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The Agreement #1
The Handshake Agreement: An Age Gap, Second Chance Romance
Decisions that haunt,
Love that lingers
Anne
I’m a realist, cynical about falling in love. Until I met Declan - the rich and powerful player. With his quiet determination, he dismantled my cynicism and made me believe.
Before I know it, I’m flashing a radiant smile, dressed, and eagerly awaiting him at the altar.
Only, I got the text - "I'm not coming" – shattering my world.
Regret is a waste of time; I stand by my original convictions.
Years later, he’s back demanding a second chance, how dare he?
Declan
I shook on the agreement without hesitation because I had zero plans to marry for love. Ever.
Years later, Anne crashed into my life. I find myself craving what I thought I didn't need or want.
Unexpectedly, the agreement I made resurfaced, presenting me with a
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
The Handshake agreement is a contemporary an age gap, best friends brother, second chance romance with a Possessive MMC
Love that lingers
Anne
I’m a realist, cynical about falling in love. Until I met Declan - the rich and powerful player. With his quiet determination, he dismantled my cynicism and made me believe.
Before I know it, I’m flashing a radiant smile, dressed, and eagerly awaiting him at the altar.
Only, I got the text - "I'm not coming" – shattering my world.
Regret is a waste of time; I stand by my original convictions.
Years later, he’s back demanding a second chance, how dare he?
Declan
I shook on the agreement without hesitation because I had zero plans to marry for love. Ever.
Years later, Anne crashed into my life. I find myself craving what I thought I didn't need or want.
Unexpectedly, the agreement I made resurfaced, presenting me with a
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
The Handshake agreement is a contemporary an age gap, best friends brother, second chance romance with a Possessive MMC
296 pages, Paperback
Published June 19, 2024
308 people are currently reading
232 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
July 29, 2024
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review. Declan wasn’t looking to marry for love so he made an agreement with his father to marry the right woman as a business arrangement. However he meets Anne and falls for her but his father makes his fulfil his agreement. Years later he meets Anne again and fights to win her back. This book had so much potential but was once again let down by the authors writing style and lack of editing. I really wanted to like this book but kept getting frustrated at the grammar, spelling and sentence structure. Also the author try’s to inject her Nigerian culture into the storyline which can become confusing. Anne was calling Oyin and taiwo and I kept getting confused when she had all these different names. I get that she wants to inject a bit of her culture into the book but she doesn’t have to do it with every book. She did the same in her other book Collide. It’s not something that moves the story along so is unnecessary in my opinion.
January 27, 2025
3.5 stars
The Handshake Agreement is an age gap, second chance romance tale that will have your emotions all over the place. I wasn’t sure how to rate this one as I had mixed emotions about the MCC. He strutted around like he was top dog and not a care with women. He is possessive and defiant but still has to abide by the agreement he made with his father earlier in his adult life? He breaks her heart leaving her at the altar then demands she is hers. I just wanted to slap him all the time which took my focus away from the story.
Anne is younger than him and he promises her the world than leaves her broken hearted. Now after years of heartbreak she has found a wonderful man, only for Declan to show up again and demand she is his. After all this time she moves on, and he threatens to take it all away from her.
If you like second chance romance give it a go you may love it.
The Handshake Agreement is an age gap, second chance romance tale that will have your emotions all over the place. I wasn’t sure how to rate this one as I had mixed emotions about the MCC. He strutted around like he was top dog and not a care with women. He is possessive and defiant but still has to abide by the agreement he made with his father earlier in his adult life? He breaks her heart leaving her at the altar then demands she is hers. I just wanted to slap him all the time which took my focus away from the story.
Anne is younger than him and he promises her the world than leaves her broken hearted. Now after years of heartbreak she has found a wonderful man, only for Declan to show up again and demand she is his. After all this time she moves on, and he threatens to take it all away from her.
If you like second chance romance give it a go you may love it.
June 7, 2024
Possessive Alpha, Age Gap, Broken Engagement, Lots of Twists and Turns
This is a possible Alpha, best friend brother, age gap, romance. We have powerful playboy Declan, he having never been in a relationship agrees to letting his dad arrange a marriage for him. Year later, he meets his little sister’s friend Anne and is immediately smitten. He bids his time while having her watched for 5 years. (Yes, he has her watched). While in college he finally makes his move and they start a world wind affair. After a while, they decide to marry and when they meet to elope he stands her up without warning and with only a text.
The above, even though its the premise of the book, takes you about halfway through the book. The second half is all about Declan trying to get Anne back after having married another woman, having a child, then seeing a video of Anne getting engaged. In fairness he did divorce his wife, and there was a seemingly good reason for leaving Anne with a text message, but the entire story is mostly just frustrating.
This book had a lot of potential, but it is way too long, has too many twists and turns, and is poorly edited. I normally don’t include editing issues in my reviews but this one needs a bit of an overhaul. The story had a lot of potential, but its really hard to like Declan, his possessiveness is almost too much, and Anne, although on the surface seems to have a backbone, caved pretty easily at every turn. I am giving this a 2 star rating but it’s more like a 2.5, if it gets an extensive edit, I would give it a solid 3.5.
This is a possible Alpha, best friend brother, age gap, romance. We have powerful playboy Declan, he having never been in a relationship agrees to letting his dad arrange a marriage for him. Year later, he meets his little sister’s friend Anne and is immediately smitten. He bids his time while having her watched for 5 years. (Yes, he has her watched). While in college he finally makes his move and they start a world wind affair. After a while, they decide to marry and when they meet to elope he stands her up without warning and with only a text.
