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British Isles Billionaires #5
Closing the Deal
I call him a viper.
Sure, he’s gorgeous, a young billionaire, and a power player in the London property scene, but I’ve known Rafe Hawkes my whole life.
The partying playboy is like a snake on the prowl for prey when it comes to women. Looking for that first strike and the ability to hook a woman in with his charm and good looks.
But there’s one woman he’ll never get his fangs into.
And I’m proud to say that’s me.
Rafe is like a thorn in my side. Ever present, thanks to our friend circle, and utterly annoying. Whilst Rafe would never date a curvy perfumer, he lives to get under my skin and annoy me because it’s practically a sport for him.
Not that I completely mind dishing it back to him, of course. We’ve fallen into this weird relationship of living to antagonize each other.
I thought I would always be content with that … until one night changes everything between us. Everything as I know it has completely turned upside down.
And I’m not sure how I’m going to handle it.
Closing the Deal is a billionaire romance with a playboy who is not quite what he seems, a curvy heroine who faces personal and professional surprises, one bed, and a romance guaranteed to end with a happily ever after.
Sure, he’s gorgeous, a young billionaire, and a power player in the London property scene, but I’ve known Rafe Hawkes my whole life.
The partying playboy is like a snake on the prowl for prey when it comes to women. Looking for that first strike and the ability to hook a woman in with his charm and good looks.
But there’s one woman he’ll never get his fangs into.
And I’m proud to say that’s me.
Rafe is like a thorn in my side. Ever present, thanks to our friend circle, and utterly annoying. Whilst Rafe would never date a curvy perfumer, he lives to get under my skin and annoy me because it’s practically a sport for him.
Not that I completely mind dishing it back to him, of course. We’ve fallen into this weird relationship of living to antagonize each other.
I thought I would always be content with that … until one night changes everything between us. Everything as I know it has completely turned upside down.
And I’m not sure how I’m going to handle it.
Closing the Deal is a billionaire romance with a playboy who is not quite what he seems, a curvy heroine who faces personal and professional surprises, one bed, and a romance guaranteed to end with a happily ever after.
383 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2025
101 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Aven Ellis
52 books832 followersUSA Today bestselling author Aven Ellis began her publishing career in 2013 with her debut release, Connectivity. She currently writes romantic comedies featuring royals, billionaires, aristocrats, and athletes.
Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.
Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.
Her books are designed to make readers laugh out loud and fall in love. Happily-ever-after endings and good-boy heroes are guaranteed.
Aven lives in the Dallas area with her family. Aven loves shopping and fashion and can spend hours playing with fragrances in any department store. She can be found chatting it up on social media, eating speciality M&Ms, and crushing on the latest outfit the Duchess of Cambridge is wearing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 7, 2025
I immediately said "yes, sign me up!" I cannot say no to a best friend's brother romance.
I loved how open they were about their relationship. How they didn't hide it for one second. Jealous Rafe was my favorite 🤭 I will say the ending was predictable.. but in the best way possible. I think I would have been upset if it didn't end that way
This book wasn't exactly close door romance but the spice was kept to a minimum and I liked that
🌶️🌶️/5
I loved how open they were about their relationship. How they didn't hide it for one second. Jealous Rafe was my favorite 🤭 I will say the ending was predictable.. but in the best way possible. I think I would have been upset if it didn't end that way
This book wasn't exactly close door romance but the spice was kept to a minimum and I liked that
🌶️🌶️/5
May 4, 2025
Bea and Rafe have been in each other’s orbit their entire lives—she’s best friends with his brother, who is also dating one of her closest friends. Known by their nicknames “Wasp” and “Viper,” they’ve always clashed, or so it seems. However, during a drive to Surrey, a sudden storm forces them to confront their differences, and a frightened Bea finds unexpected comfort in Rafe’s care. This shared moment leads them to decide they’d rather be friends—though the lingering question remains: when will they acknowledge that their bond might be more than just friendship?
This is my first book by the author, and what a delightful discovery it has been.
I absolutely adored Bea and Rafe; they were irresistibly cute together. Bea’s ongoing struggle with her trauma is deeply moving, and Rafe’s steadfast support, especially in helping her navigate family challenges, was simply heartwarming. He truly embodies all the green flags you could hope for.
This is my first book by the author, and what a delightful discovery it has been.
I absolutely adored Bea and Rafe; they were irresistibly cute together. Bea’s ongoing struggle with her trauma is deeply moving, and Rafe’s steadfast support, especially in helping her navigate family challenges, was simply heartwarming. He truly embodies all the green flags you could hope for.
June 16, 2025
Loved it
This is the type of book series that you just never want to end. The stories are all unique and fabulous on their own. The cast of characters is funtastic fun and like coming home to friends with every edition.
This is the type of book series that you just never want to end. The stories are all unique and fabulous on their own. The cast of characters is funtastic fun and like coming home to friends with every edition.
June 14, 2025
There is an incessant amount of giggling in this book. The MCS are 23 and 25. The FMC talks so much about being curvy and is so insistent she’s fine with it, but I’ve never heard anyone talk that much about it. The author’s writing is terribly stilted and doesn’t sound like anything any actual real human being would say. Truly a very boring book.
May 3, 2025
I really wanted to like this book. I enjoy an enemy to lovers read and one bed situation. This one started out strong and then just kind of went flat for me. I feel it was more of a love story about her job, and was the only angst I got from the story.
I thought Rafe was extremely sweet and I liked Beatrice. This book just wasn’t for me. (This was and ARC)
🌶️🌶️
I thought Rafe was extremely sweet and I liked Beatrice. This book just wasn’t for me. (This was and ARC)
🌶️🌶️
May 6, 2025
**4.5 Stars**
First off, thank you to Aven Ellis and LoveNotesPR for sending me the e-arc.
