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Wolfe Brothers #1
A Package Deal
My return home to my family’s small town hasn’t been easy, but the new contractor I hired—a struggling but strong willed single mom—keeps stripping her clothes off on the job site, which certainly spices things up.
(She swears a spider crawled under her shirt.)
She also divulges she’s scared of her ex and he’s taking her to court for custody of their daughter. I hate to see a woman mistreated, so I step up and marry her so she has a stronger case in front of the judge. Temporarily, of course.
As a retired millionaire, I’ve had my fair share of women use me for my wealth. I’ve given up on finding my happily ever after and I’m okay with it. I just need to find something else to do with the second half of my life.
My new wife, Emmerleigh Slaywright, has spicy comebacks galore, a stubborn streak a mile wide, and the kind of bellow on the job site that can unman even the toughest of workers. Add in her pint-sized daughter, Georgia, who loves the animals on our hobby farm and has me wrapped around her pinkie finger, and I’m not sure why I pushed for the marriage to be fake.
One night, all the tension between us boils over and Em gives up control.
(Only in the bedroom and I’m very okay with it.)
Suddenly she wants the marriage annulled, so she’s not taking advantage of me. Right when I think I want to make this marriage real. She might think she’s looking out for me, but she doesn’t understand that Em and Georgia have become the future I thought I’d never have.
How can I convince her they’re the package deal I want?
A Package Deal is a steamy small town romance between a billionaire hobby farmer and the woman he hires to renovate his mother’s house, complete with a five-year-old scene-stealer, a stable of hilarious farm animal sidekicks, a marriage of convenience, and all the sizzling banter to keep you up at night. After the hero demolishes the heroine's emotional walls, this flirty fixer upper romance ends with a spicy hot and perfectly sweet happily ever after.
(She swears a spider crawled under her shirt.)
She also divulges she’s scared of her ex and he’s taking her to court for custody of their daughter. I hate to see a woman mistreated, so I step up and marry her so she has a stronger case in front of the judge. Temporarily, of course.
As a retired millionaire, I’ve had my fair share of women use me for my wealth. I’ve given up on finding my happily ever after and I’m okay with it. I just need to find something else to do with the second half of my life.
My new wife, Emmerleigh Slaywright, has spicy comebacks galore, a stubborn streak a mile wide, and the kind of bellow on the job site that can unman even the toughest of workers. Add in her pint-sized daughter, Georgia, who loves the animals on our hobby farm and has me wrapped around her pinkie finger, and I’m not sure why I pushed for the marriage to be fake.
One night, all the tension between us boils over and Em gives up control.
(Only in the bedroom and I’m very okay with it.)
Suddenly she wants the marriage annulled, so she’s not taking advantage of me. Right when I think I want to make this marriage real. She might think she’s looking out for me, but she doesn’t understand that Em and Georgia have become the future I thought I’d never have.
How can I convince her they’re the package deal I want?
A Package Deal is a steamy small town romance between a billionaire hobby farmer and the woman he hires to renovate his mother’s house, complete with a five-year-old scene-stealer, a stable of hilarious farm animal sidekicks, a marriage of convenience, and all the sizzling banter to keep you up at night. After the hero demolishes the heroine's emotional walls, this flirty fixer upper romance ends with a spicy hot and perfectly sweet happily ever after.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2024
355 people are currently reading
278 people want to read
About the author
Marika Ray
87 books1,425 followersMarika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
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Drop your email to be notified when each book releases: http://bit.ly/MarikaRayNews
Be sure to add my new releases to your TBR Today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
February 9, 2025
I had to DNF at 46%
The FMC was one of the worse I've ever read. I gave 2 stars for the MMC. She had one bad relationship with her baby daddy and suddenly every man is the devil. Even with that he just abandoned her. No abuse or thievery. She even has 4 older brothers, she knows all men aren't awful. The hero has done nothing but roll out the red carpet for her and her daughter but is continually treated like trash. At this point I am done. There is nothing she can do to become likeable. I want him to dump her immediately. He needs some serious counseling if he thinks he deserves that treatment. A man who has done good all his life.
Author, when you sit down to outline characters you have to ask yourself is this a person someone could love? Heck, even someone to like. Your female character is a horrible person that doesn't have a shred of gratitude.
The FMC was one of the worse I've ever read. I gave 2 stars for the MMC. She had one bad relationship with her baby daddy and suddenly every man is the devil. Even with that he just abandoned her. No abuse or thievery. She even has 4 older brothers, she knows all men aren't awful. The hero has done nothing but roll out the red carpet for her and her daughter but is continually treated like trash. At this point I am done. There is nothing she can do to become likeable. I want him to dump her immediately. He needs some serious counseling if he thinks he deserves that treatment. A man who has done good all his life.
Author, when you sit down to outline characters you have to ask yourself is this a person someone could love? Heck, even someone to like. Your female character is a horrible person that doesn't have a shred of gratitude.
December 2, 2025
Just what I needed! A well-written RomCom that made me smile and swoon all the way through.
September 5, 2024
Loved this new series from Marika Ray. This one is about someone who loves to take care of people and one who cannot open their heart up again to be taken care of. Throw in some new and old familiar faces and you've got a great story that's hard to put down until you finish reading it.
September 4, 2024
What a sweet sweet story. Loved the Warrick just gave and gave of himself which is exactly what Emmerleigh needed. The scenes with him and Georgia were so special. The ending big gesture was great, I am glad it was her not him. Epilogue left me with a smile and tears. Such a beautiful story. Interested to see what the next Wolfe brother will bring.
October 5, 2024
Great writing! That’s what kept me going , but I hated the FMC. She needed therapy and her feelings didn’t really make sense. She made it seem like everyone and all men have let her down all her life so none can be trusted. Then she goes on to say during her relationship with her ex he was sucky throughout, so you saw signs? You weren’t blindsided, so let’s move forward please. It took almost the whole book until she let this man in and it was ridiculous, everything doesn’t have to be a fight to have independence.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
A Package Deal, by Marika Ray, is the first book in the new series, Wolfe Brothers. Fans of the author will recognize the town of Blueball from previous books, so it's a bit like going home again. This is the story of Warrick Wolfe.
Warrick is forty-four years old and the oldest of the Wolfe brothers. He has recently sold his company and is not sure what he wants to do with his life. That all changes when his dying dad asks him, along with his brothers, to move back home within a year. They agree to do it and have come up with a plan...they will each have a house built on the family property of Timberwolfe Farms. Warrick wants to remodel his mom's house first and sends her away on a three week long cruise. When he goes to meet the contractor, he is surprised to learn that the "M" in M Builds is actually a young woman named Emmerleigh.
Emmerleigh is a single mom of a five-year-old girl named Georgia. She has recently moved to Blueball and is trying to make a success of her company, Matriarchy Builds (M Builds for short). She has just been hired for a fairly large job, with the opportunity to earn a $10k bonus if she completes the job within three weeks. This is exactly what she needs to get her business off the ground!