The above, even though its the premise of the book, takes you about halfway through the book. The second half is all about Declan trying to get Anne back after having married another woman, having a child, then seeing a video of Anne getting engaged. In fairness he did divorce his wife, and there was a seemingly good reason for leaving Anne with a text message, but the entire story is mostly just frustrating.
This book had a lot of potential, but it is way too long, has too many twists and turns, and is poorly edited. I normally don’t include editing issues in my reviews but this one needs a bit of an overhaul. The story had a lot of potential, but its really hard to like Declan, his possessiveness is almost too much, and Anne, although on the surface seems to have a backbone, caved pretty easily at every turn. I am giving this a 2 star rating but it’s more like a 2.5, if it gets an extensive edit, I would give it a solid 3.5.
May 21, 2024
Anne and Declan's story had my emotions tangled up in knots. The engaging storyline takes you on a journey filled with lots of ups, downs and turns. Rich emotions, taut drama, thick tension, lots of raw feelings and some suspense grab you attention and have you fiercely focused as things progress.
October 7, 2024
Not Ready For Primetime
I often hear from independent authors how “unfair” and “unreasonable” and “insensitive” a negative book review is. How it’s “not right” to protest that an unedited book be flagged in Amazon, and how indie authors don’t “deserve” these types of challenges.
Well, Dear Author. You have placed this book up for sale. If this were free, I could dismiss the cosmically terrible spelling, editing, and grammar. Whether or not you had a great story in mind, it doesn’t matter when it’s unreadable. When you replace words and sentence structure with nonsense and misspelling that I can catch on a first pass, you’re telling me that you’ve just allowed these words to flow out of your fingertips because the story was important to YOU, but not important enough to deliver a quality product to people you’ve asked for money.
Even worse, I hate to diminish women of color, WOC authors, and diverse work, because we are criminally underrepresented, but to that end - you don’t deserve a seat at the table by virtue of your identity. You deserve it because you’ve earned it.
I tried, I really did, to get through this story, but walked away at 19%. The spelling and grammar errors are egregious. I rarely report to Amazon but honestly have no choice here.
I often hear from independent authors how “unfair” and “unreasonable” and “insensitive” a negative book review is. How it’s “not right” to protest that an unedited book be flagged in Amazon, and how indie authors don’t “deserve” these types of challenges.
Well, Dear Author. You have placed this book up for sale. If this were free, I could dismiss the cosmically terrible spelling, editing, and grammar. Whether or not you had a great story in mind, it doesn’t matter when it’s unreadable. When you replace words and sentence structure with nonsense and misspelling that I can catch on a first pass, you’re telling me that you’ve just allowed these words to flow out of your fingertips because the story was important to YOU, but not important enough to deliver a quality product to people you’ve asked for money.
Even worse, I hate to diminish women of color, WOC authors, and diverse work, because we are criminally underrepresented, but to that end - you don’t deserve a seat at the table by virtue of your identity. You deserve it because you’ve earned it.
I tried, I really did, to get through this story, but walked away at 19%. The spelling and grammar errors are egregious. I rarely report to Amazon but honestly have no choice here.
May 29, 2024
enjoyed
I enjoyed how the male character never gave up on the female character no matter what. He proved his love time and time again even when he as the only one that could see it.
I enjoyed how the male character never gave up on the female character no matter what. He proved his love time and time again even when he as the only one that could see it.
December 8, 2024
It was really hard to like Declan.
May 21, 2024
What to expect:
❤Age Gap
🔥Second chance
❤Contemporary Romance
🔥Possessive MMC
He promised her the world,
Then, abandoned her at the altar.
Anne
I’m a realist, cynical about falling in love. Until I met Declan - the rich and powerful player. With his quiet determination, he dismantled my cynicism and made me believe.
Before I know it, I’m flashing a radiant smile, dressed, and eagerly awaiting him at the altar.
Only, I got the text - “I’m not coming” – shattering my world.
Regret is a waste of time; I stand by my original convictions.
Years later, he’s back demanding a second chance, how dare he?
Declan
I shook on the agreement without hesitation because I had zero plans to marry for love. Ever.
Years later, Anne crashed into my life. I find myself craving what I thought I didn’t need or want.
Unexpectedly, the agreement I made resurfaced, presenting me with a dilemma:
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
——————————————————————————
This book was quite a roller coaster! The attraction between Anne and Declan was palpable. Declan made an agreement with his father years ago but he wants to get out of it now. He wasn’t allowed to and to protect Anne he married someone else. It was heartbreaking but they get their well deserved HEA!
This book was nicely written. At one point I found the first part a little drawn out; the second part was a lot smoother. The plot twists were good and the ratio of suspense to spice was good. I liked that the FMC was a WOC. It was nice to read about another culture for a change and the use of words in a native language was refreshing!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/ 5
❤Age Gap
🔥Second chance
❤Contemporary Romance
🔥Possessive MMC
He promised her the world,
Then, abandoned her at the altar.
Anne
I’m a realist, cynical about falling in love. Until I met Declan - the rich and powerful player. With his quiet determination, he dismantled my cynicism and made me believe.
Before I know it, I’m flashing a radiant smile, dressed, and eagerly awaiting him at the altar.
Only, I got the text - “I’m not coming” – shattering my world.
Regret is a waste of time; I stand by my original convictions.
Years later, he’s back demanding a second chance, how dare he?
Declan
I shook on the agreement without hesitation because I had zero plans to marry for love. Ever.