So this book starts off introducing Bea, a confident curvy girl who works as a perfumer at a little shop in London. She has a tumultuous relationship with her half sister Ivy and her best friends brother Rafe. At the beginning she ends up having to get a ride to Surry with said brother and she is none too happy. They have nicknames for each other already, she calls him Viper while he calls her Wasp. I was hooked on their bantering right from the start. Like you could feel something charged between them more than just the fact they seemed to really dislike each other. Then a huge storm hits during the drive and Bea starts to panic. Rafe steps up, listens to her story without judgment, cares for her, and suddenly everything between them changes. Bea gets to see a side of Rafe she never has before and she realizes he's a great guy. They go from bickering to flirtatious banter in no time and from there come to care for each other, and Rafe ends up admitting that all his teasing when there were teenagers was all because he liked her and was just a dumb boy who went about it all wrong. Bea starts therapy to deal with her childhood trauma, her struggles with her sister, and fears of her dream job coming to an end. In the final chapters of the book we see Rafe and Bea acknowledging their love for each other, starting a business together, and ultimately the cutest happily ever after. While I'll admit I had my doubts when I first started this book if I would like it based on how descriptive every minor detail was, once I got further into the book I realized there was a reason for that and ended up thoroughly enjoying it. This was the first Aven Ellis book I have read and now I plan to go read more!!
First off, thank you to Aven Ellis and LoveNotesPR for sending me the e-arc.
So this book starts off introducing Bea, a confident curvy girl who works as a perfumer at a little shop in London. She has a tumultuous relationship with her half sister Ivy and her best friends brother Rafe. At the beginning she ends up having to get a ride to Surry with said brother and she is none too happy. They have nicknames for each other already, she calls him Viper while he calls her Wasp. I was hooked on their bantering right from the start. Like you could feel something charged between them more than just the fact they seemed to really dislike each other. Then a huge storm hits during the drive and Bea starts to panic. Rafe steps up, listens to her story without judgment, cares for her, and suddenly everything between them changes. Bea gets to see a side of Rafe she never has before and she realizes he's a great guy. They go from bickering to flirtatious banter in no time and from there come to care for each other, and Rafe ends up admitting that all his teasing when there were teenagers was all because he liked her and was just a dumb boy who went about it all wrong. Bea starts therapy to deal with her childhood trauma, her struggles with her sister, and fears of her dream job coming to an end. In the final chapters of the book we see Rafe and Bea acknowledging their love for each other, starting a business together, and ultimately the cutest happily ever after. While I'll admit I had my doubts when I first started this book if I would like it based on how descriptive every minor detail was, once I got further into the book I realized there was a reason for that and ended up thoroughly enjoying it. This was the first Aven Ellis book I have read and now I plan to go read more!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2025
Closing the Deal by Aven Ellis was my first read by this author, and I would be lying if I said it didn’t feel like the book was reading my mind at times. The emotional depth and the portrayal of the reader’s feelings were spot-on, but ironically, that also made the story harder for me to get through.
I was initially drawn to the book because it features one of my favorite tropes—enemies to lovers—but unfortunately, it didn’t quite deliver the spark I was hoping for. The story unfolds from a single POV (Beatrice's), which made the pacing feel a bit slow. Without Rafe's perspective, key emotional layers—especially his long-standing feelings for Bea—were only revealed later, leaving me wanting more depth and connection from his side earlier in the narrative.
The story kicks off with childhood enemies Rafe and Beatrice reconnecting during a thunderstorm, a moment that softens their animosity. Rafe helps Bea through her anxiety, showing a kind, protective side that Bea hadn’t seen before. It’s a turning point for her—she begins to see him not just as the boy who once annoyed her, but as a successful, caring man who truly understands her. She doesn't realize that Rafe has been in love with her since he was sixteen, hiding his true feelings behind a mask of animosity out of fear of losing her.
While the setup promises a touching love story, the execution felt predictable and, at times, too safe. I found myself pushing to finish the book, which was not an experience I usually wish for either as a reader or for the author. The sweetness is there, and the characters have potential, but the emotional highs and lows lacked the punch that would’ve made the story more engaging for me.
Still, I appreciate the opportunity to read this book, and I want to thank Aven Ellis for crafting a gentle, heartfelt romance. I wish her all the best with this and all her future projects.
* These are just my views on the ARC copy reading*
I was initially drawn to the book because it features one of my favorite tropes—enemies to lovers—but unfortunately, it didn’t quite deliver the spark I was hoping for. The story unfolds from a single POV (Beatrice's), which made the pacing feel a bit slow. Without Rafe's perspective, key emotional layers—especially his long-standing feelings for Bea—were only revealed later, leaving me wanting more depth and connection from his side earlier in the narrative.
The story kicks off with childhood enemies Rafe and Beatrice reconnecting during a thunderstorm, a moment that softens their animosity. Rafe helps Bea through her anxiety, showing a kind, protective side that Bea hadn’t seen before. It’s a turning point for her—she begins to see him not just as the boy who once annoyed her, but as a successful, caring man who truly understands her. She doesn't realize that Rafe has been in love with her since he was sixteen, hiding his true feelings behind a mask of animosity out of fear of losing her.
While the setup promises a touching love story, the execution felt predictable and, at times, too safe. I found myself pushing to finish the book, which was not an experience I usually wish for either as a reader or for the author. The sweetness is there, and the characters have potential, but the emotional highs and lows lacked the punch that would’ve made the story more engaging for me.
