The Counterfeit Billionaire

Scandals of the Bad Boy Billionaires #10

by Ivy Layne

I have everything I ever wanted. Now I want the only thing I can’t have. Annabelle. CHASE I've been on my own since my parents kicked me out. I made my first million at twenty and never looked back. Then I found out I was the long, lost son of the wealthy and powerful Winters family. Their name means fame, fortune, power. F**k that. Blood doesn’t make a bond The Winters might be glad they’ve found me, but they need to understand one I was never lost. Until now. When a mix-up leaves me homeless, I find myself living in Winters House. It's too close. Too much. Too in my face. The little café down the street is the perfect escape. Perfect coffee. Amazing brownies. And Annabelle. She has a smile like sunlight, enough energy to fuel an army, and I can’t get her out of my head. I want everything from her. Her heart. Her body. My life is upside down, and Annabelle is the only thing that makes sense. ANNABELLE My divorce shattered my bank account and my confidence in equal measure. But my café is thriving and I’ve almost saved enough to buy my own place. I finally have my life on track. The last thing I need is a distraction. Especially one as gorgeous, confident, and charming as Chase Westbrook. I know men like him. They’re sweet and seductive, right up until they rip out your heart. Our flirtation started off innocent enough, but as each day passes I’m afraid I’ll do the one thing I know will destroy me. Fall in love with Chase. The Counterfeit Billionaire is a standalone romance with a happy ending. It’s part of The Winters Saga and reveals more about the notorious Winters family. You can read it on its own, everything you need to know is explained, but once you get a taste you'll want to read the others ;} *The Winters Saga was originally published with the series title Scandals of the Bad Boy Billionaires

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Suspense, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook, Billionaires, Fiction

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2024

About the author

Ivy Layne has had her nose stuck in a book since she first learned to decipher the English language. Sometime in her early teens, she stumbled across her first Romance, and the die was cast. Though she pretended to pay attention to her creative writing professors, she dreamed of writing steamy romance instead of literary fiction. These days, she’s neck deep in alpha heroes and the smart, sexy women who love them.

Married to her very own alpha hero (who rubs her back after a long day of typing, but also leaves his socks on the floor). Ivy lives in the mountains of North Carolina where she and her other half are having a blast raising two energetic little boys. Aside from her family, Ivy’s greatest loves are coffee and chocolate, preferably together.

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Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a little slow for me but it was an over all good read

[Anne Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgiving Love

I loved this book it kept me glued from start to finish. I had not read the rest of the Winter family series before reading this book but it did not detract at all so can be read as stand alone.
A beautifully written storyline with great characters. This being Chase and Annabelle’s story. They both have dark issues to contend with from the past but will Annabelle relent and let Chase in?
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy.

[Nanc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chase and Annabelle’s story was beautiful. This was a very enjoyable read that included many of characters from previous stories, so the reader was able to catchup on their current lives along with Chase and Annabelle’s entertaining tale. I’m not one to give spoilers so I’ll just conclude that this was a lovely read with bits of romance, drama, and sexiness.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars...good story but lacking the spice in the beginning stories of the series. Characters and plot were well developed and I was able to understand and feel for the characters.

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chase & Annabelle. Honestly, I wasn’t thinking I’d like this book. We only met Chase in the previous book and while Annabelle’s cafe was mentioned before, we didn’t really meet her. Not having been invested in these two characters, I thought I wouldn’t be able to get into it but I was wrong. I had a very hard time putting this one down too.

Having previously being married to some controlling douche, she was fun shy about dating. More like, she didn’t have time to date working from 4 am until like 9 pm. He was insta-drawn to her when he first met her. He asked her out but she said no. He kept coming around to her cafe and slowly wore her down.

He asked her to be his date to Jacob and Abigail’s wedding. They left a bit early and she gives in and has sex with him. The next morning she realizes they slept in too late and was planning on going to her room to get ready for the wedding breakfast. He wakes up and sees her dressed and leaving. Insecure, he accuses her of sneaking out (he had been chasing her for a while and believed she didn’t care for him more than a one night stand). He’s got a romantic way of words where he treats her like they were a one night stand. He is shocked to find out that she was so upset (he really didn’t think he was at fault but like a lot of men, he misread the situation and lashed out).

