The Elusive Billionaire

Happiness Ever After #2

by Avery Maxwell

From Amazon best-selling author Avery Maxwell comes an enemies-to-lovers, small-town billionaire romance with a fake engagement, scandalous small-town gossip, a storm that traps them together, and a secret that could destroy them both.

One storm. One bed. One unforgettable night. One big mistake.

Savvy
Getting trapped with Greyson Reyes during a hurricane was not part of my plan. He’s grumpy, gorgeous, and the town’s most eligible billionaire. Oh, he’s also the man who has hated me since the day all my secrets blew up in our faces.
Worse, he’s even better at getting me naked than he is at getting under my skin. And he’s very good at that.

Grey
There’s only one thing I can’t forgive—betrayal. And Savvy Monroe not only crossed that line, she decimated it.
Now she’s stuck under my roof, in my bed, and testing every ounce of my control. The town gossip mill is placing bets on wedding bells, but I’m the kind of man who doesn’t get a happily ever after.

Which is why no one is more surprised than I am at how protective I become when Savvy’s past comes back to haunt her.

Genres: Enemies To Lovers, Romance, Forced Proximity, Contemporary Romance, Suspense, M F Romance, Billionaire Romance

492 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 5, 2025

About the author

Hi, I’m Avery!

I write steamy small towns with big found families—the kind of romances that make your heart race and your soul sigh.

My books, like The Westbrooks, Single Dad Hotline, and Happiness Ever After series, are filled with swoon-worthy heroes, messy but lovable heroines, and small towns you’ll want to call home.

When I'm not writing, I live in joyful chaos with my husband and four kids. You can usually find me cheering on the sidelines at their sporting events, sneaking in writing sprints, or slipping into coffee shops for my daily caffeine fix.

I luv connecting with readers, so join me in The Luv Club (my reader group): https://www.facebook.com/groups/Avery...

Or through my weekly newsletter, The Luv Notes—because in my world, there’s always room at the table for one more luv story: https://geni.us/TheLuvNotes

You can also find me on Instagram and TikTok:
https://www.instagram.com/averymaxwel...

https://www.tiktok.com/@averymaxwell_...

Reviews

[Jen ♥]

self note:

need safety deets 🫣😬

[MissPetiteBrunetteBookBlog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savvy Monroe & Greyson Reyes do not like each other, so when they get stuck in the same house as a hurricane comes crashing by it might lead to an interesting twist. Stuck with your attractive enemy might have them fighting or becoming more than just enemies…you can only fight the pull for so long! They had an accidental misunderstanding in the past that turned them for f* buddies to enemies. Maybe one storm can bring them together closer than before. What an emotional at times yet fun enemies to lovers romance with quite a twist. These two are great together and you truly felt their loathing for each other but still fighting with their true feelings. Very well written. If you love a good banter between the main characters then you will definitely enjoy this! Told in first Person and dual POV.

[Shanna Ferris · Rating 4 out of 5]

• Workplace Romance
• Billionaire romance
• Secret identity
• Enemies to Lovers
• Forced Proximity
• Panic attack rep
• Fake engagement
• Caretaking MMC

Ahhh!!! Another win by Avery!! I was INSTANTLY hooked the second I opened the book! The opening chapter was absolutely perfect and set up their story so well. Avery did such an incredible job with the way she handled their journey and all the moments that kept leading them back to one another.

Their banter and the way they were adorably competitive with each other was everything! I couldn’t get enough of the incredible chemistry these two shares. It was the perfect balance of love and hate while they were both secretly pining for one another.

Avery proved once again why she’s an auto-buy author for me! Her books always have the perfect mix of humor and heart!

[Melissa Hopkins · Rating 2 out of 5]

It’s weird but I liked Grey & Savvy in the first book, but this book was a bit ‘yuck’ for me. The sex was over the top graphic and unnecessary and started in the first quarter of the story.
Grey bordered on being obsessed with Savvy and I don’t understand the devotion when she wasn’t particularly nice to him. It was just really confusing when the turning point came.. from hating her to being over the top in love.
Felt mixed up and rushed.
2.5 stars

[Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Savvy and Greyson’s story is sooo good, especially how they helped each other with their traumas and past issues. This author did a great job with this one! The spice was perfect too!
Thank you so much to Hambright PR for the ARC

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Savvy & Grey have always toed the line between love and hate. But when Grey finds out a secret Savvy's been hiding, he cuts her out of his life and wants nothing to do with her. But now, 6 months later, she ends up stuck in his house during a major hurricane.

