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Biotech Billionaires #3
The Charmer
When a charming billionaire and a reclusive lawyer tie the knot to outsmart an inheritance scheme, sparks fly and unexpected love blossoms in this sizzling romance from Ava Rani, author of The Spare and The Heir.
Sometimes love outsmarts the best laid plans.
Penelope Chen-Astor ran away from the stifling expectations of her wealthy family in Singapore for an independent life as a high-powered Manhattan lawyer. But familial duty comes crashing back when her grandfather’s will demands she be married for a year to claim her inheritance. She’d walk away from it all, but her mother’s assets are at stake too, and this is the only way Penelope can see to protect her.
Enter Xander Sutton, the billionaire co-founder of investment group Dawn Capital. With his effortless charm and easy smiles, he’s used to winning hearts, but Penelope’s always proven immune to him. When she’s backed into a corner and asks Xander to masquerade as her husband for a year, he sees a golden opportunity to finally win over the only person who’s kept him at arm’s length—but the closer they get, the harder it becomes to play pretend.
What begins as a strictly business arrangement quickly spirals into steamy encounters and genuine emotions. When meddling relatives, corporate espionage, and high-stakes legal battles come into play, Xander and Penelope will have to decide if the inheritance is all they stand to lose when the year is done...
From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene beaches of the Hamptons and the skyscrapers of Singapore, The Charmer is the third and final novel in the Biotech Billionaires universe.
Sometimes love outsmarts the best laid plans.
Penelope Chen-Astor ran away from the stifling expectations of her wealthy family in Singapore for an independent life as a high-powered Manhattan lawyer. But familial duty comes crashing back when her grandfather’s will demands she be married for a year to claim her inheritance. She’d walk away from it all, but her mother’s assets are at stake too, and this is the only way Penelope can see to protect her.
Enter Xander Sutton, the billionaire co-founder of investment group Dawn Capital. With his effortless charm and easy smiles, he’s used to winning hearts, but Penelope’s always proven immune to him. When she’s backed into a corner and asks Xander to masquerade as her husband for a year, he sees a golden opportunity to finally win over the only person who’s kept him at arm’s length—but the closer they get, the harder it becomes to play pretend.
What begins as a strictly business arrangement quickly spirals into steamy encounters and genuine emotions. When meddling relatives, corporate espionage, and high-stakes legal battles come into play, Xander and Penelope will have to decide if the inheritance is all they stand to lose when the year is done...
From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene beaches of the Hamptons and the skyscrapers of Singapore, The Charmer is the third and final novel in the Biotech Billionaires universe.
352 pages, Paperback
Published May 13, 2025
91 people are currently reading
9948 people want to read
About the author
Ava Rani
5 books318 followersAva is a USA Today Bestselling author and a desi-girl chasing HEAs
The daughter of two immigrants, her Indian-American roots peek out in different ways in her novels.
She writes diverse escapism. Flawed characters with real problems in an idealized world. Fall in love with the hero and the heroine. But also, fall in love with their friend group. Fall in love with their chosen families and the people who support them.
When she's not writing, she's living her best 'Charlotte Pickles' life and taking over the corporate world while being a wife and mom to an adorable kiddo and labradoodle. With hobbies from gardening to studying to being a sommelier, she's always looking for her next delicious treat.
The daughter of two immigrants, her Indian-American roots peek out in different ways in her novels.
She writes diverse escapism. Flawed characters with real problems in an idealized world. Fall in love with the hero and the heroine. But also, fall in love with their friend group. Fall in love with their chosen families and the people who support them.
When she's not writing, she's living her best 'Charlotte Pickles' life and taking over the corporate world while being a wife and mom to an adorable kiddo and labradoodle. With hobbies from gardening to studying to being a sommelier, she's always looking for her next delicious treat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 276 reviews
June 20, 2025
i was not charmed. too much fucking.
March 17, 2025
*+:｡.“𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓫𝓮𝓬𝓪𝓾𝓼𝓮 𝓘’𝓶 𝓪𝓯𝓻𝓪𝓲𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓵𝓸𝓼𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾—𝓫𝓮𝓬𝓪𝓾𝓼𝓮 𝓘 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸 𝓫𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾, 𝓱𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾’𝓵𝓵 𝓱𝓪𝓿𝓮 𝓶𝓮. 𝓜𝔂 𝓱𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓽 𝓲𝓼 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼. 𝓦𝓱𝓮𝓽𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓽 𝓲𝓼 𝓹𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓵𝔂 𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓪𝓬𝓽 𝓸𝓻 𝓻𝓲𝓭𝓭𝓵𝓮𝓭 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓬𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓴𝓼. 𝓢𝓸 𝓭𝓸 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝔀𝓸𝓻𝓼𝓽. 𝓑𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓴 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽. 𝓘’𝓶 𝓷𝓸𝓽 𝓼𝓬𝓪𝓻𝓮𝓭; 𝓘 𝓬𝓪𝓷 𝓽𝓪𝓴𝓮 𝓲𝓽.”｡.｡:+*
Does these kind of men actually exist?? If so please show me the way. It's rare to read a book where the MMC loves the FMC since the beginning of the book, and it actually turns so good. There relationship is so healthy and their communication is excellent. If only it has less spice it'd have been a 5 stars
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
𝕊𝕜𝕚𝕡 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 𝟚𝟜, 𝟚𝟞, 𝟚𝟟, 𝟛𝟚, 𝟛𝟜, 𝟜𝟚
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
🌸 𝙱𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
🌸 𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜
🌸 𝙼𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚐𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎
🌸 𝙸𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚕𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚕 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
Ummmm, guys, I requested books 2 & 3 of the Biotech Billionaires series from Netgalley -big thanks to them & Avon and Harper Voyager - and just got approved for this one, guess I'll run to borrow the 2nd 🏃🏻♀️
Find my review on Instagram
Does these kind of men actually exist?? If so please show me the way. It's rare to read a book where the MMC loves the FMC since the beginning of the book, and it actually turns so good. There relationship is so healthy and their communication is excellent. If only it has less spice it'd have been a 5 stars
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕮𝖑𝖔𝖘𝖊𝖉 𝕯𝖔𝖔𝖗 𝕸𝖔𝖉𝖎𝖋𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖙𝖎𝖔𝖓𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
𝕊𝕜𝕚𝕡 𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕤: 𝟚𝟜, 𝟚𝟞, 𝟚𝟟, 𝟛𝟚, 𝟛𝟜, 𝟜𝟚
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕿𝖗𝖔𝖕𝖊𝖘˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
🌸 𝙱𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚘𝚗𝚊𝚒𝚛𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
🌸 𝙵𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚝𝚘 𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎𝚛𝚜
🌸 𝙼𝚊𝚛𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚐𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚟𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚌𝚎
🌸 𝙸𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚌𝚞𝚕𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚊𝚕 𝚁𝚘𝚖𝚊𝚗𝚌𝚎
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚𝕻𝖗𝖊-𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖉˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
Ummmm, guys, I requested books 2 & 3 of the Biotech Billionaires series from Netgalley -big thanks to them & Avon and Harper Voyager - and just got approved for this one, guess I'll run to borrow the 2nd 🏃🏻♀️
Find my review on Instagram
June 20, 2025
Alright, here’s the deal, this book had me in the beginning! I’m a total sucker for a marriage of convenience, and the first half of this book had me flying through the pages like I had nothing else to do (spoiler: I did, I just ignored them). Xander was head over heels for Penelope from the start, and I was loving it.
The writing was good, and the setup had potential. But somewhere along the way, I started to feel a little disconnected. I kept waiting for those witty banter and swoony chemistry to really take off, and it just never fully happened.
The last third of the book felt a bit messy for me. A lot was happening, and honestly, I’m not sure the third act breakup was even necessary. I wanted more longing, more angst, more Xander-pining-hard-for-Penelope moments!
Overall, it wasn’t bad at all. Just one of those reads that lands somewhere in the middle. I didn’t hate it, didn’t love it. It was a decent read with a strong start and some cute moments, but it didn’t completely win me over. Solid three stars from me, because Xander almost had me!