Realizing he screwed up he tries to get her back. After her 2 employees jump ship he volunteers to help her with the cafe. Nothing like some free labor to heal a girl’s broken heart. Well eventually it ended up working. His house is a few blocks from her cafe and was recently remodeled. Part of the remodel, he had a high end designer kitchen, for her. Now that isn’t weird, when a guy you’ve only know a couple of weeks tells you that he designed his house having envisioned her there. She gets a tour of the bedroom and his D was so magical, all is forgiven.

I really liked Chase and Annabelle’s chemistry. I love the tough hardworking boss bitch that owns her own business.

[Kim Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very nice way to end the series. I can honestly say it ended at the proper time and I can’t see anything else being added to this world that would need to be continued. The only thing is to learn about the Sinclair’s and I’m happy they have their own story but the fact that they aren’t a part of this specific series makes it brand new and on their own. I will be reading about them after a handful of books I want to catch up on that came out this month. In the meantime, we don’t finish on a super high note, but enough that I can say it was good and kept my interest. Chase didn’t have the resentment and trust issues I thought he would have and that in itself was a blessing. I thought he would be complaining the whole time and be wary about his half cousins and siblings. He was, but they grew on him and eventually he accepted himself as part of the family. This is what Chase struggled with a good portion of the book and Annabelle helped him accept his extended family and convinced him that there isn’t anything he should be worried about with them. He connected with her because they were both outsiders of the family but yet they were a big part of the Winters Family close circle and while Annabelle didn’t struggle with that aspect, Chase did. He kept feeling like he didn’t belong and shouldn’t even be there and like he was just inserting himself into their everyday life. In a way, it was kind of like an identity crisis that he struggled to handle. He’s on his own and then all of a sudden he has all the support and extra family members he didn’t grow up with. With all the secrets out in the open, Chase didn’t know how he should take it. He didn’t know if he should be upset, relieved or disappointed of his circumstances. He had a lot of confusing feelings about everything and Annabelle helped talk him through it. He felt like he could relate to her because she was also on the outside looking in but yet was a big part of the Winters Family. Why this earned a 4 in my opinion is because I felt like Annabelle and Chase fell in love too quickly. It just seemed like she was hesitant and protective of herself and her heart most of the book and didn’t entertain the idea of her and Chase getting together. Her trust issues and constant push back with him got annoying after a while. I tried to be understanding but I couldn’t do it. I sympathized with her, but I didn’t understand her. It felt like the book was one big waiting game. Then, when Chase and Annabelle finally get together, there’s a misunderstanding and suddenly Chase is back to stage one where he’s trying to win her trust and get her to take a chance on him. The book was basically Chase pining after her and it was a bit slow paced for me, even though I read it in 1-2 days. Then finally Annabelle gives Chase a chance and it just felt like a sudden change in her demeanor. It isn’t that the book dragged, it’s just the heroine and hero took all this time that felt quick at the same time. I feel like Annabelle and Chase didn’t really get to know each other and all of a sudden love happens. It’s hard to explain but if you have patience it’s a good read.

[Terri Pietrowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chase Westbrook, is adopted and found out while looking through his parents file cabinet trying to find his birth certificate, not only is he adopted, but his baby sister Violet too. At age 18 after being kicked out of his parents house and moving to Atlanta did he find out who his real parents are, Anne Winter and William Davis. The Winter kids knew about him and have been looking for him ever since they found a box with papers and thing in the attic about him. Now Chase is living in the Winter house with his sister Violet and half brother, his wife and his cousin, waiting for his house to be renovated. When he needs to escape the Winters, Chase heads to Annabelle Cafe', owned and operated by the beautiful Annabelle Wood and from the very sight he was smitten.
Annabelle has been friends with the Winters kids since she was nine years old and growing up with the entire family. But Annabelle was hurt very badly by her ex-husband and has put all her time and energy into her cafe's.
This is about two lonely people who have been hurt by people that they loved and trusted, Annebelle her husband who lied and cheated and tell her it is her faults he did all those things, and Chase by his family for lying about his birth parents and making him feel like he was worth nothing. When these two people meet there is such a strong chemistry, that will heal their broken hearts.
I love this series and I hate to see it end. It's shows the struggle the WInters children had to over come to keep the two families together and were able to love each other and stay close, but also find love and happiness from a tragic events in their lives.
I am volunteering to leave a review for a ARC of this book.