This one is strong on the enemies to lovers for a long time. They hate each other with a passion but that passion definitely gets taken to the bedroom no matter how much they try to stay away. The spice was hot between them - hellooooo twister! 🥵 Threats from the past arrive and Grey vows to do whatever it takes to protect Savvy. Insert a fake marriage of convenience even though Savvy was against it. You can literally feel the hurt and the pain and the betrayal from both of them. They fought hard to avoid their deep feelings for each other but seeing them finally (albeit slowly) opening up and learning to trust each other was beautiful. They helped heal each other and they both needed & deserved that. I love this town called Happiness and love all the side characters. I'm looking forward to what comes next.

The Elusive Billionaire releases November 5. Thanks so much to Avery Maxwell for this ARC.

[Elizabeth Strain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery, you have done it again! Wow. Savvy and Grey's love story was so beautiful and I always love a good romance with suspense.

[Jenn the Readaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was a little surprised by just how quickly I flew through this one. I knew Savvy was hiding things. I knew Greyson was, too. But I didn’t quite imagine the extent of some secrets, or the damage that they’ve done and could continue to do.

Don’t get me wrong. There’s a ton of family and love and humor here, as I’ve come to expect from this author. But amid the sometimes-corny events or people, there are very real, very serious issues covered. And the fact that Avery puts a piece of herself into this one (like she has with others), is brave and only lends to the believability of this tale.

So while Greyson learns to let go of that control a bit, and Savannah learns to do the same while trusting that someone is truly on her side in this fight, we also see just how MUCH Greyson observes. And the same goes for Savannah. Even when I got angry at the words flung to hide the sting of perceived betrayals, I understood the underlying hurt. And I knew that the misery of this ride would be more than soothed by the love that Greyson and Savannah so richly deserve in the end.

Now I wait for something that’s bound to break hearts. I just hope Clover and I both survive it. And that we see more of some brothers in the future, as well.

[RomanceLand65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I will be honest. cause that's what I do. this book was good. but not the work I am used to from this author. I would like to focus on the idea that this author writes in a way that is therapeutic for her. almost to come to terms with past issues. savy the lead female is Avery I imagine. from her height to her control/eating issues she once suffered from. I do respect an author that can conjure up a character that aligns with her past then the author pours her emotions into the characters and has to walk away. meaning the end of the book.
I did enjoy many aspects of the book but found it very long and maybe too personal. this book might hit perfect for some and it might help you heal. but for me I lost my focus often due to the length of the book. but Avery told one heck of a story between two very wounded adults.

[Jacklyn B · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Happiness, GA! I was so excited to jump back into this town and these characters. I have been so excited for Savvy and Greyson’s story!

We find out right away why they seem to hate each other…and it gets a little complicated. Greyson feels betrayed but he doesn’t know the whole story…and Savvy is terrified her past is coming back to haunt her. They have this amazing chemistry and connection but is that enough?

This book is emotional and really had me in my feels. They have this push and pull that kept me on the edge of my seat - I was really rooting for them to get it together. And banter…so much banter!

There are some tough (yet important) topics - I also recommend reading the author’s note and how some of Savvy’s experiences were very personal to her. Savvy and Greyson both have some things to work through and we get some great character growth as they start to learn to love themselves too.

But this book is not all serious. It’s also funny and full of small town shenanigans and quirky characters. The friendships and sense of found family are so good too! I highly recommend giving this a read!

✨ What To Expect:
🌾 Small Town Shenanigans
🔥 Enemies to Lovers
🔒 Forced Proximity
🎭 Secret Identity
💼 Protective Grumpy Billionaire
💋 Strong, Sassy Heroine

[Alice Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our girl, Avery, strikes again!! This book may very well be her best book yet!