The story that unfolds is definitely swoon worthy, hilarious, and entertaining, to say the least! I fell in love with Warrick... and love the protectiveness he immediately has for Em when he finds out she's dealing with someone from her past. For a man that was a bit lost on what to do with his life, it didn't take long for him to find his purpose...and that is taking care of Em and adorable little Georgia. Don't get me started on Georgia... she steals every scene she's in. Too cute for words! And finally, we have Em...such a strong female character in more ways the one. She is so good with Georgia and has major chemistry with Warrick. However, she was hurt in the past by her ex (Cayden), so she built these walls around herself to protect her heart. Will Warrick be the one person able to break down the walls?
Overall, this is a fantastic story with characters you fall in love with and a little girl who will steal your heart. I love the humor throughout the story. The animals on Timberwolfe Farms also add quite a bit of humor at times, too. There are new characters as well as the old characters from the previous books, which is a bit like going home again. I absolutely loved A Package Deal, and I am looking forward to the upcoming books in the Wolfe Brothers series.
I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
Warrick is forty-four years old and the oldest of the Wolfe brothers. He has recently sold his company and is not sure what he wants to do with his life. That all changes when his dying dad asks him, along with his brothers, to move back home within a year. They agree to do it and have come up with a plan...they will each have a house built on the family property of Timberwolfe Farms. Warrick wants to remodel his mom's house first and sends her away on a three week long cruise. When he goes to meet the contractor, he is surprised to learn that the "M" in M Builds is actually a young woman named Emmerleigh.
Emmerleigh is a single mom of a five-year-old girl named Georgia. She has recently moved to Blueball and is trying to make a success of her company, Matriarchy Builds (M Builds for short). She has just been hired for a fairly large job, with the opportunity to earn a $10k bonus if she completes the job within three weeks. This is exactly what she needs to get her business off the ground!
The story that unfolds is definitely swoon worthy, hilarious, and entertaining, to say the least! I fell in love with Warrick... and love the protectiveness he immediately has for Em when he finds out she's dealing with someone from her past. For a man that was a bit lost on what to do with his life, it didn't take long for him to find his purpose...and that is taking care of Em and adorable little Georgia. Don't get me started on Georgia... she steals every scene she's in. Too cute for words! And finally, we have Em...such a strong female character in more ways the one. She is so good with Georgia and has major chemistry with Warrick. However, she was hurt in the past by her ex (Cayden), so she built these walls around herself to protect her heart. Will Warrick be the one person able to break down the walls?
Overall, this is a fantastic story with characters you fall in love with and a little girl who will steal your heart. I love the humor throughout the story. The animals on Timberwolfe Farms also add quite a bit of humor at times, too. There are new characters as well as the old characters from the previous books, which is a bit like going home again. I absolutely loved A Package Deal, and I am looking forward to the upcoming books in the Wolfe Brothers series.
I received an ARC from the author. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
September 14, 2024
A Package Deal by Marika Ray is book 1 in the Wolfe Brothers series.
Read if you love:
🏡Small-town romance
🧑🧒Single mom
💰Millionaire hero
💍Marriage of convenience
❤️He falls first
👷♀️ Contractor FMC
👰♀️“My wife”
4.75 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
“You’re about to be my wife, and I take care of what’s mine.”
Warrick Wolfe returns to his small town and hires Emmerleigh, a single mom and contractor, to renovate his mom’s house. Emmerleigh’s entire focus is on her 5-year-old daughter, Georgia, after being abandoned by her ex when he found out she was pregnant. Now, her ex is taking her to court, and Warrick, being the helper he is, offers a temporary marriage to strengthen her case.
“He hadn’t even married me for real, and yet he was the most supportive man I’d ever had in my life.”
Warrick, a retired millionaire who had given up on love, finds himself rethinking his future with Em and Georgia. She wants an annulment, believing she’s taking advantage of him, but in reality, he doesn’t want their marriage to be temporary.
Emmerleigh is a fierce mom, a top-notch contractor, and a strong, independent woman. She’s hesitant to open her heart, but with Warrick’s patience and kindness, her walls start to come down. It’s not easy, especially with her ex causing trouble, but Warrick stands by her, never asking for anything in return. His connection with Georgia—whom he affectionately calls “Peaches”—is heart-melting, and his dedication to Em goes above and beyond.
Their chemistry is fantastic. The banter is spot-on, and I loved watching their relationship unfold. Their romance is sweet and touching, but when it comes to spice? Warrick’s dirty talk is perfection!
“This isn’t temporary for me.”
This book was such an enjoyable read—it had me feeling all the emotions and smiling the whole way through. As a fan of small-town romance, this one hit the mark. The found family theme and character growth were beautifully done. If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt romance with a lovable little girl, a strong heroine, and a hero who’s sweet yet dirty in all the right ways, don’t miss this one!
Read if you love:
🏡Small-town romance
🧑🧒Single mom
💰Millionaire hero
💍Marriage of convenience
❤️He falls first
👷♀️ Contractor FMC
👰♀️“My wife”
4.75 ⭐️ | 2 🌶️
“You’re about to be my wife, and I take care of what’s mine.”
Warrick Wolfe returns to his small town and hires Emmerleigh, a single mom and contractor, to renovate his mom’s house. Emmerleigh’s entire focus is on her 5-year-old daughter, Georgia, after being abandoned by her ex when he found out she was pregnant. Now, her ex is taking her to court, and Warrick, being the helper he is, offers a temporary marriage to strengthen her case.
“He hadn’t even married me for real, and yet he was the most supportive man I’d ever had in my life.”
Warrick, a retired millionaire who had given up on love, finds himself rethinking his future with Em and Georgia. She wants an annulment, believing she’s taking advantage of him, but in reality, he doesn’t want their marriage to be temporary.
Emmerleigh is a fierce mom, a top-notch contractor, and a strong, independent woman. She’s hesitant to open her heart, but with Warrick’s patience and kindness, her walls start to come down. It’s not easy, especially with her ex causing trouble, but Warrick stands by her, never asking for anything in return. His connection with Georgia—whom he affectionately calls “Peaches”—is heart-melting, and his dedication to Em goes above and beyond.
Their chemistry is fantastic. The banter is spot-on, and I loved watching their relationship unfold. Their romance is sweet and touching, but when it comes to spice? Warrick’s dirty talk is perfection!
“This isn’t temporary for me.”
This book was such an enjoyable read—it had me feeling all the emotions and smiling the whole way through. As a fan of small-town romance, this one hit the mark. The found family theme and character growth were beautifully done. If you’re in the mood for a heartfelt romance with a lovable little girl, a strong heroine, and a hero who’s sweet yet dirty in all the right ways, don’t miss this one!