Still, I appreciate the opportunity to read this book, and I want to thank Aven Ellis for crafting a gentle, heartfelt romance. I wish her all the best with this and all her future projects.
* These are just my views on the ARC copy reading*
April 27, 2025
Closing the Deal
Author: Aven Ellis
After reading approximately 50+ books since the last Aven Ellis book release, reading “Closing the Deal” was like coming home again. I love her style of writing and being able to revisit characters from previous books. Closing the Deal was no exception. It is also part of the British Isles Billionaires collection of books centered around a British football (soccer) team.
Bea, a proud full-figured woman, works as a perfumer at the Pink Peony. Her friend group includes Nicole, the girlfriend Declan, Calista, his sister, and Bea’s arch-nemesis, Declan’s twin brother, Rafe. Bea and Rafe have been mortal enemies for many years, sniping at one another whenever they were in the same vicinity. But one chance evening together changes everything.
Rafe is the identical twin of Declan, who is the chairman of Stonebridge United. Although Rafe is close with his brother, he still has lingering feelings about their grandfather choosing Declan as chairman and not him. He instead chose a career in acquisitions for Hawkes Advisors International. Rafe has long harbored secret feelings for Bea, but instead of acting on them, chose to constantly engage in a back-and-forth of teasing, poking and generally obnoxious behavior to get her attention. Until now, when Rafe stands by Bea through several setbacks and challenges in her life, trying to show her he actually does care for her.
Closing the Deal is the story of how Bea and Rafe were able to move from hate to more. It was done beautifully and is a quick and easy read. I’m already excited to revisit Stonebridge United when the next in the series is released.
Author: Aven Ellis
After reading approximately 50+ books since the last Aven Ellis book release, reading “Closing the Deal” was like coming home again. I love her style of writing and being able to revisit characters from previous books. Closing the Deal was no exception. It is also part of the British Isles Billionaires collection of books centered around a British football (soccer) team.
Bea, a proud full-figured woman, works as a perfumer at the Pink Peony. Her friend group includes Nicole, the girlfriend Declan, Calista, his sister, and Bea’s arch-nemesis, Declan’s twin brother, Rafe. Bea and Rafe have been mortal enemies for many years, sniping at one another whenever they were in the same vicinity. But one chance evening together changes everything.
Rafe is the identical twin of Declan, who is the chairman of Stonebridge United. Although Rafe is close with his brother, he still has lingering feelings about their grandfather choosing Declan as chairman and not him. He instead chose a career in acquisitions for Hawkes Advisors International. Rafe has long harbored secret feelings for Bea, but instead of acting on them, chose to constantly engage in a back-and-forth of teasing, poking and generally obnoxious behavior to get her attention. Until now, when Rafe stands by Bea through several setbacks and challenges in her life, trying to show her he actually does care for her.
Closing the Deal is the story of how Bea and Rafe were able to move from hate to more. It was done beautifully and is a quick and easy read. I’m already excited to revisit Stonebridge United when the next in the series is released.
April 29, 2025
📕BOOK REVIEW📕
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is book 5 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Bea and Rafe have known each other their entire lives-she is best friends with his brother who is also dating her other best friend. Bea and Rafe-also known as ‘Wasp’ and Viper,’ cannot stand each other…or so it seems. However, after driving Bea to Surrey, a storm catches them out and a petrified Bea is consoled by a very caring Rafe. The two decide they actually want to be friends, but when will they admit they may be more than that?
This is my first book by the author, and wow, what a lovely treat this book is. There’s a few things which I particularly enjoyed: it’s from the POV of Bea. Secondly, this is a slow burn and usually, I’m like come: come on, give me the smut. But actually, it was really refreshing to be edged to death 🤣
I loved Bea and Rafe, I thought they were just cute together. Bea’s relationship with her trauma is really sad, but the way he supports her through it, especially helping her navigate her family was just blooming adorable. Rafe is all green flags. The greenest of green flags.
I also loved the fact it was set in England-London. I’m not far from there so it’s always nice to see it described in books. I also appreciate a curvy MFC and Bea was just beautiful and I adored timber love of her own body-it’s what we want to see.
I also enjoyed all the other characters and I have added the others to my TBR as I really did enjoy the author’s writing style.
🌶️🌶️/5
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is book 5 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Bea and Rafe have known each other their entire lives-she is best friends with his brother who is also dating her other best friend. Bea and Rafe-also known as ‘Wasp’ and Viper,’ cannot stand each other…or so it seems. However, after driving Bea to Surrey, a storm catches them out and a petrified Bea is consoled by a very caring Rafe. The two decide they actually want to be friends, but when will they admit they may be more than that?
This is my first book by the author, and wow, what a lovely treat this book is. There’s a few things which I particularly enjoyed: it’s from the POV of Bea. Secondly, this is a slow burn and usually, I’m like come: come on, give me the smut. But actually, it was really refreshing to be edged to death 🤣
I loved Bea and Rafe, I thought they were just cute together. Bea’s relationship with her trauma is really sad, but the way he supports her through it, especially helping her navigate her family was just blooming adorable. Rafe is all green flags. The greenest of green flags.
I also loved the fact it was set in England-London. I’m not far from there so it’s always nice to see it described in books. I also appreciate a curvy MFC and Bea was just beautiful and I adored timber love of her own body-it’s what we want to see.
I also enjoyed all the other characters and I have added the others to my TBR as I really did enjoy the author’s writing style.