Savvy, our independent, sexy, powerful FMC is truly broken. Her trauma from her childhood and teenage years has nearly crushed her. She hides it all from her found family in the small town of Happiness. All Savvy wants is to be loved and cared for by the people she loves.

Grey, the grumpy Billionaire and hot MMC, arrives in Happiness to take care of his brother and nephew. And he sets Savvy on fire! They are fire and ice! Neither of them have the ability to share their past traumas or any honesty at all.

This enemies-to-lovers story will make you laugh, cry, cheer and throw things!! Once Grey sees Sav for who she truly is, he falls first. And, wow, does he fall!!

Grey loves her so hard, she just can’t believe it. The tender side of him is everything you want in your book boyfriend!!

A highlight or two or more:

Grey:

“Memorize the feel of me. And I know that when you’re a hundred years old, I was the one who knew you, loved you, and understood you from the inside out”

“And after I learn what makes you tick, I’ll ensure you have the fairytale you dream of yet don’t dare to reach for”

“I need to feel your body and know that while he marred your skin, he didn’t break you”

Savvy:

“But sometimes vulnerability breeds fragility, and Greyson is the kryptonite to all my protective layers”

“with Grey, it’s not hitting like a weakness. Instead it heals like a stitch in the fabric of my story, and he’s the one holding the needle”

“I want you to hold my power safe so I can let go because I know you won’t try to take it from me forever - just for a little while so I can be breathe - so I can be free”


And one last quote that made me truly LOL

“hotter than a preacher’s collar at a strip club”

Absolutely grab this book! You will definitely thank me later!!

[Deb Richmond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Savvy and Greyson have been fighting and having hate s•x since he came to town with his brother months ago. They hate each other…or do they? When Savvy does something unforgivable, Greyson leaves town, but when he’s back and they get stuck together during a hurricane, things heat up. When a dangerous person from Savvy’s past shows up, Greyson can’t help but be overprotective. Can their relationship survive the baggage they both carry?

OH MY GOSH, this book is PHENOMENAL! I love Greyson and Savvy’s story even more than I loved Braxton and Madi’s in The Elusive Billionaire which was also a five-star read for me. Greyson and Savvy are both incredibly stubborn and incredibly hot for each other. They can’t stand each other during the day, but night is a different story. I absolutely love Greyson and his determination to support Savvy in the best way that he can. He’s sensitive and smart and open to do whatever Savvy needs. He learns to be a partner and support her instead of just trying to fix her. Savvy is strong and sassy and smart, but worried that she’ll never be enough. Together, the two are electric. I love the girl squad and the found family aspects of this book. The small town of Happiness, Georgia, is as charming as can be. If you love a book with drama, romance, passion, and all the feels, then this one is for you.

I cannot recommend this book enough. It’s fabulous, but do check your trigger warnings if you have sensitivities. Read The Elusive Billionaire and let me know what you think - I’d love to discuss!

[S · Rating 3 out of 5]

The chemistry between these two was absolutely off the charts—intense, fiery, and impossible to ignore, even when they were busy insisting they hated each other. Once they finally moved from enemies to lovers, their relationship felt precious and hard-earned, especially given the weight of their childhood trauma and the sheer number of obstacles they had to overcome. The found family and group of friends surrounding them added so much warmth and depth to the story, making the journey feel even more rewarding.

That said, I really wish authors would stop leaning so heavily on the “asshole male lead” trope. In this case, both characters were pretty awful at the start, but Grey was worse. His refusal to accept her apology when she messed up, combined with his lack of clarity about his feelings, created unnecessary drama that dragged things out. It made it harder to root for them once they finally settled into their love, because the toxicity of their earlier dynamic lingered. Hate-to-love can be written in a way that leaves both characters strong and sympathetic, but here the balance was off, especially in the beginning.

Still, this was a good read overall, and I cannot wait for Clover and Valen’s story—I already know it’s going to wreck me in the best way. I’m also crossing my fingers for a Roman novel (and hopefully the rest of his siblings too). On a side note, Savannah’s brother was absolutely horrible, and the forgiveness extended to Quinn and Bethany felt way too quick for my liking.

