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The English Brothers #1
Breaking Up with Barrett
Breaking Up with Barrett is the first of six books about the Philadelphia-based, wildly-handsome English brothers who are all on the look-out for love.
(Except Alex. He's a womanizing manwhore. And maybe Stratton, because he's wicked hot, but super awkward around girls.)
Barrett English, aka "the Shark," is the fair-haired, first-born of the English brothers, and the CEO of the oldest, most prestigious investment banking firm in Philadelphia. He rules the boardroom with an iron fist, refusing to take no for an answer and always getting his way.
Emily Edwards, a first-year doctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania, grew up in the gatehouse on the outskirts of Barrett's childhood estate. The daughter of his family's gardener and housekeeper, she was always looking through the window of privilege, but forced to remember her place at the very periphery of the kingdom.
When business partners suggest that a fiancee might soften Barrett's image over business dinners, he approaches Emily for the "job" of fiancee. And while love wasn't necessarily on Barrett's radar, he begins to realize that Emily always has been. But will his take-no-prisoners boardroom tactics work on the heart of the woman he loves.
____________________________
*All books in The English Brothers series are approximately 200 pages. The RWA classifies this as "Mid-length Contemporary Romance."
(Except Alex. He's a womanizing manwhore. And maybe Stratton, because he's wicked hot, but super awkward around girls.)
Barrett English, aka "the Shark," is the fair-haired, first-born of the English brothers, and the CEO of the oldest, most prestigious investment banking firm in Philadelphia. He rules the boardroom with an iron fist, refusing to take no for an answer and always getting his way.
Emily Edwards, a first-year doctoral student at the University of Pennsylvania, grew up in the gatehouse on the outskirts of Barrett's childhood estate. The daughter of his family's gardener and housekeeper, she was always looking through the window of privilege, but forced to remember her place at the very periphery of the kingdom.
When business partners suggest that a fiancee might soften Barrett's image over business dinners, he approaches Emily for the "job" of fiancee. And while love wasn't necessarily on Barrett's radar, he begins to realize that Emily always has been. But will his take-no-prisoners boardroom tactics work on the heart of the woman he loves.
____________________________
*All books in The English Brothers series are approximately 200 pages. The RWA classifies this as "Mid-length Contemporary Romance."
172 pages, ebook
First published June 21, 2014
808 people are currently reading
5555 people want to read
About the author
Katy Regnery
116 books4,273 followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Regnery has a heart for smart romance featuring strong women and decent men. Almost exclusively self-published, Katy claims authorship of over 60 titles, including three RITA® finalists. Translated into French, German, Hebrew, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, and Turkish, Katy has sold over 1.8 million books worldwide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 668 reviews
February 7, 2015
A downright adorable Romance starring what might be your new Book Boyfriend...
Yeah, it was like that...
The fact that this book was Dual-POV wound up being integral to my enjoyment. If it had been a sole POV from Emily, I wouldn't have understood or even liked Barrett half as well.
BARRETT ENGLISH
EMILY EDWARDS
It's time for Emily to "break up" with Barrett English.
Easier said than done...
They grew up in close proximity. Emily & Barrett were both raised at Haverford Park - an affluent and idyllic thirty-acre compound outside of Philadelphia drenched in elegance, taste, and wealth... While the setting for their childhoods was the same, their backgrounds couldn't be more different. Emily's family is the help at Haverford Park. Her mother is the head housekeeper, her father is the third generation of Edwards men to keep the grounds and gardens for the English Family...
That's right, put on your big-girl panties, Countess, 'cause Emily is The Help.
I applaud Katy Regnery for her ability to write this story in such a loving and convincing manner... The bones of this romance are strengthened by the fact that these two characters have been close their entire lives. They're coming together as adults, reaping all the benefits of warm familiarity built over the years.
Over the course of the story, it becomes clear that these two have probably loved each other forever - they've done so quietly, from a distance, innocently, and with the assumption that their feelings were not returned by the object of their infatuation.
Here's where it get's sticky:
I hesitate to tell you this because it's spoilery and I don't want to dissuade you from picking up this lovely book, but it's important and could be a trigger for some readers:
Speaking of things that don't advance the plot...
I'm never a fan of the assumption that every intelligent young woman working on an advanced college degree has to be an inexperienced virgin. Trust me when I tell you that the girls with their noses buried in books at your college library will Rock. Your. World. All that aside, I don't feel that Emily's virginity really added anything meaningful to the story. It was a superfluous detail which could have been left out entirely.
Alright, all my grievances have been aired!
Now back to the important stuff:
I still loved this book.
It was cute and sweet and the kind of book I might buy for a friend who needed a romance to lift their mood...
I'm definitely reading the rest of the series!
Check out my other reviews in the English Brothers series!
1 - Breaking Up with Barrett - You're reading it.
2 - Falling for Fitz - Read my Review here.
3 - Anyone but Alex - Read my Review here.
4 - Seduced by Stratton - Read my Review here.
5 - Wild About Weston - Read my Review here.
6 - Kiss Me Kate - Read my Review here.
***The author provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
He'd invited her to go stargazing.Katy Regnery never fails to provide the "warm fuzzies" in her books. You know, that tightness in your chest when a fictional character says the perfect thing at the perfect time and you just know that these two characters are meant for each other...
Emily saw stars.
Yeah, it was like that...
The fact that this book was Dual-POV wound up being integral to my enjoyment. If it had been a sole POV from Emily, I wouldn't have understood or even liked Barrett half as well.
BARRETT ENGLISH
He'd learned long ago the only antidote to useless longing was hard work, and there was always more to do.Barrett is the oldest of the five English brothers, and heir apparent to the English financial empire. He's known as "The Shark" in the world of business - focused, ruthless, and controlled. While that imposing quality serves him well in the boardroom, he needs to appeal to clients who want to see the softer side of The Shark. His Solution? Hire a charming young woman to play his fiancé at dinner meetings... And he knows exactly who he wants to play the part.
EMILY EDWARDS
Who knew that underneath his cold-blooded, shark exterior, Barrett burned as hot as a bonfire?Emily is a Doctoral student at U-Penn who has known Barrett her whole life. The financial burdens of a college student made Barrett's lucrative offer irresistible - nothing untoward, just cash for sitting beside him at a dinner table and making polite conversation with his business associates. She's been happily playing the role for a few months now, but it's time for Emily to move on. She's been getting too comfortable in her roll, developing feelings for a man who is obviously uninterested in her as anything other than an employee...
It's time for Emily to "break up" with Barrett English.
