The Bargain

Dalton Family #2

by Lisa Renee Jones

The enemy who seduced me tore my heart apart and then chased me down to do it again now wants to bargain with me.

Ethan Dalton is filthy rich, arrogant, and the man who crushed my father's hopes of saving his business. He's also gorgeous, a master of seduction, and charming. He wants something from me, and the bargain he offers is life changing, but there's one catch, at least from my perspective. I'm falling for him, and falling hard, but he doesn't have to know. He's not that forever guy. And if I remember that, the bargain means pleasure and adventure, and when it's over, the doors he's opening for me means a brighter future for my family.

I can do this. And I can walk away.

What could go wrong?

Book two in the Dalton Family Trilogy.

Genres: Romance

230 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2025

About the author

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series. Suzanne Todd (producer of Alice in Wonderland) on the INSIDE OUT series: Lisa has created a beautiful, complicated, and sensual world that is filled with intrigue and suspense. Sara’s character is strong, flawed, complex, and sexy - a modern girl we all can identify with.

In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.

Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.

Reviews

[Madeline Ramsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
*I am leaving this review voluntarily

First, I would like to say how honored I am to have received an advance copy of this novel from the author. Sharing writing is such a vulnerable process for authors, and I am honored to have been included.

This is a short and sweet sequel to My Enemy, My Obsession. Dual POV, second chance romance, billionaire romance, and open door spice are all themes in this novel.

I would like to see more depth of the characters; that even after two books I feel like I don’t know much about anyone. The FMC doesn’t have any female friends and it shows. The MMC has quite a few family issues. All of this gets dragged into their relationship and miscommunication and conclusion-jumping is common. A lot of the conversation stemmed around rehashing the same arguments, which got a touch repetitive.

The chapters are short and the story moves along, which I love. It also picks up right where the first book left off, with a quick reminder of events at the very beginning. There’s a little cliffhanger that makes me want to find out more in the final book of the trilogy!

My rating: 3⭐️

[Christabel Hazel Ashring · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cons: this next installment in the series felt like it truly draaaaagged on. The whole book could have been condensed to at least half of what it is in my opinion. The drama still felt very manufactured - the FMC especially seemed to inflate whatever situation was going on to be so much more dramatic than truly necessary. Many of the conversations felt stilted as well especially between the FMC and her father.

That being said, it is a decent read if you don't mind an incredibly slow paced story. The spice was moderate and there was a lot more plot in this one. Dominant Ethan is a great element to the story! I love how he works to help Sofia feel secure and prioritized in his life.

[Melissa Mejia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC and will be voluntarily be giving my honest review. This book was spicy and messy all in one but truly enjoyed this book!! The chemistry between the FMC Sophia and MMC Ethan just wow!! They are so good for each other!! He is just so Hot!! I really need the next book now!!

“The enemy who seduced me tore my heart apart and then chased me down to do it again now wants to bargain with me.”

[Bookish Venturess · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so happy with how this book turned out. I was expecting some very big problems after the first book and it actually wasn't. I love how they are learning to trust and work together to make those lives better. I can't wait to see what happens next with this series.

[Adri · Rating 3 out of 5]

Wanting you is easier than anything I’ve ever done.


𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠:
2.75/5 stars ⭐️⭐️✨

♡ 𝑀𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈:

So… nothing happened. Like, literally. The entire book was Ethan begging Sofia to give them a chance, and Sofia acting like a professional track star in the Running Away Olympics. I mean, good thing Ethan’s fit, because this man spends 300 pages chasing after her. Plot? Nowhere to be found. The juicy setup at the end of book one with Ethan’s dad and brother? Yeah, apparently that got lost in baggage claim, because it never made it into this book it was just slightly teased here and there but i genuinely expected this to have more plot. Was it still entertaining? 100% i ate it up in less than 48 hours but just can’t expect a lot.

Sofia, I want to root for you, I really do. And okay, yes, I get her concerns—dating someone who’s now tied to your brand is a big deal, especially when things are new. Fair point. But the endless back-and-forth, the pushing, the pulling, the “I’m in, I’m out”? Exhausting. And if she runs again because of Anna after everything Ethan has done? I swear I’ll toss this series out the nearest window.

Now, credit where it’s due—the spice? Pretty decent. Lisa Renee Jones knows how to write a scene, they just have so much tension (must be due to all the running smh). Unfortunately, no amount of steam can distract me from the fact that the plot was MIA the entire book.
Will book three finally deliver something besides cardio and angst? Maybe. Who knows. At this point, I’m just hanging on out of curiosity.


I’ve already decided I will chase you until you stop running.