🌶️🌶️/5
April 30, 2025
ARC Review: Closing the Deal by Aven Ellis
4 stars
Bea is a confident, curvy perfume chemist with a fabulous group of friends—and a long-running, tension-filled rivalry with Rafe, her best friend’s infuriatingly gorgeous brother. They’ve spent years snapping at each other, never crossing any lines… until one night changes everything.
When a thunderstorm— which Bea has a real phobia of—forces them to share a room (and yep, one bed), something shifts. The teasing drops away. Rafe—the real Rafe—emerges: protective, tender, thoughtful, and absolutely smitten. They talk, they laugh, he comforts her through the storm… and by morning, nothing is the same.
And THAT. MAN.
Let’s be clear: Rafe sets the bar high. He’s attentive, sweet, ridiculously swoony, and he adores every inch of Bea—emotionally and physically. No playboy past can compete with how deeply he loves her. From the smallest gestures to the biggest declarations, he shows up for her in every way.
The slow burn absolutely delivers, with emotional payoff, crackling tension, and heartfelt moments. If there’s one hiccup? That final decision could’ve come way sooner—it would’ve spared some heartache. But overall, this book gave me everything I wanted in a romance.
Enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, body-positive rep, and a hero who’s just... chef’s kiss. Would love to see a second book with Cali's love story.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC.
4 stars
Bea is a confident, curvy perfume chemist with a fabulous group of friends—and a long-running, tension-filled rivalry with Rafe, her best friend’s infuriatingly gorgeous brother. They’ve spent years snapping at each other, never crossing any lines… until one night changes everything.
When a thunderstorm— which Bea has a real phobia of—forces them to share a room (and yep, one bed), something shifts. The teasing drops away. Rafe—the real Rafe—emerges: protective, tender, thoughtful, and absolutely smitten. They talk, they laugh, he comforts her through the storm… and by morning, nothing is the same.
And THAT. MAN.
Let’s be clear: Rafe sets the bar high. He’s attentive, sweet, ridiculously swoony, and he adores every inch of Bea—emotionally and physically. No playboy past can compete with how deeply he loves her. From the smallest gestures to the biggest declarations, he shows up for her in every way.
The slow burn absolutely delivers, with emotional payoff, crackling tension, and heartfelt moments. If there’s one hiccup? That final decision could’ve come way sooner—it would’ve spared some heartache. But overall, this book gave me everything I wanted in a romance.
Enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, body-positive rep, and a hero who’s just... chef’s kiss. Would love to see a second book with Cali's love story.
Thank you to the author and publisher for the ARC.
June 27, 2025
There was nothing overly terrible about this one. The writing was okay. I just don't think it was for me and I DNF'd at about 50%. A large part of it was that I've gotten spoiled with dual/multi POV narration from the main characters. This story is told from a single POV, so I missed seeing things from Rafe's perspective in addition to Bea's.
I would have liked more interaction between Bea and Rafe before the night that "changed things". Bea spends a lot of time talking about how she and Rafe despise each other and that many of their interactions over the prior decade were spent bickering with each other. The reader doesn't get to see much of that before before their relationship starts to change and Bea starts to "like like" Rafe.
Bea's profession is a bespoke perfumer. By the time I stopped reading, it felt like her job was her whole personality. A surprising amount of attention was given to her ability to parse out scents in most of her daily life - from how those people closest to her smelled to how food smelled. The scent descriptions bogged down the story. Like, we get it. She creates custom perfumes for a living and yes, this is a critical plot point, but I don't care that cardamom seems to be in everything.
As I said, there was nothing glaringly terrible. I'm sure if I finished it, it would have been a cute, fluffy romance. I just wasn't feeling it.
I would have liked more interaction between Bea and Rafe before the night that "changed things". Bea spends a lot of time talking about how she and Rafe despise each other and that many of their interactions over the prior decade were spent bickering with each other. The reader doesn't get to see much of that before before their relationship starts to change and Bea starts to "like like" Rafe.
Bea's profession is a bespoke perfumer. By the time I stopped reading, it felt like her job was her whole personality. A surprising amount of attention was given to her ability to parse out scents in most of her daily life - from how those people closest to her smelled to how food smelled. The scent descriptions bogged down the story. Like, we get it. She creates custom perfumes for a living and yes, this is a critical plot point, but I don't care that cardamom seems to be in everything.
As I said, there was nothing glaringly terrible. I'm sure if I finished it, it would have been a cute, fluffy romance. I just wasn't feeling it.
April 25, 2025
"I love you so much, Beatrice. I’ve always loved you."
Rafe and Beatrice had my heart. I loved their banter and how DEVOTED Rafe was to her. Like he literally pinned for her for years!
“Beatrice, I want you. I’ve wanted you since I was sixteen, and I can’t get this close and let some other guy walk in and take you away from me. I haven’t said anything for years, and I can’t stay silent anymore. I won’t. I can’t.”
“I’ve held this secret for years,” Rafe continues. “I have wanted you. I cocked everything up, and then I decided if you were going to hate me, to save my pride, I’d just hate you back. It’s all so bloody stupid. But it was easier to hate you than to know I’d never have a chance to love you.”
Literally, he became London's biggest manho so he can escape the fact that he made a mistake when they were younger and she hated him.
I also really loved how Rafe encouraged Beatrice to go to therapy to face her fears and address her really bad relationship with her sister. Even though Beatrice doesn't get what she wanted out of her relationship with her sister, she can now grow and accept what they do have and be ok with it.
I really enjoyed the banter and how emotionally secure Rafe was. He was not afraid to express his love and emotions with Beatrice. Even if his fear of losing her was slightly crushing. I can't wait to see what's in-store for Calista!!
Rafe and Beatrice had my heart. I loved their banter and how DEVOTED Rafe was to her. Like he literally pinned for her for years!