Easier said than done...
They grew up in close proximity. Emily & Barrett were both raised at Haverford Park - an affluent and idyllic thirty-acre compound outside of Philadelphia drenched in elegance, taste, and wealth... While the setting for their childhoods was the same, their backgrounds couldn't be more different. Emily's family is the help at Haverford Park. Her mother is the head housekeeper, her father is the third generation of Edwards men to keep the grounds and gardens for the English Family...
That's right, put on your big-girl panties, Countess, 'cause Emily is The Help.
I applaud Katy Regnery for her ability to write this story in such a loving and convincing manner... The bones of this romance are strengthened by the fact that these two characters have been close their entire lives. They're coming together as adults, reaping all the benefits of warm familiarity built over the years.
Over the course of the story, it becomes clear that these two have probably loved each other forever - they've done so quietly, from a distance, innocently, and with the assumption that their feelings were not returned by the object of their infatuation.
Here's where it get's sticky:
I hesitate to tell you this because it's spoilery and I don't want to dissuade you from picking up this lovely book, but it's important and could be a trigger for some readers:
Speaking of things that don't advance the plot...
I'm never a fan of the assumption that every intelligent young woman working on an advanced college degree has to be an inexperienced virgin. Trust me when I tell you that the girls with their noses buried in books at your college library will Rock. Your. World. All that aside, I don't feel that Emily's virginity really added anything meaningful to the story. It was a superfluous detail which could have been left out entirely.
Alright, all my grievances have been aired!
Now back to the important stuff:
I still loved this book.
It was cute and sweet and the kind of book I might buy for a friend who needed a romance to lift their mood...
I'm definitely reading the rest of the series!
Check out my other reviews in the English Brothers series!
1 - Breaking Up with Barrett - You're reading it.
2 - Falling for Fitz - Read my Review here.
3 - Anyone but Alex - Read my Review here.
4 - Seduced by Stratton - Read my Review here.
5 - Wild About Weston - Read my Review here.
6 - Kiss Me Kate - Read my Review here.
***The author provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review***
May 25, 2016
“You asked if this was real… This is the most real thing in my life. You’re the most real thing in my life, Emily.”
Super sweet! I felt like I overdosed on sugar!
This was my second Katy Regnery’s book and it didn’t disappoint me. Her writing style is captivating and and it had me hooked within the first few pages. The plot was simple and predictable, yet it kept me glued to my seat and turning pages non-stop.
Was this a cheesy romance story? Yes.
Did I enjoy it? Of course I did!
I didn’t care if it was full of cheese. I couldn’t help it! Barrett already stole my heart! (So please keep it, I don’t want it back.) He’s such an endearing man. How could I not love him? He fell in love with Emily when he was eight. Eight! That’s the sweetest thing I’ve ever read. *Sigh*
“I have always loved you. You were a tiny baby and I was a little boy and you reached into my chest and stole my heart, and it’s been yours ever since. You’re home and sweetness and truth and brilliance and you’re sexy and teasing and the most fun I ever had. And if you want to know what’s real, here’s the most elemental truth I know: You’re the love of my life, Emily Edwards. And whatever it takes, I’ll do it. Just to be with you.”
All in all, this was a lovely, sweet, and fun read. For those who love cheese and crave sugar, don’t hesitate to pick up this one! You’ll fall in love with Barrett for certain.
“It’s always been you.”
“Always,” he murmured, leaning forward to kiss her. “Always, Emily.”
September 18, 2022
First, let me say that I think this book has been very underrated and, for me, it was the best of the six-book series. Definitely a five-star read for me. This was such a powerful love story. You will meet the five gorgeous, wealthy, English Brothers. Book six features Kate, their cousin, as she joins their family business.
In this book we have Barrett English, 32, and Emily Edwards, 24. Emily's family has lived on the English Estate all her life. Her father is the grounds keeper and has been best friends with Tom English, the English boys' father, most of his life. Emily's mother is the head of housekeeping. Barrett was eight years old when Baby Emily was born and he was fascinated with her. She was the first baby girl he had ever seen having only brothers, and on her homecoming from the hospital he held that sweet baby girl. He tells us later that the very day he held her at only two or three days old, she reached in and grabbed his heart and he has loved her since the beginning, always watching out for her. He went on to date because of their age gap and he felt certain she wouldn't want him so his life moved on in a limited way, but there was something that always held him back from committing to any other young woman...a blonde headed, blue eyed little girl who was growing into a beautiful young woman who had claimed his heart from her birth. He was hoping when she grew up she would want him like he wanted her. Would he ever have the chance? He loves her, always has. She loves him and always has.
Once he was considering getting engaged but the night he brought his girlfriend home for his family to get to know her better, Emily was there and he broke up with the girlfriend that very night. No matter who he was with or dated Emily was always in the back of his mind and he couldn't move on. He worked a lot and never took the time to date. He was certainly not a man-whore!!! Far from it!
He overhears her father talking with his own father that she was in need of money and they had none to give her. Barrett comes up with a plan. He shows up on campus purposely running into her. He then approaches her about working for him, pretending to be his fiance and to accompany him to dinner meetings. She is going to break it off because it's too painful to be with him as a 'fake' fiance because she loves him deeply. What she doesn't know is that he feels the same.
This is their story and it is a great one. I love this book so much I read this approx once a month and then usually twice in the same day! There is just something about it that draws me in and keeps me there.
Safety:
1. Hero was with no one else in the book. For me I consider this a SAFE read! They do run into someone who used to be an (occasional hookup/sex-only relationship) and Barrett sets her straight immediately. No emotions involved on his side of things.
2. Heroine is a virgin.
3. They were both truly devoted to each other in such a lovely way and only had eyes for each other!!! I dearly loved them!
In this book we have Barrett English, 32, and Emily Edwards, 24. Emily's family has lived on the English Estate all her life. Her father is the grounds keeper and has been best friends with Tom English, the English boys' father, most of his life. Emily's mother is the head of housekeeping. Barrett was eight years old when Baby Emily was born and he was fascinated with her. She was the first baby girl he had ever seen having only brothers, and on her homecoming from the hospital he held that sweet baby girl. He tells us later that the very day he held her at only two or three days old, she reached in and grabbed his heart and he has loved her since the beginning, always watching out for her. He went on to date because of their age gap and he felt certain she wouldn't want him so his life moved on in a limited way, but there was something that always held him back from committing to any other young woman...a blonde headed, blue eyed little girl who was growing into a beautiful young woman who had claimed his heart from her birth. He was hoping when she grew up she would want him like he wanted her. Would he ever have the chance? He loves her, always has. She loves him and always has.