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Marriage of Convenience
❤️🔥 Crazy Rich Asians Vibes
❤️🔥 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
❤️🔥 He Falls First
The writing was good, and the setup had potential. But somewhere along the way, I started to feel a little disconnected. I kept waiting for those witty banter and swoony chemistry to really take off, and it just never fully happened.
The last third of the book felt a bit messy for me. A lot was happening, and honestly, I’m not sure the third act breakup was even necessary. I wanted more longing, more angst, more Xander-pining-hard-for-Penelope moments!
Overall, it wasn’t bad at all. Just one of those reads that lands somewhere in the middle. I didn’t hate it, didn’t love it. It was a decent read with a strong start and some cute moments, but it didn’t completely win me over. Solid three stars from me, because Xander almost had me!
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT:
❤️🔥 Marriage of Convenience
❤️🔥 Crazy Rich Asians Vibes
❤️🔥 Black Cat x Golden Retriever
❤️🔥 He Falls First
December 6, 2024
This is my favorite in the series and it was so cute and so steamy. I've been waiting for Xander's book since I started indie reading this series, which did not disappoint. Xander and Penelope were everything to me, my cute babies. In the beginning, they were just friends with a little bit of he fell/liked her first, which led to a marriage of convenience. I love that some of the book takes place in Singapore and Europe and the descriptions of the places were beautiful. The romance was so good and let's just say there's a list of things(including steamy things) Penelope wanted to do that Xander made sure to do with her. Xander was such a great and emotional character and I loved how strong both main characters were.
I loved the billionaire and business aspect of the book along with seeing all the characters from the other books. The plot kinda reminded me of the show Suits and the drama that came with taking down businesses and law. I loved seeing all the main characters from the rest of the series being in love and crazy about each other while still being strong bosses. Lastly, I loved how I could see that the author's writing has kept improving since her debut and I just really enjoyed the writing and the flow of the book. Thanks to Avon for this arc for an honest review.
Read for:
- Diverse romance
- Billionaire mc's
- Tight-knit friend group
- Business and law drama
- Steamy list
4.5/5
I loved the billionaire and business aspect of the book along with seeing all the characters from the other books. The plot kinda reminded me of the show Suits and the drama that came with taking down businesses and law. I loved seeing all the main characters from the rest of the series being in love and crazy about each other while still being strong bosses. Lastly, I loved how I could see that the author's writing has kept improving since her debut and I just really enjoyed the writing and the flow of the book. Thanks to Avon for this arc for an honest review.
Read for:
- Diverse romance
- Billionaire mc's
- Tight-knit friend group
- Business and law drama
- Steamy list
4.5/5
May 24, 2025
The Charmer by Avi Rani
Biotech Billionaires series #4. Contemporary diverse romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Penelope Chen-Astor became a high-powered lawyer to escape her family’s expectations. But times up for her and she’s pressured to head home to Singapore and get married to a pre-selected groom that will benefit the family coffers.
Penelope doesn’t want to marry. At least not to the provided groom. Xander Sutton offers an alternative which turns their fake relationship to passion and feelings.
He falls first. A sexy premise that is enticing and steamy. High end deals, money, and brands I can never afford. That’s ok. It’s fun to read about it and know I’m probably more comfortable in casual and easy.
New York, Singapore and all right places, plus an enamored lover with lots of sex appeal and money to spend. Why not enjoy the ride?
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Biotech Billionaires series #4. Contemporary diverse romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Penelope Chen-Astor became a high-powered lawyer to escape her family’s expectations. But times up for her and she’s pressured to head home to Singapore and get married to a pre-selected groom that will benefit the family coffers.
Penelope doesn’t want to marry. At least not to the provided groom. Xander Sutton offers an alternative which turns their fake relationship to passion and feelings.
He falls first. A sexy premise that is enticing and steamy. High end deals, money, and brands I can never afford. That’s ok. It’s fun to read about it and know I’m probably more comfortable in casual and easy.
New York, Singapore and all right places, plus an enamored lover with lots of sex appeal and money to spend. Why not enjoy the ride?
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
March 17, 2025
°🥂⋆.ೃ🍾࿔*:･ Crazy Rich Asians meets Gossip Girl in this billionaire romance about a heiress who needed to marry for a year to get her inheritance! °🥂⋆.ೃ🍾࿔*:･
This is my first time reading Ava Rani and I hope it won't be my last. The tropes were sooo the kind of tropes I love and I wanted to keep reading to find out how the story would unravel and such. The Charmer is the third, and I think the final, book in the Biotech Billionaires series. In this novel, you'll see Penelope and Xander get their own happily ever after. I haven't read the first two books but now I kinda want to actually. Sloan and Marcus plus Henry and Selena sound really cool and I'm intrigued by how they came to be, especially because you do get little pieces of it in this book. So I'm tempted!
Tropes you'll find in this book:
💎 heiress heroine (she's also lowkey royalty, will inherit a title from her mom)
💎 banker hero
💎 marriage of convenience
💎 obsessed boy; he's been pining for her for years
💎 set around the world; you'll get to see Singapore, Jalisco, Manhattan, France, and more
💎 he's sunshine, she's cool and collected
💎 "I can do this myself" girl x "I know but let me help you" boy
Overall, it was a lovely, nice read. It's very steamy too! Public sex, blindfolding, tied up, you will find everything in this book. But also at the center of it, it's romantic, wholesome, and full of love. I loved the ship but also loved the friend group. They were so nice to meet, which is why I want to go back and read the previous books. They really have each other's backs ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪
This is my first time reading Ava Rani and I hope it won't be my last. The tropes were sooo the kind of tropes I love and I wanted to keep reading to find out how the story would unravel and such. The Charmer is the third, and I think the final, book in the Biotech Billionaires series. In this novel, you'll see Penelope and Xander get their own happily ever after. I haven't read the first two books but now I kinda want to actually. Sloan and Marcus plus Henry and Selena sound really cool and I'm intrigued by how they came to be, especially because you do get little pieces of it in this book. So I'm tempted!
Tropes you'll find in this book:
💎 heiress heroine (she's also lowkey royalty, will inherit a title from her mom)
💎 banker hero
💎 marriage of convenience
💎 obsessed boy; he's been pining for her for years
💎 set around the world; you'll get to see Singapore, Jalisco, Manhattan, France, and more
💎 he's sunshine, she's cool and collected
💎 "I can do this myself" girl x "I know but let me help you" boy
Overall, it was a lovely, nice read. It's very steamy too! Public sex, blindfolding, tied up, you will find everything in this book. But also at the center of it, it's romantic, wholesome, and full of love. I loved the ship but also loved the friend group. They were so nice to meet, which is why I want to go back and read the previous books. They really have each other's backs ⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪
July 22, 2025
3.5 stars. It’s always a welcome experience to pick up a romance from a new-to-me author that winds up being incredibly enjoyable – and that was what happened with The Charmer! I might not have realized that this was the third book in the series when I picked this up, but that didn’t diminish my enjoyment one bit. With a premise straight out of a rom com, this billionaire, marriage of convenience romance managed to hit the sweet spot for me.
I was living for this incredibly tropey set-up and all the shenanigans that ensued as everything played out – there were parts that I found highly amusing and others that were just heartbreaking to read. And I loved getting to know this found family Penelope and Xander are a part of, especially seeing how supportive they are. But my actual favorite aspect of this story, and rightfully so, was the romance between Penelope (a go-getter who is highly independent but has some relatable insecurities) and Xander (a good-hearted man with the energy of a golden retriever especially when it comes to people he cares about). It was lovely to watch their feelings flourish over the course of the story, and of course, I swooned (especially over how much Xander just went above and beyond for her – we love a man who knows who he wants and what he’s willing to do to win them).
The Charmer was definitely a lot of fun to read, and I can’t wait to go back and read the other two books in the series!