♡ 𝒮𝓅𝒾𝒸𝑒 𝓁𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓁: 🌶️ 🌶️ 🌶️

I want nothing more than to walk you into your house, press you against the wall, and fuck you until you’re obsessed with me the way I’m obsessed with you.

♡ 𝙁𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙧𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙌𝙪𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙨:
↦ I want everything and fear everything with you. That’s where I’m at. That’s me being honest.

↦ I don’t just want to know more about you. I have to know you.

↦ Sweetheart, you’re the first good thing I’ve known in longer than you can imagine for reasons you don’t yet know.

↦ Never let anyone, not even me, keep you from your dreams. And if they try, they aren’t worth your time.

↦ I’m not looking for a fling. I didn’t fly here for a fling

↦ He’s a risk; maybe he’s even trouble. I know this, and I don’t seem to care. And if trouble is what this is, trouble is exactly where I want to crash and burn.

↦ How about I just call you beautiful, at least until you let me call you mine?

↦ just so you know, you’re mine. And a man should take care of what’s his.

↦ I’ve never been obsessed with anyone but you.

[Rubys.Reads_ · Rating 2 out of 5]

ARC REVEIW

Thank you so much for the ARC read!

I loved the idea behind it, the storyline line and where it was going. However, the writing failed to captivate my attention enough, and I failed to enjoy it. I wish the book had more feeling to it. more showing and not telling.
Instead of "She was scared" they could say "Her breath came in sharp bursts, her pulse racing in her neck"
I couldn't feel anything because they hardly felt anything. I didn't have enough TIME to feel anything.
I really do feel like this book has so so much potential but just needed more polishing and revision to make it really POP!!

I'm unfortunately going to have to DNF it FOR NOW. thats not saying I'm going to pick it up again, I'm just not engaged enough right now.


SPOILERS AHOY!!!
Notes while reading:
5% in
I’m a little confused about the personality of the dad. He’s come across as an ass and now he’s “oh I was feeling spicy”. Hmmmmmmm. Like in the last book Ethan was acting like his dad is so evil, but now they are acting like they are best buds having a tiff. 
10% 
It’s annoying how emotionless this book is. I had it with the last one. It’s all tell no show. 
This then this then this then this. No stopping. No feeling. 
The paragraph reads:
“The thin paper crumples in my hand, and my lashes lower, my jaw grinding. That note couldn’t get any colder. She's gone. And considering she’s walked out on me two times now, it’s time to accept I want this far more than she does. It’s time to let her go, but as I toss that ball of paper into the trashcan, I know I’m going for three.” 
But I would love to have some FEELING!! Off the top of my head: 
“This can’t be real. She… she wouldn’t have ended with me in a fucking NOTE. The thin paper crumples in my hand, mirroring the crushing in my chest. Knuckles white and jaw tense, I breath through my nose trying to calm the rage burning through me. And the fear. 
How could she leave me like this? I thought we had sorted everything out. I must’ve missed something in the letter, I think as I flatten it out on the table. But no. I read it again. And again. But it remains just as cold and heartless as ever. 
She’s done. Finished with me. AGAIN. 
I should listen to her. Take her at her word and give Sophia the space she obviously craves. That thought alone causes my stomach to churn, bile filling my mouth at the sickening thought of spending a second of my life without her. 
No. That is unacceptable. I will not accept that she is dumping me by fucking NOTE. If she wants to end things she can do it to my face. 
Sophia will not be getting away from me that easily.” 
I don’t know, just something with a bit more POW Yanoo. I need more than a couple lines after she’s literally ran away from him again! 
Also, I fucking hate a miscommunication trope like this!! Just fucking talk to each other. Hear each other out. Don’t just assume and run!!
A miscommunication trope can be done so so right if it’s actually 2 people saying the stuff to each other but not hearing it right (as in one can’t hear what the other is saying past the wall of fear and insecurity) but the bare basics of a relationship is to give each other a chance to speak!! 
30%
Yeah it’s the same as the last one. The book is only good once they’re together. 

[Ashes And Ink · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bargain picks up right where My Enemy My Obsession left us and thank you for that! (that cliffhanger was beyond frustrating). Once again, I was completely invested from the jump diving back into the unfolding love story of Sofia and Ethan. He knows what he wants and it’s her. She knows what she wants but can she allow herself to believe it’s real? This continuation had me finishing this book in one sitting (late into the night) and paying a price that was worth it the next day.

Sofia doesn’t know what to do about her business deal; while Ethan attempts to give Sofia time to figure it out but the emptiness of staying away proves to be too strong a power, even for someone like him. Sofia struggles separating not only the business from the personal with Ethan, but also with believing how real this can truly be considering the difference in their financial positions. Ethan tries not to push her into something she is not ready to accept while dealing with the fear that she will once again disappear on him losing her forever.