Once he was considering getting engaged but the night he brought his girlfriend home for his family to get to know her better, Emily was there and he broke up with the girlfriend that very night. No matter who he was with or dated Emily was always in the back of his mind and he couldn't move on. He worked a lot and never took the time to date. He was certainly not a man-whore!!! Far from it!
He overhears her father talking with his own father that she was in need of money and they had none to give her. Barrett comes up with a plan. He shows up on campus purposely running into her. He then approaches her about working for him, pretending to be his fiance and to accompany him to dinner meetings. She is going to break it off because it's too painful to be with him as a 'fake' fiance because she loves him deeply. What she doesn't know is that he feels the same.
This is their story and it is a great one. I love this book so much I read this approx once a month and then usually twice in the same day! There is just something about it that draws me in and keeps me there.
Safety:
1. Hero was with no one else in the book. For me I consider this a SAFE read! They do run into someone who used to be an (occasional hookup/sex-only relationship) and Barrett sets her straight immediately. No emotions involved on his side of things.
2. Heroine is a virgin.
3. They were both truly devoted to each other in such a lovely way and only had eyes for each other!!! I dearly loved them!
March 31, 2019
I almost didn't finish it
I hated the whole Felicity thing and almost didn't finish it but I did read on. I was glad he hadn't slept with her since he reconnected with Emily. But I still hated that part. And when Felicity apologized to the h I was not impressed. Girls like that are liars. I know from personal experience. I wanted her to remain a biatch! I met a couple of old lovers of my husband, still have nightmares about them, and i hated them, and they were so different from me and I was just like what did he see in them and I felt this way in the book too. They both had short hair, I have long, and he slept with them while he was dating me. I never knew that until after we were married and they both lied to my face! I was a virgin and going to be a nun until I met him and I thought he was faithful to me! But he wasn't. Glad this hero was. The book was good but it did bring back some bad memories. It still reminded me of Sabrina which I still Love. Both the original and the remake with Harrison Ford. I would read this again and I am going to read the other books in the series. I loved it. Even with my freaky bad memories and insecurities. I am still married to him after 41 years and I love him still. TMI right??? Lol. Great book and glad I read it. I look forward to reading more of her stories. As long as there is no ow or cheating. Yes I am a freak and proud of it! Lol. 😋
I hated the whole Felicity thing and almost didn't finish it but I did read on. I was glad he hadn't slept with her since he reconnected with Emily. But I still hated that part. And when Felicity apologized to the h I was not impressed. Girls like that are liars. I know from personal experience. I wanted her to remain a biatch! I met a couple of old lovers of my husband, still have nightmares about them, and i hated them, and they were so different from me and I was just like what did he see in them and I felt this way in the book too. They both had short hair, I have long, and he slept with them while he was dating me. I never knew that until after we were married and they both lied to my face! I was a virgin and going to be a nun until I met him and I thought he was faithful to me! But he wasn't. Glad this hero was. The book was good but it did bring back some bad memories. It still reminded me of Sabrina which I still Love. Both the original and the remake with Harrison Ford. I would read this again and I am going to read the other books in the series. I loved it. Even with my freaky bad memories and insecurities. I am still married to him after 41 years and I love him still. TMI right??? Lol. Great book and glad I read it. I look forward to reading more of her stories. As long as there is no ow or cheating. Yes I am a freak and proud of it! Lol. 😋
June 6, 2016
***3.5 Charming Stars***
"Who are you?"
"Barrett English," he whispered.
"No. Barrett English is a shark."
"He's also a man."
This was a charming, low angst, feel good read.
Emily has been "working" as Barrett's "fiance" for a few months now. She's been in love with him for as long as she can remember. Spending evenings with him pretending to live the life and have the man that she wants is becoming harder and harder.
Barrett English is all about business. Finding a deal. Negotiating it. Closing it. But what he didn't count on was Emily improvising a "how we met and got engaged" story that tugged at his heart. What he's always wanted has been right in front of him. But he's starting to wonder does Emily feel the same way? Is she a really good actress, or are there genuine feelings behind her actions?
Their fake romance starts unraveling into something real, but one of Barrett's past decisions rears its head. And now they must put their potential real relationship on hold for one more weekend of "fake" engagement. However, that's the funny thing about feelings...they very rarely do what you want them to.
Having both POV's in this book left little doubt on where the story was heading and how Emily and Barrett were feeling. We see each person doubting what may possibly be everything they've ever wanted, an endearing vulnerability peaking through their confident exterior. But more importantly, we get to see Barrett slowly shed his serious business persona, letting his impersonal guard down and showing Emily a soft, sweet and tender side.
"Where has all this charm been hiding?"
"It hasn't been hiding. It's been waiting."
"Oh, Barrett. You're making this so hard."
"I think that's my line."
And although I did quite enjoy this book, Emily's constant lip biting and cock tease ways grew frustrating. She'd run full steam ahead and then pull the emergency brake. How Barrett wasn't constantly icing his balls, I have no idea.
Barrett on the other hand....well, he was a dreamy leading man. A sexy businessman with his heart on his sleeve. Once he committed to moving forward with his feelings for Emily, it was a non-stop swoonfest.
"...here's the most elemental truth I know: You're the love of my life, Emily Edwards. And whatever it takes, I'll do it. Just to be with you."
Overall, a sweet, low-angst and charming read that fit my mood. Cheesy at times and completely predictable, but enjoyable nonetheless.
July 24, 2014
I have never tried writing a love story that starts when the hero and heroine are children, but I absolutely loved writing Barrett and Emily's story. I love the thought that someone you've - literally - known your entire life could turn out to be the love of your life...after a few obstacles, of course. ;)
May 27, 2016
This book was pretty "meh" but I did appreciate some things.
It was fast paced and the characters weren't awful, so that's a "yay". But what I really liked about it (the only reason it got a 3star rating not 2) is the fact that it doesn't really have a lot of drama. I admit, I expected a lot of "he did this" and "she did that", a lot of yelling and screaming, especially after the first few pages.
I know, I'm awful for expecting bad things from a book and being happy when they don't happen (and even appreciating them for being "ok" and not entirely "meh").
Still, it was a decent book, worth giving it a try if you have nothing better to do.
It was fast paced and the characters weren't awful, so that's a "yay". But what I really liked about it (the only reason it got a 3star rating not 2) is the fact that it doesn't really have a lot of drama. I admit, I expected a lot of "he did this" and "she did that", a lot of yelling and screaming, especially after the first few pages.
