest kept making weird comments about Junie and Dexter didn’t like it so he told Forrest that she was his fiancée. Dexter couldn’t stand Junie but he had to make a proposal to her to get Forrest’s business. After avoiding Dexter for a few days she finally decided to agree to be his fake fiancée in exchange for $200,000. At first Dexter and Junie have a combative time with each other. When Junie’s apartment floods Dexter takes Junie and her cat Catness to his house. They are finally getting along when Forrest gives Junie a contract for her pastries, one that Dexter has a bad vibe about. Dexter is realizing that he has feelings for Junie and Junie has feelings for Dexter. When Dexter finds out that Forrest is using Junie’s pastries for illegal purposes he tries to convince her to stay away from Forrest. Junie finds out where Forrest is hiding part of his business and she finds a bag of money. Dexter comes in to find Junie and he makes her leave. Dexter knows that Forrest has ties to the mafia but he just tells Junie that Forrest is dangerous. Dexter takes Junie home and tells her to stay put while he fixes things, but after Dexter yelled at her Junie leaves and goes to Nana’s house. Junie left the engagement ring at Dexter’s. Junie is going through a very difficult time after she left Dexter because she has fallen in love with him. Dexter has to get Forrest on record as being involved with the mafia. Dexter meets up with Forrest in the building they are trying to buy. Dexter and Forrest end up fighting and Dexter gets cut. While Dexter is healing he realizes that he really wants to be with Junie, he is miserable without her. Will Junie take Dexter back? Will Junie make the Sugar Bowl in to a very successful business? Will Dexter propose for real to Junie? Will Dexter and Junie find love and happiness together in Kansas City?
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Marvelous Grumpy Man and the Baker!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
Marvelous Grumpy Man and the Baker!
April 1, 2024
I understand grumpy characters, but assholes being assholes for no reason?
Nahhhhh
And why does he speak so ill of her?
Oh, I would never choose her willingly.
Oh, I wouldn't help her if she was on the side of the road.
Oh, I wouldn't take her home to my parents.
Oh, she's not attractive.
Loser
He's such a man child throwing temper tantrums when things don't go his way.
Now I know Junie not swimming in money, but seriously? Holes in her sweater? Unbrushed hair? Living in that dump, messy apartment? Taking her business under? How does that even happen? You've known for a long time that you will inherit it, how are you so clueless as to how business works?
"But, I just want to bake" and that would be okay if you just worked there. You wouldn't have to worry about a thing. Not your case though, you own it. You have to have some kind of insight or education or experience to be able to keep it well above water. You can't justify it as not being good with numbers and leave it at that. No idea about marketing or technology either. Like c'mon. Give me something other than you know how to make sugar treats.
Another thing that's bugging me are her insecurities. Yes, her ex was an ass who strung her along, but why are you out here thinking that you will never meet someone else or fall in love or have a real engagement or a ring? That is so pathetic, especially when she voices those out to Dex. Like wtf? And then you lost your mind because he offered his help with your business after everything he put you through and bought you a dress for an event he sprung on you last minute?
Be ffr
Why are you selling yourself short especially in front of a guy who you've met for a whole minute and he's not even remotely likable?
I deeply hate the notion of having one bad experience or seeing one relationship go south (be it by choice or death) and making that the backbone of every belief moving forward. Even if it's your parent's relationship wdym that is why I will never marry, date or fall in love??? Ugh
That whole story at the end was so fucking stupid it was laughable and little Junie bug was extremely irresponsible and careless.
You're telling me you took down organized crime just like that? In one chapter? Lmao
Nahhhhh
And why does he speak so ill of her?
Oh, I would never choose her willingly.
Oh, I wouldn't help her if she was on the side of the road.
Oh, I wouldn't take her home to my parents.
Oh, she's not attractive.
Loser
He's such a man child throwing temper tantrums when things don't go his way.
Now I know Junie not swimming in money, but seriously? Holes in her sweater? Unbrushed hair? Living in that dump, messy apartment? Taking her business under? How does that even happen? You've known for a long time that you will inherit it, how are you so clueless as to how business works?