Years later, Anne crashed into my life. I find myself craving what I thought I didn’t need or want.
Unexpectedly, the agreement I made resurfaced, presenting me with a dilemma:
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
——————————————————————————
This book was quite a roller coaster! The attraction between Anne and Declan was palpable. Declan made an agreement with his father years ago but he wants to get out of it now. He wasn’t allowed to and to protect Anne he married someone else. It was heartbreaking but they get their well deserved HEA!
This book was nicely written. At one point I found the first part a little drawn out; the second part was a lot smoother. The plot twists were good and the ratio of suspense to spice was good. I liked that the FMC was a WOC. It was nice to read about another culture for a change and the use of words in a native language was refreshing!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️/ 5
May 22, 2024
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🥂TROPES
✨Age Gap
✨ Possessive Alpha
✨Second chance
✨ Sister's Best Friend
✨ Fake Marriage
✨ "I know what to do" vibes MMC
✨ Touch her and Die MMC
♦️TRIGGER WARNING
♦️Panic attack
♦️Abuse (mistakenly during childhood)
Declan, a possessive alpha male with a sexy body falls in love with her sister's best friend. Man who only cooks for her and loves her beyond anything.❤️❤️
Anne, shy yet sexy with don't tell me what to do types personality falls for a man she never thought of.😘💜
I'm in love with this book as Declan has so many good people around him, like people who are always there with him to support him not blood related but can kill anyone for him ❤️❤️❤️
But
He promised her the world,
Then, abandoned her at the altar.🥺🥺
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.😭
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, as far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
I really wanted to rip some people apart when I was reading the book..
Do grab this book and fall in love with Declan ❤️
Spicy - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🥂TROPES
✨Age Gap
✨ Possessive Alpha
✨Second chance
✨ Sister's Best Friend
✨ Fake Marriage
✨ "I know what to do" vibes MMC
✨ Touch her and Die MMC
♦️TRIGGER WARNING
♦️Panic attack
♦️Abuse (mistakenly during childhood)
Declan, a possessive alpha male with a sexy body falls in love with her sister's best friend. Man who only cooks for her and loves her beyond anything.❤️❤️
Anne, shy yet sexy with don't tell me what to do types personality falls for a man she never thought of.😘💜
I'm in love with this book as Declan has so many good people around him, like people who are always there with him to support him not blood related but can kill anyone for him ❤️❤️❤️
But
He promised her the world,
Then, abandoned her at the altar.🥺🥺
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.😭
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, as far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
I really wanted to rip some people apart when I was reading the book..
Do grab this book and fall in love with Declan ❤️
May 22, 2024
Rating - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spicy - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🥂TROPES
✨Age Gap
✨ Possessive Alpha
✨Second chance
✨ Sister's Best Friend
✨ Fake Marriage
✨ "I know what to do" vibes MMC
✨ Touch her and Die MMC
♦️TRIGGER WARNING
♦️Panic attack
♦️Abuse (mistakenly during childhood)
Declan, a possessive alpha male with a sexy body falls in love with her sister's best friend. Man who only cooks for her and loves her beyond anything.❤️❤️
Anne, shy yet sexy with don't tell me what to do types personality falls for a man she never thought of.😘💜
I'm in love with this book as Declan has so many good people around him, like people who are always there with him to support him not blood related but can kill anyone for him ❤️❤️❤️
But
He promised her the world,
Then, abandoned her at the altar.🥺🥺
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.😭
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, as far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
I really wanted to rip some people apart when I was reading the book..
Spicy - 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
🥂TROPES
✨Age Gap
✨ Possessive Alpha
✨Second chance
✨ Sister's Best Friend
✨ Fake Marriage
✨ "I know what to do" vibes MMC
✨ Touch her and Die MMC
♦️TRIGGER WARNING
♦️Panic attack
♦️Abuse (mistakenly during childhood)
Declan, a possessive alpha male with a sexy body falls in love with her sister's best friend. Man who only cooks for her and loves her beyond anything.❤️❤️
Anne, shy yet sexy with don't tell me what to do types personality falls for a man she never thought of.😘💜
I'm in love with this book as Declan has so many good people around him, like people who are always there with him to support him not blood related but can kill anyone for him ❤️❤️❤️
But
He promised her the world,
Then, abandoned her at the altar.🥺🥺
Marry as agreed or
Lose Anne forever.😭
Deal accepted, regardless of hurting Anne.
When I find Anne again, she’s engaged, as far as I’m concerned, she’s still mine.
I’ll cheat, steal, and fight before I let Anne marry another.
All is fair in love and war. And this is war…hope he’s ready to fight?
I really wanted to rip some people apart when I was reading the book..
May 29, 2024
3.5 stars
The Handshake Agreement is an age gap, second chance romance tale that will have your emotions all over the place. I wasn’t sure how to rate this one as I had mixed emotions about the MCC. He strutted around like he was top dog and not a care with women. He is possessive and defiant but still has to abide by the agreement he made with his father earlier in his adult life? He breaks her heart leaving her at the altar then demands she is hers. I just wanted to slap him all the time which took my focus away from the story.
Anne is younger than him and he promises her the world than leaves her broken hearted. Now after years of heartbreak she has found a wonderful man, only for Declan to show up again and demand she is his. After all this time she moves on, and he threatens to take it all away from her.
If you like second chance romance give it a go you may love it.