I was living for this incredibly tropey set-up and all the shenanigans that ensued as everything played out – there were parts that I found highly amusing and others that were just heartbreaking to read. And I loved getting to know this found family Penelope and Xander are a part of, especially seeing how supportive they are. But my actual favorite aspect of this story, and rightfully so, was the romance between Penelope (a go-getter who is highly independent but has some relatable insecurities) and Xander (a good-hearted man with the energy of a golden retriever especially when it comes to people he cares about). It was lovely to watch their feelings flourish over the course of the story, and of course, I swooned (especially over how much Xander just went above and beyond for her – we love a man who knows who he wants and what he’s willing to do to win them).
The Charmer was definitely a lot of fun to read, and I can’t wait to go back and read the other two books in the series!
August 22, 2025
Read This Book If…you love a fake marriage, but it’s not fake to him!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
The Charmer by Ava Rani
Genre: romance
Series: Biotech Billionaires # 3
Spice Level: 4/5🌶, 3-4 explicit scenes
Setting: NYC and Singapore
POV: dual, 1st person, past tense
Tropes: billionaire, marriage of convenience, he falls first, sex bucket list, “my wife”
My Thoughts:
Overall, I enjoyed this one, but it wasn’t my favorite of the series!
However, this is definitely the spiciest of the series, which was very fun! These two are both very independent and their banter was really great.
Other the other side… In a marriage of convenience where he falls first, I expect a ton of yearning, and that felt like it was missing. The last third of this book dragged for me; there was a lot going on and I hated the main conflict. There’s also a lot more business stuff happening in this book compared to the first two!
Again, very much enjoyed this book, but it didn’t grip me like the first two!
Memorable Quote: “It’s hard to destroy poppies, they’re tenacious.” Mine certainly was.
Thank you to the publisher for my advance copy! Available everywhere NOW!
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5
The Charmer by Ava Rani
Genre: romance
Series: Biotech Billionaires # 3
Spice Level: 4/5🌶, 3-4 explicit scenes
Setting: NYC and Singapore
POV: dual, 1st person, past tense
Tropes: billionaire, marriage of convenience, he falls first, sex bucket list, “my wife”
My Thoughts:
Overall, I enjoyed this one, but it wasn’t my favorite of the series!
However, this is definitely the spiciest of the series, which was very fun! These two are both very independent and their banter was really great.
Other the other side… In a marriage of convenience where he falls first, I expect a ton of yearning, and that felt like it was missing. The last third of this book dragged for me; there was a lot going on and I hated the main conflict. There’s also a lot more business stuff happening in this book compared to the first two!
Again, very much enjoyed this book, but it didn’t grip me like the first two!
Memorable Quote: “It’s hard to destroy poppies, they’re tenacious.” Mine certainly was.
Thank you to the publisher for my advance copy! Available everywhere NOW!
December 29, 2024
Billionaire romance but they are both billionaires okkkayyy 💅🏼 we love a strong fmc! Penelope is an attorney who needs a marriage to get not only her inheritance but her mothers as well yet obvs she doesn’t wanna until my man Xander steps in because he’s such a good guy! Fake dating faking marriage Xander and Penelope always had eyes for each other I loved Xander more than Penelope. I love that the couple is not white like hell yeahhh let’s show some bipoc love. The romance is to die for however it is heavy on tech/business law lingo so that flew over my head overall everything was great I just wish I would’ve read the first two books before this one.
Thanks NetGalley for the arc
Thanks NetGalley for the arc
April 17, 2025
What you can expect to find in The Charmer:
-marriage of convenience
-billionaire romance
-banter
-🌶🌶🌶
-Crazy Rich Asian vibes
Penelope Aster-Chen realizes very quickly that in order to have access to her inheritance she needs to be married for a year. She doesn't really want to go pack to Singapore and deal with her family's expectations. She's quite happy living her life away from them and their expectations.
Xander Sutton knows how to charm everyone around him...except for Penelope it seems. When he discovers that Penelope will need a husband for a year to gain her inheritance he doesn't even hesitate. With them becoming entangled with one another will this marriage be on paper only or will their feelings make it into a true marriage?
Listen - if there's one thing I love it's a marriage of convenience. I literally read the first half of this book almost in one sitting. While this was my first book by Ava Rani and I jumped in the series without reading the first 2 books - it was easy enough to follow along. I LOVED Xander and his Where are we going Poppy? Gah he was so gone for his Poppy.
I do feel like the last 1/3 of the book lost me a little. There was a lot happening and I'm not sure that the third act breakup was really warranted. I wanted more angst and longing from Xander and Penelope - I feel like I got some of that in the first half of the book, but not enough towards the end.
Overall, I enjoyed this billionaire workplace romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
-marriage of convenience
-billionaire romance
-banter
-🌶🌶🌶
-Crazy Rich Asian vibes
Penelope Aster-Chen realizes very quickly that in order to have access to her inheritance she needs to be married for a year. She doesn't really want to go pack to Singapore and deal with her family's expectations. She's quite happy living her life away from them and their expectations.
Xander Sutton knows how to charm everyone around him...except for Penelope it seems. When he discovers that Penelope will need a husband for a year to gain her inheritance he doesn't even hesitate. With them becoming entangled with one another will this marriage be on paper only or will their feelings make it into a true marriage?
Listen - if there's one thing I love it's a marriage of convenience. I literally read the first half of this book almost in one sitting. While this was my first book by Ava Rani and I jumped in the series without reading the first 2 books - it was easy enough to follow along. I LOVED Xander and his Where are we going Poppy? Gah he was so gone for his Poppy.
I do feel like the last 1/3 of the book lost me a little. There was a lot happening and I'm not sure that the third act breakup was really warranted. I wanted more angst and longing from Xander and Penelope - I feel like I got some of that in the first half of the book, but not enough towards the end.
Overall, I enjoyed this billionaire workplace romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
May 29, 2025
The third in the Biotech billionaire series is a steamy marriage of convenience that takes place largely in Singapore. I liked it but it wasn't my fav of the series. Good on audio and recommended for fans of Lauren Asher's Lakefront billionaire series. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 14, 2025
Thank you to the author and Good Girls PR for the ARC opportunity, I’m incredibly grateful. The review may contain spoilers.
How and where to start this review I don’t know, watching Xander and Penelope gracefully take centre stage is so endearing I want to protect both of them. This book is absolutely perfect. We get the main couple and then the right amount of our old favourites tying into the story. It’s wonderful to see how the couples have grown stronger in Xander and Penelope’s book. It’s even more beautiful to see their found family be complete.
If you adore friends to lovers, a smidge of angst, eldest daughter meets youngest son who will care for her, youngest son who meets eldest daughter who will help him confront his fears. Marriage of convenience, soft dom vibes, a fc*k it list literally. FOUND FAMILY. Then this book is for you.
The spice filled scenes are so swoon worthy. Ava Rani delivers. DELIVERS. on her promise of swoon and spice. I adore her, she has become an instant buy author for me. She can do no wrong. I support her.
Spoilers ahead, I’m trying to keep it very ambiguous but I may fail at it.
Penelope is well written; her issues, her strengths, her flaws and her growth all are real and I resonated with her so much more than I thought I would. I adore her, I admire her so much. The depth to her character grows across pages and when you see her hone into herself it leaves you with the widest of smiles.
Xander’s a charmer honestly. We get to see him be multifaceted, beyond the meddling prankster from previous books. His growth arc? Admirable. You can see the way his thought process changes and him opening up more. The way he is there for Penelope gently guiding her but never taking her choices away? Chefs kiss.
Overall, 5 star read for me, I loved every bit of it. This series is one of my favourites. The Spare, The Heir and The Charmer are books I know I will carry in my heart always.
The characters and their growths are part of what I love about this series and The Charmer proves that.