August 13, 2024
Love, high walls, and sawdust
This book was so so wonderfully swoony good. I have big ol’ heart eyes after reading it. The sexual banter, the spice, the loving gestures, the tiny child cuteness and the deep emotions all came together to create this big hearted romance that brings together two intense, strong and passionate characters. Warrick and Em (and Georgia) just crawled right into my chest and made themselves at home. I think they might live there now. They are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really just trying to do their best as messy humans trying to protect themselves and the people they love. Warrick is 44 years old and retired wealthy. He moved back to his hometown of Bluebell at the request of his recently deceased father. He is a fixer and a cinnamon roll of a human giver. Emmerleigh is a single mom to 5-year-old Georgia. She owns a construction company and Warrick hires Em’s company to renovate his mother’s house. She is a prickly stubborn powerhouse. While Em is remodeling the house, their relationship changes and expands quickly. Warrick is soon babysitting Georgia when the preschool closes for a few days, then they are temporarily living together when Em is evicted and then they agree to a temporary marriage of convenience when Em’s ex sues her for custody. Things get complicated for the quasi-family fast with big feelings leaking out all over the place making it messy and requiring a bunch of baggage unpacking to go from fake to real. I loved the way Warrick gently, lovingly, and patiently helped Em come out of her self-imposed heart and trust lock down and begin to trust romantic love again. As always with this author, the story was well written and included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and a captivating storyline making the story so hard to put down. I am doing a happy dance that we are back in the town of Blueball.
This book was so so wonderfully swoony good. I have big ol’ heart eyes after reading it. The sexual banter, the spice, the loving gestures, the tiny child cuteness and the deep emotions all came together to create this big hearted romance that brings together two intense, strong and passionate characters. Warrick and Em (and Georgia) just crawled right into my chest and made themselves at home. I think they might live there now. They are portrayed as real, relatable people who have flaws, but are really just trying to do their best as messy humans trying to protect themselves and the people they love. Warrick is 44 years old and retired wealthy. He moved back to his hometown of Bluebell at the request of his recently deceased father. He is a fixer and a cinnamon roll of a human giver. Emmerleigh is a single mom to 5-year-old Georgia. She owns a construction company and Warrick hires Em’s company to renovate his mother’s house. She is a prickly stubborn powerhouse. While Em is remodeling the house, their relationship changes and expands quickly. Warrick is soon babysitting Georgia when the preschool closes for a few days, then they are temporarily living together when Em is evicted and then they agree to a temporary marriage of convenience when Em’s ex sues her for custody. Things get complicated for the quasi-family fast with big feelings leaking out all over the place making it messy and requiring a bunch of baggage unpacking to go from fake to real. I loved the way Warrick gently, lovingly, and patiently helped Em come out of her self-imposed heart and trust lock down and begin to trust romantic love again. As always with this author, the story was well written and included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and a captivating storyline making the story so hard to put down. I am doing a happy dance that we are back in the town of Blueball.
August 25, 2024
“I was going to date my wife and get her to fall for me.”
A Package Deal was an adorable, swoony read that will have you falling head over heels for Warrick, Emmerleigh, and sweet little Georgia. When Warrick and Emmerleigh enter into a marriage of convenience to help Emmerleigh in her custody fight, both expect it to be a business arrangement but the sparks between these two burn too hot to ignore.
“I see you, Emmerleigh, and I see someone stronger than steel with a heart of gold.”
Emmerleigh was fiercely independent and stubborn to a fault. After being hurt by her ex, she trusts no one and is determined to do everything on her own. All Warrick wants is to help lighten her load and to care for her and Georgia, but Em has to confront her feelings from the past and learn to let down her guard enough to trust someone with her heart again.
“You feel the need to help people and it’s beautiful thing.”
Warrick was struggling to find his place in the world after selling his business and moving back home. When he meets Em and Georgia, he’s immediately smitten with Georgia and his feisty new contractor. He works hard to make life easier for Em, but they clash at every turn and she doesn’t make it easy on him. Warrick’s huge heart and persistence is heartwarming and he was absolutely swoony.
“I was going to spoil the hell out of her—according to our terms, of course—until she felt for me what I felt for her. Like she just might be the person I’d spent the first half of my life looking for.”
The banter between Warrick and Em is combative, snarky and full of fire. I loved watching Em let her guard down and begin to soften under Warrick’s tender, loving care. Full of heat, humor, and heart, A Package Deal was a sweet read that will touch your heart and is a great start to a new series.
A Package Deal was an adorable, swoony read that will have you falling head over heels for Warrick, Emmerleigh, and sweet little Georgia. When Warrick and Emmerleigh enter into a marriage of convenience to help Emmerleigh in her custody fight, both expect it to be a business arrangement but the sparks between these two burn too hot to ignore.
“I see you, Emmerleigh, and I see someone stronger than steel with a heart of gold.”
Emmerleigh was fiercely independent and stubborn to a fault. After being hurt by her ex, she trusts no one and is determined to do everything on her own. All Warrick wants is to help lighten her load and to care for her and Georgia, but Em has to confront her feelings from the past and learn to let down her guard enough to trust someone with her heart again.
“You feel the need to help people and it’s beautiful thing.”
Warrick was struggling to find his place in the world after selling his business and moving back home. When he meets Em and Georgia, he’s immediately smitten with Georgia and his feisty new contractor. He works hard to make life easier for Em, but they clash at every turn and she doesn’t make it easy on him. Warrick’s huge heart and persistence is heartwarming and he was absolutely swoony.
“I was going to spoil the hell out of her—according to our terms, of course—until she felt for me what I felt for her. Like she just might be the person I’d spent the first half of my life looking for.”
The banter between Warrick and Em is combative, snarky and full of fire. I loved watching Em let her guard down and begin to soften under Warrick’s tender, loving care. Full of heat, humor, and heart, A Package Deal was a sweet read that will touch your heart and is a great start to a new series.
August 16, 2024
“Yes, it was a marriage backed by a business contract, but she’d still be my wife.”
Warrick Wolfe and Emmerleigh Slaywright are both new to Bluebell in a sense. Warrick grew up in Bluebell but hasn’t been back in years, but now he is granting his father’s final wish and moving back home. Em is a single mom trying to start over in a new town as a contractor.
The two are forced together when Warrick hires Em to remodel his mother’s house and from there the relationship grows. I loved how quickly Warrick went into protective mode around Em and her daughter Georgia. He was clearly excited to have Georgia around.
“Maybe I’d had it wrong all this time. I wasn’t here on this green earth to fall in love and protect a woman. I was here to protect a little human female.”
Em was a stubborn and strong woman. She left a horrible relationship and is struggling to see any guy as different from her ex. However she is prepared to do anything for her daughter even when it means marrying for a stranger for help. Warrick was in an uphill battle with Em but I loved watching him break down all the walls she built.
“Half the time Emmerleigh Slaywright made me want to punch a hole in the drywall just to make her fix it with a scowl on her face, and the other half of the time, I wanted to make this marriage real.”
This was a great start to the Wolfe brothers and I’m so excited for the next Wolfe brother!
Thank you @authormarikaray for the ARC!
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥: “I trust you. Do your worst, Wolfe.”
Warrick Wolfe and Emmerleigh Slaywright are both new to Bluebell in a sense. Warrick grew up in Bluebell but hasn’t been back in years, but now he is granting his father’s final wish and moving back home. Em is a single mom trying to start over in a new town as a contractor.
The two are forced together when Warrick hires Em to remodel his mother’s house and from there the relationship grows. I loved how quickly Warrick went into protective mode around Em and her daughter Georgia. He was clearly excited to have Georgia around.
“Maybe I’d had it wrong all this time. I wasn’t here on this green earth to fall in love and protect a woman. I was here to protect a little human female.”