I know, I'm awful for expecting bad things from a book and being happy when they don't happen (and even appreciating them for being "ok" and not entirely "meh").
Still, it was a decent book, worth giving it a try if you have nothing better to do.
January 25, 2015
★Book Basics★
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - First in the series
Writing : -Third person Dual POV (Barrett and Emily)
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author? - Maybe
Rating - 3
★Review★
While I did enjoy this, there was something about it, that I cannot put my finger on that stopped me really liking or loving it.
It felt quite dated, even though it is very recent, indeed mentions of iPhones (and do not get me started on Emily having herself an iPhone, yet she can hardly afford her rent but whatever), but, it felt like it could have been an 80's Mills and Boon almost.
And for some reason I found Emily almost unlikeable. Again, I cannot give a solid reason, just something about her. I did like Barrett once we started getting his POV however.
Mild "drama" was built up, then never really causes any issues and just fizzles out, then it ended very abruptly. But given this is to be an ongoing series about the English Brothers, I assume we see previous couples and the continuation of their story as secondary characters.
A nice enough read that passed a couple of hours, but I would not be all fired up to continue the series.
Genre : - Contemporary Romance
Series : - First in the series
Writing : -Third person Dual POV (Barrett and Emily)
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Would I read more by this author? - Maybe
Rating - 3
★Review★
While I did enjoy this, there was something about it, that I cannot put my finger on that stopped me really liking or loving it.
It felt quite dated, even though it is very recent, indeed mentions of iPhones (and do not get me started on Emily having herself an iPhone, yet she can hardly afford her rent but whatever), but, it felt like it could have been an 80's Mills and Boon almost.
And for some reason I found Emily almost unlikeable. Again, I cannot give a solid reason, just something about her. I did like Barrett once we started getting his POV however.
Mild "drama" was built up, then never really causes any issues and just fizzles out, then it ended very abruptly. But given this is to be an ongoing series about the English Brothers, I assume we see previous couples and the continuation of their story as secondary characters.
A nice enough read that passed a couple of hours, but I would not be all fired up to continue the series.
March 17, 2023
This is a Short Romance, and this is the first book in the English Brothers/Blueberry Lane Series. I found this story very fun and cute, but there was parts of the story I found very weird. I loved the characters, and I found the characters very developed. There was parts of this book that was steamy. The romance was very fast moving, but it did not feel they where moving to fast. This book was a quick and good read. I won a kindle edition of this book from a Goodreads Giveaway, but this review was my own opinion about this book.
May 2, 2016
Sweet and spicy read!!! Really enjoyed it...review to come!
September 1, 2020
♥ Barrett English, ja sam se zaljubila u tebe, ali mislim da ću se zaljubiti i u tvoju braću. Dios mio guys, morate li da budete takoo savršeni?!
February 3, 2019
This is a standard short sweet story. The story is super simple. A rich man falls for his garderner's daughter. The character development is sufficient for short novella to make it work. Minimum angst. Minimum drama.
Enjoyable reading.
3 stars
Enjoyable reading.
3 stars
June 16, 2015
A sweet and simple romance - nice for light reading
I recently read "The Vixen and Vet" by this author and loved it, so I decided to see what other books she had published. I was excited to find this book offered on Amazon as a freebie! I love it when writers do that for the first book in a series so that you can get a feel for what the series will offer. So here is my breakdown for this book:
The pros:
* Like I mentioned earlier it was offered as a freebie - great bonus
* It was sweet - reminded me of the movie "Sabrina" - where the "helps" child grows up on the same property as the rich family and their kids, only to turn out successful and well-rounded
The cons:
* The conflict in this book seemed a bit pathetic - I really didn’t feel that him being her landlord and raising the rent was a biig deal
* A 24 year old book virgin because she just "never got around to it" with all her studies, etc. - cringe
* It had a juvenile feel to it at times. Like when the heroine was talking to her friend: "He likes you. He really likes you.” “I really like him,” Just little things like that. The dialogue didn’t feel as if it were between mature adults at certain points.
* Slight spoiler.............speaking of our heroine, once she gives up the V-card, there was no pain at all (or bleeding mentioned) and she had an orgasm during. Come on, that shit hurts, and the fact it felt perfect for her just seemed unrealistic.
* the hero claims to have fallen in love with the heroine from the first moment he held her - She was just born and he was 8 - I don’t know, that just didn’t feel right to me. Not in a creepy way, just unconvincing. That and the fact that they didn’t interact with each other a lot growing up - it wasn’t as if they grew up being good friends, etc. They had very few interactions during their childhoods.
Overall, it was pretty cliché but I think as a series does have quite a bit of potential. It's likely I'll check out some of the other books at a later time.
I recently read "The Vixen and Vet" by this author and loved it, so I decided to see what other books she had published. I was excited to find this book offered on Amazon as a freebie! I love it when writers do that for the first book in a series so that you can get a feel for what the series will offer. So here is my breakdown for this book:
The pros:
* Like I mentioned earlier it was offered as a freebie - great bonus
* It was sweet - reminded me of the movie "Sabrina" - where the "helps" child grows up on the same property as the rich family and their kids, only to turn out successful and well-rounded
The cons:
* The conflict in this book seemed a bit pathetic - I really didn’t feel that him being her landlord and raising the rent was a biig deal
* A 24 year old book virgin because she just "never got around to it" with all her studies, etc. - cringe
* It had a juvenile feel to it at times. Like when the heroine was talking to her friend: "He likes you. He really likes you.” “I really like him,” Just little things like that. The dialogue didn’t feel as if it were between mature adults at certain points.
* Slight spoiler.............speaking of our heroine, once she gives up the V-card, there was no pain at all (or bleeding mentioned) and she had an orgasm during. Come on, that shit hurts, and the fact it felt perfect for her just seemed unrealistic.
* the hero claims to have fallen in love with the heroine from the first moment he held her - She was just born and he was 8 - I don’t know, that just didn’t feel right to me. Not in a creepy way, just unconvincing. That and the fact that they didn’t interact with each other a lot growing up - it wasn’t as if they grew up being good friends, etc. They had very few interactions during their childhoods.
Overall, it was pretty cliché but I think as a series does have quite a bit of potential. It's likely I'll check out some of the other books at a later time.
October 14, 2014
So yesterday I gave a half arsed review on this book so I decided to write a proper review. My first book by this author was The Vixen and the Vet and I loved it so much.
Breaking up with Barrett is the first book in the English Brothers Series. I have a soft spot for the whole brother thing.