While trying to navigate their relationship they take on the added task of helping each other with their respective family troubles. Sofia’s concern for her father becomes a self-imposed roadblock; clinging so tightly to her father’s well-being she worries about leaving him and exposing her relationship with a man he hates. Ethan’s brother has put the family business in jeopardy and Ethan is struggling with his father to help remedy the situation. While Ethan tries to ease Sofia’s mind when it comes to her father, Sofia helps Ethan see the value in not walking away from family.

Sofia’s fear and propensity to overthink creates an ongoing fight between believing something is too good to be true and chasing her happiness. Fighting the intrusive thought to run…again. However, Ethan’s patience and persistence may be just the answer she needs. While attempting to come to a resolution I appreciate that communication between the two takes on a more mature realistic voice. In the end, jumping to conclusions threatens to destabilize everything they want to build together.

This book is the second in the series, meaning that the ending is perfectly frustrating to keep me enthralled for the next book (I just want to see them find their happiness…ugh)! I am on the edge of my seat awaiting the conclusion of this journey. I rarely root for a happy ending, but this one…this one I want nothing more for their story. I will (not so) patiently be waiting to see where this rocky road ends.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE BARGAIN is the second instalment in Lisa Renee Jones’ contemporary, adult DALTON FAMILY erotic, romance trilogy focusing on thirty six year old billionaire, investor Ethan Dalton, and twenty-nine year old, fashion designer Sofia Cameron. THE BARGAIN should not be read as a stand alone as it picks up immediately after the events and cliff hanger of book one MY ENEMY, MY OBSESSION.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Sofia and Ethan) THE BARGAIN follows in the wake of a business offer for fashion designer Sofia Cameron. Sofia is the owner of the fashion line known as Zoey, and the Dalton family business has offered Sofia a six week mentorship and internship in Paris but Sofia’s personal relationship with Ethan may be a potential conflict of interest, as was Ethan’s previous rejection of Sofia’s father’s business proposal . Sofia struggles with issues of trust and loss, and in this, Ethan is offering more than a business proposal, he is offering the possibility of a life-long commitment. Meanwhile, Ethan’s half-brother Grant’s latest business venture has placed the family owned Dalton Enterprises in a precarious position pushing Ethan’s ex deeper into our couple’s orbit, as Ethan offers to renegotiate as a prospective investor in Sofia’s father Robert Cameron’s business.

The world building continues to focus on promoting Sofia’s fashion line as our couple make plans for Paris, France. Sofia continues to struggle with her growing love for a man who could break her heart, while she watches from the sidelines as the Dalton family is pulled into a possible war.

The relationship between Ethan and Sofia is both personal and professional. Sofia battles between head and heart fearing the potential for conflict, hurt and betrayal. Ethan is determined to prove she is worthy of everything he has to offer including his money and his heart. The $ex scenes are limited but seductive and provocative including scenes of spanking, which the author adds to most of her erotic story lines.

THE BARGAIN is a fast paced story of power and control, relationships and dysfunction family dynamics, trust and forgiveness. The character driven premise is inviting and riveting but barely covers 48 hours in the life ; the romance is spicy yet tender; the characters are determined and charismatic. THE BARGAIN ends on a cliff hanger- you have been warned.


copy supplied for review

[Mercedes · Rating 2 out of 5]

***ARC***

I really like the premise of this story—it has solid potential and builds on what was introduced in My Enemy, My Obsession.

That said, this installment dragged. The pacing was painfully slow at times, and I honestly feel like the entire book could’ve been condensed to half its length without losing anything meaningful. Much of the drama felt manufactured, especially from the FMC, who often seemed to blow situations out of proportion. Her conversations—particularly with her father—felt stilted and unnatural.

If you're okay with a slow-burn read, this might still work for you. There is more plot here compared to the first book, and the spice is moderate and open-door. One highlight is Dominant Ethan—he’s a strong part of the story, especially in the way he works to make Sofia feel secure and prioritized. I loved seeing that dynamic between them.

This is a short and emotional sequel featuring dual POV, second-chance romance, billionaire tropes, and that classic enemies-to-lovers tension. However, I still don’t feel like I know these characters—even after two books. Sofia (FMC) has no close female friendships, and it shows. Ethan (MMC) brings a lot of family baggage into the relationship, which leads to frequent miscommunication and jumping to conclusions.

Dialogue often revolved around rehashing the same arguments, which got repetitive. Still, I appreciated the short chapters and how the story picks up right where the first book left off, with a quick recap to reorient the reader. There’s also a small cliffhanger that piqued my interest for the final book.