Em was a stubborn and strong woman. She left a horrible relationship and is struggling to see any guy as different from her ex. However she is prepared to do anything for her daughter even when it means marrying for a stranger for help. Warrick was in an uphill battle with Em but I loved watching him break down all the walls she built.
“Half the time Emmerleigh Slaywright made me want to punch a hole in the drywall just to make her fix it with a scowl on her face, and the other half of the time, I wanted to make this marriage real.”
This was a great start to the Wolfe brothers and I’m so excited for the next Wolfe brother!
Thank you @authormarikaray for the ARC!
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥: “I trust you. Do your worst, Wolfe.”
August 20, 2024
Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this first book in series can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. The author returns to the small town of Blueball for a new series focused on the Wolfe brothers. Book one gives Warrick his happy ending.
Warrick is 44 and retired wealthy when he returns home to assist his mom after his father passes. I absolutely loved this hero. He is kind, generous, protective, delicious, and absolutely everything. When he melted into a puddle for Em’s 5-year-old daughter, I knew my heart was a goner. The relationship he builds with little Georgia is really something special. He falls hard for that little girl while falling for her mom too. Em is a powerhouse. As a female general contractor, she can do anything a man can do but better. She is a force who has a bunch of baggage and walls built high to protect herself from being hurt again. Warrick has his work cut out for him to get past them and cherish her the way he wants to. He woos her romantically and consistently. I loved the heat between them and how willing he was to sacrifice to prove to her that he was different from her past experiences. I love that Em learns to trust again with Warrick. They have a beautiful HEA. I am very excited to read the rest of the series when his brothers get theirs too.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
#CinnamonRollHero #FamilySeries #ForcedProximity #MarriageOfConvenience #SingleMom #SmallTown #ARC
Warrick is 44 and retired wealthy when he returns home to assist his mom after his father passes. I absolutely loved this hero. He is kind, generous, protective, delicious, and absolutely everything. When he melted into a puddle for Em’s 5-year-old daughter, I knew my heart was a goner. The relationship he builds with little Georgia is really something special. He falls hard for that little girl while falling for her mom too. Em is a powerhouse. As a female general contractor, she can do anything a man can do but better. She is a force who has a bunch of baggage and walls built high to protect herself from being hurt again. Warrick has his work cut out for him to get past them and cherish her the way he wants to. He woos her romantically and consistently. I loved the heat between them and how willing he was to sacrifice to prove to her that he was different from her past experiences. I love that Em learns to trust again with Warrick. They have a beautiful HEA. I am very excited to read the rest of the series when his brothers get theirs too.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
#CinnamonRollHero #FamilySeries #ForcedProximity #MarriageOfConvenience #SingleMom #SmallTown #ARC
January 13, 2025
3.75
Ok let’s just get one thing out of the way first. “Emmerleigh” is the dumbest name I have ever heard. It’s like the author thought to themselves, “hmmm, how could I spell the name Emily in a way that’s super annoying and assures that my character is ‘not like all the other girls?’ I know, Emmeleigh!!” And then added an r just to make it dumber. I hate this name. Moving on.
Overall, I found this book delightful. I love a single mom romance, and Warrick (also a dumb name but whatever) was a delightful golden retriever of a man. My main issue was that the premise of the entire relationship is pretty weak. There’s really no reason to believe that a father who signed away his parental rights (which, by the way, is permanent, no takesies backsies, and he couldn’t come back 5 years later to sue for custody but whatever it’s fiction I can suspend my disbelief) would have a chance in hell of winning in court. So the whole “we have to get married to solidify my position in a custody battle” thing just didn’t ring true. And then when he showed up, his motivations for fighting for custody were nonexistent (he’s getting married to a woman he cheats on constantly and he all of a sudden wants the responsibility of a 5-yr-old??), and even better, the conflict is solved in one simple conversation. No court or nuthin.
But once I accepted that the impetus for the relationship just didn’t hold water, I enjoyed the relationship itself. It was sweet, a little steamy, and the kid wasn’t super cutesy wootsy like so many authors write kids. Overall, I enjoyed this read!
Ok let’s just get one thing out of the way first. “Emmerleigh” is the dumbest name I have ever heard. It’s like the author thought to themselves, “hmmm, how could I spell the name Emily in a way that’s super annoying and assures that my character is ‘not like all the other girls?’ I know, Emmeleigh!!” And then added an r just to make it dumber. I hate this name. Moving on.
Overall, I found this book delightful. I love a single mom romance, and Warrick (also a dumb name but whatever) was a delightful golden retriever of a man. My main issue was that the premise of the entire relationship is pretty weak. There’s really no reason to believe that a father who signed away his parental rights (which, by the way, is permanent, no takesies backsies, and he couldn’t come back 5 years later to sue for custody but whatever it’s fiction I can suspend my disbelief) would have a chance in hell of winning in court. So the whole “we have to get married to solidify my position in a custody battle” thing just didn’t ring true. And then when he showed up, his motivations for fighting for custody were nonexistent (he’s getting married to a woman he cheats on constantly and he all of a sudden wants the responsibility of a 5-yr-old??), and even better, the conflict is solved in one simple conversation. No court or nuthin.
But once I accepted that the impetus for the relationship just didn’t hold water, I enjoyed the relationship itself. It was sweet, a little steamy, and the kid wasn’t super cutesy wootsy like so many authors write kids. Overall, I enjoyed this read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2024
"I see you, Emmerleigh, and I see someone stronger than steel with a heart of gold. You don't show anyone your soft side, except for Georgia, and that's a shame for the rest of us."
It is no secret that Ms. Ray is my go-to for RomCom goodness. Naturally I was excited when she announced this new series but let me just say after finishing this book....I think this is going to be her best series yet. If Warrick, Emmerleigh, Georgia, Pip, and the hobby farm animals are anything to go by then her readers are in for some story telling gold!
Warrick and Emmerleigh were so much fun to read. She is this tiny but mighty contractor (I am assuming in her 20s) and he is a newly retired 44 year old that doesn't know what to do with his life now. Having just moved back to Blueball after his father's passing he is kind of lost. Enter the hiring of Emmerleigh to be the contractor on the remodel of his mother's house and his life now has purpose. That purpose being Em and Georgia!
My heart melted at the instant love Warrick has for Georgia. This single man who has never had kids is a natural with her. His heart is bigger than the Grinch's when it grew two sizes too big. The man is a giver and never a taker and giving Em all that she deserves becomes his forte. She is a stubborn one though and is too used to being the one taking care of everything.
Both of these characters grew over throughout the story. Em learns she actually cannot continue to have the weight of her world on her shoulders and that it is ok to let others in to love and ease her burdens. Warrick learns he cannot control every situation (even when he isn't purposely trying to) and communication is key in a marriage.
All the aspects that make a Marika Ray a story are present in this as well. The loveable ladies from her Blueball Band of Brothers series make appearances. She gives us loveable characters (human and animal...Bessie...need I say more). I cannot wait to see what is in store for Warrick's two brothers once they return home as well.
It is no secret that Ms. Ray is my go-to for RomCom goodness. Naturally I was excited when she announced this new series but let me just say after finishing this book....I think this is going to be her best series yet. If Warrick, Emmerleigh, Georgia, Pip, and the hobby farm animals are anything to go by then her readers are in for some story telling gold!