How and where to start this review I don’t know, watching Xander and Penelope gracefully take centre stage is so endearing I want to protect both of them. This book is absolutely perfect. We get the main couple and then the right amount of our old favourites tying into the story. It’s wonderful to see how the couples have grown stronger in Xander and Penelope’s book. It’s even more beautiful to see their found family be complete.
If you adore friends to lovers, a smidge of angst, eldest daughter meets youngest son who will care for her, youngest son who meets eldest daughter who will help him confront his fears. Marriage of convenience, soft dom vibes, a fc*k it list literally. FOUND FAMILY. Then this book is for you.
The spice filled scenes are so swoon worthy. Ava Rani delivers. DELIVERS. on her promise of swoon and spice. I adore her, she has become an instant buy author for me. She can do no wrong. I support her.
Spoilers ahead, I’m trying to keep it very ambiguous but I may fail at it.
Penelope is well written; her issues, her strengths, her flaws and her growth all are real and I resonated with her so much more than I thought I would. I adore her, I admire her so much. The depth to her character grows across pages and when you see her hone into herself it leaves you with the widest of smiles.
Xander’s a charmer honestly. We get to see him be multifaceted, beyond the meddling prankster from previous books. His growth arc? Admirable. You can see the way his thought process changes and him opening up more. The way he is there for Penelope gently guiding her but never taking her choices away? Chefs kiss.
Overall, 5 star read for me, I loved every bit of it. This series is one of my favourites. The Spare, The Heir and The Charmer are books I know I will carry in my heart always.
The characters and their growths are part of what I love about this series and The Charmer proves that.
June 3, 2025
"i'll follow you to every corner of the world. you know that."
GODS I am GIDDY over this book. head over heels IN LOVE with xander and absolutely in love with Penelope! i love absolutely every second of this book and I ADORE seeing all of the other characters in this book as well. ava rani, you are becoming one of my favorite authors.
GODS I am GIDDY over this book. head over heels IN LOVE with xander and absolutely in love with Penelope! i love absolutely every second of this book and I ADORE seeing all of the other characters in this book as well. ava rani, you are becoming one of my favorite authors.
February 27, 2025
"Lots of things are going to change, but them? We're stuck with them because when you love people, you can't really lose them".
I think this maybe my favourite book in the series! Ava really encapsulates quiet luxury without making it feel garish or over indulgent. This book has a “my wife” moment, a marriage of convenience, a bucket list and gave me 'Crazy Rich Asian' vibes. Plus when Xander bought a piece of art for Poppy? Definitely one of my fave moments. I can't wait for another book in the series cause I know Ava's cooking up something special.
Thank you Avon and Harper Voyager for the digital ARC!
I think this maybe my favourite book in the series! Ava really encapsulates quiet luxury without making it feel garish or over indulgent. This book has a “my wife” moment, a marriage of convenience, a bucket list and gave me 'Crazy Rich Asian' vibes. Plus when Xander bought a piece of art for Poppy? Definitely one of my fave moments. I can't wait for another book in the series cause I know Ava's cooking up something special.
Thank you Avon and Harper Voyager for the digital ARC!
April 30, 2025
Ava Rani made me a billionaire romance fan 🥰 The Charmer is the third interconnected standalone in the Bio Tech Billionaires series, and I think it might be my favorite of the three! Give me forced proximity + marriage of convenience and I am one happy girl!!!
Penelope is fierce and strong. I loved how confident and witty she is. The way she bantered with Xander!! Xander is my favorite kind of MMC — quiet, loyal, and deeply pining for his girl 😌
Something I really love about Ava is that she gives her readers a good, well-rounded ending. We get to experience the happy for a bit longer, and also an epilogue!!
Thank you Avon for the ARC!
Penelope is fierce and strong. I loved how confident and witty she is. The way she bantered with Xander!! Xander is my favorite kind of MMC — quiet, loyal, and deeply pining for his girl 😌
Something I really love about Ava is that she gives her readers a good, well-rounded ending. We get to experience the happy for a bit longer, and also an epilogue!!
Thank you Avon for the ARC!
June 26, 2025
✅ Penelope Astor Chen, 31, attorney & Xander Sutton, billionaire finance bro
✅ marriage of convenience
✅ Vibe is Crazy Rich Asians with 🌶️.
Book 3 in a series, but you don’t really need to read them in order. I dove in with book 3 and it’s not hard to keep up with the characters. A lovely escape from reality.
✅ marriage of convenience
✅ Vibe is Crazy Rich Asians with 🌶️.
Book 3 in a series, but you don’t really need to read them in order. I dove in with book 3 and it’s not hard to keep up with the characters. A lovely escape from reality.
August 17, 2025
an eldest daughter’s dream man
also, brb going to read everything ever written by this author
also, brb going to read everything ever written by this author
February 18, 2025
Hallelujah! An ARC that was absolutely INCREDIBLE. I was beginning to lose faith.
I could have gone my entire life not knowing this book existed, and I would have been missing out. Truly, this was a great time and surprisingly deep for a fluffy billionaire romance. In that sense, it reminded me of Abby Jimenez (one of my favorite romance authors), so you'd be hard pressed to find higher praise. Seriously, I could not put this book down. I DEVOURED it in a day.
The story was perfectly paced, and there were so many omg heart (and fanny) flutter moments. I mean SHEESH Xander Sutton the man that you are! He’s your classic congenial playboy who has a traumatic past losing his parents, and is so scarred that he fears relationships. But of course, all that changes with Penelope! * sigh * I ate this up because my favorite kind of MMC is the damaged kind. UGH this MAN literally had me feral from page 50 on— the perfect amount of tension, and pining and then as their story goes on, the sacrifices and gifts he lavishes upon Penelope. Sign me up, where can I find myself one of these??
Penelope was also an incredibly likable FMC. She’s hardworking, always looking out for those around her, and like Xander, emotionally closed off. Seeing her and Xander force the best out of each other and slowly open up just gave me all the warm and fuzzies.
This was 4.5 ⭐️ for me, and I can’t pinpoint why its not exactly 5 stars, maybe because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye? But this is absolutely worth the read and I am so pissed the rest of the world can’t giggle and kick their feet with me until May!
But y’all keep an eye out for this one. You wont want to miss it.
Tropes:
✨He falls first
✨Fake dating
✨Arranged marriage
✨Billionaire romance
✨Found Family
✨Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I could have gone my entire life not knowing this book existed, and I would have been missing out. Truly, this was a great time and surprisingly deep for a fluffy billionaire romance. In that sense, it reminded me of Abby Jimenez (one of my favorite romance authors), so you'd be hard pressed to find higher praise. Seriously, I could not put this book down. I DEVOURED it in a day.
The story was perfectly paced, and there were so many omg heart (and fanny) flutter moments. I mean SHEESH Xander Sutton the man that you are! He’s your classic congenial playboy who has a traumatic past losing his parents, and is so scarred that he fears relationships. But of course, all that changes with Penelope! * sigh * I ate this up because my favorite kind of MMC is the damaged kind. UGH this MAN literally had me feral from page 50 on— the perfect amount of tension, and pining and then as their story goes on, the sacrifices and gifts he lavishes upon Penelope. Sign me up, where can I find myself one of these??
Penelope was also an incredibly likable FMC. She’s hardworking, always looking out for those around her, and like Xander, emotionally closed off. Seeing her and Xander force the best out of each other and slowly open up just gave me all the warm and fuzzies.
This was 4.5 ⭐️ for me, and I can’t pinpoint why its not exactly 5 stars, maybe because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye? But this is absolutely worth the read and I am so pissed the rest of the world can’t giggle and kick their feet with me until May!
But y’all keep an eye out for this one. You wont want to miss it.