A flawed but compelling romance, with a found family dynamic that makes me excited to keep following this series.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Greyson and Savvy’s story knocked me down that picked me back up. For months, these two damaged souls poke, prod and snarl at each other when they are not behind closed doors and practically setting fire to the sheets. They seem like enemies to all but a few who wonder if the hate is real. Neither Greyson nor Savvy are willing to admit, even to themselves, that it is not hate that they feel, but rather love. Then a seeming betrayal puts a giant size wedge between them, and sends Greyson far away from the small town of Happiness that had become his home. His return six months later brings Savvy to his doorstep.during a hurricane. Even with all the animosity he feels towards her, Greyson cannot leave Savvy outside to face the elements.

Sheltering together brings about a detente of sorts, though both are struggling to contain their tumultuous emotions. Their chemistry is still as hot as ever, but his sense of betrayal seems insurmountable despite her heartfelt apologies and explanations. In the aftermath of the hurricane, they are isolated and forced to coexist. When Grayson learns of a brewing scandal which targets Savvy, he believes being connected to him has amplified the trouble. Protecting Savvy becomes his number one priority. Savvy on the other hand, believes that she is the one putting him in danger. An evil spectre from her past is determined to make her pay for her perceived sins. Anyone close to her is in danger, including Greyson and the friends who have become more like family since she has lived in Happiness. A battle of wills ensues as they both do their best to protect each other.

There are so many wonderful secondary characters in this book that add flavour and nuance to Greyson and Savvy’s story. They add a lot of insight and humour too. The bond between the friends and cousins is strong as they support, encourage and advise each other. They are more than friends….they are family. Attack one of them, and all step up to support and protect. I loved the red hot chemistry, the snark and the sexy flirting between Savvy and Greyson. Both have such tender hearts that have been horribly battered, but are still capable of deep, abiding love. Trauma and near tragedy brings them closer together, reveals more about each of them, and eventually helps them to heal. These two are truly soulmates.


This intensely emotional and insightful book has my full, heartfelt recommendation.

[Ginny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, funny, emotional story.

Okay, I knew I was going to love this book, but this blew me away. This exceeded my already high expectations. There are fireworks at the end of book one between Grey and Savvy when he finds out she’s the potential surrogate he’s been confiding anonymously, but she knew who he was. He’s angry, feels betrayed but frustrated by his attraction. In between arguing, the sexual tension is off the charts with these two.

A hurricane hits the town of Happiness and leaves Grey and Savvy stranded at his home for days. Close proximity, enemies to lovers, sets up some explosive interactions. These two both put up walls to keep people from getting close, but in different ways. Savvy supports and loves her friends but will never ask for help. Out of necessity, she’s always dealt with problems on her own all her life. Grey has his own demons, but he is a workaholic, grump and keeps people at arm’s length as a way to deal with them.

There is so much that happens in this story. While they are stuck at Grey’s house, her past comes back to threaten her and those she loves. To protect her, Grey suggests a fake engagement. Savvy’s past struggles with food come back as her anxiety gets higher. It’s a tough subject handled delicately by the author. The more their past is revealed and shared, the higher the emotions are and it’s intense. Avery has a brilliant way of balancing the heavy emotions with lighthearted fun. One minute, you are gut punched by their confessions and the next you are laughing as someone tries to learn to line dance (IYKYK). Plus, there is quirky cast of supporting characters to add grief to Grey’s life.

I loved everything about this. Grey is Mr. Fix It and when he loves, he loves hard. Watching him struggle to support Savvy as a partner, instead of solving her problems for her, was amazing. Savvy blossomed through this story as she found her inner strength and learned to lean on her found family for support. This can be enjoyed as a standalone. However, I highly recommend reading the first book. You’ll appreciate the journey these two take so much more. It’s intense, funny, beautiful, hopeful and highly emotional. I can’t wait for the final book of the series.

Bravo Avery!!

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I literally squealed with joy when I received this book. I have been waiting not-so patiently for Grey & Savvy’s story.