“Beatrice, I want you. I’ve wanted you since I was sixteen, and I can’t get this close and let some other guy walk in and take you away from me. I haven’t said anything for years, and I can’t stay silent anymore. I won’t. I can’t.”
“I’ve held this secret for years,” Rafe continues. “I have wanted you. I cocked everything up, and then I decided if you were going to hate me, to save my pride, I’d just hate you back. It’s all so bloody stupid. But it was easier to hate you than to know I’d never have a chance to love you.”
Literally, he became London's biggest manho so he can escape the fact that he made a mistake when they were younger and she hated him.
I also really loved how Rafe encouraged Beatrice to go to therapy to face her fears and address her really bad relationship with her sister. Even though Beatrice doesn't get what she wanted out of her relationship with her sister, she can now grow and accept what they do have and be ok with it.
I really enjoyed the banter and how emotionally secure Rafe was. He was not afraid to express his love and emotions with Beatrice. Even if his fear of losing her was slightly crushing. I can't wait to see what's in-store for Calista!!
May 6, 2025
I got gifted this book as an ARC Read by Love Notes PR and Aven Ellis!
This is book 5 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. No need to read the others!
Bea and Rafe have known each other their entire lives-she is best friends with his brother who is also dating her other best friend. Bea and Rafe-also known as ‘Wasp’ and Viper,’ cannot stand each other…or so it seems. However, after driving Bea to Surrey, a storm catches them out and a petrified Bea is consoled by a very caring Rafe. The two decide they actually want to be friends, but when will they admit they may be more than that?
This is my first book by the author, and wow, what a lovely treat this book is. There’s a few things which I particularly enjoyed: it’s from the POV of Bea. Secondly, this is a slow burn and usually, I’m like come: come on, give me the smut. But actually, it was really refreshing to be edged to death!
I loved Bea and Rafe, I thought they were just cute together. Bea’s relationship with her trauma is sad, but the way he supports her through it! Especially Rafe helping Bea navigate her family was just so so adorable. Rafe is all green flags. The greenest of green flags.
I also loved the fact it was set in England - London. I also appreciate a curvy FMC and Bea was just beautiful and I adored her love of her own body-it’s what we want to see in all books!
This is book 5 in the series, but it can be read as a standalone. No need to read the others!
Bea and Rafe have known each other their entire lives-she is best friends with his brother who is also dating her other best friend. Bea and Rafe-also known as ‘Wasp’ and Viper,’ cannot stand each other…or so it seems. However, after driving Bea to Surrey, a storm catches them out and a petrified Bea is consoled by a very caring Rafe. The two decide they actually want to be friends, but when will they admit they may be more than that?
This is my first book by the author, and wow, what a lovely treat this book is. There’s a few things which I particularly enjoyed: it’s from the POV of Bea. Secondly, this is a slow burn and usually, I’m like come: come on, give me the smut. But actually, it was really refreshing to be edged to death!
I loved Bea and Rafe, I thought they were just cute together. Bea’s relationship with her trauma is sad, but the way he supports her through it! Especially Rafe helping Bea navigate her family was just so so adorable. Rafe is all green flags. The greenest of green flags.
I also loved the fact it was set in England - London. I also appreciate a curvy FMC and Bea was just beautiful and I adored her love of her own body-it’s what we want to see in all books!
Read
May 7, 2025Thanks lovenotesPR and the author for the ARC !
I loved the begining of the book. The banter, enemies to lovers part. Then the mental health rep was really well done.
One bed is always a hit with me (the tention OMG) but after that they are pretty much happy together during the book. There is one small misunderstanding part at the end.
When i started it i was expecing a bit more enemies to lovers so i hoped for a little bit of pining, hurt, tention, and this book lacked that. I did not believe he saw her as her enemy from his first scene.
The scents discriptions where a bit much for me, i get it as Bea is a parfumist and makes custom parfum but every page there was a discription for a scent. Just a bit overkill.
I loved the plussize rep. Bea is confident in her body and Rafe loves her as she is. However on a small note. If you want me to believe someone is curvy, put a curvygirl on the cover.It could be the background but she does not seem that curvy to me in the cover and that is just a shame. There are not enough positive books about bigger girs and we need the representation. However this did not impact my rating.
But overal i had fun while i was reading this book. This book read like a Hallmark movie with added spice.
4 Stars
I loved the begining of the book. The banter, enemies to lovers part. Then the mental health rep was really well done.
One bed is always a hit with me (the tention OMG) but after that they are pretty much happy together during the book. There is one small misunderstanding part at the end.
When i started it i was expecing a bit more enemies to lovers so i hoped for a little bit of pining, hurt, tention, and this book lacked that. I did not believe he saw her as her enemy from his first scene.
The scents discriptions where a bit much for me, i get it as Bea is a parfumist and makes custom parfum but every page there was a discription for a scent. Just a bit overkill.
I loved the plussize rep. Bea is confident in her body and Rafe loves her as she is. However on a small note. If you want me to believe someone is curvy, put a curvygirl on the cover.It could be the background but she does not seem that curvy to me in the cover and that is just a shame. There are not enough positive books about bigger girs and we need the representation. However this did not impact my rating.
But overal i had fun while i was reading this book. This book read like a Hallmark movie with added spice.
4 Stars
May 4, 2025
I absolutely loved the Rinkside in the Rockies series so I was super excited to dive into Closing the Deal!
I loved the beginning of the book, with its little enemies to lovers moment, one bed trope, and mental health rep, but I thought that they got together a little too easily - where's the pining, give me some conflict! So I really enjoyed the first few chapters where we see this little bit of tension but also pining between the characters, but most of the book they're pretty much happily together.