Emily Edwards has known the English family since she has been a baby. Barrett held her as a baby at the age of 8 and even then she took a piece of his heart. Emily has had a crush on Barrett since she has been 14 and that crush turned into more. Slight issue in the world of prestige and money, Emily’s parents are the help. Her father is the gardener and her mother is the housekeeper.
Barrett approaches Emily as he needs a fake fiancé to help him with business and well Emily as a post graduate needs the money. Barrett is also known as the shark due to his dealings and no time for fun and games. He is also very intense and a bulldozer of a guy.
This is a no nonsense romance and because of that I found it a quick read. There is fun and banter and we get to meet some of the other brothers.
Next on the agenda is Falling for Fitz.
Breaking up with Barrett is the first book in the English Brothers Series. I have a soft spot for the whole brother thing.
Emily Edwards has known the English family since she has been a baby. Barrett held her as a baby at the age of 8 and even then she took a piece of his heart. Emily has had a crush on Barrett since she has been 14 and that crush turned into more. Slight issue in the world of prestige and money, Emily’s parents are the help. Her father is the gardener and her mother is the housekeeper.
Barrett approaches Emily as he needs a fake fiancé to help him with business and well Emily as a post graduate needs the money. Barrett is also known as the shark due to his dealings and no time for fun and games. He is also very intense and a bulldozer of a guy.
This is a no nonsense romance and because of that I found it a quick read. There is fun and banter and we get to meet some of the other brothers.
Next on the agenda is Falling for Fitz.
November 23, 2015
You know that awkward moment in Breaking Dawn where Jacob imprints on the baby and even though it was absolutely not kiddy fiddling, it still felt a bit weird? Yeah, that...
No werewolves in this or anything, just a corporate shark (trying to take over a shipping business the old man owner was emotionally attached to...Pretty Woman anyone?)
That aside, this was an easy read with little to no angst and just what I was in the mood for. She's been in love with him for as long as she can remember, but to earn some cash she's standing in as his fake fiancee. He's all cold and aloof and I hoped we'd be getting a gradual thawing, but unfortunately it switched to his pov and he was crazy for her too so that was a bit of a bummer as it rather took away the guesswork. His change of personality from cold, aloof tycoon to love-lorn sap was a bit fast for my liking, but it was an ok, if predictable, read.
Complete story, one about each of the five brothers. All rich, handsome and successful. Loverly.
No werewolves in this or anything, just a corporate shark (trying to take over a shipping business the old man owner was emotionally attached to...Pretty Woman anyone?)
That aside, this was an easy read with little to no angst and just what I was in the mood for. She's been in love with him for as long as she can remember, but to earn some cash she's standing in as his fake fiancee. He's all cold and aloof and I hoped we'd be getting a gradual thawing, but unfortunately it switched to his pov and he was crazy for her too so that was a bit of a bummer as it rather took away the guesswork. His change of personality from cold, aloof tycoon to love-lorn sap was a bit fast for my liking, but it was an ok, if predictable, read.
Complete story, one about each of the five brothers. All rich, handsome and successful. Loverly.
July 26, 2014
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
She did it again!
Super sweet love story, Katy delivered here another true love tale.
If you're in the mood for love, light yet emotional story, the barely there but right amount of angst, no unnecessary drama, mature characters...
You have it all here, even the steam!
I can't wait to read more about the English brothers! ;)
will be released July 29th, 2014.
She did it again!
Super sweet love story, Katy delivered here another true love tale.
If you're in the mood for love, light yet emotional story, the barely there but right amount of angst, no unnecessary drama, mature characters...
You have it all here, even the steam!
I can't wait to read more about the English brothers! ;)
will be released July 29th, 2014.
September 22, 2014
My Rating: 4.5
Favorite Quotes:
Emily was overwhelmed by the dueling sensations of comfort and risk, which made her feel scared and safe, set adrift while firmly anchored. It made her breathless. It made her brave.
You were a tiny baby and I was little boy and reached into my chest and stole my heart, and it’s been yours ever since. You’re home and sweetness and truth and brilliance and you’re sexy and teasing and the most fun I ever had. And if you want to know what’s real, here’s the most elemental truth I know: You’re the love of my life, Emily Edwards. And whatever it takes, I’ll do it. Just to be with you.
My Review:
I love Barrett and Emily's story and it does an excellent job of setting the tone for the following stories about the different brothers. Ms. Regnery’s writing is enjoyable, descriptive, and inventive. Each character is of course exceedingly good looking, successful, smart, witty, and endowed with unique personalities and endearing quirks. I found the love scenes were deliciously steamy, yet tenderly sensual. Book series tend to make me a bit nervous but I am relieved that each book could stand alone with no cliffhangers, but I also enjoy how the books and characters overlap. I am now curious to see what happens with the remaining family members.
Favorite Quotes:
Emily was overwhelmed by the dueling sensations of comfort and risk, which made her feel scared and safe, set adrift while firmly anchored. It made her breathless. It made her brave.
You were a tiny baby and I was little boy and reached into my chest and stole my heart, and it’s been yours ever since. You’re home and sweetness and truth and brilliance and you’re sexy and teasing and the most fun I ever had. And if you want to know what’s real, here’s the most elemental truth I know: You’re the love of my life, Emily Edwards. And whatever it takes, I’ll do it. Just to be with you.
My Review:
I love Barrett and Emily's story and it does an excellent job of setting the tone for the following stories about the different brothers. Ms. Regnery’s writing is enjoyable, descriptive, and inventive. Each character is of course exceedingly good looking, successful, smart, witty, and endowed with unique personalities and endearing quirks. I found the love scenes were deliciously steamy, yet tenderly sensual. Book series tend to make me a bit nervous but I am relieved that each book could stand alone with no cliffhangers, but I also enjoy how the books and characters overlap. I am now curious to see what happens with the remaining family members.
July 2, 2015
So for the most part I steer clear of the New Adult genre. There have been very few authors that I have read that I actually like that write in that genre. Some of them are Rachel Hollis, Rachel Schruig, and wait a second. Do I only like books written by authors named Rachel?
That's going to be an internal discussion for myself later.
Anyway, I as a general rule don't care for much New Adult fiction. I was hoping though based on the positive reviews I scouted out the reviews ( I tend to read the most positive/critical and then just three star reviews) and I realized after the fact that if I had read the one star reviews that I would have received advanced warning over the storyline and passed on this book. Totally my own fault. I was jonesing for a series romance read since I have finished up so many others lately.