The Handshake Agreement is an age gap, second chance romance tale that will have your emotions all over the place. I wasn’t sure how to rate this one as I had mixed emotions about the MCC. He strutted around like he was top dog and not a care with women. He is possessive and defiant but still has to abide by the agreement he made with his father earlier in his adult life? He breaks her heart leaving her at the altar then demands she is hers. I just wanted to slap him all the time which took my focus away from the story.
Anne is younger than him and he promises her the world than leaves her broken hearted. Now after years of heartbreak she has found a wonderful man, only for Declan to show up again and demand she is his. After all this time she moves on, and he threatens to take it all away from her.
If you like second chance romance give it a go you may love it.
May 23, 2024
I could not wait to read this book and I was not disappointed I was heartbroken when she was left at the altar but, happy when she moved on. I was on the edge of my seat when he came back. This second chance romance was so so good. I could not have asked for a better story.
May 28, 2024
This was an incredible, emotion filled second chance romance!
Loved the immediate and undeniable chemistry between Declan and Anne. They were truly meant for another; their journey wasn’t easy but they were meant to be.
Declan is a possessive alpha that refuses to lose his second chance with Anne. Although he broke her heart, Anne can’t deny the pull that she feels to Declan. Although their story spans over many years, the love they have for one another remains a constant for one another.
This book is filled with lots of angst and family drama; it has a OTT protective alpha hole MMC exuding a lot of the touch her and die kind of vibes. It is an emotional age gap, second chance romance that has plenty of spice, fantastic plot, and twists you won’t see coming.
Thank you so much to Indie Pen PR and A. Akinosho for the opportunity to read this before it’s release!
Loved the immediate and undeniable chemistry between Declan and Anne. They were truly meant for another; their journey wasn’t easy but they were meant to be.
Declan is a possessive alpha that refuses to lose his second chance with Anne. Although he broke her heart, Anne can’t deny the pull that she feels to Declan. Although their story spans over many years, the love they have for one another remains a constant for one another.
This book is filled with lots of angst and family drama; it has a OTT protective alpha hole MMC exuding a lot of the touch her and die kind of vibes. It is an emotional age gap, second chance romance that has plenty of spice, fantastic plot, and twists you won’t see coming.
Thank you so much to Indie Pen PR and A. Akinosho for the opportunity to read this before it’s release!
May 23, 2024
Yes!Yes!Yes
I genuinely enjoy reading this story. It was hard for me to put it down. I was glad the couple was able to get their happy ending. A must read!!!
I genuinely enjoy reading this story. It was hard for me to put it down. I was glad the couple was able to get their happy ending. A must read!!!
May 25, 2024
What an amazing story about two people who find feelings for each other! Their chemistry is off the charts. The extent of their love is truly beyond measure, yet there are those out to destroy any happiness they have. Loved this story ❤️.
May 25, 2024
This book had age gap, stalkerish vibes and best friend’s brother all over it, which are some of my favorite tropes. The tension, the jealousy, the heartbreak, but happy ending definitely left me on the edge. There was a father in this that I wanted to ki!! And others, especially what happened to the FMC. I very well written book, and I can’t wait to see what happens next in this author’s world. Great job!
May 27, 2024
An enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance, with a second chance theme which kept me happily turning the pages. Anne was rather cynical about falling in love and Declan didn’t plan on marrying for love, until they met and fell in love with each other. However, Anne’s world was shattered with one text from Declan on their wedding day simply saying “I'm not coming.” Unknown to Anne an agreement that Declan made years before he had even met her resurfaced presenting him with a dilemma, ultimately he had no choice but to hurt Anne. Years later and Declan is back in Anne’s life and is demanding that she give him a second chance, but she’s now engaged to another man.
However, having found her again Declan is not about to let her marry someone else, and is determined to do anything to make her give him a second chance. Anne was a very likeable and relatable character, whilst Declan was a more difficult character to like especially as he was a real player at the beginning and slightly arrogant. However, he changes once he falls in love with Anne and the chemistry between them really came across in the story. The storyline had plenty of drama, suspense, angst and of course romance, and along with the plot twists I was hooked from start to finish.
However, having found her again Declan is not about to let her marry someone else, and is determined to do anything to make her give him a second chance. Anne was a very likeable and relatable character, whilst Declan was a more difficult character to like especially as he was a real player at the beginning and slightly arrogant. However, he changes once he falls in love with Anne and the chemistry between them really came across in the story. The storyline had plenty of drama, suspense, angst and of course romance, and along with the plot twists I was hooked from start to finish.
July 11, 2024
What a powerful read this book was, it had me feeling so many different emotions, I wasn't sure if I wanted to laugh or cry or yell at Declan, our main character as I saw the way he interacted with Anne. These characters have so much dimension to them, you feel like you understand everything about them, and then the author throws you a curve ball and introduces new characters who jumble up everything. When Anne and Declan met for the first time, I figured she would be a small character in the book, but boy was I way wrong! She will surprise you through every experience she goes through, and then some. Do not underestimate the power of this woman, because she really does give Declan a run for his money, and then some more besides.
This book was amazing, it has everything you could ever want in a romance book, from intriguing characters to characters that care nothing about anyone but themselves. Do not let the cover fool you, this is no ordinary romance novel, it's got mystery, thrilling action, and family feuds to boot. I could not put this book down once I got started, there were several late nights of reading because just one more chapter...which continued to yet another, I couldn't put it down.
@Brandy Rymer
07/2024
This book was amazing, it has everything you could ever want in a romance book, from intriguing characters to characters that care nothing about anyone but themselves. Do not let the cover fool you, this is no ordinary romance novel, it's got mystery, thrilling action, and family feuds to boot. I could not put this book down once I got started, there were several late nights of reading because just one more chapter...which continued to yet another, I couldn't put it down.