So if you're looking for a really fluffy, easy read about a billionaire and a perfumist, here it is on a silver platter, truly I hope you enjoy!!
I overall just would have loved to see a little more tension between the main characters! But otherwise, it's a super cute story, he fell first, they've got cute banter, we love a cute little romance moment!
(I also wouldn't label this book a billionaire romance (if that's a key reason you're looking to read the book) because him being a billionaire is only really relevant to one part of the book - I would consider the Rinkside in the Rockies books more of billionaire romances than this one)
Happy reading! :)
I loved the beginning of the book, with its little enemies to lovers moment, one bed trope, and mental health rep, but I thought that they got together a little too easily - where's the pining, give me some conflict! So I really enjoyed the first few chapters where we see this little bit of tension but also pining between the characters, but most of the book they're pretty much happily together.
So if you're looking for a really fluffy, easy read about a billionaire and a perfumist, here it is on a silver platter, truly I hope you enjoy!!
I overall just would have loved to see a little more tension between the main characters! But otherwise, it's a super cute story, he fell first, they've got cute banter, we love a cute little romance moment!
(I also wouldn't label this book a billionaire romance (if that's a key reason you're looking to read the book) because him being a billionaire is only really relevant to one part of the book - I would consider the Rinkside in the Rockies books more of billionaire romances than this one)
Happy reading! :)
April 11, 2025
Aven Ellis's latest book, "Closing the Deal" is another smash hit. I've been waiting for Rafe and Bea's story since she teased their characters when releasing of "Out of Play." And I'm thrilled to say I wasn't disappointed. This book was well worth waiting for.
Rafe is a playboy billionaire. Bea is a curvy perfumist. They've known one another since they were teens. Bea thought Rafe hated her, but as it turns out, she couldn't have been more wrong about him. All these years, Rafe has had his sights set on Bea and now it's finally time for him to make his move.
Their story was sugary sweet. I would've binged it in one sitting if I'vd had the chance. I kept wanting to know what would happen next. Rafe is that compelling of a character and has captured my heart. As with all Avenverse men, he's swoonworthy.
This is a book you won't want to miss if you enjoy a good enemies to lovers romcom, slow burn, and instalove stories.
10/10 stars.
Rafe is a playboy billionaire. Bea is a curvy perfumist. They've known one another since they were teens. Bea thought Rafe hated her, but as it turns out, she couldn't have been more wrong about him. All these years, Rafe has had his sights set on Bea and now it's finally time for him to make his move.
Their story was sugary sweet. I would've binged it in one sitting if I'vd had the chance. I kept wanting to know what would happen next. Rafe is that compelling of a character and has captured my heart. As with all Avenverse men, he's swoonworthy.
This is a book you won't want to miss if you enjoy a good enemies to lovers romcom, slow burn, and instalove stories.
10/10 stars.
May 6, 2025
The narrative effectively showcases the internal battles numerous women encounter about body image, all while maintaining a tone that is light, sincere, and frequently hilarious. As the bond between the primary characters deepens, the previously improbable romance transforms into an emotional and dreamy relationship that seems both genuine and fulfilling.
Bea, a confident plus-sized woman, is employed as a perfumer at the Pink Peony. Her circle of friends consists of Nicole, Declan’s girlfriend, Calista, his sister, and Bea’s rival, Declan’s twin brother, Rafe. Bea and Rafe have been fierce rivals for countless years, taking jabs at each other whenever they were nearby. However, a single fateful evening spent together alters everything.
Rafe is Declan's identical twin, who serves as the chairman of Stonebridge United. Even though Rafe shares a close bond with his brother, he harbors lingering emotions about their grandfather selecting Declan as chairman instead of him. He opted for a profession in acquisitions at Hawkes Advisors International. Rafe has secretly held feelings for Bea for a long time, but rather than pursuing them, he opted to perpetually tease, poke, and engage in generally annoying antics to attract her attention.
Closing the Deal narrates how Bea and Rafe transitioned from animosity to something deeper. It was executed wonderfully and is an easy and fast read. I’m already looking forward to returning to Stonebridge United upon the release of the next installment in the series.
Bea, a confident plus-sized woman, is employed as a perfumer at the Pink Peony. Her circle of friends consists of Nicole, Declan’s girlfriend, Calista, his sister, and Bea’s rival, Declan’s twin brother, Rafe. Bea and Rafe have been fierce rivals for countless years, taking jabs at each other whenever they were nearby. However, a single fateful evening spent together alters everything.
Rafe is Declan's identical twin, who serves as the chairman of Stonebridge United. Even though Rafe shares a close bond with his brother, he harbors lingering emotions about their grandfather selecting Declan as chairman instead of him. He opted for a profession in acquisitions at Hawkes Advisors International. Rafe has secretly held feelings for Bea for a long time, but rather than pursuing them, he opted to perpetually tease, poke, and engage in generally annoying antics to attract her attention.
Closing the Deal narrates how Bea and Rafe transitioned from animosity to something deeper. It was executed wonderfully and is an easy and fast read. I’m already looking forward to returning to Stonebridge United upon the release of the next installment in the series.
April 30, 2025
I had the opportunity to read this early, and as always, Aven didn’t disappoint!
I LOVED the confidence of the female lead, Bea. She was so body positive AND had confidence in her unique skill set in her profession. This was so refreshing and encouraging!
I also adored Rafe. Every step of the way he made her feel important, validated her feelings, stuck up for her, and encouraged her in all ways. He had been waiting a lifetime to show her love and he didn’t disappoint once he got the chance.