One major point of confusion for me is Ethan’s dominance. Is this a BDSM dynamic? A Dom/Sub relationship? There are hints, but it lacks clarity or depth. If an author is going to include kink-related themes like dominance or BDSM, it’s important to portray them with accuracy—emphasizing trust, communication, and consent. These elements are essential in real-life BDSM dynamics and shouldn’t just be used for drama or vague character traits. Not every Dom/Sub connection is romantic, and I’d love to see more nuance and respectful representation in that area.

Final thoughts: This book has strong themes and spicy moments, but it struggles with pacing, depth, and dialogue. Still, I’m curious enough to see how things wrap up in the final installment.

[Krissy Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book picks up where the first one left off, and I am so happy about that.

For this one, though, I found the plot got a little lost because so much time was spent with MMC Ethan Dalton chasing the FMC Sofia Cameron and her pushing him away or second guessing them. Sofia and Ethan just kept going in circles. Both of them were dealing with their own baggage and family drama to overcome and Sofia does have a lot lose if things go south but I felt the whole book was didnt really move their story as much as I hoped it would.

I did find myself getting a bit aggravated with Sofia because she just could not get out of her own head and struggled so much to let go of her own fears and let Ethan in. Don't get me wrong, I like tension build-up, but Sophie's inner thoughts were annoying at times because they were really repetitive, especially about her doubts about Ethan and the future. Sometimes, I just wanted to shake some sense into her and make her see the light. Because by now, we know that she cares for him and wants him. Even if things are complicated, she seems to make it more complicated. I found it harder to like her in this book because she just frustrated me.

I still loved Ethan, though. He was the charming alpha that I have come to expect from book one. Ethan is incredibly understanding with her and treats her with so much patience. He knows what he wants and continues to pursue it. Ethan comes off as an arrogant prick to everyone, but when it comes to Sofia, he is confident, possessive, and protective. For her, he is a sexy cinnamon roll. I just wanted her to trust him and let their relationship develop and progress. Ethan really carried the story for me and is the reason I look forward to reading the next book. I need more of him!

Their chemistry is hot when Sofia let her guard down, and the spice was spicing 🥵. Lisa Renee Jones knows how to write tension and a spicy scene 🔥.

Why did it have to end in another cliffhanger?!?! oh, I can't stand Anna! I need to know what happens. Ethan has me committed to the end ❤️.

[Demi Snell · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 ⭐️
Tropes: billionaire romance, dual POV

“It’s the moment that she was on her knees and brought me to my knees. It’s when I had ten problems, and they all went away because of her.”

This is the second book in the Dalton Family Trilogy and Ethan Dalton continued to be the same deliciously written billionaire that I loved from book one. AND again as soon as I finished this I needed the next book IMMEDIATELY because it ends on yet another cliffhanger. I was not ready to be done with Ethan and Sophia yet and honestly Lisa? How dare you do this to us again, but I’ll be here patiently waiting for book three!!

I did appreciate how this picked up right where book one ended and it’ll just sweep you right back in.

Sofia has so much to lose and was crippled by her fear and anxiety over her career and letting Ethan in. But Ethan was patient, understanding and he had no problem proving to Sofia that he was all in. - which I absolutely adored. He gives you the a**hole billionaire vibes but when it came to her, he was a goner.

I did rate this a 4 ⭐️ over 5 ⭐️ because her inner monologue was a little repetitive / annoying and her fear kept coming up regardless of Ethan doing his best to reassure her so that was a little frustrating - me the entire time: just let him love you damn it!! Regardless of that frustration I loved seeing their relationship blossom against all of the drama they were both dealing with and I think they will come out stronger by the end. I can’t wait to see what happens next in book three.

I HIGHLY recommend you check this series and this author out, you will not be disappointed.

Thank you to Lisa for an eARC in exchange for an honest review and letting me be part of your ARC team for this release.

[Babel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intense intimacy and deep connection. I felt both of these things deeply while reading this book, part 2 in The Dalton Family trilogy.

I've been eagerly awaiting the continuation of Sophia and Ethan's story because their romance is very passionate, yet also laced with emotional turmoil.

One of my favourite things about it is that Sophia's business dreams are paramount in the plot. She's a fashion designer with a store and plans for the future. Ethan is an investor and their relationship is fraught with trust issues, overwhelming feelings and open-hearted conversations. Very engaging.

In this second book, they really open up about everything. They are laying the foundations of their blooming relationship and it's both exhilarating and honest. Family is key as well, so they have to deal with their respective families and the business and emotional circumstances they bring with them. I found everything to my interest and kept me curious about its evolution.