[Natalie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Counterfeit Billionaire, by Ivy Layne is a 306-page contemporary romance novel and is the tenth book out of a 10-part series (other reviews can be found below). It is written from a first-person POV, two-sided.

Ivy Layne is an author who generally writes dirty, dirty sex scenes. So if you're someone who is looking for some dirty read (which there is nothing wrong with that) this is the book for you. I will warn you ahead of time if you are reading this series, this book in particular had A LOT of sex.

Spoilers Ahead ***

This book feels sort of meh after the first nine since the big theme was wrapped up in book eight. The intent was supposed to show Chase getting his happy ending as well as how he integrates into the Winters family since he is technically the bastard/castoff.

This book had the same solid writing, but I do wish there was a bit more tension and acceptance being shown between Chase and the Winters kids, especially if you read all of the other nine books. However, I can see that being difficult since the intent is for the books to read more like standalones. Chase and Annabelle were the ones who got together, and I know this sounds terrible, but I almost wish it was a new person. Chase and Annabelle didn't have the same kind of spark and excitement as the others did. Maybe it's because it was a Friends-to-Lovers trope, but it just felt tepid compared to the other books. That's not a bad thing, just not what you may hope for if you've read the other nine books.


Overall, still a good read and I'm happy that they got their happily ever after.

In summary, I give this a 3 out of 5.

[Sherill · Rating 5 out of 5]

PERFECT FIT PASSIONATE ROMANCE

THE COUNTERFEIT BILLIONAIRE IS STEAMY AND FULL OF PASSION. I waited for this story with bated breath and was not disappointed. From the moment I started reading, I did not stop until the end. Inside; a cast of praiseworthy characters, drama, suspense, family love, a bit of action, fabulous dialogue, moments that tug your heart, fantastic vivid scene descriptions, humor, fiery passionate romance and a terrific happily ever after.

Memories of the past plague Annabelle and Chase. Chase needs to come to terms with the fact that he is a Winters' relative. After Annabelle's divorce, her confidence slid away. She does have trust issues with matters of the heart. Owning her cafe gives her peace of mind. Chase is forced to move into the Winters' home until his house is complete. He relishes the tension-free atmosphere at the cafe while working on his new tech project. Chase and Annabelle's friendship spikes but he wants more. Their story has a few hurdles to conquer before the happily ever after.

CAPTIVATING well-written intriguing read. Chase and Annabelle are a perfect fit; loved them together. The backstories fill you in on why the characters are plagued by haunting memories. Message in the story; releasing the past and moving forward is pivotal as is the love of family. I wanted to jump into the cafe and have some of Annabelle's baked goods. Finding this to be a most gratifying read {of my own volition without any stipulations, I reviewed an advanced copy.} Without reservations, I recommend this read.

[Becky Claxon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another good book in this series. If you read the last book in the series, Chase Westbrook is the brother/cousin the Winters family has been looking for that Chase’s mother gave up for adoption. Chase is working at his cousin Aiden’s company on the product that Aiden had bought from someone who cheated Chase. Aiden is in love with Vivian who is Chase’s sister he was brought up with from the family that had adopted them. Charlie is working on a remodel for Chase, but is having some supply problems, so he isn’t able to move in after his condo sold. He moves in to the Winter’s house, but isn’t comfortable there and goes to Annabelle Woods’ cafe to work most nights. Annabelle grew up with the Winter’s family and is best friends with Annalise. She had a bad marriage and does not ever want to date or get close to someone again. Chase is interested in Annabelle and knows he has to go slow with her.