"But, I just want to bake" and that would be okay if you just worked there. You wouldn't have to worry about a thing. Not your case though, you own it. You have to have some kind of insight or education or experience to be able to keep it well above water. You can't justify it as not being good with numbers and leave it at that. No idea about marketing or technology either. Like c'mon. Give me something other than you know how to make sugar treats.
Another thing that's bugging me are her insecurities. Yes, her ex was an ass who strung her along, but why are you out here thinking that you will never meet someone else or fall in love or have a real engagement or a ring? That is so pathetic, especially when she voices those out to Dex. Like wtf? And then you lost your mind because he offered his help with your business after everything he put you through and bought you a dress for an event he sprung on you last minute?
Be ffr
Why are you selling yourself short especially in front of a guy who you've met for a whole minute and he's not even remotely likable?
I deeply hate the notion of having one bad experience or seeing one relationship go south (be it by choice or death) and making that the backbone of every belief moving forward. Even if it's your parent's relationship wdym that is why I will never marry, date or fall in love??? Ugh
That whole story at the end was so fucking stupid it was laughable and little Junie bug was extremely irresponsible and careless.
You're telling me you took down organized crime just like that? In one chapter? Lmao
June 30, 2024
Hard read
I tried to give this book a chance. I sort of made it to the end, but with a lot of skipping. I've read a lot of other books by Nicole and have enjoyed those, but this one sadly was a hard no. I don't often give reviews, I give stars because generally it's that simple but I had to say something.
We have the grump businessman, Dexter, who starts out as a real jerk. His brothers are equally, if not bigger jerks. He's trying to close a deal with a guy he hates and is suspicious of criminal activity. He involves a complete stranger who is a struggling bakery owner, Juniper, in his deal. This could've been a cute story with some fun/funny moments, but it's not. Juniper is supposed to be the sunshine character, but I never got that from her. I guess she was supposed to come off sassy. She just came off bitter with a chip on her shoulder because her ex broke her heart, and she had a bakery that used to be successful when her grandmother ran it. It gets even more difficult to read because all of a sudden, Dexter is sweet and affectionate, and Juniper becomes this super insecure whiny person who beyond stubbornly throws herself into danger. Then, when she gets called on it, she doubles down, plays victim, and throws a tantrum expecting to be coddled by her grandmother. Neither one of these characters had friends to pull their heads out of their... The only characters I liked were the mother and grandmother. Sadly, they just floated around the edges of the story. There were things thrown in the story that seemed like filler and other things that were completely unbelievable. I get what the author was trying to convey in the story, I just wish this was written better.
I tried to give this book a chance. I sort of made it to the end, but with a lot of skipping. I've read a lot of other books by Nicole and have enjoyed those, but this one sadly was a hard no. I don't often give reviews, I give stars because generally it's that simple but I had to say something.
We have the grump businessman, Dexter, who starts out as a real jerk. His brothers are equally, if not bigger jerks. He's trying to close a deal with a guy he hates and is suspicious of criminal activity. He involves a complete stranger who is a struggling bakery owner, Juniper, in his deal. This could've been a cute story with some fun/funny moments, but it's not. Juniper is supposed to be the sunshine character, but I never got that from her. I guess she was supposed to come off sassy. She just came off bitter with a chip on her shoulder because her ex broke her heart, and she had a bakery that used to be successful when her grandmother ran it. It gets even more difficult to read because all of a sudden, Dexter is sweet and affectionate, and Juniper becomes this super insecure whiny person who beyond stubbornly throws herself into danger. Then, when she gets called on it, she doubles down, plays victim, and throws a tantrum expecting to be coddled by her grandmother. Neither one of these characters had friends to pull their heads out of their... The only characters I liked were the mother and grandmother. Sadly, they just floated around the edges of the story. There were things thrown in the story that seemed like filler and other things that were completely unbelievable. I get what the author was trying to convey in the story, I just wish this was written better.
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