I liked how patient Ethan is, calm and reasonable but also focused, loving and smart. I understand why Sophia is so hesitant to the point of fear. She is risking too much and has to deal with all her vulnerabilities in order to trust completely. I like how this process is going with this couple really talking and making plans for their future.

Things they have been working on really get somewhere towards the end when that nagging advice from Ethan to Sophia ends up happening. In spite of it, it still cuts to the bone. Let's see how it pans out in the next book. Will we have to wait too long? I hope not.

[alexis Wallace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok ok ok I see you! This was definitely a rough start going from the first book to this one but oh boy did it pick up fast .so in the first book we’re introduced to Ethan and Sophia. then we met his ex that caused a big scene and she runs again, but here’s where the fun begins. She can’t stop thinking about him. He can’t stop thinking about her. He makes her rational decision to go find her because he doesn’t wanna let this woman go not only does this man show if you wanted to you would but he gives up pretty much everything to be with her. He does not care if it goes south. then they realize they both have feelings for each other. She is a big daddy‘s girl and doesn’t wanna lose her father due to the situation that is stated in the first book, but all in all her father comes around and I think it’s a really sweet how he made it known that it’s a man’s job to always respect the father‘s wishes as well even if you want your blessing. All these emotions got them both filling some type of way and they fly back to New York where yet again his family becomes a big problem that he’s trying to avoid and the ending will have you shook because why is his ex randomly showing up knowing that she just called him and he just left Mind blown I really did enjoy this book. There was some spots where I was questioning where it was going, but it had a good plot. I had a good intentions and storyline. I really did like this one if you want a billionaire obsessed read this is the one I would go to

[Bryanna R. Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy (ARC) of this book. A huge thank you to Lisa for sharing it with me! I also appreciate you sending book one, as it significantly enhanced my understanding of the events in book two. 🫶🏼

Can I just say WOW? I genuinely adored this read. One of my favorite aspects is how this book picks up right where the first one left off, which draws me in even faster—I was hooked within the first few pages. The dynamic between our main male character, Ethan, and the main female character, Sophia, is simply captivating. I loved seeing Ethan's determination to pursue Sophia; their chemistry is the perfect blend of spicy and just a touch messy, which adds an enjoyable tension to the story. Hehehe, we love that! 🫶🏼 I found myself so engrossed that I finished the entire book in less than 24 hours, and now I’m left eagerly anticipating book three!

The journey of Ethan and Sophia is beautifully crafted, especially as they tackle various challenges together while also focusing on personal growth. I appreciated how Ethan consistently makes his feelings for Sophia clear, which creates a sense of safety amid the chaos. Moreover, the deeper exploration of Ethan's character genuinely resonated with me; I felt like I got to understand his motivations and vulnerabilities much better. The same goes for Sophia—I loved how her character also developed and unfolded throughout the story. Overall, this book provided a rich, immersive experience that kept me turning the pages, and I can't wait for what comes next!💕

[Monica Grace Gossman · Rating 3 out of 5]

“I want everything and fear everything with you. That's where I'm at. That's me being honest.”

I had the pleasure of receiving this as an e-ARC! I loved the first one but this one was….. ughhh…..So... nothing really happened. Like, literally. The entire book was Ethan begging Sofia to give them a chance!!!!!

“The enemy who seduce me, tore my heart apart and then chase me down to do it again, now wants to bargain with me.”

And honestly she repeated herself so much it was almost impossible to even want to finish! For me…. I needed more from Sophia to match Ethan’s energy and enthusiasm for their relationship! She just wasn’t!! She’s too dammnnnnn much in some ways and not enough in other ways!!

“I've already decided I will chase you until you stop running.”


“I'm not looking for a fling. I didn't fly here for a fling.”

Now, credit where it's due-the spice? Pretty decent. Lisa Renee Jones knows how to write a scene, they just have so much tension (due to all the running, lmao).
Unfortunately, no amount of steam can distract me from the fact that the plot was MIA the entire book. I’m hoping Sophia opens her wide eyes to a love story most dream about and gets her head out of her heart and her heart more open to love!!! She has the guy right there and he says he won’t back down but what if she pushes to far or runs to far away…. Letting him go! Idk what to expect from the third one I’m hoping a happy ever after ending!

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review.

You need to read My Enemy My Obsession before diving into this book. If you don't you will be lost. The Bargain picks up where that book left off. I was so happy to be back with Sofia and Ethan. The man knows what he wants in life, and that is Sofia. He is certainly a man obsessed. She feels the same way but is having a hard time believing this is all real. Ethan is trying to be as supportive as he can be and let Sofia decide what she wants. But, it is killing him to do this and be away from her.What if she decides that she doesn't want him? She is really in a battle to separate the business end of their relationship from the part where they are a couple. They certainly have a lot to go through and consider and it will have you reading this book as fast as you can because you just have to know the answer to these questions. We also have family drama on both sides. She her father and he his brother. She is really trying so desperately it felt to me to hold onto her father while loving the man that her father hates. Ethan's brother is just a mess. Putting the family business in jeopardy while he and his father try to not let that happen. Ethan just needs for Sophia not to run again. Now we wait for the conclusion because I can't wait to see what happens. This book puts you through the will they won't they of it all and I just have to know what happens.