Even though Annabel has been divorced from her husband for three years, he still comes around and gives her a hard time. I liked how Chase protected Annabel against her ex. It was good that Vivian was living at the Winter’s house while Chase was there as she made it easier for Chase to get to know is biological mother’s family. I think the statement in the book, “family is what you make it.” what so much of this book was about. I loved the book, and I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one wonderful series about the Winters Family. In other stories it comes out that Anna Winters had a child out of wedlock and gave him up for adoption. The families have not stop looking for him! This story is about Chase and him being discovered as that lost baby. Violet is Chase’s brother by adoption unknown to them until one day Chase finds the details in the basement of his childhood home. Things don’t go so well for him and he leaves and ups up becoming a very successful businessman. The Winters Family and Chase end up being involved in a shady business deal neither knew until to late but once things get straightened out things go up and down for Chase. I enjoyed how everyone let Chase become a part of their crazy family on his own terms. One day he meets a family friend Annabelle and they have a great friendship that turns into more and then a simple misunderstanding occurs do things unravel quickly. Annabelle has the protection of the Winters family and Chase is trying to find a way to apologize and make things right between them. Annabelle has come from a very bad relationship and has a hard time trusting others and against her better judgement she gives in to what she wants, Chase. Can they ever find a way back to one another or will she let her past keep her from finding happiness? I enjoyed reading about the Sinclair’s and Winter’s. I am looking forward to reading Axel’s story, Unraveled! I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Asian Chef · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I have been a big fan of the Winters and the Sinclair’s families...From The Alpha Billionaire Club to the Scandals of the Bad Boy Billionaires. They all have interesting stories to tell. This once’s Chase’s story and I’m a little sad that this looks like it is coming to an end.
I love Chase’s character from the very start. I admire how he works hard and not ashamed to lend a helping hand when needed. I love how he’s protective of Vivi and how he adores her. Any older brother that protects his younger sibling is a bonus brownie points! She was his everything until Annabelle. I admired Annabelle’s personality. She’s strong willed and determined to what she wants in her life. She sets up her goals and kept her eyes to the price...of succeeding in her business and to keep thriving each day until Chase. Their characters complimented each other and their chemistry is off the charts. I like how their love for each other developed and blossomed in the most beautiful way. Chase was very patient with her knowing of her past, he was very careful, sweet and protective of her and was truly a gentleman. It was a slow-burn kind of romance and I enjoyed every chapter of it.
Ivy did a great job in writing Chase and Annabelle’s story unique from the rest of the family. I also love the powerhouse cast showing up between chapters.
Overall I give this book 5 stars!
Ivy Layne did it again!

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Finale

Chase Westbrook was the illegitimate son of the relationship between Anna Winters and William Davis, prior to her falling in love with and marrying James Winters. Anna struggled with her decision, but ultimately decided to give Chase up for adoption. He was then privately adopted by the same parents who later adopted his younger sister, Violet, who eventually became Aiden's wife. Although initially Chase had very mixed feelings about becoming a part of the Winters family, he has warmed to them and his relationship with his siblings and cousins has been realized.

From the first time he entered her coffee house, Chase was attracted to Annabelle. Having become Annalise Winters best friend when they were both young schoolgirls, Annabelle grew up with all the Winters and Sinclair kids and is one of the family. After an unsuccessful marriage, that went downhill very quickly, due to her husband's selfishness, intransigence, and the psychological abuse he regularly heaped on her, Annabelle is completely gun shy and refuses all efforts by men to date her. But, by sheer perseverance, Chase breaks Annabelle down.