We start off learning that this couple have been meeting in secret for a while now, which validated my premonition while reading The Renegade Billionaire. They do the cliché “thou protest too much” thing which is frustrating for the reader since we know they are meant for each other!
I’ll be honest, I’m not a fan of enemies-to-lovers stories, and normally have a hard time finishing them, but this story is different. Ms. Maxwell makes it clear that both characters fight out of fear of giving up something of themselves. In my mind, that WHY makes me root for both to understand what’s going on and move on to the rewards of loving another.

Overall, Grey & Savvy’s relationship not only survives, but thrives through many obstacles including a huge misunderstanding, a hurricane, family drama, a psycho ex, a corporate mole, an attempted murder, and of course Pappy’s “help”. During the course of the story, Grey recognizes Savvy has some serious issues with trust, childhood trauma, and a resulting eating disorder. Savvy learns that Grey is lonely and his gruffness stems from his own insecurities and childhood as well. I loved watching both characters overcome their own issues by opening up to each other.

Once again, Ms. Maxwell deals with some tough issues in The Elusive Billionaire, including Savvy’s eating disorder. As someone who suffers with these same feelings and patterns, this book actually started my own issues again. If Savvy could refrain from eating, why couldn’t I? But after a my own session and continued reading, I realized Ms. Maxwell shows us how Savvy doesn’t want to be this person and allows Grey and her friends to help – AND the couple are upfront about the continual need for therapy. By the end of the book, I could see this side too which was quite helpful – and made me wish I had Savvy’s support system!

I hope you love this book as much as I did and I also hope Ms. Maxwell write Clover and Valen’s story quickly – hint, hint 😊

[Liz Matzen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This enemies to lover’s romance is possibly the most emotional roller coaster ride that Avery Maxwell has taken us on yet. There’s a fine line between love and hate and Grey and Savvy try to balance on it and fail. Grey is grumpy, controlling, and has a big heart when he shows it. Savvy wants to love and help her friends and to be loved in return. They both have trauma from their pasts that they don’t want to share that keeps them from fully trusting each other.

When Grey finds out that Savvy is the person who’s been chatting with him in the surrogacy website, he feels betrayed and lied to. He walks away from Happiness and Savvy and tells her they are done forever.

When Grey returns to Happiness to be with his brother and nephew, Savvy goes to his house in a hurricane to apologize. While she is there, the eye of the hurricane hits Grey’s house and they are stranded there together for days. Sharing one bed. Even though he swears he’ll never forgive her and that he hates her, the chemistry between them is still as undeniable as ever. While they share the same bed, they slowly start to share their secrets. When Savvy’s past catches up with her, he swears to protect her.

Maxwell does a good job of building believable characters who are working to overcome lifetimes of traumas that helped shape their lives. Savvy has an eating disorder that she had under control for a long time but has a hold of her again. The author does a very good job of delicately handling this illness. A good part of Grey’s growth is letting Savvy work through her problems on her own, being there to support her when she needs it. It was fun to see the side characters that we grew to know and love in the Renegade Billionaire.

While you can read this as a standalone, you’ll enjoy it more if you read book one first so that you know and understand the town dynamics. I can’t say enough about how good this book is, you need to read it for yourself! Download your copy today or add it to your TBR. It’s a great weekend read!

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elusive Billionaire is a workplace, secret identity, enemies to lovers, fake engagement romance.

Avery has once again written a winner! The Elusive Billionaire is a well written, captivating story. Avery does a great a job at setting up the story from the first page. The characters of the story are Savvy and Grey. Savvy is independent and powerful but at the same time is hiding the trauma she dealt with from the people around her. While Grey is a billionaire that has his own trauma but is more open about it. He is more on the grumpy side but when it comes to Savvy that is a different story. You can feel the chemistry between Savvy and Grey when they are together. I love the protectives that Grey has for Savvy and the fact that he will do whatever it take to make sure she is safe. Also, I love that once Grey heard Savvy out what she didn’t tell him certain things he anger towards her slowly went away.