[Ruth Carswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

2nd book in the Dalton trilogy. Ethan Dalton hot billionaire business man knows what he wants and goes for it. Sophia is trying to get her fashion brand in Honor of her mother out there in big stores. Ethan is man to help her. however both lost their mother's in past Ethans father remarried and he has step brother from hell Grant who wants everything handed to him , his wife is Ethan's ex but I get the feeling she wants him back. they are both causing trouble for Ethan and Sophia
Sophia s dad hated Ethan when he turned down his business proposal in book 1 Sophia is frightened he will try and break her and Ethan up so doesn't tell him about her and Ethan and proposed trip to Paris until Ethan realises he made a mistake and to stop him going with a rogue partner promised to help him. he is now supporting both of them . whereas Ethan's dad has never dealt with losing Ethan's mother and comes across as grumpy arrogant business man with no heart
it leaves us on cliff hanger and grant and anna are involved so is it going to be bad but can't wait for book 3 and Ethan and Sophia to get their hea. thank you Lisa Renee for my ARC copy In return for this my honest review
Trope Billionaire alpha male with some suspense

[Pamela · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can honestly say the writing felt stronger and smoother compared to the first book in this series. What I loved:
Ethan is everything I want in a possessive hero—persistent, protective, and unwilling to give up on Sophie. His pursuit of her really drove the story and gave me the hero vibes I love to see in romance.

Where I struggled:
Sophie was harder for me to connect with. She constantly second-guesses herself and Ethan, and her indecision started to feel repetitive. At some point, I wanted her to trust him and lean into the relationship rather than circling back to the same doubts. That hesitation slowed the momentum for me.

As for the plot, it’s lighter here—less action-driven and more about watching the relationship unfold. While that can work well for character-focused romances, I personally wished for a bit more development beyond just seeing where things go next.

Final thoughts:
This book will definitely appeal to readers who enjoy an alpha hero determined to win his heroine over, and I appreciated the stronger writing style. For me, Sophie’s indecisiveness held the story back, but fans of possessive heroes and push-pull dynamics may still really enjoy this one.

Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC, I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Dalton Family Trilogy and picks up right where My Enemy, My Obsession left off. I highly recommend reading the first book before diving into this one — you’ll want that full emotional context! 📖💔

The story is well-written — Lisa Renee Jones did not disappoint. It’s fast-paced, emotional, and seriously addictive. What an intense, passionate, wild ride! 🎢🔥 It’s the perfect quick, steamy read that still hits deep emotionally. The spice? Wonderfully steamy and intensely emotional. 🔥💋 The family betrayals and buried secrets kept me completely invested. 🕵️‍♀️🧬

Ethan and Sophia’s relationship gets even messier and more complicated in the best way. I loved the push-pull tension between them 😍🥵. Since their story continues directly from Book One, it feels like one long, delicious binge-read. 📚💞 I especially loved that Ethan never backs down. 💪❤️

That cliffhanger has left me wanting more! 😱⏳ I can’t wait to see what’s next for Ethan and Sophia 💕 — and whether they’ll actually get their happily ever after. 💍✨

Highly recommend to anyone who loves unforgettable characters, jaw-dropping twists, and scenes that absolutely smolder. 🔥📖🖤

Thank You to Lisa Renee Jones for the ARC!

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to read this book as an ARC by the author. The Bargain is the second book in the Dalton Trilogy. It was well written and easy to follow the storyline. If you like cliffhangers, then this series is for you!

This book picks up at the cliffhanger from the first book, My Enemy My Obsession. You must read the books in order to understand the whole storyline. Reading this book as a stand-alone would leave you with a lot of questions.

Ethan and Sofia play the “Will they won’t they?” game with us basically the entire book. Sofia wants to prove herself without Ethan’s influence. Ethan wants to support her dreams and spends a majority of the book begging her to take a chance on their relationship. The couple is tested multiple times in the trilogy so far. The tension is thick and the spice is spicy, especially in this book. Sofia starts to let her walls down for Ethan, even though she is terrified.

I will be snatching up the last book when it becomes available next year. The cliffhangers always get me. I have so many questions that I need to be answered in the last book. I have some suspicions and predictions that I need to see how this story for Sofia and Ethan ends. Thank you Lisa Renee Jones for introducing the Dalton family to us!