Tropes:
✨He falls first
✨Fake dating
✨Arranged marriage
✨Billionaire romance
✨Found Family
✨Spice: 🌶️🌶️
May 18, 2025
I received this book from Avon & Harper Voyager and here are my honest thoughts. How I wish I had known about this series earlier. This is a billionaire romance written by a BIPOC author with diverse characters and locations. Penelope who is half Singaporean and apparently British royalty has a marriage of convenience with Xander. (Frankly, the best way to shorten Alexander). Xander is a billionaire and a friend who has been crushing on Penelope for quite a while and he finally gets a chance to be a presence in her life. I loved the fact that Xander seems to be a truly nice guy who wants to care for others. Penelope is a true elder child who is bearing the weight of her family’s expectations and is trying to find freedom. We travel from Manhattan to Singapore and many other lovely places in this global book. There are plenty of billionaire shenanigans we all love like expensive purchases, private jets, corporate espionage, and a black card. I could eat it up with a spoon. The story has an interesting plot and a lovely slow burn. 🥵There is a “found family” trope which is my favorite and two epilogues!! No notes. A fun and satisfying read.
May 12, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon & Harper Voyager for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
If you enjoy the following the tropes: Marriage of Convenience and by extension, fake “marriage”, Dual POVs, and a slow-burn romance (emotionally), you might want to give this book a shot.
Penelope is an FMC who is initially portrayed as guarded. Her background is sad and long story short, she is considered the ‘black sheep’ of her family. Xander, the MMC, is quite the opposite. He’s able to charm his way to anyone and despite his reputation for deadlines when it comes to romantic relationships, said relationships never end in grudges.
There’s an inheritance, a scheme and a marriage of convenience. And while that might sound very typical of a billionaire romance, I honestly really enjoyed this book.
First things first, this book is the third and final book in a series of interconnected standalones. I did not know this and while I felt there was some details and characters I should have already known, I was able to follow the plot easily.
Secondly, this book has spice! While I mentioned that this was a slow burn romance, the spice starts at around 50%. If I had to rate the spice level, it’ll be:
🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This rating (which is totally subjective because it is based on my opinion that constantly changes as I read more books)
means that there are more than three open-door scenes thats either moderately graphic or 2 or more scenes that’s highly graphic.
I took note of 5 explicit scenes, 1 of which was explicit foreplay, but if you ask me, these scenes were about moderately graphic. This again, however, is totally subjective and can be different for others.
If I could name one thing that made this book enjoyable, it’s the MMC himself, Xander. While I am not particularly fond of his name and would prefer his full name, everything else about this guy has made me decide that he deserves to be in my list of book boyfriends.
I don’t know how to explain his character without spoiling the book, but if I could summarize him, it’s that Xander knows how to love. There are so many moments where I felt words were not needed especially when his actions were so loud. I’ll get more into the FMC and why this matters, but I don’t think there could be a better fit for the FMC than this MMC. I want to note that while I don’t read a lot of billionaire romances, the ones that I stumble upon always have a very possessive and arrogant MMC— which I do not like. Xander? Yeah, he has a jealousy scene, but I feel like it’s controlled and no lashing-out occurs. It’s honestly so refreshing to read up on an MMC like him because I don’t get the blaring “red flag” during his POVs and scenes in general.
Penelope— I am also not a fan of this name, but I like the way she was written. A lot of her character growth was based on the need for independence. Her story is one of familial obligations and dealing with a toxic family. This is a character who has a family, but longs for a family, if you catch my drift. And the reason why I like Xander so much is that many of the things he does it rooted to showing how loved the FMC is. This guy notices the little things and acts on it either to show that the FMC was heard or to show that she doesn’t need to do all things by herself. I may be completed bias at this point, but that speaks my love language and gets himself a ticket to my book boyfriend list.
In terms of the plot, I thought it was pretty solid. I did struggle with certain parts, like the politics and all the organization names but, I think I got the gist of it. Despite some grammatical errors here and there that will hopefully get fixed before the publication date, I also did not have much problems with the writing.
Honestly, there’s so many moments that I want to talk about, but it would spoil the book and I would hate to mark this review with spoilers so instead, I will share some of my favorite quotes.
> “Did it ever occur to you to find a different hiding spot?” he teased.
It wasn’t about winning the game, not for me. “I liked knowing she’d find me.”
That I wouldn’t be alone, waiting for someone who wasn’t coming.
^ This right here. I feel that you don’t outright get Penelope’s background, but you get moments like this that indicate and more importantly show what her childhood was like.
> “I’m a little broken.”
“No, just a bit bent.”
And my absolute favorite quote of all for this book—
> “What if in six months, it’s not Singapore anymore?”
“Here or Manhattan or Tokyo or Bali or wherever the hell you want to go. Take me with you, or have your adventures on your own and then come back to me. And not because I’m afraid I’ll lose you— because I ‘want’ to be with you, however you’ll have me.”
^ This is one of my favorite scenes and I so want to talk about it, but you’ll just have to get there.
So why 4 stars?
Despite not being able to put the book down, the first 30% of the book was really slow and I honestly could not remember what exactly happened or why it took so long to pick up.
I was also hoping to see more of Xander’s friend group (Jackson, Tristan, and Rohan) and I would honestly love to read a spinoff of their stories. Jackson though— is it me? Or is he like, nonexistent in this book. 💀 His name is mentioned, but I don’t think he even appears in person. I am not sure if perhaps that has something to do with the previous two books in this series.
Lastly, there are two flashbacks that play a significant role in the book. It is supposed to be impactful, as both scenes are referred to by the MCs, but I just didn’t feel that way. I think a little revising to include more dialogue would have made the flashbacks more memorable to the reader or, more scenes in the past to highlight the existing relationship between the leads.
Nevertheless, I truly enjoyed this book and I am so grateful to have received an ARC. Thank you once again, NetGalley and Avon & Harper Voyager for this opportunity. And a happy almost pub day to the author, Ava Rani! The previous two books in the series will now be on my long list of TBRs. 💕
If you enjoy the following the tropes: Marriage of Convenience and by extension, fake “marriage”, Dual POVs, and a slow-burn romance (emotionally), you might want to give this book a shot.
Penelope is an FMC who is initially portrayed as guarded. Her background is sad and long story short, she is considered the ‘black sheep’ of her family. Xander, the MMC, is quite the opposite. He’s able to charm his way to anyone and despite his reputation for deadlines when it comes to romantic relationships, said relationships never end in grudges.
There’s an inheritance, a scheme and a marriage of convenience. And while that might sound very typical of a billionaire romance, I honestly really enjoyed this book.
First things first, this book is the third and final book in a series of interconnected standalones. I did not know this and while I felt there was some details and characters I should have already known, I was able to follow the plot easily.
Secondly, this book has spice! While I mentioned that this was a slow burn romance, the spice starts at around 50%. If I had to rate the spice level, it’ll be:
🌶️🌶️🌶️ out of 🌶️🌶️🌶️
This rating (which is totally subjective because it is based on my opinion that constantly changes as I read more books)
means that there are more than three open-door scenes thats either moderately graphic or 2 or more scenes that’s highly graphic.
I took note of 5 explicit scenes, 1 of which was explicit foreplay, but if you ask me, these scenes were about moderately graphic. This again, however, is totally subjective and can be different for others.
If I could name one thing that made this book enjoyable, it’s the MMC himself, Xander. While I am not particularly fond of his name and would prefer his full name, everything else about this guy has made me decide that he deserves to be in my list of book boyfriends.
I don’t know how to explain his character without spoiling the book, but if I could summarize him, it’s that Xander knows how to love. There are so many moments where I felt words were not needed especially when his actions were so loud. I’ll get more into the FMC and why this matters, but I don’t think there could be a better fit for the FMC than this MMC. I want to note that while I don’t read a lot of billionaire romances, the ones that I stumble upon always have a very possessive and arrogant MMC— which I do not like. Xander? Yeah, he has a jealousy scene, but I feel like it’s controlled and no lashing-out occurs. It’s honestly so refreshing to read up on an MMC like him because I don’t get the blaring “red flag” during his POVs and scenes in general.