Warrick and Emmerleigh were so much fun to read. She is this tiny but mighty contractor (I am assuming in her 20s) and he is a newly retired 44 year old that doesn't know what to do with his life now. Having just moved back to Blueball after his father's passing he is kind of lost. Enter the hiring of Emmerleigh to be the contractor on the remodel of his mother's house and his life now has purpose. That purpose being Em and Georgia!
My heart melted at the instant love Warrick has for Georgia. This single man who has never had kids is a natural with her. His heart is bigger than the Grinch's when it grew two sizes too big. The man is a giver and never a taker and giving Em all that she deserves becomes his forte. She is a stubborn one though and is too used to being the one taking care of everything.
Both of these characters grew over throughout the story. Em learns she actually cannot continue to have the weight of her world on her shoulders and that it is ok to let others in to love and ease her burdens. Warrick learns he cannot control every situation (even when he isn't purposely trying to) and communication is key in a marriage.
All the aspects that make a Marika Ray a story are present in this as well. The loveable ladies from her Blueball Band of Brothers series make appearances. She gives us loveable characters (human and animal...Bessie...need I say more). I cannot wait to see what is in store for Warrick's two brothers once they return home as well.
August 29, 2024
A Package Deal - Wolfe Brothers Book 1 ) Tropes 💜Small Town , 💜Billionaire 💜Marriage Of Convenience and all the feels . Ok so let me just start off by saying how much I absolutely adore Marika Rays writing- I can honestly say there has never been a book or series I’ve read by her that I have not to adored so freaking much . A Package Deal is the first in a brand new series and we start off with Warricks journey - he the oldest of the brothers at 44yrs old but none the less swoonworthy and I do have to say I just might be equal parts in love and obsessed with him . And then we have Emmerleigh our heroine and kicl@ss single mom of a five year old little girl . From the second Warwick sets his eyes on her he’s smitten amd completely intrigued. The way he’s there for her and her little girl when he finds out some of the things she’s dealing with is such a beautiful thing especially since he’s going through his own struggles in life . I don’t want to give to much away because trust me when I say you’ll want to experience it all for yourself . All I can say is that I really feel like I was just taken on the ride of my life , because what an emotional rollercoaster this amazing book was and is . I cannot remember the last time I smiled, laughed , cried and rooted so freaking hard all at once like I did while reading Warrick and Em’s story . Not sure what it was exactly but I just felt such a pull to both it was impossible not to fall hook line and sinker in love
August 31, 2024
A New Series – New amazing characters!
Just when I think I’ve read the best series by Ms. Ray, she comes out with A Package Deal, Book 1 in the new Wolfe Brothers Series.
A Package Deal is a small-town romance at its finest.
Warrick returns to the family hobby farm to honor his father’s dying wish for him and his brothers to return to their hometown of Blueball. He finds himself without a clue about his purpose since he sold his company and retired.
Emmerleigh is a strongly independent single mom who owns her own construction company. She is new to Blueball, trying to find a new start away from her ex.
Warrick agrees to help Emmerleigh, who is in a custody battle with her ex. They enter into a marriage of convenience, strictly as a business transaction. Emmerleigh has no interest in risking her heart again, but it quickly becomes Warrick’s mission to change her mind and convince her that she and Georgia are the package deal he wants.
The evolution of the relationship between Warrick, Emmerleigh and Little Georgia is perfection. The way Georgia has Warrick wrapped around her little finger is priceless. They come together to create one of my favorite families.
As is typical of her books, A Package Deal is full of love, steam, humor and unique characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great romance.
I truly look forward to the other Wolfe brothers’ stories.
Just when I think I’ve read the best series by Ms. Ray, she comes out with A Package Deal, Book 1 in the new Wolfe Brothers Series.
A Package Deal is a small-town romance at its finest.
Warrick returns to the family hobby farm to honor his father’s dying wish for him and his brothers to return to their hometown of Blueball. He finds himself without a clue about his purpose since he sold his company and retired.
Emmerleigh is a strongly independent single mom who owns her own construction company. She is new to Blueball, trying to find a new start away from her ex.
Warrick agrees to help Emmerleigh, who is in a custody battle with her ex. They enter into a marriage of convenience, strictly as a business transaction. Emmerleigh has no interest in risking her heart again, but it quickly becomes Warrick’s mission to change her mind and convince her that she and Georgia are the package deal he wants.
The evolution of the relationship between Warrick, Emmerleigh and Little Georgia is perfection. The way Georgia has Warrick wrapped around her little finger is priceless. They come together to create one of my favorite families.
As is typical of her books, A Package Deal is full of love, steam, humor and unique characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a great romance.
I truly look forward to the other Wolfe brothers’ stories.
August 30, 2024
“Ears shouldn’t be cute, but Em’s were. Was this middle age?”
Warrick is back in his hometown and the first thing on his list is fixing his mother’s house. He hires Emmerleigh, a single mom that has the most adorable daughter, Georgia. Instantly he felt very protective of Em and Georgia.
Things with Em’s ex is complicated and when said ex tried to get custody of Georgia out of nowhere, Warrick did the only thing he can do to help, ask Em to marry him.
Now they’re living together and it’s getting harder and harder to ignore the attraction between them. Warrick has fallen in love with both Em and Georgia but Em is a little wary because of her past. Can Warrick convince her that what they have is real and she wants both of them in his life?
First of all Georgia is the cutest ever! Goat-dogs? Adorable! Can’t blame Warrick for falling in love with this little girl. Seeing Warrick so sweet around Georgia is just heartwarming. Emmerleigh might have built a brick wall around her heart but she didn’t a chance on how much determined Warrick is to show her what she truly deserves. We all deserve a Warrick in our lives, Em and Georgia surely did! Their journey to their happy ever after was full of bumps but definitely worth it. Get ready to fall in love with Georgia cuteness, swoon from Warrick’s sweet ways and cheer on Em as she overcomes her fears.
This may be a new series, the Wolfe brothers but since it’s set in Blueball, we get to see some of our favorite Blueball residents!
Warrick is back in his hometown and the first thing on his list is fixing his mother’s house. He hires Emmerleigh, a single mom that has the most adorable daughter, Georgia. Instantly he felt very protective of Em and Georgia.
Things with Em’s ex is complicated and when said ex tried to get custody of Georgia out of nowhere, Warrick did the only thing he can do to help, ask Em to marry him.
Now they’re living together and it’s getting harder and harder to ignore the attraction between them. Warrick has fallen in love with both Em and Georgia but Em is a little wary because of her past. Can Warrick convince her that what they have is real and she wants both of them in his life?
First of all Georgia is the cutest ever! Goat-dogs? Adorable! Can’t blame Warrick for falling in love with this little girl. Seeing Warrick so sweet around Georgia is just heartwarming. Emmerleigh might have built a brick wall around her heart but she didn’t a chance on how much determined Warrick is to show her what she truly deserves. We all deserve a Warrick in our lives, Em and Georgia surely did! Their journey to their happy ever after was full of bumps but definitely worth it. Get ready to fall in love with Georgia cuteness, swoon from Warrick’s sweet ways and cheer on Em as she overcomes her fears.