The Elusive Billionaire will make you feel all different type of emotions. From laughing, sadness, anger, happiness and more. Another thing that is good about this story is the secondary characters. If you read the first book in the series you already met them if not its okay. Avery does a good job at introducing who they are. Savvy and Grey’s friends/family are their for them. They support them and have each other’s back regardless of how bad a situation might be. There are steamy scenes in story and those are written well. They aren’t over the top or cheesy. Also the amount of steamy scenes is good for this story. The steamy scenes don’t over take the story.

Overall, The Elusive Billionaire is good story. Avery wrote a story with good main characters that will have you invested in their story. The pace and flow of the story was good. This is one of the those books that once you start it you won’t be able to put in down till the end.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say about this book, other than WOW! It is a page turner and once I started reading, I was not to be disturbed. Greyson Reyes, is the buttoned up billionaire in the three piece suit even when he's working around his house in Happiness, Georgia. Savannah Monroe has been through such trauma that she doubts she will be able to be completely healed, so when she meets the arrogant Greyson, she knows they will never get on. But life conspires against Grey and Savvy and when their worlds intersect, Savannah sees it as a way of loosening up the stuffed shirt! But when Grey discovers a secret that Savvy has been keeping from him, they go from enemies with benefits to just enemies! When Grey comes back to Happiness six months later, he is concerned with how thin Savvy looks and by the dark circles under her eyes, but he choses to ignore them because he will never forgive her betrayal. When Savannah and Grey get stranded at Grey's house during a hurricane, they have to learn to co-exist together, but as the water recedes, the scandal increases and Savvy and Grey must make life changing decisions. Can these two learn to turn things around?

This is a beautifully written story of family, both biological and found, of trust, betrayal and learning to communicate. The characters are so wonderfully written, their development is on point and the relationship between Savvy and Grey is realistic. You can feel the past trauma from both of these characters right through to your heart and you just want to root for them to get their HEA. Ms. Maxwell is a true wordsmith, combining love, lust, distaste, disappointment and a little bit of fear at what might happen!

[Karla Soto · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ARC Review✨

One storm. One bed. One unforgettable night. One big mistake.

Savvy
Getting trapped with Greyson Reyes during a hurricane was not part of my plan. He’s the man who has hated me since the day all my secrets blew up in our faces.

Grey
There’s only one thing I can’t forgive—betrayal. And Savvy Monroe not only crossed that line, she decimated it. Which is why no one is more surprised than I am at how protective I become when Savvy’s past comes back to haunt her.

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

The Elusive Billionaire is book 2 in the Happiness Ever After series and this book packs a punch since the first page. This year, I have come across several authors whose writing has profoundly impacted me and resonated in ways I never anticipated. Avery Maxwell stands out among them, as her writing style is incredibly beautiful, reaching into parts of you that you didn’t even realize needed to be touched until you dive deep into her work. While I could delve into how Grey’s story shattered me and how infuriating I found Savvy, my main focus is on how Avery, once again, effortlessly articulates so many struggles I faced before reading this book. This narrative tackles significant trauma that both characters are navigating, revealing that things didn’t truly ‘make sense’ or ‘click’ for them until their paths intertwined. That, I believe, is the essence of Avery’s writing. You don’t recognize the impact until it’s right in front of you, and you suddenly realize, ‘Oh! That’s what that feeling is.’ I am utterly enamored with her writing, and this book was no exception. I cannot wait to see what else she has plans for Clover and Valen.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.3

[Ashley Schilling · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elusive Billionaire is the second book in the Happiness Ever After Series. It is a small town, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, found family romance that will keep you turning the page. Prepare yourself for the roller coaster that Grey and Savvy are about to take you on.

Please check that shopping list before diving into The Elusive Billionaire, especially if you struggle with eating disorders. Avery did an amazing job writing this one. If you are looking for your next book that screams girl power you’ll love the ladies of Happiness GA.

Both the MMC and the FMC have experienced great losses and have built walls around their hearts. As a result they tend to not trust the ones around them and only allow a select few to get close enough to them. The character growth that both of these characters go through is written perfectly, in my opinion. “Because I realized something else today. You might be the only person I know who has more trust issues than I do, and I’m afraid if I don’t take the first step, you’ll never open the door to your heart. Luckily for both of us, I’m okay with being a pushy bastard and breaking the lock you hold so tightly.”