Penelope— I am also not a fan of this name, but I like the way she was written. A lot of her character growth was based on the need for independence. Her story is one of familial obligations and dealing with a toxic family. This is a character who has a family, but longs for a family, if you catch my drift. And the reason why I like Xander so much is that many of the things he does it rooted to showing how loved the FMC is. This guy notices the little things and acts on it either to show that the FMC was heard or to show that she doesn’t need to do all things by herself. I may be completed bias at this point, but that speaks my love language and gets himself a ticket to my book boyfriend list.
In terms of the plot, I thought it was pretty solid. I did struggle with certain parts, like the politics and all the organization names but, I think I got the gist of it. Despite some grammatical errors here and there that will hopefully get fixed before the publication date, I also did not have much problems with the writing.
Honestly, there’s so many moments that I want to talk about, but it would spoil the book and I would hate to mark this review with spoilers so instead, I will share some of my favorite quotes.
> “Did it ever occur to you to find a different hiding spot?” he teased.
It wasn’t about winning the game, not for me. “I liked knowing she’d find me.”
That I wouldn’t be alone, waiting for someone who wasn’t coming.
^ This right here. I feel that you don’t outright get Penelope’s background, but you get moments like this that indicate and more importantly show what her childhood was like.
> “I’m a little broken.”
“No, just a bit bent.”
And my absolute favorite quote of all for this book—
> “What if in six months, it’s not Singapore anymore?”
“Here or Manhattan or Tokyo or Bali or wherever the hell you want to go. Take me with you, or have your adventures on your own and then come back to me. And not because I’m afraid I’ll lose you— because I ‘want’ to be with you, however you’ll have me.”
^ This is one of my favorite scenes and I so want to talk about it, but you’ll just have to get there.
So why 4 stars?
Despite not being able to put the book down, the first 30% of the book was really slow and I honestly could not remember what exactly happened or why it took so long to pick up.
I was also hoping to see more of Xander’s friend group (Jackson, Tristan, and Rohan) and I would honestly love to read a spinoff of their stories. Jackson though— is it me? Or is he like, nonexistent in this book. 💀 His name is mentioned, but I don’t think he even appears in person. I am not sure if perhaps that has something to do with the previous two books in this series.
Lastly, there are two flashbacks that play a significant role in the book. It is supposed to be impactful, as both scenes are referred to by the MCs, but I just didn’t feel that way. I think a little revising to include more dialogue would have made the flashbacks more memorable to the reader or, more scenes in the past to highlight the existing relationship between the leads.
Nevertheless, I truly enjoyed this book and I am so grateful to have received an ARC. Thank you once again, NetGalley and Avon & Harper Voyager for this opportunity. And a happy almost pub day to the author, Ava Rani! The previous two books in the series will now be on my long list of TBRs. 💕
May 16, 2025
The Charmer finishes off the Biotech Billionaires trilogy, but also there are several characters that I'm desperately hoping star in a feature in a spinoff to this trilogy because there are so many more stories to tell! But when the series began with The Spare, we were introduced to Marcus, Henry, Xavier, and Sloane, a group of four split between two sibling pairs, Marcus and Xavier and Henry and Sloane. Marcus and Sloane kicked us off in The Spare and watching them fall in love (or more accurately, admit their feelings to us and each other) was delightful. As was watching Henry fall hard and fast for Selena in The Heir because that man went from being extremely commitment avoidant to being like, "Hello, yes, she's the one, where is the ring?" And now, in The Charmer, we finally get Xavier's story. Xavier, the life of the party, with the past of overcoming a spiral into addiction after the death of his parents. Xavier who clings to the people he considers his family now because of that history. And who does he fall in love with? Penelope. Penelope who would really prefer not to be the center of attention, Penelope who keeps her walls up because her birth family is sort of toxic, Penelope who needs a husband and a residence in Singapore to secure her inheritance.
Watching these two fall in love was really, really lovely. First of all though, let me just say, if you like Ana Huang's Twisted series, you really should pick up this one. Rich people doing crazy rich people things feels like the vibes of this book. If you like a fantasy of rich people doing crazy rich people things that only they can get away with but also caring about the state of the world, this book and series could be for you. I really love the way both of these characters were able to express themselves and their feelings. I love the nickname Poppy. I love the way they both prioritize and really see the other. If the sentiment "to be loved is to be known" then I feel like you might absolutely adore the way this book sorts itself out. I also appreciate that despite my comparison to Ana Huang, this book clocks in at only 352 pages so a much more reasonable length for a contemporary romance than some of Huang's behemoths. Anyway, all in all, I have enjoyed this entire trilogy and I would absolutely recommend it to you if you're in the mood for a spicy good time! (Oh, speaking of, this book has a list. Two lists, actually. And you know I love a good checklist!!)
Thanks to Avon for the e-ARC through Netgalley!
Watching these two fall in love was really, really lovely. First of all though, let me just say, if you like Ana Huang's Twisted series, you really should pick up this one. Rich people doing crazy rich people things feels like the vibes of this book. If you like a fantasy of rich people doing crazy rich people things that only they can get away with but also caring about the state of the world, this book and series could be for you. I really love the way both of these characters were able to express themselves and their feelings. I love the nickname Poppy. I love the way they both prioritize and really see the other. If the sentiment "to be loved is to be known" then I feel like you might absolutely adore the way this book sorts itself out. I also appreciate that despite my comparison to Ana Huang, this book clocks in at only 352 pages so a much more reasonable length for a contemporary romance than some of Huang's behemoths. Anyway, all in all, I have enjoyed this entire trilogy and I would absolutely recommend it to you if you're in the mood for a spicy good time! (Oh, speaking of, this book has a list. Two lists, actually. And you know I love a good checklist!!)
Thanks to Avon for the e-ARC through Netgalley!
September 2, 2025
I was so excited for this book. I loved the first two in the series and was greatly looking forward to more Xander and Penelope. Sadly, this book ended up being a huge disappointment and a total miss for me. A complete miss to the point I honestly wonder if this book was written by the same author. While the first two books contained seamless narratives and great prose, this one felt so silted. It took me months to read this book while the first two only took a few days. I kept picking I up and putting it down with zero intent to go back. I had to force myself to keep reading off and on. I wanted to DNF (and should have) from 30% onward. I kept thinking it would get better based on the first two books and that never happened.
The writing was awful. I hate when authors tell more than show and this book was full of telling. We were told the background between the two instead of being shown. We were told about about Penelope’s childhood. So much time was spent on the business side of things in the beginning instead of focusing on the couple. Then the ending felt rushed as meetings happened and the “bad guy” was dealt with in one go. This felt more like a very, very rough draft instead of a final book.
In the end, my biggest problem is that I didn’t buy into the romance. While I believe Xander loves Penelope and has loved her from afar, I in no way what so ever believe she loves him. Her actions at the end and needing him to “prove he loves her more than he is afraid to lose her” weren’t love. She puts everyone’s needs (including her family that wrote her off for years) above him. She expects him to just follow her around like a love sick puppy instead of having adult conversations. I spent a lot of the last 20% of the book commenting out loud about how much I hated what was happening and Penelope as a whole.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The writing was awful. I hate when authors tell more than show and this book was full of telling. We were told the background between the two instead of being shown. We were told about about Penelope’s childhood. So much time was spent on the business side of things in the beginning instead of focusing on the couple. Then the ending felt rushed as meetings happened and the “bad guy” was dealt with in one go. This felt more like a very, very rough draft instead of a final book.
In the end, my biggest problem is that I didn’t buy into the romance. While I believe Xander loves Penelope and has loved her from afar, I in no way what so ever believe she loves him. Her actions at the end and needing him to “prove he loves her more than he is afraid to lose her” weren’t love. She puts everyone’s needs (including her family that wrote her off for years) above him. She expects him to just follow her around like a love sick puppy instead of having adult conversations. I spent a lot of the last 20% of the book commenting out loud about how much I hated what was happening and Penelope as a whole.
Thank you to Avon and NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2025
Thanks netgalley for the ARC!! It's been a minute since my last billionaire romance and fake marriage. Overall, this was a 2.5 stars for me.