This may be a new series, the Wolfe brothers but since it’s set in Blueball, we get to see some of our favorite Blueball residents!
August 26, 2024
The synopsis above will give you the gist of the storyline but it doesn’t tell you just how funny, romantic and heartfelt this book is. The characters wormed their way into my heart and never left, especially Em’s little girl, Georgia, and I have no doubt they do the same to you. The book starts out with a heartfelt scene where Warrick and his brother’s have been called home at their dying father’s request. He gives each of his three sons his last wishes and Warrick is tasked with seeing to it that they are carried out. Being rich and now retired so to speak, Warrick moves home to help with their mother and the estate. First order of business is to update/repair the family home. That is how he meets Em, the new feisty, female contractor in town.
The banter between Warrick and Em had me laughing out loud. Throw in a precocious 5 year old little girl, a beer drinking German woman on Em’s construction crew, quirky farm animals that add to the fun and a few crazy fun situations and you too will be laughing and smiling through the book. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next on the farm/homestead. Grab it up asap and get in on book 1 of what this reader feels is going to be a terrific series.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
The banter between Warrick and Em had me laughing out loud. Throw in a precocious 5 year old little girl, a beer drinking German woman on Em’s construction crew, quirky farm animals that add to the fun and a few crazy fun situations and you too will be laughing and smiling through the book. As for this reader, I can’t wait to see what happens next on the farm/homestead. Grab it up asap and get in on book 1 of what this reader feels is going to be a terrific series.
2 Thumbs Up and 5 Stars
August 29, 2024
I was honoured to receive an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review
There are always some books that everyone loves and they will re-read them over a period of time. Now for me it is extremely rare that I come across a book that I read again straight away like I did with Package Deal - definitely more than 5 ⭐
Warrwick Wolfe has moved back to Blueball and is a 44 years old. Warrwick is a kind hearted but dirty talking millionaire, with arms covered in tattoos and falls in love with his contractor and her daughter.
As much he wears unsuitable expensive clothes on the farm. Em who is his contractor can't help but notice his 'assets' and not his monetary assets!!
Emmerleigh Slaywright (also known as Em) is the sassy general contractor who has been hired to repair and build parts of Warrwick's mums house. Em is such a teddy bear when it comes to her daughter, however get on her wrong side and you will only get the grizzly Mama bear! Everyone loves Georgia as much as she loves the crazy farmyard animals.
Em agrees to a marriage of convenience. The only thing is that there is a tiny problem....
'Warwick has a crush on his contractor-slash-fake-wife' this meant that Warwick 'was going to have to date his wife and get her to fall in love with him'
There are always some books that everyone loves and they will re-read them over a period of time. Now for me it is extremely rare that I come across a book that I read again straight away like I did with Package Deal - definitely more than 5 ⭐
Warrwick Wolfe has moved back to Blueball and is a 44 years old. Warrwick is a kind hearted but dirty talking millionaire, with arms covered in tattoos and falls in love with his contractor and her daughter.
As much he wears unsuitable expensive clothes on the farm. Em who is his contractor can't help but notice his 'assets' and not his monetary assets!!
Emmerleigh Slaywright (also known as Em) is the sassy general contractor who has been hired to repair and build parts of Warrwick's mums house. Em is such a teddy bear when it comes to her daughter, however get on her wrong side and you will only get the grizzly Mama bear! Everyone loves Georgia as much as she loves the crazy farmyard animals.
Em agrees to a marriage of convenience. The only thing is that there is a tiny problem....
'Warwick has a crush on his contractor-slash-fake-wife' this meant that Warwick 'was going to have to date his wife and get her to fall in love with him'
August 29, 2024
I think I love Marika’s heroines because they don’t need saving, and Emmerleigh is no exception. She needs reminding that there are good men out there and that she doesn’t have to do everything for herself, but she’s basically ok before she meets Warrick. He too is complete, though at loose ends now that his dad has passed. He loves her competence and challenge, but he also loves her daughter and how much she loves Georgia. She can’t help enjoying being taken care of for once, even if she distrusts that it will last.
All this to say, these two are managing life ok alone. But together? They are combustible and just so much better. Warrick has a focus for his caring nature, while Em has a helpmate and someone to appreciate her as she is.
Does the course of true love run smooth? Of course not! It’s often funny and occasionally frustrating, but after some misunderstandings, soul-searching, and a Grand Gesture, they get there in the end. This book was one of my favorites this year, Em particularly speaking to me pretty loudly. There are some old friends making an appearance too, which was extra fun.
All this to say, these two are managing life ok alone. But together? They are combustible and just so much better. Warrick has a focus for his caring nature, while Em has a helpmate and someone to appreciate her as she is.
Does the course of true love run smooth? Of course not! It’s often funny and occasionally frustrating, but after some misunderstandings, soul-searching, and a Grand Gesture, they get there in the end. This book was one of my favorites this year, Em particularly speaking to me pretty loudly. There are some old friends making an appearance too, which was extra fun.
August 29, 2024
Wonderful romance. Found family. Support of a business owner and single mom. It’s such a wonderful display of caring and kindness. Even when it’s hard to accept and not always appreciated.
Warrick thrives on taking care of people. But Everleigh doesn’t rely on anyway. She was burned and cast aside and left to take care of her child as a single mother. But in order to protect Georgia and keep her slimy ex from getting custody she enters into a marriage of convenience.
Watching the two of them learn to take care of each other as well as themselves was so fun. Georgia, her daughter, is a ray of sun shine who brings out the softer side of Everleigh.
Being back in Blueball and seeing some of the other characters from the Blueball Band of Brothers series was so fun! And the setting is amazing as always.
Everleigh’s business is growing and the women she works alongside with are awesome. Seeing them in a strong and hands on role was refreshing and didn’t feel patronizing.
I laughed and cried! It is a wonderful story. I received an ARC of this for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
Warrick thrives on taking care of people. But Everleigh doesn’t rely on anyway. She was burned and cast aside and left to take care of her child as a single mother. But in order to protect Georgia and keep her slimy ex from getting custody she enters into a marriage of convenience.
Watching the two of them learn to take care of each other as well as themselves was so fun. Georgia, her daughter, is a ray of sun shine who brings out the softer side of Everleigh.
Being back in Blueball and seeing some of the other characters from the Blueball Band of Brothers series was so fun! And the setting is amazing as always.
Everleigh’s business is growing and the women she works alongside with are awesome. Seeing them in a strong and hands on role was refreshing and didn’t feel patronizing.