Of course, as in all the books in this series, the course of love is not a totally smooth one. Even so, like all the rest, this story is quite enjoyable. It is also the final book in this series. Now on to the Sinclairs

[Magali · Rating 4 out of 5]

sweet but simple
I hadn't read the previous books in the series, so I had a spoiler of all the characters in the Winter family, how Chase's character found himself there, as half brother born to a mad father who murdered his mother, stepfather, and others for revenge. Chase was abandoned by his mother before building his new life and he doesn't know if he should thank her for protecting her from his biological father or hating her for abandonment.
He has to live temporarily with his cousins and half-siblings, but he does not feel at home and is going to take refuge in the café of Annabelle, a friend of the Winters who divorced recently and whose situation remains, financially and with her ex-husband who harasses her, quite complicated. Chase and Annabelle are attracted, but she categorically rejects any relationship other than friendly with Chase, even though Chase seems to understand and accept her better than anyone else.
In the end, neither can move forward until he has agreed to leave the past behind.
The story is very well written, sweet, with nice characters but I found it too simple. However, the few reminders of other books have made me want to read them (at least for some characters).
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have been keeping up with the Winters Clan you know that there was a child born of Anna Winters that was given up. They all searched and finally found him, Chase, Violet’s brother (step). Violet and Chase were both adopted. But even though Vivi is comfortable with the Winters due to her relationship with Aiden, Chase still is struggling. Annabelle has struggled to get where she is. She has been friends with the Winters since Annalise and her were kids. When Chase meets Annabelle, he sees the strength in her and wants to know more but she keep him at a distance.

With the Winters story there is always something more going on. Annabelle has as much issues with her past as Chase does. Their story is a sweet one and yes Chase does screw it up, like a man would, but it does come about. I was glad that Chase was able to move forward and I think he got a lot of his resentment for the Winters off his shoulders. The story just flows and leaves you wanting more. And more is what we will get when we get to find out about the Sinclair’s. I remember Axel’s story and wondered when we would ever read about the others. I look forward to reading, “Unraveled.”

[Linda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written slow burn romance with some HOT mixed in
Chase is now a Winters. How did this happen? He’s so opposed to this family b/c their mother/aunt abandoned him at birth to start this outstanding combination of beautiful and bright people with another man. So many circumstances come into play here: crazy biological father, murderer and even losing his startup to one of them!
He meets Annabelle at her Café and he feels something he’s never felt before but he doesn’t know that Annabelle has been married before to a verbally abusive man and she’s “gun shy.” He’ll wait…he’s a patient man. Through her eyes Chase begins to see his new family differently.
This book was FANTASTIC. Loved how in the end it sounded like Chase and Annabelle’s story filled out the Winters’ family saga. There were many times that the author alluded to previous situations among the many characters. Makes the reader want to know more about the “before” stories. Lots of characters got their HEA in this book. I volunteered to review an Advance Reader Copy and so glad I did. I need to read some of these other stories! I’ve already preordered UNTANGLED b/c this was so good.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read this entire series more then 0nce so I was waiting for Chase and I wasn’t disappointed. I am such a fan of Ivy’s and have spent many hours enjoying her books. This basically ties up the Winter’s Clan and I have to admit to some sadness but can not wait to start the next. This story is about Chase and Annabelle. Chase is having difficulty believing that is he thought of as a real Winter’s child by his siblings. Annabelle’s confidence has taken a beating after her divorce. Chase and Annabelle have a few issues to overcome and it takes them a while to trust and believe in each other’s ability to love and to love each other. Chase and Annabelle's story is filled with sweet friendship and eventually love but they have many hurdles to overcome. spikes but he wants more. No one can write a series like this but Ivy. I dare you to read and not wish to be one of them. Ivy writing draws you in and makes you feel as if you are there. I loved it. I voluntarily received an arc copy of this book and, of course, purchased a copy as well.

[Carolyne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the cherry on top of the cake as far as this series was concerned. Although not officially part of the Winters clan, this final book shows how Chase slowly integrates within the family and how he comes to peace with his past through his relationship with Annabelle. Their romance is a slow burn that heals both of their hearts and propels them in a future where their dreams are finally possible. Although Chase was awesome to discover, Annabelle was a sweet surprise that brought a new element of grit to this billionaire family. The Winters family, with their quirks and particularities, stole my heart as I read each story. The Counterfeit Billionaire was just as enthralling with its own share of passion and heartache, and as much as I couldn’t wait to finish, it was bittersweet to finish it! I’m crossing my fingers we’ll revisit some of these characters in the next series centering on the Sinclair boys.