@Brandy Rymer
07/2024
Read
June 26, 2024This book will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat with all of the twists and turns Akinosho throws at you. I really enjoyed Anne and Declan's story and everything they had to go through to eventually get their HEA. Their story has it all…suspense, heartbreak, second-chance, age-gap, alpha touch-her-and-die vibes, etc. I really loved the way Akinosho wrote these two...especially Anne. She isn't your typically "needy" girl who just fawns over Declan because he's her best friends older (and very hot) brother. In fact, she tries extremely hard to avoid him. Anne is just a very well-written character and I appreciate that. Declan is very much an alpha (in all the good ways) with an off standish attitude, but touch-my-girl-and-die outlook when it comes to Anne. I really love the dynamic between the two. The plot line is also very well written and flows nicely. You won't regret picking up this read!
June 23, 2024
Declan was not the type of person who looked to marry anyone. His dad said he would need to marry someone with the right background and work hard to keep their company in the top 1%. He feels that an arranged marriage would suit him fine and has no intention of being committed. He shakes hands with his dad as he takes over the business. Eight years later, Declan has to pick up his younger sister from school. Sara asks if he will give Anne a ride home, too. When he arrives, Sara tells him that Terry pushed Anne into the pool, and she is soaking wet. She tells him not to mention it because she doesn't want Anne to feel embarrassed. He makes eye contact with Anne and feels a spark, but keeps the feeling to himself.
In the car with Sara and Declan, Anne felt a connection whenever she looked into his eyes. She didn't want to fall in love because of what happened to her parents. Her parents loved each other, and her father's death had caused a big life change. Their mother, too depressed to care for them after his death, sent her and her brother to the United States. That night, at Sara’s birthday party, Declan meets Anne in the garden. He shares a tender kiss with Anne before they part ways.
Three years have passed; Anne is now working at a lounge, and Declan has been following her closely. She hadn't realized how much he wanted her since the night of his sister's birthday party. After work, Anne takes the risk of spending a night without obligations to Declan. However, Declan has long-term plans in mind. Likewise, his father hasn’t forgotten their deal from twelve years ago. Anne does not fit into the deal.
This story follows a twisted plot as two people who never wanted to fall in love struggle to fight their feelings. Both viewpoints are clear when switching between Declan and Anne. Just when a happily ever after story seems likely, a sudden plot twist shatters any predictability for this romance novel. The man, who maintains a separate apartment for his flings away from his home, exhibits an obsession with Anne that verges on stalking. Anne's boyfriends could never resist her first kiss. The suspense builds intensity as supporting characters make their feelings known. Add in a sinister power play, and this makes The Handshake Agreement my number one favorite. I wish I could give this amazing book a higher rating than 5 stars.
In the car with Sara and Declan, Anne felt a connection whenever she looked into his eyes. She didn't want to fall in love because of what happened to her parents. Her parents loved each other, and her father's death had caused a big life change. Their mother, too depressed to care for them after his death, sent her and her brother to the United States. That night, at Sara’s birthday party, Declan meets Anne in the garden. He shares a tender kiss with Anne before they part ways.
Three years have passed; Anne is now working at a lounge, and Declan has been following her closely. She hadn't realized how much he wanted her since the night of his sister's birthday party. After work, Anne takes the risk of spending a night without obligations to Declan. However, Declan has long-term plans in mind. Likewise, his father hasn’t forgotten their deal from twelve years ago. Anne does not fit into the deal.
This story follows a twisted plot as two people who never wanted to fall in love struggle to fight their feelings. Both viewpoints are clear when switching between Declan and Anne. Just when a happily ever after story seems likely, a sudden plot twist shatters any predictability for this romance novel. The man, who maintains a separate apartment for his flings away from his home, exhibits an obsession with Anne that verges on stalking. Anne's boyfriends could never resist her first kiss. The suspense builds intensity as supporting characters make their feelings known. Add in a sinister power play, and this makes The Handshake Agreement my number one favorite. I wish I could give this amazing book a higher rating than 5 stars.
July 24, 2024
From the start, The Handshake Agreement is a page turner. If you enjoy romance and forbidden loves, this will keep your attention. I do not read many romance books because (in my opinion) they are almost always alike. This one took me by surprise and I got into it much more than I thought that I would. Declan comes from a world of money and power, and it is all in the palm of his hand...if he accepts his father's deal. Marry the girl of his choosing, and it will all be his. Declan accepts the agreement, asking for 10 years to do what he pleases before the agreement is signed in stone. Eight years later, Declan is picking up his younger sister from school and is asked to take her new friend, Anne, home as well. In the car, their eyes meet in the mirror and he feels a spark, but is determined to ignore it. Anne felt the same spark and connection Declan did, but after her father's death and her mother's depression, she wants no part of love. Three years later, Declan and Anne find themselves crossing paths again. Anne agrees to one night with Declan, no strings attached. As you may have guessed, this is not the fate of the two, and end up falling for each other. Keeping the relationship a secret can only last so long, as Declan's dad has not forgotten the handshake agreement, and still expects his heir to marry sensibly. Now it is time for him to cash in on his part of the arrangement, and marry his bride to be. What will Declan do? Will he choose love over money and expectations, or will he leave Anne and fulfill his prophecy of being the golden child his dad expects? What will become of Anne when Declan pushes her away to marry for money and power? Will they resolve the relationship or find a way to persevere? This age gap romance has a great storyline and was easy to follow and hard to put down. I will be searching out the other books from this author and giving romance another chance!