I always adore getting to see the growth of Aven’s characters and still get peeks at the lives of other characters we love (and some we will soon enough). Aven does the standalone in a world you know and love SO well!
I had been waiting for their story… for what? A year? Two? I read everything Aven writes so the timeline can get wonky 😂 but this is one I had been excited about and am so glad I had the chance to read it early!
I LOVED the confidence of the female lead, Bea. She was so body positive AND had confidence in her unique skill set in her profession. This was so refreshing and encouraging!
I also adored Rafe. Every step of the way he made her feel important, validated her feelings, stuck up for her, and encouraged her in all ways. He had been waiting a lifetime to show her love and he didn’t disappoint once he got the chance.
I always adore getting to see the growth of Aven’s characters and still get peeks at the lives of other characters we love (and some we will soon enough). Aven does the standalone in a world you know and love SO well!
I had been waiting for their story… for what? A year? Two? I read everything Aven writes so the timeline can get wonky 😂 but this is one I had been excited about and am so glad I had the chance to read it early!
April 26, 2025
I have been anxiously awaiting Bea and Rafe's story, and boy did this book deliver! Bea and Rafe have been calling out from the background of other books to have their story told, and it was worth the wait. Every book quickly becomes my new favorite in the Avenverse., and this is no exception.
I love that Aven creates realistic characters that you can identify with. Bea just may be my favorite one yet. I think my favorite thing about her is that she knows who she is, and is incredibly confident in that. Reading about a woman embracing her fuller figure is incredibly empowering, and I love that both she and Rafe celebrated her curves. I also loved the path they took to find out they were each other's person. It was unexpected and incredibly real.
Do yourself a favor and get this book ASAP!
I love that Aven creates realistic characters that you can identify with. Bea just may be my favorite one yet. I think my favorite thing about her is that she knows who she is, and is incredibly confident in that. Reading about a woman embracing her fuller figure is incredibly empowering, and I love that both she and Rafe celebrated her curves. I also loved the path they took to find out they were each other's person. It was unexpected and incredibly real.
Do yourself a favor and get this book ASAP!
April 27, 2025
Closing the Deal by Aven Ellis is a charming, funny, and sexy romance that captures the complexities of self-image, vulnerability, and unexpected love. Ellis crafts a relatable and endearing heroine who navigates her own insecurities while facing the added challenge of falling for her best friend’s annoyingly irresistible brother.
The story does a wonderful job highlighting the internal struggles many women face regarding body image, while keeping the tone light, heartfelt, and often laugh-out-loud funny. As the chemistry between the main characters grows, the once unlikely romance evolves into an emotional and swoon-worthy connection that feels both authentic and satisfying.
With witty dialogue, steamy moments, and genuine emotional depth, Closing the Deal is a feel-good read that reminds us that sometimes the person you least expect is exactly the one you need.
The story does a wonderful job highlighting the internal struggles many women face regarding body image, while keeping the tone light, heartfelt, and often laugh-out-loud funny. As the chemistry between the main characters grows, the once unlikely romance evolves into an emotional and swoon-worthy connection that feels both authentic and satisfying.
With witty dialogue, steamy moments, and genuine emotional depth, Closing the Deal is a feel-good read that reminds us that sometimes the person you least expect is exactly the one you need.
April 29, 2025
This is the couple I have been patiently waiting to read their story. Aven Ellis is so good at giving tempting teasers in her storylines. We met Rafe and Bea in Out of Play. We get a taste of their volatile history. Hence the nicknames of Viper and Wasp. But, as Aven always does…in Closing the Deal she weaves their history into a fabulous love story. They appear to be at odds, but all it is not as it seems. Bea is a confident curvy girl who has the most fascinating career as a perfumer. That hooked me. Aven does the most amazing research to get all the details spot on. Rafe is the twin who has to find his place in the family business. Family dynamics on both sides create tensions. But, a chance stormy night changes it all. I loved these two. As always we have our merry band of friends and family, showing what true family looks like. This a must read.
May 5, 2025
ARC REVIEW -
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - This book was so much fun!
Rafe and Bea were so cute! I loved seeing them grow both individually and together!
Rafe was so funny and I just knew I would end up smiling every time he opened his mouth. My absolute favorite part of his character was seeing how he pushed Bea to be better and the same way she pushed him!
Bea was so sweet and I loved seeing her deal with her own problems and how she grew as a character!
I had such a good time with this writing! It was so descriptive but just the right amount! I loved seeing the characters grow together and the pace was just right for the story! I did feel like it started off really strong, but that really tied in later to the story!
Thanks to Love Notes PR and Aven Ellis for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - This book was so much fun!
Rafe and Bea were so cute! I loved seeing them grow both individually and together!
Rafe was so funny and I just knew I would end up smiling every time he opened his mouth. My absolute favorite part of his character was seeing how he pushed Bea to be better and the same way she pushed him!
Bea was so sweet and I loved seeing her deal with her own problems and how she grew as a character!
I had such a good time with this writing! It was so descriptive but just the right amount! I loved seeing the characters grow together and the pace was just right for the story! I did feel like it started off really strong, but that really tied in later to the story!
Thanks to Love Notes PR and Aven Ellis for the ARC!