Things I enjoyed:
- Manhattan x Singapore setting - gave Crazy Rich Asians vibes
- Xaden - he was such a simp for her and remembered every small little detail about Penelope, which led to some very romantic acts of services.
- Found family - I jumped into the third book of the series, without reading the first two so I felt I missed some background context, but it was evident the support and love this friend group had for each other.
Things I felt were lacking:
- Penelope - she was fine IMO... she's apparently a very strong lawyer but then was so weak when it came to her personal life. While I can see how that happens (family trauma is so real), the majority of the drama surrounded her family so we didn't get to see very much of her strong side.
- Xaden's trauma - while this was explored, it felt a little surface level to me. We didn't really see this explored in Penelope & Xaden's relationship until the end and it felt weak.
- Their relationship - they were cute together, but I cannot tell you why they were in love with each other. They alluded to their history and tension but with so little explanation. It felt like they had 2 pretty average moments in the past that I would say leaned more friendly than anything.
- Writing - the writing was great but there was something about the exposition / dialogue that would throw me off. I wasn't fully engrossed in the world or the characters.
Things I enjoyed:
- Manhattan x Singapore setting - gave Crazy Rich Asians vibes
- Xaden - he was such a simp for her and remembered every small little detail about Penelope, which led to some very romantic acts of services.
- Found family - I jumped into the third book of the series, without reading the first two so I felt I missed some background context, but it was evident the support and love this friend group had for each other.
Things I felt were lacking:
- Penelope - she was fine IMO... she's apparently a very strong lawyer but then was so weak when it came to her personal life. While I can see how that happens (family trauma is so real), the majority of the drama surrounded her family so we didn't get to see very much of her strong side.
- Xaden's trauma - while this was explored, it felt a little surface level to me. We didn't really see this explored in Penelope & Xaden's relationship until the end and it felt weak.
- Their relationship - they were cute together, but I cannot tell you why they were in love with each other. They alluded to their history and tension but with so little explanation. It felt like they had 2 pretty average moments in the past that I would say leaned more friendly than anything.
- Writing - the writing was great but there was something about the exposition / dialogue that would throw me off. I wasn't fully engrossed in the world or the characters.
May 23, 2025
Synopsis:
Penelope Chen-Astor ran away from the stifling expectations of her wealthy family in Singapore working as a high-powered Manhattan lawyer, but her grandfather’s will demands she be married for a year to claim her inheritance. Enter Xander Sutton, the charming billionaire co-founder of investment group Dawn Capital. When she’s backed into a corner and asks Xander to masquerade as her husband for a year, he sees a golden opportunity to finally win over the only person who’s kept him at arm’s length. When meddling relatives, corporate espionage, and high-stakes legal battles come into play, Xander and Penelope will have to decide if the inheritance is all they stand to lose when the year is done...
Review:
Ava continues to write spicy, diverse stories that allow you to escape to the world of unimaginable wealth, while keeping the characters charming and somehow relatable! What’s refreshing is that the FMCs are also strong, powerful, wealthy and don’t require saving. This story was no different - Penelope was charming and sweet and Xander was cocky, but considerate (that perfect balance though 😰). I loved reading about their fake marriage and their 🔥 chemistry, mixed in with rich people and family dynamics.
Thank you @authoravarani for sending me a copy and for including me on this tour. This is the last in the Biotech Billionaire series. I can’t wait to see what she does next!
Penelope Chen-Astor ran away from the stifling expectations of her wealthy family in Singapore working as a high-powered Manhattan lawyer, but her grandfather’s will demands she be married for a year to claim her inheritance. Enter Xander Sutton, the charming billionaire co-founder of investment group Dawn Capital. When she’s backed into a corner and asks Xander to masquerade as her husband for a year, he sees a golden opportunity to finally win over the only person who’s kept him at arm’s length. When meddling relatives, corporate espionage, and high-stakes legal battles come into play, Xander and Penelope will have to decide if the inheritance is all they stand to lose when the year is done...
Review:
Ava continues to write spicy, diverse stories that allow you to escape to the world of unimaginable wealth, while keeping the characters charming and somehow relatable! What’s refreshing is that the FMCs are also strong, powerful, wealthy and don’t require saving. This story was no different - Penelope was charming and sweet and Xander was cocky, but considerate (that perfect balance though 😰). I loved reading about their fake marriage and their 🔥 chemistry, mixed in with rich people and family dynamics.
Thank you @authoravarani for sending me a copy and for including me on this tour. This is the last in the Biotech Billionaire series. I can’t wait to see what she does next!
March 19, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley & Avon & Harper Voyager for the arc!
**3.5 stars** I loved this! This is my first book I read by Ava Rani but now I want to read more of her books. If you’re looking for a feel-good, romance book with GREAT writing, look no further.
Part of an interconnected standalone series, “Biotech Billionaires”, we follow our badass female protagonist, Penelope Astor-Chen–a big shot lawyer make her own way in the big apple, escaping her familial obligations to return to Singapore to marry the match that has been made for her since forever to claim her inheritance. In hopes to be more independent and to escape the marriage clause, we meet our billionaire, Xander Sutton–cofounder of an investment capital firm and reformed player. After Penelope’s awkward encounter with her betrothed, she finds herself claiming she is engaged to Xander Sutton, much to his surprise. What starts as the typical fake-dating trope, leads to deeper feelings and undeniable attraction.
I’m genuinely surprised this author is not talked about enough in the book space! Her work has GREAT writing and is the perfect embodiment of a giggly, butterflies-in-the-tummy feeling romance readers would absolutely love. And there’s spice in this. This book is the third installment of an interconnected series though not necessary to read the first two, there are many cameos from the previous books so enjoy the first two then read this one!
Though I did enjoy this book, there were a couple of moments where I felt it dragged and the sibling rivalry felt short-lived. There wasn’t a good enough or concrete reason for there to be such a years-long rivalry. I can appreciate when the author takes the time to describe the clothing but the amount of backless dresses Penelope wears to social functions is comedic. Regardless, it made me laugh and it didn’t take away from the story.
This is a book I feel should be trending in the book space. Please read this (after reading the first two)! You will not regret it!
**3.5 stars** I loved this! This is my first book I read by Ava Rani but now I want to read more of her books. If you’re looking for a feel-good, romance book with GREAT writing, look no further.
Part of an interconnected standalone series, “Biotech Billionaires”, we follow our badass female protagonist, Penelope Astor-Chen–a big shot lawyer make her own way in the big apple, escaping her familial obligations to return to Singapore to marry the match that has been made for her since forever to claim her inheritance. In hopes to be more independent and to escape the marriage clause, we meet our billionaire, Xander Sutton–cofounder of an investment capital firm and reformed player. After Penelope’s awkward encounter with her betrothed, she finds herself claiming she is engaged to Xander Sutton, much to his surprise. What starts as the typical fake-dating trope, leads to deeper feelings and undeniable attraction.
I’m genuinely surprised this author is not talked about enough in the book space! Her work has GREAT writing and is the perfect embodiment of a giggly, butterflies-in-the-tummy feeling romance readers would absolutely love. And there’s spice in this. This book is the third installment of an interconnected series though not necessary to read the first two, there are many cameos from the previous books so enjoy the first two then read this one!
Though I did enjoy this book, there were a couple of moments where I felt it dragged and the sibling rivalry felt short-lived. There wasn’t a good enough or concrete reason for there to be such a years-long rivalry. I can appreciate when the author takes the time to describe the clothing but the amount of backless dresses Penelope wears to social functions is comedic. Regardless, it made me laugh and it didn’t take away from the story.
This is a book I feel should be trending in the book space. Please read this (after reading the first two)! You will not regret it!
May 13, 2025
Book three of the Biotech Billionaires series was my absolute favorite of the series!