I received a complimentary copy of this book and am reviewing it voluntarily.

[Christina Astorga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and I'm freely reviewing. GAH!!! I love this series so much.

Every single time a new book comes out, I dive right in and I am never disappointed. I have no idea how Ivy is able to pull me in with every book but she does. It is amazing.

In this book, we get Chase and Annabelle. Chase is Violet's sister and the long lost half sibling to Aiden and the other Winters and cousin. If you have not read the other books in the series, that is your loss. Read them, they're great. So, Chase is still coming to terms with his new found family and that he was placed for adoption. Annabelle is a close friend of the family and the Winters all look out for her. Annabelle is fighting her attraction to Chase and fighting her past relationship demons. Chase is determined to show Annabelle not all guys are her ex and doesn't stop.

Seriously, you will not be disappointed with this book.

[Robin M · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Counterfeit Billionaire by Ivy Layne is one terrific book. It is book ten of the Scandals of the Bad Boy Billionaires series. I’ve been waiting for this story ever since Chase was discovered as the long lost sibling. I was not disappointed. This book moved so fluidly through each chapter and situation. Beautifully written with great depth to the characters. The friendship, humor and sizzling chemistry between Chase and Annabelle is exceptional. As always I enjoy catching up with all the other siblings when reading a new book in this series. This is a must read book. I did not put it down until I read the very last sentence. Thank you Ivy for another exciting story of the Winter’s family. I will miss this family but I can’t wait until your next book comes out. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

[Leah Doumousiaris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it. Chase was amazing. He had so much going on in his life his get away was Annabelle Cafe.... mainly for Annabelle. I’m calling it love at first sight. I saw this as another way for him to get closer to his long lost family the Winters. Annabelle was like a sister to Lise, the Winters thought of her as family. And with this Chase accepted them sooner than if Annabelle wasn’t in the picture. Annabelle a divorcée had a hard time of letting go of her fears and accepting Chase which was a little annoying. But I love her devotion to what she’s built and after the verbal abuse from her ex I get it. Chase is a saint to have that kind of patience. I loved how most of the Winters had a part in the story, I still couldn’t tell ya which was my favorite. I loved the all. Vance or Charlie’s sticks out the most but this was a great series and I can’t wait to see what’s next for Ivy

[Tanyanika Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the Winters Saga/Series

I fell in love with the Winters, seeing their struggles.Seeing each of them finding a partner, love. I am glad Aiden’s story was saved for almost last, he needed a women that was strong enough to stand by his side. A woman that would be able to hold her own to all that Aiden encompassed, someone that loved him for him and not all the money and power that he encompassed. Violet was the perfect match for him. It was nice how the Winters were able to find the child that was put up for adoption and accept him. For Chase to finally find the family that he needed and wanted and to be accepted by all of them. I’m going to miss reading about the Winters but look forward to reading about their friends the Sinclair’s. The Winters have made me laugh and cry so many times, I hope the Sinclair’s are packed full. Thanks

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great story involving one of the Winters clan. Like the other books in this series, this story has captivating characters that somehow find love when they least expect it. Both Chase and Annabelle have been hurt in the past and have erected walls to guard their hearts. Chase is in the area to stay close to his beloved adopted sister, who as it happens, is in love with one of his newly found half bothers. Annabelle is the divorced owner of a cafe, and a close friend of Chase’s family, the Winters. Their first meeting hints of mutual attraction, but she is reluctant to let him get close. Chase repeatedly shows up at her cafe and eventually helps her with nightly closings. As they get to know each other, something more than friendship develops. A misunderstanding and hurt feelings nearly sever their relationship. With great care and persistence, Chase sets out to win back her love. This story is truly endearing and well worth the read.