July 11, 2024
Two very different outlooks on what “love” is. Every time I read one of A. Akinosho’s books I am in a trance until I read The End. Dual perspectives Declan and Anne.
Declan had it all, or at least was ready to step into his “rightful” place to get it all. He had just graduated from college, top of his class and accepted the idea of an arranged marriage. He only had one rule, give him ten years to enjoy his life on his own. Eight years later and he knows big changes will be coming but he isn’t sure yet. Anne, Sara, Declan’s younger sister, is her only friend. Growing up in London she may have imitated some American things and loved watching movies with her friends but to be shipped off to American to live permanently was never on her to do list in life. Unfortunately, life had other plans for her. She has no time or need for love. Declan doesn’t even believe in the idea of love or that it’s even possible for him until the day their eyes met. The day before Sara’s eighteenth birthday there was a chance encounter when Declan picked Sara up from school and Anne was with her. When their eyes met in the rearview mirror, he didn’t even understand the sudden rush he felt but he was determined to “kill” it before it could inevitably fall apart. Years later and suddenly the agreement is a bigger problem than he ever could have imagined.
Is it possible to truly find love when you’re not looking for it? Will Declan and Anne find a way to overcome all and find a way to make it work? This world pulls you in the characters worm into your soul and holds you prisoner until you truly know their story. Declan stands up to his father and Anne accepts the beauty in finding someone. Pain is inevitable in life, but to love and be loved gives it true meaning. This love story is full of twists and turns that leave you rushing through in prayer for a happy ending they both deserve.
Declan had it all, or at least was ready to step into his “rightful” place to get it all. He had just graduated from college, top of his class and accepted the idea of an arranged marriage. He only had one rule, give him ten years to enjoy his life on his own. Eight years later and he knows big changes will be coming but he isn’t sure yet. Anne, Sara, Declan’s younger sister, is her only friend. Growing up in London she may have imitated some American things and loved watching movies with her friends but to be shipped off to American to live permanently was never on her to do list in life. Unfortunately, life had other plans for her. She has no time or need for love. Declan doesn’t even believe in the idea of love or that it’s even possible for him until the day their eyes met. The day before Sara’s eighteenth birthday there was a chance encounter when Declan picked Sara up from school and Anne was with her. When their eyes met in the rearview mirror, he didn’t even understand the sudden rush he felt but he was determined to “kill” it before it could inevitably fall apart. Years later and suddenly the agreement is a bigger problem than he ever could have imagined.
Is it possible to truly find love when you’re not looking for it? Will Declan and Anne find a way to overcome all and find a way to make it work? This world pulls you in the characters worm into your soul and holds you prisoner until you truly know their story. Declan stands up to his father and Anne accepts the beauty in finding someone. Pain is inevitable in life, but to love and be loved gives it true meaning. This love story is full of twists and turns that leave you rushing through in prayer for a happy ending they both deserve.
May 26, 2024
The Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho was so good I didn’t want to put it down. If you like books about possessive MC, age gap, touch her and die, second chance romance then you will love this book.
Declan a playboy wanted to take over his father’s company, so they agreed Declan would marry the woman his father chose in a handshake agreement. Years later he meets Anne one of Sara’s best friends and he knows he’s met the one.
Anne Oyin is a beautiful and strong woman who works hard and can do it on her own. She is close to family especially her twin brother, takes in her best friend’s son after she passes, and her best friend/roommate Yinka. I love Yinka she’s the bff everyone wants.
They are about to get married when his father puts a stop to it immediately telling Declan to stay away from Anne or her life will be in danger. He has to stop all communication with her and she has no idea why. When he find a chance to get back to her he stops at nothing to make that happen and getting vengeance on everyone who came in between them.
I really enjoyed this book and the story. Loved how Declan fell in love with every part of Anne and how Anne didn’t make it easy for Declan putting her foot down when needed. My complaint about this book is the timeline and the ending. You knew time had passed in the book but you were never told how much. Things were happening you thought in real time only to realize that months or years have passed. I just wish the timeline between all of these instances was better established. Other than that I enjoyed this book. I hope to get to read more of Akinosho’s books. Thank you to Passion Author Services and A. Akinosho for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
Declan a playboy wanted to take over his father’s company, so they agreed Declan would marry the woman his father chose in a handshake agreement. Years later he meets Anne one of Sara’s best friends and he knows he’s met the one.
Anne Oyin is a beautiful and strong woman who works hard and can do it on her own. She is close to family especially her twin brother, takes in her best friend’s son after she passes, and her best friend/roommate Yinka. I love Yinka she’s the bff everyone wants.
They are about to get married when his father puts a stop to it immediately telling Declan to stay away from Anne or her life will be in danger. He has to stop all communication with her and she has no idea why. When he find a chance to get back to her he stops at nothing to make that happen and getting vengeance on everyone who came in between them.
I really enjoyed this book and the story. Loved how Declan fell in love with every part of Anne and how Anne didn’t make it easy for Declan putting her foot down when needed. My complaint about this book is the timeline and the ending. You knew time had passed in the book but you were never told how much. Things were happening you thought in real time only to realize that months or years have passed. I just wish the timeline between all of these instances was better established. Other than that I enjoyed this book. I hope to get to read more of Akinosho’s books. Thank you to Passion Author Services and A. Akinosho for this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
May 24, 2024
This second chance romance takes place over a period of approximately 7 to 8 years. It is the story of Anne and Declan.