The main characters in book 1 of The English Brothers (there are six English brothers) are Barrett 'the Shark' English and Emily Edwards. Raised together on the English family estate in Philadelphia, PA, Barrett has been in love with Emily since she was a baby and he was 8 years old.
No I am not joking. This is a major plot point and gets mentioned ad naseum throughout the book. This is not romantic to me at all.
Deciding that he wants to pursue a relationship with Emily and apparently being raised by wolves he thought the best way to do this is to pay her to be his pretend fiancee.
I so love it when men and women don't just speak to each other like human beings in romance novels. Wait what's the opposite of love?
And though he pretty much doesn't talk to her and interact with her at all besides acting robotic in all manners and buying her clothes to wear and a fake engagement ring, Emily is in love with Barrett.
In real life Emily would not be in love with Barrett because most women don't fall for a guy that acts indifferent around you and also pays you for your time. Unless you are Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.
Anyway the book gets it's title from when Emily 'breaks up' with Barrett after making out when Emily needs to be distracted from her mother who is injured and ends up in the hospital.
As one does when one's parent is sick. Oh wait. I forgot. Emily and Barrett both have the emotions of those who have not been around other human beings before.
And there is a lot of back and forth about the feelings the other one has for each other. Barrett's love gave me the creeps throughout this entire book. Besides doing his best to control aspects of Emily's life in order to get her to keep using him for cash he then gives a long soliloquy about how much he has loved her to Emily. And Emily instead of saying, hmm this is a bit too much and also creepy is like I am going to totally give you my virginity even though we have at this point only made out twice.
FYI, I told a coworker about this book last night on the way home (we commute together sometimes) and besides her fits of laughter said wow this is like a mash-up of Twilight and Sabrina. I had to mention that Barrett also loses it when Emily bites her lip and she started cracking up and said oh hello there 50 Shades and then we both laughed for about 10 minutes. So I am pretty much saying there is unintentional hilarity in this book which is why I did finish it. Is this a good book in my opinion? No. But sometimes books that are not good still end up being fascinating reads and I was fascinated throughout this book, so win?
There really is no plot besides what is described above. One of Barrett's former flings makes an appearance but isn't really a villain in this story. The book continues on and on and love, everyone is in love and then it ends.
And it wasn't just the plot that caused me to give this book a 1 star rating. Besides the plot I also thought it was very weird that this family that is born and raised in Philly acts as if they are British. There are references to Boxing Day and sometimes the way Barrett "talks" seems very British. It makes absolutely no sense and it was odd. Maybe it would have been better to have this take place in London.
The other big problem that I had is that as someone that has been to Philly constantly throughout my life (was just there last Thursday) I wish that the author had actually incorporated parts of Philly into this story. I mean beside there being the Liberty Bell and the steps Rocky runs up into there are restaurants galore that are fantastic. There are outdoor markets, cobblestone streets, and a lot of nice bars and nightclubs. There are also colleges like Drexel University and Temple. There is very little description that made me believe that the story took place in Philadelphia and that the author had ever been there. That is one of my pet peeves in romance novels that take place in cities like San Francisco or L.A. besides sometimes mentioning the Golden Gate Bridge (SF) or the Hollywood sign (LA) these stories don't feel like they are taking place in those cities. This is one of the many reasons why I love Rosalind Jame's New Zealand series. She incorporates that country and the Maori into her romance novels so well that I feel like I have been there.
August 12, 2017
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Holy crap this book is awesome!!!! This book was just what I needed. It has depth of character, a decent plot and the emotional intensity I love when reading romance. Its not all about the physical. That shows me a different side of the same coin. Layers people! Layers!
Characters:
Emily: she is emotionally mature but at the same time has intense feelings that she doesn’t know how to hide. The way the author wrote Emily was so perfect! She was level headed, yet spontaneous and loving. The balance the author weaved between physicality and emotion was just brilliant! One of my favorite parts is when she realizes he needs more than a love interest, but a partner to trust and share with. ::Sigh::
Barrett: He is like an alpha male but not. I don’t know how else to put it. He was confident and demanding in business. But when it came to her, her wasn’t overbearing. You could see he respected her for more than her body. He wanted more from her than just sex, he wanted time with her. Just to be around her. And that, I think, makes him one of the most sexiest men I have ever read about. My favorite scene with Barrett is when his mother comes in and he is is bed. OMG, it was hilarious.
They had some sick chemistry! The steamy scenes made me blush. I also loved how the author incorporated every aspect of their lives into the book for great background, such as Emily’s schooling and family along with Barrett’s family and business. It really helped me get a full picture of their dynamic past as well as how their relationship would work in the long run.
The climax to this book was subtle but poignant. It was written so gracefully . Something I lack but can appreciate in others. Well done! Katy Regnery, you have a fan in me.
Holy crap this book is awesome!!!! This book was just what I needed. It has depth of character, a decent plot and the emotional intensity I love when reading romance. Its not all about the physical. That shows me a different side of the same coin. Layers people! Layers!
Characters:
Emily: she is emotionally mature but at the same time has intense feelings that she doesn’t know how to hide. The way the author wrote Emily was so perfect! She was level headed, yet spontaneous and loving. The balance the author weaved between physicality and emotion was just brilliant! One of my favorite parts is when she realizes he needs more than a love interest, but a partner to trust and share with. ::Sigh::
Barrett: He is like an alpha male but not. I don’t know how else to put it. He was confident and demanding in business. But when it came to her, her wasn’t overbearing. You could see he respected her for more than her body. He wanted more from her than just sex, he wanted time with her. Just to be around her. And that, I think, makes him one of the most sexiest men I have ever read about. My favorite scene with Barrett is when his mother comes in and he is is bed. OMG, it was hilarious.
They had some sick chemistry! The steamy scenes made me blush. I also loved how the author incorporated every aspect of their lives into the book for great background, such as Emily’s schooling and family along with Barrett’s family and business. It really helped me get a full picture of their dynamic past as well as how their relationship would work in the long run.
The climax to this book was subtle but poignant. It was written so gracefully . Something I lack but can appreciate in others. Well done! Katy Regnery, you have a fan in me.
August 6, 2015
I loved the idea of this story
I didn't connect to the characters.
I didn't connect to the characters.
kindle-freebies
January 19, 2016Kindle freebie 1/19/16
March 31, 2015
This delightful start to a new series by Katy Regnery treats us to the story of Barrett, eldest of the five English Brothers and Emily, daughter of his family's help. They have known each other their whole lives and been friends for many years, but always kept a certain distance from each other due to their stations in life. Recently, Emily has been posing as Barrett's fiancée to make some much needed money for her living expenses and to help Barrett with his business deals requiring more personal meetings. It's a mutually beneficial arrangement, but one night Emily dares to take their charade a bit farther and suddenly sparks are flying between them. The question is whether they will be honest and admit to their long held attraction for each other.