I received a free copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Stephanie Villere · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is The Counterfeit Billionaire, book 10 of The Scandals Of The Bad Boy Billionaires, written by Ivy Layne. Ms Layne always delivers a fully rounded story with all the elements of a great love story, with a little extra mystery and intrigue. Chase Westbrook is the long lost half brother of the Winters family. Annabelle is a close family friend and Chase keeps finding himself in her cafe. When she needs help, he does his best to always be there for her. Their growing friendship is sweet to watch. Will they both decide to give in to the undeniable chemistry? Can she ever trust a man again? I enjoyed getting to spend time in Winters House again and see the rest of the family. It’s nice coming home.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed so much reading this book. Chase is the missing piece of this long harassed family. He is the one who will finally bring closure to this never ending search of the missing son of Anna Winters. He may seem troubled but he’s just wearing a shield to study from afar his new found family. Along his introspective journey and healing he meets Annabelle, the Winters’ longtime friend who owns a café. She also has a rough past behind her back but like Chase she is willing to give a second chance to life. This book is the perfect ending of a series that got my complete attention. The love shared between the characters is unique, in few words it’s that sort of love that envelops you and makes you feel protected. Great couple with a happily ever after.

[Book Catharsis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweeter than Heaven & Hell cake

1. Annabelle had me craving sandwiches and chocolate cake like crazy. My husband had to make a run to the store for me.
2. I drink more coffee than a Gilmore, but somehow wanted MORE. I wanted Annabelle’s amazing coffee.
3. I fell in love with Charlie’s house, but now I’m more in love with Chase’s. Annabelle was right, it’s absolutely perfect.
4. I’m still wondering where the third library compartment is and what is in it. PUT ME OUT OF MY MISERY!
5. Chase and Annabelle’s story was so sweet and it wasn’t just the brownies or the cake. I love these two for each other.
6. Mrs. W and Abel were like a bonus love story.

In conclusion, I loved it

[Jessi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Chase Brooks has known for a long time that he is biologically related to one branch of the Winters family. Now, they know it as well. He's just not quite as... enthusiastic about the connection as they are. He's happy that his sister is marrying one of his half-siblings' cousins (and isn't that convoluted?) but he's even happier hanging out at Annabelle's cafe where he can work and get to know Annabelle. And he is more on the creepy side than not. She says no; he keeps pushing. His family tells him to lay off because of her past; he keeps pushing. It's honestly sort of passive-aggressive (if I hang around for long enough maybe she'll notice and start to love me) and he seduces her when she's drunk -- not a great form of consent there....

[Joan Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story did start out slow. Chase and Annabelle were very good for each other. The relationship started out the way most relationship should, as friends. Annabelle had trust issue due to the way her ex husband treated her towards the end of their marriage. Chase was raised with no love. He and his sister tried hard to please their parents, but no mattert what, it was never good enough. He was raised without love. He also found out he was adopted and his mother was a Winters (read the other books in the series). Annabelle start trusting Chase, but he made a mistake, assuming. After that, she didn't want anything to do with him. In the end, they were able to get past the problems. Annabelle knew no matter what, she could trust Chase and ge was nothing like her first husband.

[Doreen · Rating 5 out of 5]

W

Loved the series!..Definitely, read books in the.order written as they form a continuous time sequence ! Each story is unique since the 8 Winter cousins and siblings are quite unique. Their shared history and tragedies have linked them in a way most families never experience. Their are closely involved in each others lives so , obviously, romantic adventures become a family issue . Lots of pranks, laughter, common memories, and tears make them closer, while bringing partners into the Winters family circle! Great reading experience----I started book.one reading straight through to book 10! What a reading adventure, as family history, secrets, and unexpected surprises unfold!

[Suzanne Normandeau Legault · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is AMAZING! Loved it from beginning to the end. Chase is every woman’s dream come true. He’s soooo attentive to Annabelle’s needs and a very good listener; which by the way is a very strong quality to have to ensure “forever “ relationships along with constant communication. Chase and Annabelle connect on a very deep level from the moment they meet. Annabelle is broken emotionally after a difficult divorce to a very psychological abusive husband who managed to take away her self estime along with her trust in love. But Chase changes all that ....and I definitely recommend you read this book 📖 to find out exactly how he changes Annabelle’s life “forever”.