Ahh…if you haven’t added Grey and Savvy’s story to your tbr you’re missing out. I absolutely loved this couple. The Elusive Billionaire is definitely going to be one of my favorite reads for the month of November. There is so much heartbreak in this one, not mention the suspense kept me on my toes! I highly recommend this one!

“There are two kinds of pancake eaters. Do you dip, or do you soak them in syrup?” Thank you, Grey for having my question how I and others eat their pancakes. 😈

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Catch me, I'm falling for Grey and his grumpiness.

I have to say though, the beginning of this book just broke my heart. You could feel BOTH characters pain. You know an author has to be good if they choke you up like two chapters into a story.

Once Grey made up his mind, he was all in. Savvy was hesitant but a girl after my own heart...she craved her prince charming and HEA but didn't think she was worthy.

All of the characters in this story were 🤌🏽. I hope they all get their own spinoffs.

🫶🏾 Things I loved:
Patch Daddy
Moose, Pops, and Chief
Cian's Irish curse words
Bargain-bin Barbie
Clover and her murder mystery logic
Grey
Sage
Chasing Colors
Fireflies
Coffee VS Tea feud
Atlas yelling he's going to be a hubband

🫶🏾 Lines I Loved:
"For someone who helps other people for a living, you sure all kinds of f----- up." A chuckle bursts out of me. "Most therapists need therapy, didn't you know?"

Yeah, right. You never laugh. You're laugh-a-phobic.

The one thing you'll learn about me is that I'm a man of action, and my actions will always speak louder than shallow words with empty promises.

She has a heart of gold, the courage of a scaredy-cat, and the mouth of Hagrid--she can't keep a secret to save her life--except for her own.

I'm not about to let some bless-her-heart Barbie be the one to bring me down.

It's not you I want to fix, sweetheart. It's your demons and the shadows that haunt you that I want to destroy.

I understand the guilt, Monroe. The guilt of surviving. The guilt of thriving. 💔

I know I'm not perfect. Close, but not quite there. If someone can help with that point five percent of myself that's damaged, it's worth a try.

[Page Escapes by J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I went into The Elusive Billionaire expecting a fun, storm-trapped, billionaire romance — and came out of it pleasantly surprised by how emotionally layered it turned out to be.

Savvy and Greyson’s relationship is built on a foundation of betrayal, unresolved pain, and years of silence. From the very beginning, the tension between them feels heavy and real — not just attraction, but history. The kind that lingers in every glance and every argument.

Greyson is the classic emotionally unavailable billionaire, but what makes him compelling is how deeply his fear of betrayal shapes his choices. He’s guarded, stubborn, and convinced he doesn’t deserve a happily ever after — which only makes his protective instincts and quiet vulnerability hit harder when they surface.

Savvy, on the other hand, is easy to root for. She’s imperfect, burdened by past mistakes, and trying to move forward in a town that refuses to forget. Her emotional growth throughout the story felt natural and earned, and I appreciated how the book didn’t rush her healing.

The forced proximity during the hurricane is the perfect catalyst — stripping away distractions and forcing honesty. The romance unfolds slowly, blending simmering chemistry with emotional reckonings, and the balance between spice and substance is well done.

Overall, this was a satisfying, heartfelt read with strong emotional tension, compelling characters, and a romance that feels both passionate and grounded. A great pick for readers who enjoy billionaire romances with depth, second-chance vibes, and protective MMC energy.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery Maxwell has done it again! The Elusive Billionaire is the perfect blend of emotion, small-town charm, and that delicious enemies-to-lovers tension. Savvy and Greyson’s story pulled me in right away—two people with a messy past, forced together during a hurricane, only to realize that hate and love can feel awfully similar when the walls start coming down.

Savvy is strong, stubborn, and so easy to root for, while Greyson hides his bruised heart behind a grumpy billionaire exterior. Their chemistry jumps off the page—and the town banter is priceless, with lines like, “It’s not because of you, you egotistical narcissistic twat-goblin.” I laughed out loud more than once. The town of Happiness is full of nosy, well-meaning neighbors and small-town gossip, which gives the story that cozy, community feel I love.