I laughed and cried! It is a wonderful story. I received an ARC of this for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
August 29, 2024
This is book one of the Wolfe Brothers series and I can’t wait to read Boon and Colson’s stories because Warrick’s story was amazing. Warrick is the oldest Wolfe brother and he moves home first, after their father passes away. He’s staying with his mom, Gail, but everyone calls her Gigi. He meets Emmerleigh when he’s looking for the general contractor for M Builds. He’s surprised when she tells him that’s her. He needs a complete interior renovation, a bedroom addition, and a screened-in porch over at Timberwolfe Farms. He hires her and when he says he needs the job done in three weeks, she tells him it’ll take three months. He offers a bonus if completed in time. I’m not going to leave any spoilers because I really hope everyone will read this fantastic he falls first book. Warrick is a fixer and he does what he can to help Emmerleigh throughout the book. You’ll love Georgia, Emmerleigh’s little girl, who calls Warrick Wa-wy and he calls her Peaches. You’ll also get a kick out of Pip and Savannah two women she finds to work with her on the renovations.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
September 6, 2024
Warrick is a fourth year old single guy. He recently sold his business when his dad got sick and moved him.
Now his home permanently after his dad passed away. He decides to redo his parents house and hires Emmerleigh.
Strong, independent single mother. She is a contractor and takes the job. But Emmerleigh has her own demons to fight. An ex who threw her out, of his life and his business and signed over his parental rights now all if a sudden wants custody of his daughter.
What is she to do. She will never trust another man again, but it seems Warrick is determined to break down her walls... All he wants is to take care of her, but she is determined to stand in her own feet, never giving control to another man again...
I fell inlove with Warrick. He was caring, loving, romantic, protective and just a freaking sweetheart. He did everything in his power to take care of Emm and Georgia. He was amazing with her little girl. But Emm frustrated me so much when she wouldn't give him a chance. But he persevered...
I want more of these Wolfe Brothers... can't wait for the next one😍😍
Read in behalf if
Fay's Corner
Now his home permanently after his dad passed away. He decides to redo his parents house and hires Emmerleigh.
Strong, independent single mother. She is a contractor and takes the job. But Emmerleigh has her own demons to fight. An ex who threw her out, of his life and his business and signed over his parental rights now all if a sudden wants custody of his daughter.
What is she to do. She will never trust another man again, but it seems Warrick is determined to break down her walls... All he wants is to take care of her, but she is determined to stand in her own feet, never giving control to another man again...
I fell inlove with Warrick. He was caring, loving, romantic, protective and just a freaking sweetheart. He did everything in his power to take care of Emm and Georgia. He was amazing with her little girl. But Emm frustrated me so much when she wouldn't give him a chance. But he persevered...
I want more of these Wolfe Brothers... can't wait for the next one😍😍
Read in behalf if
Fay's Corner
August 28, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
Warrick promised his father on his deathbed that he would return to his hometown, the small town of Blueball. Eventually, he moves back with his mom and plans to renovate her home.
He hires Emmerleigh for the renovation job. Soon, he is not just attracted to her but also besotted by her very cute 5-year-old daughter, Georgia. 😍 I totally loved every scene between Warrick and Georgia. He was so sweet whenever he was with her.
I also enjoyed seeing Emmerleigh building her own business up independently. Girl power !!! 💪 And I loved her co-workers whom she eventually hires.
With Emmerleigh’s ex coming back into the picture, Warrick turns into a protective “bear” and proposes a marriage of convenience to protect both “his girls”. Though Emmerleigh understands his good intentions, she was so badly hurt that she still cannot fully trust him. Will she be able to finally step out and truly give their marriage a chance? Read this to find out and I guarantee you that you will find yourself laughing and also crying. 😆
Warrick promised his father on his deathbed that he would return to his hometown, the small town of Blueball. Eventually, he moves back with his mom and plans to renovate her home.
He hires Emmerleigh for the renovation job. Soon, he is not just attracted to her but also besotted by her very cute 5-year-old daughter, Georgia. 😍 I totally loved every scene between Warrick and Georgia. He was so sweet whenever he was with her.
I also enjoyed seeing Emmerleigh building her own business up independently. Girl power !!! 💪 And I loved her co-workers whom she eventually hires.
With Emmerleigh’s ex coming back into the picture, Warrick turns into a protective “bear” and proposes a marriage of convenience to protect both “his girls”. Though Emmerleigh understands his good intentions, she was so badly hurt that she still cannot fully trust him. Will she be able to finally step out and truly give their marriage a chance? Read this to find out and I guarantee you that you will find yourself laughing and also crying. 😆
August 31, 2024
What a great book to kick off a new series! Marika’s books always make me laugh, swoon and fall in love with her amazing characters.
Emmerleigh is one of my favorite female leads..she is tough, determined and an amazing mom to sweet Georgia. She owns her own business and is working on making a name for herself. She is definitely not looking for a relationship.
I love that Marika wrote Warrick as a little older lead (40’s). He is funny, so kind and a delight to be around…but initially Emmerleigh doesn’t think so. He’s also not looking for love but sometimes fate steps in the way.
I love the banter between these two and how they give each other a run for their money. Warrick and Georgia develop such a fun relationship and Em really trusts him with her daughter. As Warrick and Em spend more time together (forced proximity) they become each others confidants, sounding board and their love story blooms into something really beautiful.
The additional characters add so much joy and laughs to this story. I’m looking forward to the other books in this series.
Emmerleigh is one of my favorite female leads..she is tough, determined and an amazing mom to sweet Georgia. She owns her own business and is working on making a name for herself. She is definitely not looking for a relationship.
I love that Marika wrote Warrick as a little older lead (40’s). He is funny, so kind and a delight to be around…but initially Emmerleigh doesn’t think so. He’s also not looking for love but sometimes fate steps in the way.
I love the banter between these two and how they give each other a run for their money. Warrick and Georgia develop such a fun relationship and Em really trusts him with her daughter. As Warrick and Em spend more time together (forced proximity) they become each others confidants, sounding board and their love story blooms into something really beautiful.
The additional characters add so much joy and laughs to this story. I’m looking forward to the other books in this series.
September 12, 2024
Loved this story of two people learning to be vulnerable with each other in order to find the beautiful future they deserve.
I loved the dynamic of Warwick and Emmerleigh's relationship. I've not often found a heroine who is in a physically demanding and male dominated profession paired with a caretaking hero with a lot of (very early retirement) time on his hands. This was a beautiful refreshing change.
Trust doesn't come easily for Emmerleigh - once bitten, twice shy. But she does learn to trust Warwick and I felt Marika Ray wrote the progression so well; it was slow, honest and sometimes one step forward, two steps back.
Warwick is very much a caretaker in this book. I love the relationship he develops with Emmerleigh's daughter Georgia and the closeness they have. And I adored all the ways, large and small, that Warwick found to take care of Emmerleigh; definitely had my heart melting.
This is a great start to the Wolfe Brothers series - it's heartwarming and there's a good dose of humour, a heap of cuteness and plenty of steam.
I loved the dynamic of Warwick and Emmerleigh's relationship. I've not often found a heroine who is in a physically demanding and male dominated profession paired with a caretaking hero with a lot of (very early retirement) time on his hands. This was a beautiful refreshing change.
Trust doesn't come easily for Emmerleigh - once bitten, twice shy. But she does learn to trust Warwick and I felt Marika Ray wrote the progression so well; it was slow, honest and sometimes one step forward, two steps back.
Warwick is very much a caretaker in this book. I love the relationship he develops with Emmerleigh's daughter Georgia and the closeness they have. And I adored all the ways, large and small, that Warwick found to take care of Emmerleigh; definitely had my heart melting.