This was such a wonderful story! I loved the portrayal of both the main characters. Barrett appears reserved and businesslike, the staid and in control eldest brother on the outside. On the inside however, his true feelings for Emily are simmering under the surface, waiting for the chance to be exposed. When that chance occurs, Barrett leaps at the opportunity to show Emily the depth of his feelings for her. Emily is a friendly, warmhearted woman whose secret attraction for Barrett has been pushed aside for so long that she hardly dares believe that Barrett could really be interested in her. The sexual attraction between them simmers, and when finally released results in steamy yet tender love scenes. Secondary characters introduced to the reader add humour, tension and heart tugging moments as the plot unfolds, enveloping the reader in a warm, lighthearted feeling that will leave one smiling. I can't wait for more books in this series! 5 delightful stars!
This was such a wonderful story! I loved the portrayal of both the main characters. Barrett appears reserved and businesslike, the staid and in control eldest brother on the outside. On the inside however, his true feelings for Emily are simmering under the surface, waiting for the chance to be exposed. When that chance occurs, Barrett leaps at the opportunity to show Emily the depth of his feelings for her. Emily is a friendly, warmhearted woman whose secret attraction for Barrett has been pushed aside for so long that she hardly dares believe that Barrett could really be interested in her. The sexual attraction between them simmers, and when finally released results in steamy yet tender love scenes. Secondary characters introduced to the reader add humour, tension and heart tugging moments as the plot unfolds, enveloping the reader in a warm, lighthearted feeling that will leave one smiling. I can't wait for more books in this series! 5 delightful stars!
July 18, 2014
Breaking up with Barrett is book one in a 5 part series about the English brothers and another 5 star read by Author Katy Regnery. It is a sweet, tender love story with enough heat to make it sizzle. Barrett and Emily basically grew up together, his family being the owner of the property, hers being the help. After years of watching each other, Barrett devises a plan to get to know Emily better and to be able to examine the feelings he has. Emily is a sweet unassuming young lady while Barrett is known in the business world as "the shark". Spend a few hours getting to know this couple and getting a glimpse of what is yet to come from the other brothers. Personally, I cannot wait to know all of them.
August 19, 2019
Gross gross gross. Manipulative older billionaire who has been in love with innocent virgin SINCE HER BIRTH basically does nothing but groom her her entire life and manipulate her but she's not even mad because it's so romantic/ they're destined for each other for some reason that's certainly not shown on the page. Such stories can be sexy-wrong if the characters have some self-awareness, but at no point does any character in this think any of this is wrong and none of it is sexy or romantic in the slightest.
June 20, 2022
It was an okay read. Sweet and romantic with a couple of steamy moments, but also pretty cheesy. The super-rich capable handsome boss who falls for the 'lower-class' gardener's daughter who is also (luckily) quite clever and of course beautiful. The book felt too full of cliches. It felt a bit dated, too. Where are the diverse characters? BTW I think the main male character was blonde-haired, so why the dark-haired guy on the cover? Who is he, kissing our heroine???? LOL.
I read this whole series back in about 2016 and enjoyed them at the time. I thought I might try rereading the series, but I was a bit disappointed by the reread of this first one. Maybe my romance reading taste has simply moved on. I might try rereading some others in the series and see how I find them. But if you're looking for a sweet and undemanding romance read for some light entertainment, this might fit the bill.
I read this whole series back in about 2016 and enjoyed them at the time. I thought I might try rereading the series, but I was a bit disappointed by the reread of this first one. Maybe my romance reading taste has simply moved on. I might try rereading some others in the series and see how I find them. But if you're looking for a sweet and undemanding romance read for some light entertainment, this might fit the bill.
January 26, 2023
This my friends, is how adults deal with a misunderstanding 👏
October 20, 2019
Nice lovely simple read. Just what I need now.
July 20, 2014
Breaking Up with Barrett is the first novel in Katy Regnery’s outstanding new series, The English Brothers. From the moment I sat down with my Kindle, I immediately fell in love with Emily and Barrett. The depth of their story of having grown up together with a familial connection despite being from “different social worlds” was absolutely charming.
Emily Edwards has known Barrett English her entire life having grown up in the gatehouse on the property of his parents’ home with her mother and father, whose family has worked for the English family for generations. Emily has always felt an attraction to Barrett despite the fact that the only part of himself he has ever shown her was the business side. But deep down Emily believed there was so much more to him than the tough exterior that was always on display. So when Barrett approaches Emily offering her a job pretending to be his fiancée to help him when making business deals, she agrees. But after months of “playing the part” Emily soon realizes that her feelings are beginning to go deeper than they should and makes the decision that she must “break up” with Barrett before her heart gets hurts.
Barrett English is well-known for his hardnosed business sense and always getting what he wants. But when it is suggested that he would have an easier time making the business deals in which Barrett is involved by having a woman by his side to temper his rigid persona, Emily Edwards immediately comes to mind. Having known her practically since the day she was born and knowing as a first year doctoral student she could use the extra money, Barrett decides to offer Emily the “job”. But as he spends time with her, Barrett’s begins to hope there may be more to their relationship than the façade of being engaged, and he’ll do anything he can within his power to keep her around. But Barrett must learn there is a difference between business dealings and transactions with the heart.
This story introduces us to Barrett, the eldest of five brothers, who is always reserved and focused on business. I loved seeing the walls ultimately begin to melt showing the softer side of Barrett as he starts to let go and open up his heart to Emily in hopes of uncovering the love he has always wanted to find. Emily is a strong young woman who despite the age difference and business strength Barrett has always exhibited, is seemingly able to express herself with him while at the same time standing up for who she is and what she believes. And the sexual tension and sparks which emanate between Barrett and Emily are absolutely fantastic.
Breaking Up with Barrett is an outstanding and charming introductory novel in this new series. I look forward with great anticipation to future English brothers’ stories and the opportunity to spend more time with my new book friends. Thank you Katy from the bottom of my heart for giving us all this excellent new cast of characters who were a joy to get to know.