Declan is the heir to his father’s billion-dollar empire and has been raised to take over. When he is 23 his father tells him that he will marry to benefit the business and the family. He agrees if he has 10 years to “play.”
They first meet when Anne is 18 and he is 28. While he is immediately smitten, he stays away due to her age and that she is a friend of his sister. They meet again when she is around 21 and he is still just as smitten. They start a secret relationship and when they fall in love, he proposes. Then her world comes crashing down. My heart broke for her, and you feel her pain.
I loved Anne as FMC even though I felt she forgave a little too easily. As for Declan I am still on the fence. He is OTT possessive but pushes her away. The constant back and forth of his treatment of her was tiring. When he finally finds Anne again, he is OTT possessive and disrupts her life. While I understand his motives, he never truly apologized.
While this is strictly my personal preference my frustration with him did not detract from my enjoyment of the story. This plot had a lot of twists and turns, and the villain in the story is truly an evil human being.
Anne does get her HEA, but it is rough and complicated road to reach it.
If you like family angst, drama, plot twists and OTT alphahole, I would definitely tell you to give this second chance romance a read.
Declan is the heir to his father’s billion-dollar empire and has been raised to take over. When he is 23 his father tells him that he will marry to benefit the business and the family. He agrees if he has 10 years to “play.”
They first meet when Anne is 18 and he is 28. While he is immediately smitten, he stays away due to her age and that she is a friend of his sister. They meet again when she is around 21 and he is still just as smitten. They start a secret relationship and when they fall in love, he proposes. Then her world comes crashing down. My heart broke for her, and you feel her pain.
I loved Anne as FMC even though I felt she forgave a little too easily. As for Declan I am still on the fence. He is OTT possessive but pushes her away. The constant back and forth of his treatment of her was tiring. When he finally finds Anne again, he is OTT possessive and disrupts her life. While I understand his motives, he never truly apologized.
While this is strictly my personal preference my frustration with him did not detract from my enjoyment of the story. This plot had a lot of twists and turns, and the villain in the story is truly an evil human being.
Anne does get her HEA, but it is rough and complicated road to reach it.
If you like family angst, drama, plot twists and OTT alphahole, I would definitely tell you to give this second chance romance a read.
June 21, 2024
This book was not what I expected. I picked this book based on the cover and title alone. I didn't read the blurb that goes along with it because sometimes I just like to be really surprised by what I am reading. I had this whole scenario envisioned in my head as to what this handshake agreement could be about just based off of the cover. I was so, so, so, wrong. It was even better than what I thought it would be. It has romance and steam, that I personally love. It has second chance romance that is always good but this is a slow burn good. The main characters fall deeply in love and then something happens to turn their worlds upside down. I felt the pain that the characters have when going through this. It was really well written to make sure that the reader can be a bowl full of emotions throughout the book. The FMC, in my eyes forgives a little too easily but it flows well with the book. It was a quick read and a major page turner. The MMC has very alpha type energy and inserts himself into situations with the FMC. There is the push and pull that doesn't feel tedious but spot on for this story. I highly enjoyed it. I might have to pick books based off of titles and covers alone more often. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting a little steam, a push and pull romance, and a little drama.
June 24, 2024
3 1/2 Stars
The Handshake Agreement is a second chance with age gap romance filled with drama, power, greed, romance with definite heat. This was a good story, but I was very torn how I felt about Declan...he was just a bit over the top...controlling...at times a bit much of the being possessive. Overall this was a good story with lots of ups and down, a bit of a rollercoaster of emotions.
Declan is looking for money and power...being on top after graduation his father sets his eyes on Declan becoming like him with the company empire that is built. All Declan wants is to become highly successful and being single not looking for love. When Declan meets one of his sister's friends, Anne, there is instant spark that was undeniable. Anne is new to town and becomes best friends with Sara, Declan's sister. Anne knows she is definitely not looking for love of any sort, but once she meets Declan, the spark is instant. The attraction between Declan and Anne is fierce.. very consuming.....to the point of minutes of being married...but when Declan's dad calls an upon him on an agreement that is made long ago... Declan must break Anne's heart that he promised he would not do. The agreement shakes Declan to the core, but leaving Anne was an ultimate betrayal.
When things start to come to the surface of greed and blackmail...will Declan win back Anne's trust and love....
The Handshake Agreement is a second chance with age gap romance filled with drama, power, greed, romance with definite heat. This was a good story, but I was very torn how I felt about Declan...he was just a bit over the top...controlling...at times a bit much of the being possessive. Overall this was a good story with lots of ups and down, a bit of a rollercoaster of emotions.
Declan is looking for money and power...being on top after graduation his father sets his eyes on Declan becoming like him with the company empire that is built. All Declan wants is to become highly successful and being single not looking for love. When Declan meets one of his sister's friends, Anne, there is instant spark that was undeniable. Anne is new to town and becomes best friends with Sara, Declan's sister. Anne knows she is definitely not looking for love of any sort, but once she meets Declan, the spark is instant. The attraction between Declan and Anne is fierce.. very consuming.....to the point of minutes of being married...but when Declan's dad calls an upon him on an agreement that is made long ago... Declan must break Anne's heart that he promised he would not do. The agreement shakes Declan to the core, but leaving Anne was an ultimate betrayal.
When things start to come to the surface of greed and blackmail...will Declan win back Anne's trust and love....