Our charming bestie sidekick Xander finally gets his own story as he enters into a marriage of convenience with Penelope, the lawyer he has been flirting with since book one. Their story takes them across the globe as they entangle their business relationships with their personal relationship.
The reason I loved this one so much may mostly be due to Xander- he has been my favorite character throughout the series, with his charm, humorous hijinks, and protectiveness for the people he loves. We get to finally see what drives him this time, and the whole thing is wrapped in so much banter, flirtation, and spice.
His love interest can also hold her own, and Penelope's fierce independence makes her a perfect match for Xander. I loved watching their initial flirtation turn into something much deeper, and loved watching Xander make strategic moves to protect Penelope along the way.
Now I'm just sad that the series is over, and that we won't be checking in with these friends any longer! The continuity of the characters in the series was fantastic, and I'm so glad I read them all close together and got to know the characters so well by the end. 💗
Our charming bestie sidekick Xander finally gets his own story as he enters into a marriage of convenience with Penelope, the lawyer he has been flirting with since book one. Their story takes them across the globe as they entangle their business relationships with their personal relationship.
The reason I loved this one so much may mostly be due to Xander- he has been my favorite character throughout the series, with his charm, humorous hijinks, and protectiveness for the people he loves. We get to finally see what drives him this time, and the whole thing is wrapped in so much banter, flirtation, and spice.
His love interest can also hold her own, and Penelope's fierce independence makes her a perfect match for Xander. I loved watching their initial flirtation turn into something much deeper, and loved watching Xander make strategic moves to protect Penelope along the way.
Now I'm just sad that the series is over, and that we won't be checking in with these friends any longer! The continuity of the characters in the series was fantastic, and I'm so glad I read them all close together and got to know the characters so well by the end. 💗
May 14, 2025
This was one of my most anticipated books of the year and I’m so happy to have finally read Xander and Penelope’s story! I have been so excited to get Xander’s point of view ever since reading The Spare almost two years ago. And boy - did Ava deliver!
The last book in The Biotech Billionaires series centers on Xander, Sloan’s charming best friend who isn’t looking for anything serious. And although he keeps his relationships short and surface level, he can’t seem to stop thinking about Penelope. Penelope works with Sloan and while she’s part of her friend group, she hasn’t ever let herself get too close. But when the stipulations of her inheritance require her to get married by the end of the summer, she quickly realizes that she’s not okay with the plan set out for her and instead, leans on Xander to be her fake husband.
Penelope and Xander were EVERYTHING! I loved getting Xander’s inner thoughts and seeing just how down bad he was for Penelope. And the flashbacks to events from the first two books gave us so much more insight into who Xander is and how he dealt with grief. I also loved how Penelope found her strength throughout the book and prioritized her own happiness instead of everyone else’s. I absolutely loved this book and thought it was a fabulous way to wrap up the series. I can’t wait to see what Ava does next!
The last book in The Biotech Billionaires series centers on Xander, Sloan’s charming best friend who isn’t looking for anything serious. And although he keeps his relationships short and surface level, he can’t seem to stop thinking about Penelope. Penelope works with Sloan and while she’s part of her friend group, she hasn’t ever let herself get too close. But when the stipulations of her inheritance require her to get married by the end of the summer, she quickly realizes that she’s not okay with the plan set out for her and instead, leans on Xander to be her fake husband.
Penelope and Xander were EVERYTHING! I loved getting Xander’s inner thoughts and seeing just how down bad he was for Penelope. And the flashbacks to events from the first two books gave us so much more insight into who Xander is and how he dealt with grief. I also loved how Penelope found her strength throughout the book and prioritized her own happiness instead of everyone else’s. I absolutely loved this book and thought it was a fabulous way to wrap up the series. I can’t wait to see what Ava does next!
August 5, 2025
Full disclosure, I didn’t read any of the other books in this series. This is the third so there were quite a few characters that I didn’t know but it’s definitely an interconnected standalone. It would’ve been nice to know more of the backstory but the author does a good job of filling the new reader in.
This was a billionaire romance and that’s kind of all you need to know. I am not typically a big fan of the “billionaire” trope because it’s such a cop-out for a good plot. You can just fill in any holes with travel or huge expensive surprises. There was a lot of dress ripping in this one, for instance. I think he ripped at least 3 really expensive couture dresses which, honestly, just annoyed me. Someone labored over that dress for days and probably put hundreds of hours of work into it and you couldn’t be bothered to undo a few buttons???
This also felt a bit too long. There were two or three little epilogues which was unnecessary. It’s okay to leave a little to a reader’s imagination.
I think this would be a good series for those who like billionaire romances. I will probably take a pass on the rest of the series but not because of the writing; it’s just not for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a billionaire romance and that’s kind of all you need to know. I am not typically a big fan of the “billionaire” trope because it’s such a cop-out for a good plot. You can just fill in any holes with travel or huge expensive surprises. There was a lot of dress ripping in this one, for instance. I think he ripped at least 3 really expensive couture dresses which, honestly, just annoyed me. Someone labored over that dress for days and probably put hundreds of hours of work into it and you couldn’t be bothered to undo a few buttons???
This also felt a bit too long. There were two or three little epilogues which was unnecessary. It’s okay to leave a little to a reader’s imagination.
I think this would be a good series for those who like billionaire romances. I will probably take a pass on the rest of the series but not because of the writing; it’s just not for me.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2025
WHY did I sleep on this series until now? This book was so much fun and I already want to read it again. Xander and Penelope’s story was absolutely captivating and I loved every moment.
Penelope is an heiress to a high-powered family in Singapore. Faced with a life she doesn’t want, she walks away with no intention of looking back. However, to complete the terms of her grandfather’s will, she must face the life she was determined to leave behind. Enter Xander, the sexy billionaire who happens to have a sweet spot for Poppy. A marriage of convenience comes into play but it quickly gets complicated when real feelings form.
This book was sweet, sexy, and a ton of fun to read. I also loved all of the cultural references and nods to Singapore that popped up in this book. I cannot wait to go back and read the first two books in the series!
Thank you so much to Ava, Avon, and NetGalley for this ARC in return for my honest review. My opinions are my own.
Penelope is an heiress to a high-powered family in Singapore. Faced with a life she doesn’t want, she walks away with no intention of looking back. However, to complete the terms of her grandfather’s will, she must face the life she was determined to leave behind. Enter Xander, the sexy billionaire who happens to have a sweet spot for Poppy. A marriage of convenience comes into play but it quickly gets complicated when real feelings form.
This book was sweet, sexy, and a ton of fun to read. I also loved all of the cultural references and nods to Singapore that popped up in this book. I cannot wait to go back and read the first two books in the series!
Thank you so much to Ava, Avon, and NetGalley for this ARC in return for my honest review. My opinions are my own.
April 12, 2025
Ava Rani shines once again in the third book of her billionaire bio-tech series.
I was so looking forward to Xander’s book as I CONSUMED the first two and I feel like though these are interconnected standalone, this story is better when you read the first two in the series before venturing into Xander and Penelope.
I love how Ava writes her characters, their romantic relationships, and their friendships. They are somehow so light and yet meaningful.
Ava treats her characters with love and grace. It’s not a typical story because they feel more real than most characters ever do—
Instead of act three break ups—
It’s just a conflict of real people journeying through circumstances
The HEA feels earned, and the found family makes me tear up. I love the characters so much, and I'm eternally thankful for the additional epilogues Ava Rani graced us with.
I was so looking forward to Xander’s book as I CONSUMED the first two and I feel like though these are interconnected standalone, this story is better when you read the first two in the series before venturing into Xander and Penelope.
I love how Ava writes her characters, their romantic relationships, and their friendships. They are somehow so light and yet meaningful.
Ava treats her characters with love and grace. It’s not a typical story because they feel more real than most characters ever do—
Instead of act three break ups—
It’s just a conflict of real people journeying through circumstances
The HEA feels earned, and the found family makes me tear up. I love the characters so much, and I'm eternally thankful for the additional epilogues Ava Rani graced us with.
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