This is a great start to the Wolfe Brothers series - it's heartwarming and there's a good dose of humour, a heap of cuteness and plenty of steam.
March 8, 2025
I recently finished reading "A Package Deal (Wolfe Brothers Book 1)" by Marika Ray, and overall, I found it enjoyable. One of the highlights for me was the adorable character, Georgia, and how Warrick gave her the cutest nickname. Georgia added a lot of charm to the story.
While I haven’t been in Em's exact situation, there were moments when I wanted to give her a little shake and tell her to let Warrick love her. He came across as incredibly sweet and genuine, and I couldn't help but feel that it wouldn't have hurt her to open up to him.
As a single mom myself, I could relate to the complexities of Em's emotions, and maybe that's why I found myself so invested in her story. It's clear that Em's four brothers and Warrick's two brothers have a lot of potential for future books, and I'm looking forward to seeing where Marika Ray takes their stories.
Overall, this book had its moments, and I'm hopeful for more character development in the future installments of the Wolfe Brothers series.
While I haven’t been in Em's exact situation, there were moments when I wanted to give her a little shake and tell her to let Warrick love her. He came across as incredibly sweet and genuine, and I couldn't help but feel that it wouldn't have hurt her to open up to him.
As a single mom myself, I could relate to the complexities of Em's emotions, and maybe that's why I found myself so invested in her story. It's clear that Em's four brothers and Warrick's two brothers have a lot of potential for future books, and I'm looking forward to seeing where Marika Ray takes their stories.
Overall, this book had its moments, and I'm hopeful for more character development in the future installments of the Wolfe Brothers series.
August 26, 2024
Back to Blueball with a whole new family of hunky brothers? Why thank you Marika!
A Package Deal is the first book in the Wolfe Brothers series- bringing us back to Blueball where their beloved patriarch has made his final requests to his 3 sons and first up is the oldest- Warrick. Having already built his empire and making more money than he knows what to do with, Warrick returns to their hobby farm and is quick to update his parents home while sending his mom off to relax on a cruise. What he wasn't prepared for is for his contractor to be a single mother with a sassy sweet little girl that sparked his protective instincts.
This book is a lot of fun- sassy banter, reverse grumpy/sunshine, protective nice guy, marriage of convenience but he still falls first. I do think there is a little age gap too but I'm not remembering how big it actually was. I absolutely adore Warrick! When I first started this book since it kind of starts off on a somber note and I couldn't quite get a read on the Wolfe Brothers really well but Warrick definitely grew on me quickly. He cares deeply about his family, is loyal and giving almost to a fault and treats everyone with the utmost respect and kindness- with certain exceptions of those who have proven they don't deserve it. And his almost instantaneous love and affection for Georgia? Freaking SWOON! Emmerleigh was also a bit hard to figure out- she is no damsel in distress but she also has some baggage that had her kind of closed off except when it comes to her daughter. I loved seeing her slowly blossom into a happy, confident and less guarded version of herself.
I couldn't get over all the sweetness or the hilarity of some of the characters, plus the added fun of some other familiar Blueball faces! So excited for the next Wolfe that makes his way back to the hobby farm!
A Package Deal is the first book in the Wolfe Brothers series- bringing us back to Blueball where their beloved patriarch has made his final requests to his 3 sons and first up is the oldest- Warrick. Having already built his empire and making more money than he knows what to do with, Warrick returns to their hobby farm and is quick to update his parents home while sending his mom off to relax on a cruise. What he wasn't prepared for is for his contractor to be a single mother with a sassy sweet little girl that sparked his protective instincts.
This book is a lot of fun- sassy banter, reverse grumpy/sunshine, protective nice guy, marriage of convenience but he still falls first. I do think there is a little age gap too but I'm not remembering how big it actually was. I absolutely adore Warrick! When I first started this book since it kind of starts off on a somber note and I couldn't quite get a read on the Wolfe Brothers really well but Warrick definitely grew on me quickly. He cares deeply about his family, is loyal and giving almost to a fault and treats everyone with the utmost respect and kindness- with certain exceptions of those who have proven they don't deserve it. And his almost instantaneous love and affection for Georgia? Freaking SWOON! Emmerleigh was also a bit hard to figure out- she is no damsel in distress but she also has some baggage that had her kind of closed off except when it comes to her daughter. I loved seeing her slowly blossom into a happy, confident and less guarded version of herself.
I couldn't get over all the sweetness or the hilarity of some of the characters, plus the added fun of some other familiar Blueball faces! So excited for the next Wolfe that makes his way back to the hobby farm!
August 17, 2024
I believe this author could weaponize the effects of a five-year-old on the hero...she manages to slay him with just a smile! The one thing you need to know about this book is that it is gonna grab you and not let go. Oh, it has all the fun things a story should – to make you laugh (and I sometimes snort-laughed), to make you sniffle, and it creates some cheers when the nasty characters “get theirs”. But most of all, it has amazing folks that will warm your heart. Emmerleigh Slaywright and her daughter Georgia (or Peaches as the hero nicknames her) meet, and SO much more (!), Warrick Wolfe. To have Peaches steal his heart? I was all in. Em holding strong to the hurts from her past and trying to protect Georgia? I was her cheering section. She is so strong, and vulnerable, you can’t help but want to stand by her side. Warrick being a standup guy? He stole my heart! Great book. Amazing story. Yep, I’m all in! Although I still want to know what strip bocce ball is...
August 21, 2024
This book had plenty of humor, interesting and sometimes quirky characters, steam and great relationships, which is everything I expect when I read something by Marika Ray. The friendships that exist or are created between the new characters introduced and characters from past books add so much to the book.
I loved Warrick’s relationship with Georgia, Emmerleigh’s daughter. They immediately hit it off and had so much fun together while he was watching her for Emme. I loved it when he took her to the pond on his mom’s property and taught her how to fish, just like his dad had done for him and his brothers (cue all the feels). Emme was a lot slower to come around and kept her walls up until the very end.
This book is a great beginning to a new series set in Blueball. I can’t wait to read what is in store for Warrick’s brothers
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved Warrick’s relationship with Georgia, Emmerleigh’s daughter. They immediately hit it off and had so much fun together while he was watching her for Emme. I loved it when he took her to the pond on his mom’s property and taught her how to fish, just like his dad had done for him and his brothers (cue all the feels). Emme was a lot slower to come around and kept her walls up until the very end.
This book is a great beginning to a new series set in Blueball. I can’t wait to read what is in store for Warrick’s brothers
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2024
I loved this book! A new series can sometimes be hard to get into with book one, but being as it's set in Blueball, there are familiar names and places. First, it starts of emotional, so maybe don't start this book in public. After the initial event that kicks this series off, you're good to go. I loved Georgia so much, so adorable you just can't stand it! There are many fantastic secondary characters in this book that i hope we still see hoing forward. Who doesn't love a fixer, a protector? That's what you get instantly with Warrick. Even though Emmerleigh was stubborn, she had very valid reasons, so it was hard to get too mad at her. I loved that there wasn't a fist shaking, frustrating event that as a reader you want to smack these characters upside the head. I can't wait for more, that's for sure.
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