December 21, 2025
The Handshake Agreement is a contemporary age-gap, second-chance romance that leans heavily into emotional fallout, high relationship stakes, and a possessive, all-in hero energy. Following the story of Anne, who is left off the altar after receiving a blunt “I'm not coming text, and her having to pick up the pieces. But what happens when the runaway groom returns? And even more when he demands a second chance to pick up where they left off?
What works best here is the messy tension. Anne’s cynical after the whole wedding fiasco deservedly so, but there is something about Declan that she can’t seem to turn away from. He brings something alive in her that she has desperately been missing. With his brooding intensity and determination to win her back, there is only so much a girl can take before she gives in. If you are a lover of the powerful, morally grey MMC, with all the possessive alpha energy, while your FMC has to find a way to trust him again, then this is the book for you!
Once I got into this one, I couldn’t put it down. At just under 300 pages, Akinosho provides the reader with just the right amount to keep us hooked throughout the entire book, leaving us wanting so much more. I am so glad I picked up this book and can’t wait to see how the rest of the series unfolds.
What works best here is the messy tension. Anne’s cynical after the whole wedding fiasco deservedly so, but there is something about Declan that she can’t seem to turn away from. He brings something alive in her that she has desperately been missing. With his brooding intensity and determination to win her back, there is only so much a girl can take before she gives in. If you are a lover of the powerful, morally grey MMC, with all the possessive alpha energy, while your FMC has to find a way to trust him again, then this is the book for you!
Once I got into this one, I couldn’t put it down. At just under 300 pages, Akinosho provides the reader with just the right amount to keep us hooked throughout the entire book, leaving us wanting so much more. I am so glad I picked up this book and can’t wait to see how the rest of the series unfolds.
December 23, 2025
Declan has grown up surrounded by money, power, and expectations. His future is basically guaranteed if he agrees to one thing his father demands an arranged marriage. Declan makes a deal to buy himself time, asking for ten years to live however he wants before settling down.
Eight years later, a simple favor changes everything. While picking up his younger sister from school, Declan meets her friend Anne. One look in the rearview mirror and there is an instant spark, but both of them choose to ignore it. Anne has already been burned by life and love, and she wants nothing to do with either.
Years later, fate brings them back together. What starts as one night with no strings quickly turns into something much deeper. The problem is Declan’s past and that deal with his father has not gone anywhere. Keeping their relationship secret only works for so long before reality catches up.
As the deadline on Declan’s deal with his father approaches, he is forced to make a choice between the woman he loves and the future he was raised for. The consequences of that choice are messy, painful, and hard to ignore.
I loved Anne as a character but wasn't so sure about Declan. He was very controlling and full of red flags. He also expected Anne to just forgive everything and jump into his arms like he did nothing wrong. It was unrealistic in my opinion.
Eight years later, a simple favor changes everything. While picking up his younger sister from school, Declan meets her friend Anne. One look in the rearview mirror and there is an instant spark, but both of them choose to ignore it. Anne has already been burned by life and love, and she wants nothing to do with either.
Years later, fate brings them back together. What starts as one night with no strings quickly turns into something much deeper. The problem is Declan’s past and that deal with his father has not gone anywhere. Keeping their relationship secret only works for so long before reality catches up.
As the deadline on Declan’s deal with his father approaches, he is forced to make a choice between the woman he loves and the future he was raised for. The consequences of that choice are messy, painful, and hard to ignore.
I loved Anne as a character but wasn't so sure about Declan. He was very controlling and full of red flags. He also expected Anne to just forgive everything and jump into his arms like he did nothing wrong. It was unrealistic in my opinion.
December 27, 2025
This is the first installment in the Agreement series. It is a contemporary romance that leans heavily into several popular tropes, including age-gap romance, second chances, and the "possessive alpha" male lead. The story follows Anne, a cynical realist who doesn't believe in the fairy-tale version of love—until she meets Declan. Declan is a powerful, wealthy player who manages to break down her walls and convince her to take a chance on a future together. However, their romance hits a brutal wall when Declan abandons Anne at the altar via a text message. Years later, Declan returns, determined to win Anne back. The catch? Anne has moved on and is engaged to someone else. This book is a total page-turner that moves incredibly fast through all the drama. The tension between Anne and Declan is especially steamy and high-voltage, making their chemistry feel intense on every page. As a classic "Alpha" protagonist, Declan treats his pursuit of a second chance like an all-out war, showing he’s willing to do whatever it takes to reclaim the woman he lost. Most of the conflict really comes down to his internal struggle: he’s caught between his family obligations and the greed that comes with them, and his own personal happiness with Anne. If you love a fast-paced romance with a relentless, possessive hero and plenty of emotional fireworks, this is a must-read.
July 8, 2024
I liked this story of Declan and Anne. This is an age gap romance as Declan is about 10 years older than Anne. Declan works at his father’s company and is told that he needs to stop being a player and settle down. Declan says his dad can choose a wife because he doesn’t believe in love, but he wants 10 years. Anne moved to the US from the UK after her dad died and her mom had a breakdown. She is guarded and doesn’t really trust many people, but is one of Declan’s sister’s friends and when their eyes meet during a ride home, they both feel it. They meet one more time at a party and he’s hoping to get her out of his system with a kiss. A few years later he still thinks about Anne often. She is finished with college and they decide to meet up. The book follows their relationships over many years. He is sometimes demanding and overprotective and she is naive but also independent. I struggled a bit with some missing background. Declan often refers to his brothers, but he isn’t talking about his actual brother Julian, it is a group of friends that have known each other and worked together for years. He’s definitely written as an alpha, almost like the mafia or a motorcycle club but he doesn’t ride.
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