[Donna reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Intense and captivating!!

Book 2 in the Dalton Family trilogy is an impressively entertaining and fascinating continuance of Ethan and Sofia’s love story.
Their relationship is repeatedly tested and challenged in this book.
Now that Sofia has accepted the contract with Moore ‘s she’s faced with many conflicts. Ethan wants a professional and personal relationship with Sofia. He has finally come to terms with the fact that he has fallen in love with Sofia.
The Dalton is on the verge of war with Grant’s involvement with less than savoury business ventures.
The intense connection and deep emotional attraction Ethan and a Sofia have for one another is EXHILARATING, heart-gripping and scorching hot.
If you’re into possessive, controlling and charming book boyfriends, Ethan will check off all your boxes.
Together they build trust and commitment but family drama and secrets coming to light, has us wondering what’s in store for these two next.
Getting lost in Ethan and Sofia’s story just keeps getting more interesting, enticing and captivating with each book.
So escape into their romance and enjoy the passion, suspense and heartwarming moments but know that their HEA isn’t at the end of this book!

[ReadMeRough · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan and Sofia’s relationship is passionate, complicated, and filled with so much tension. He’s brutally honest, alpha in every way, and absolutely relentless when it comes to proving how much he wants her. 🖤 His devotion and possessiveness had me melting, while Sofia’s struggles, overthinking, and big life choices made her feel so real and relatable.

The Paris backdrop ✨, the career opportunities, the family drama, and of course the ex-fiancée drama 👀 all added extra layers that kept me hooked from start to finish. And let’s not forget the spice… whew. 🥵 Lisa Renee Jones knows how to balance emotional depth with heat, and this book delivered both.

Some of my favorite moments were Ethan’s raw declarations — he is all in for Sofia, no matter how much she tries to run. 🫶 Their push and pull had my heart racing, and the cliffhanger? How could you do this to us again?! 😭

If you love:
✨ Intense, passionate romance
✨ Alpha heroes who will chase no matter what
✨ Family betrayals and secrets
✨ Spicy, emotional tension

…this series will keep you glued to the pages. I’m desperate for the finale already. 🙏

[Amelia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a ton of plot development, mostly just following the story to see what happens next. However, this series is a nice light read with a bit of tension. The title makes no sense though, the word "bargain" isn't even in the book.

This continuation of the series has a lot of Ethan trying to convince Sophie he's all in, while Sophia keeps trying to convince herself that this isn't forever (which she does because of her past trauma). I'm hoping she's able to finally get past that in the next book, and maybe we can look more at Ethan overcoming his past trauma.
The ending isn't a steep cliffhanger but it's definitely a "grr". I really appreciated the summary of the previous book at the beginning!

🌶️🌶️🌶️ Spicy dominant sex with one mild spanking
I really love how dominant and assertive Ethan is! Also, his POV chapters were nicely balanced and helped add a nice depth to the story.

"I’m aware of how much she enjoys being dominated, at least when it comes to sex. But I make no mistake in believing I could dominate her elsewhere, nor would I want to anyway. I like her independence. I like her fire and drive. I fucking love that she only submits to me."

[Jamie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Bargain" by Lisa Renee Jones is a captivating romance that masterfully weaves together complex characters, dark family secrets, and a forbidden attraction that will leave readers spellbound. At its core, the story revolves around the intense chemistry between Sofia, a talented fashion designer and devoted daughter, and Ethan, a billionaire entrepreneur, trying to solidify his business and save his father’s.

One of the standout aspects of this novel is its exploration of troubling family dynamics. Sofia's devotion to her father is admirable, but a secret she keeps could threaten to tear them apart. Meanwhile, Ethan's family is embroiled in its own web of deception, and he's forced to confront the darkness that has haunted him for so long.

What truly sets "The Bargain" apart is the way it balances romance, suspense, and family drama. The chemistry between Sofia and Ethan is undeniable, but it's their complex emotions and motivations that make their relationship so compelling. With its complex characters, sizzling chemistry, and captivating plot, "The Bargain" is a must-read for fans of romance and adventure.

[Writer · Rating 2 out of 5]

Annoying...