April 24, 2025
I had the pleasure of receiving this book as part of the arc team. It was my first time reading a book by the author and it was such a great read. The story follows Bea and Rafe and how they fell in love. The author did a great job shaping the characters and seeing them grow throughout the story. I loved the consistency of the descriptions of smells, the scents, the fashion and outfits as it helps to create the imagery and being there with the characters. There was a lot of fun, love, romance, the build up to the spice as well as so many moments where I related to the FMC or even to the MMC. Definitely recommend reading it 🖤
April 28, 2025
I've been waiting for the Viper and the Wasp ever since they were introduced and they did not disappoint. Aven always does such thorough research for the careers of the FMC and this one was no different. I loved hearing about Bea's job. The dynamic between her and her sister was interesting and not one I see explored often in this genre. I'm glad through her therapy that she could confront her. I wish we could have experienced the therapy sessions with Bea, but I love that she went to therapy in general.
Ultimately, Bea and Rafe's story was another hit for me. The banter had me smiling and the romance scenes had me feeling all mushy. A definite favourite in this series for me!
Ultimately, Bea and Rafe's story was another hit for me. The banter had me smiling and the romance scenes had me feeling all mushy. A definite favourite in this series for me!
May 1, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
One event leads to a fateful night where “enemies” Bea and Rafe are forced to spend time in close proximity during a storm. To her surprise, he listens to her and keeps her safe throughout the night.
Bea starts to see him in a new light and I loved how she realises that he has been paying attention over the years to the small details. The switch from “enemies” to lovers was swift but totally believable.
I love their banter in person and through text. Rafe is such a cinnamon roll who takes care of her and encourages her to follow her dreams. While family drama persists, I liked that Bea has a found family to rely on.
Ps. I am looking forward to reading Calista’s story.
One event leads to a fateful night where “enemies” Bea and Rafe are forced to spend time in close proximity during a storm. To her surprise, he listens to her and keeps her safe throughout the night.
Bea starts to see him in a new light and I loved how she realises that he has been paying attention over the years to the small details. The switch from “enemies” to lovers was swift but totally believable.
I love their banter in person and through text. Rafe is such a cinnamon roll who takes care of her and encourages her to follow her dreams. While family drama persists, I liked that Bea has a found family to rely on.
Ps. I am looking forward to reading Calista’s story.
May 2, 2025
She Is Strong Where He Is Weak
Total respect to Ellis for showing a body-confident woman who laughs in the face of demeaning comments. Bea is who I want to be when I grow up someday.
Rafe? How could he truly be this perfect man when she hated him so much? And he had everything to be confident about and yet he wasn’t. The dichotomy of this pairing was true-to-life, with his strength offsetting her weaknesses and her strengths bolstering his weaknesses.
While I devoured the book, it wasn’t my favorite from this favorite author of mine. It felt predictable, and I even found myself frustrated with the characters for not “getting it” sooner.
Total respect to Ellis for showing a body-confident woman who laughs in the face of demeaning comments. Bea is who I want to be when I grow up someday.
Rafe? How could he truly be this perfect man when she hated him so much? And he had everything to be confident about and yet he wasn’t. The dichotomy of this pairing was true-to-life, with his strength offsetting her weaknesses and her strengths bolstering his weaknesses.
While I devoured the book, it wasn’t my favorite from this favorite author of mine. It felt predictable, and I even found myself frustrated with the characters for not “getting it” sooner.
May 12, 2025
Usually I love Aven’s books and race through them but this was almost difficult to finish. It had great potential as enemies to lovers but there was no tension and they got together so quickly. Then from there the book was basically just a gushy lovefest about wonderful Rafe, thoughtful Rafe, sweet perfect incredible Rafe. The constant talk about how perfect he was and how perfect they are for each other actually got kind of tiring. I love a good HEA, but I like it to take some effort to get there and this one just really missed the mark for me. Aven’s earlier books have a lot more substance to them. This just feels too fluffy and is lacking any sort of actual storyline.
April 17, 2025
What an absolute gem of a book this was! I had been anxiously awaiting Bea and Rafe's book. this absolutely met and beat every expectation I had.
Rafe was absolutely much sweeter than I initially anticipated. What a sweetheart of a character he is! He was absolutely there for Bea throughout a lot of different stressors in a very short amount of time.
When you read an Aven book it's absolutely just like curling up with a warm blanket. Her books are just happiness and I love it!
I highly recommend this book.
Rafe was absolutely much sweeter than I initially anticipated. What a sweetheart of a character he is! He was absolutely there for Bea throughout a lot of different stressors in a very short amount of time.
When you read an Aven book it's absolutely just like curling up with a warm blanket. Her books are just happiness and I love it!
I highly recommend this book.
May 3, 2025
A cosy enemies to lovers romance! This was my first book I have read in the series and I loved it, so I will be reading the rest! Meet Bea and Rafe, sworn enemies since they were 16, throw in some forced proximity and it is the beginning of a slow burn romance! This story was about love and romance and what I loved was that Bea was a strong FMC who had pure body confidence and Rafe just loved every inch of her! A complete romance with a happy ever affer!
Thank you to Love Notes PR for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to Love Notes PR for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review
May 5, 2025
Aven Ellis is one of my few immediate, one-click authors. She never disappoints and Closing the Deal is no exception.
Bra is relatable and Rafe is not perfect (those he’s pretty darn close). It’s a sweet story and I loved every minute of it through laughter and tears. Ms. Ellis’s skill at setting a scene, through vivid sensory details such as clothing, atmosphere, and even scents, she hooks her reader into the story while the real world disappears.
I would absolutely recommend this to any romance fan.
Bra is relatable and Rafe is not perfect (those he’s pretty darn close). It’s a sweet story and I loved every minute of it through laughter and tears. Ms. Ellis’s skill at setting a scene, through vivid sensory details such as clothing, atmosphere, and even scents, she hooks her reader into the story while the real world disappears.
I would absolutely recommend this to any romance fan.
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