Emily Edwards has known Barrett English her entire life having grown up in the gatehouse on the property of his parents’ home with her mother and father, whose family has worked for the English family for generations. Emily has always felt an attraction to Barrett despite the fact that the only part of himself he has ever shown her was the business side. But deep down Emily believed there was so much more to him than the tough exterior that was always on display. So when Barrett approaches Emily offering her a job pretending to be his fiancée to help him when making business deals, she agrees. But after months of “playing the part” Emily soon realizes that her feelings are beginning to go deeper than they should and makes the decision that she must “break up” with Barrett before her heart gets hurts.
Barrett English is well-known for his hardnosed business sense and always getting what he wants. But when it is suggested that he would have an easier time making the business deals in which Barrett is involved by having a woman by his side to temper his rigid persona, Emily Edwards immediately comes to mind. Having known her practically since the day she was born and knowing as a first year doctoral student she could use the extra money, Barrett decides to offer Emily the “job”. But as he spends time with her, Barrett’s begins to hope there may be more to their relationship than the façade of being engaged, and he’ll do anything he can within his power to keep her around. But Barrett must learn there is a difference between business dealings and transactions with the heart.
This story introduces us to Barrett, the eldest of five brothers, who is always reserved and focused on business. I loved seeing the walls ultimately begin to melt showing the softer side of Barrett as he starts to let go and open up his heart to Emily in hopes of uncovering the love he has always wanted to find. Emily is a strong young woman who despite the age difference and business strength Barrett has always exhibited, is seemingly able to express herself with him while at the same time standing up for who she is and what she believes. And the sexual tension and sparks which emanate between Barrett and Emily are absolutely fantastic.
Breaking Up with Barrett is an outstanding and charming introductory novel in this new series. I look forward with great anticipation to future English brothers’ stories and the opportunity to spend more time with my new book friends. Thank you Katy from the bottom of my heart for giving us all this excellent new cast of characters who were a joy to get to know.
February 17, 2018
Reviewed for herding cats & burning soup. (posting to blog 3/13/18)
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2ByTpH9
Awwww Barrett. Brilliant business man. Romantic blunder. lol
The Gist: When it comes to business Barrett's a bit too cut and dry and, maybe, a little bit of a shark when it comes to closing a deal. What he needs is a woman to help soften his edges when he's working those deals. So he asks the family gardener's daughter--who he's been secretly in love with for 24 years to play the part of his fake fiance. Just for a little while. Since she's a struggling college student she's all over that!
Barrett and Emily were wonderful. They're just adorably sweet. They've known each other since the day she was born and he was 8 years old and he's been smitten with her every second since then. Barrett's a bit awkward with romance and personal relationships. And rather buttoned up and "stuffy". She's a bit more free spirited and easy going. Both level headed and hiding their real feelings for the other because the other couldn't possibly love them too. lol
Their romance was fun since they were faking it for his work but not really faking it. They had lovely chemistry and some funny moments as they resisted each other and crossing any lines. But, goodness, when they do finally...yowza!
I enjoyed their time together as they both opened up and found what they'd been wanting for so many years. And I enjoyed his work, too, as he tried to close a deal with her by his side and learned that business maybe isn't the be all and end all.
And man they hit all my character buttons. Things went south for a bit but she...didn't flip out. She laid things out for him and waited for a response instead of flying off the handle and acting irrational. I love that. And man when he has a grovel it'll have a girl tearing up. I do so love a magnificent grovel.
All in all, Breaking Up with Barrett was a sweet read. These two left me smiling and happy for them. Such a good feeling.
January 9, 2015
Emily, the gardener’s daughter, has known Barrett “The Shark” English her entire life. She’s pretending to be his fake fiancee, accompanying him for business dinners, etc. Til one night, she decides to poke the shark, and gets much more than she bargains for. She breaks up with him, but he’s not letting her go so easily….
The Good
I couldn’t resist the description - it had a very Sabrina-esque vibe to it, if Sabrina had fallen for Linus from the beginning, instead of David. I was not disappointed. At all. Emily and Barrett are destined for each other and it is laid out for the reader from the very first page. Barrett’s protective love for Emily is just what I love reading about.
Their chemistry is compelling and the anticipation for their love scenes builds steadily throughout the story - there really is something to be said for building that tension...when it finally happens, it’s satisfying for the reader and the characters lol.
The best part of reading this was a refreshing maturity from a relatively young characters - when the climax of the story occurs, Emily handles herself in a composed and intelligent fashion, which was a pleasant surprise.. Actually, most of the characters seemed grounded and have believable emotional reactions, , as opposed to the overly dramatic actions I’m accustomed to rolling my eyes about.
This is part of a series, but it is not a cliffhanger and each brother will get his own book.
The Minor Quibbles
I can see where some folks may have an issue with the age difference (at the start of this story Emily’s 24 and Barrett’s 32), if only because of certain scenes where Barrett clearly loves her when she’s in her teen years. I think it just adds to their history, but some may not feel comfortable with that.
Barrett’s main deception seemed a bit shortsighted for a character portrayed as a smart businessman. But it didn’t affect my ultimate enjoyment. The class issue is almost background, barely a consideration.
The Bottom Line
I really, really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it. I’m looking forward to reading about the other brothers. I would happily read more of Ms. Regnery’s books.
The Good
I couldn’t resist the description - it had a very Sabrina-esque vibe to it, if Sabrina had fallen for Linus from the beginning, instead of David. I was not disappointed. At all. Emily and Barrett are destined for each other and it is laid out for the reader from the very first page. Barrett’s protective love for Emily is just what I love reading about.
Their chemistry is compelling and the anticipation for their love scenes builds steadily throughout the story - there really is something to be said for building that tension...when it finally happens, it’s satisfying for the reader and the characters lol.
The best part of reading this was a refreshing maturity from a relatively young characters - when the climax of the story occurs, Emily handles herself in a composed and intelligent fashion, which was a pleasant surprise.. Actually, most of the characters seemed grounded and have believable emotional reactions, , as opposed to the overly dramatic actions I’m accustomed to rolling my eyes about.
This is part of a series, but it is not a cliffhanger and each brother will get his own book.
The Minor Quibbles
I can see where some folks may have an issue with the age difference (at the start of this story Emily’s 24 and Barrett’s 32), if only because of certain scenes where Barrett clearly loves her when she’s in her teen years. I think it just adds to their history, but some may not feel comfortable with that.
Barrett’s main deception seemed a bit shortsighted for a character portrayed as a smart businessman. But it didn’t affect my ultimate enjoyment. The class issue is almost background, barely a consideration.
The Bottom Line
I really, really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend it. I’m looking forward to reading about the other brothers. I would happily read more of Ms. Regnery’s books.
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