I really think Ms. Jones's style of writing has changed compared to her pasts. I used to find all her books early on, so intriguing & challenging that makes me look forward to the next. On the last few ones, I had to put it down so many times & pick up later, hoping to finish it soon. This one has so many thoughts of Sophia, so repetitive of the very same things about Ethan, about how devastatingly handsome & so delicious looking, how he is uber rich, has a lot of money & so on. Repetitive thoughts of how she feels about their relationship, if it's only a fling or not a fling, of how fragile it is that they will just end up destroying each other. Did I say repetitive? Oh yes, I have. It's no different on Ethan's POV, so many inner thoughts & musings repetitively of the very exact same thing about his brother & his ex who is now married to his loser of a brother over & over its grates on my nerves. I apologize to my fellow followers of Ms.Jones for talking about how I feel rather than describing the book. Oh, wait a minute, I did describe the book.
I can read a book & a half in a day since I've retired.This one took me forever. I think maybe I'm just getting old.

[Melanie Marnell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lisa Renee Jones creates magnificent characters. They're flawed, likeable and often you'll love hating them. They're emotions run deep and often times family connections drive their lives in both good and bad ways. Ethan Dalton is a man who knows what he wants and goes after it with single-minded purpose. This holds true in both his professional and personal life. What he wants now is Sofia Cameron. He wants her to succeed in her new endeavor and he also wants her in his life, his home and in his bed. Sofia is as skittish as they come, with good reason on many levels. Mixing business with pleasure seems an ill fated road to travel. Yet, keeping Ethan at arm's length and dealing with him only on a professional basis isn't working no matter how hard she tries or how fast she runs from him despite her attraction. He vows to chase her no matter what. Mix in family dynamics on both sides that could have devastating effects and their relationship is tested continuously it seems. I can hardly wait for the next installment in this series to arrive.

[Juniper Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I dove headfirst into the Dalton Family series and wow! What a ride so far!

My Enemy My Obsession (Dalton Family #1)
The start of Ethan and Sophia’s intense, whirlwind romance. Ethan is the powerful, successful businessman, while Sophia is chasing her dreams with her clothing line. Their first encounter in Hawaii was pure magic, though filled with secrets and mistaken identity. But just when it feels like more, Sophia runs, leaving us hanging with a cliffhanger ending that had me needing book two immediately!

The Bargain (Dalton Family #2)
Sophia and Ethan’s story continues, with even more tension, obsession, and push-pull chemistry. From Hawaii to New York , the emotions run high. Ethan is obsessed with Sophia in the best way, but her self-doubt and family complications keep them at odds. Add in Ethan's messy ex-drama and family secrets, and you get another cliffhanger that will have you screaming for book three!

Loved Ethan’s unwavering obsession with Sophia, he is absolutely all in for her. Their chemistry sizzles, and I’m hooked waiting for their conclusion!

[Dawna Roby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would say this is really 3.5/5 ⭐️
The storyline is good. I just feel like it needs more. It’s spicy romance with family drama mixed in. This book is a little slower than the first. It does pickup right where the first leaves off. And it ends leaving you wondering what is going to happen next.
Sofia has grief she still needs to deal with and feels like her father is somehow her responsibility instead of the other way around. I don’t think she is emotionally mature enough for a real grownup relationship based on how every little thing affects her. Ethan seems to be the constant voice of reason with Sofia but lets his family just screw up his life repeatedly. Lots of what happens gives the, fool me once shame on you fool me twice shame on me, feeling. I will definitely be waiting for the next book so I can know more about what happens I just hope it has a bit more story than this book did. I felt like a lot of repeated lines and thoughts from everyone.
This is my honest review of this ARC ebook I received.

[Jodie · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you don't risk your heart, you don't find your heart.

What a fantastic tale about two souls that are meant to be together. Lisa Renee Jones brings these wonderful characters to life and pulls you in from the very first page to the very last. This story ends on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to find out what happens next!

The magnetic pull between Ethan and Sofia is hypnotic and not just for them but for the reader too. Add in family drama and you’re in for a gripping tale that will keep you wanting more.

This second book in the series picks up right at the cliffhanger and takes you on a ride that you will get absolutely absorbed in. I couldn't put this book down. I loved that Walker Security makes an appearance! (Another great series, BTW.)

If you love good tales with wonderful characters, intrigue, and hot steamy scenes, you will love this series! Highly recommend you give this series a try! You won't be disappointed.

[Storm Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Huge thank you to Lisa Renee Jones for the ARC of The Bargain! 🙌💕 This is the second book in the series, and after absolutely loving the first one, I couldn’t wait to dive right back in. 📚✨

What I really adore about the main female character is how much she overthinks EVERYTHING 😅—just like in the first book. It makes her feel so real and relatable, and in this one we get to see her slowly letting her guard down. That growth makes the story even more emotional and addictive. 💭💓

The tension, secrets, and chemistry between the characters keep you hooked from start to finish. 🔥🖤 I loved how the stakes felt even higher this time, and I couldn’t stop flipping the pages.

This series just keeps pulling me in deeper and I honestly cannot wait for the third book in the trilogy! 😍🔥

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