There’s also so much heart woven through the chaos and danger. One of my favorite lines comes from Greyson: “You can’t be normal because you were created for the extraordinary.” That moment sums up the book’s journey of love, forgiveness, and finding where you belong.

My only critique (purely personal) is the frequent use of the curse “GD,” which pulled me out of the story at times as a Christian reader. Still—steamy, heartfelt, and full of redemption. If you love small-town romance with humor and a grumpy billionaire who doesn’t stand a chance, this one’s for you.

[Rose Romance Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an enemies to lovers fake engagement small town romance. I would recommend this be read as a series since there are a lot of side characters.

Greyson and Savvy are stuck together during a hurricane, but Grayson is upset with Savvy since she lied to him. They both move past the lies and challenge each other through their childhood pain and trauma, and find love and healing in each other.

Avery Maxwell does a great job of bringing the characters emotions to the forefront, and creating a beautiful story of emotional depth. The story does mention disordered eating and they can be difficult for some readers. So read with caution if sensitive to disordered eating.

Grey and Savvy have great chemistry together with plenty of spice. I love that both are so real and imperfect especially Grayson being a billionaire money couldn’t solve all his problems.

There are a lot of characters in this series. It was great getting to know them, and how all their stories weave together. I’m looking forward to Clover’s story. I would say this story is a bit long, or a bit too emotionally heavy for too long at some points. This is a great story that the characters are amazing detailed and multiple emotional heavy parts. I would still recommend this book and series If looking for a deeply emotional romance.



I was honored to receive an ARC

[Glenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Avery Maxwell is a first-time author for me, and let me just say… she made one heck of an entrance. From the very first chapter, I was completely wrapped up in Savvy and Greyson’s messy, magnetic, absolutely can’t-look-away chemistry. Their banter? Chef’s kiss. Their tension? You could cut it with a knife. And the way their walls slowly come down? Yeah… I was done for.

What surprised me most was how much heart this story carries. It’s not just a billionaire romance with spice and attitude it goes deeper. Both characters are fighting battles the world doesn’t always see, and the way their healing intertwines felt so raw and real. I loved how Grey shows up in those small, meaningful ways, and how Savvy’s strength shines even when she’s struggling. It made their connection feel earned, not rushed.

There’s a perfect blend here of laughter, slow-burn heat, emotional moments, and that small-town charm that always gets me. And even when things got heavy, it never felt overwhelming just honest. By the end, I was fully in my feelings and already wanting more from this world.

For my first Avery Maxwell book, this was such a win. I’m officially hooked and absolutely adding more of her books to my TBR. If you love enemies-to-lovers with depth, tension, and characters you actually root for, this one is definitely worth picking up.

[H · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ They hated each other so passionately, you just know there is more to it.

💭 With Grey and Savannah, the enemies-to-lovers vibes are incredibly strong. But there is a bit of “thou doth protest too much.”
When one of the MCs realizes that the hate they’d been feeling maybe wasn’t that at all, it’s game on as they work to win the other’s affection. I loved the small town antics around the Sweetheart games. A large part of the story focuses on Savvy’s disordered eating. While the author could have chosen to quickly move past that for the HEA, I loved how instead the journey of healing is honored on page. Greyson doesn’t do everything right, but even those missteps have truth behind them that lends credibility to the story. That both characters do the work, makes it even better.

This one starts out spicier, and slows down as a bit of a mystery, and the relationship building between Grey and Savvy takes center stage. There comes a part where the way Grey loves her, and fights for her, had my heart-breaking for him.

Another enjoyable billionaire romance to add to your TBR today!

☑️ For fans of: billionaire romance, small town, enemies to lovers, secret relationship, forced proximity, meddling family

I was kindly provided an ARC, but my review is honest and completely my own.

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Elusive Billionaire ( Happiness Ever After Book 2 ) Have you ever picked up a series that just sucked you right in , in ways you never would have expected ? That had you falling in love with each and every character / couple from the very first book and where you found yourself completely immersed in the world the author has created ? That had the ability to make you feel so many different emotions you never saw coming? Everything from smiling and laughing out loud , to crying like a baby to actually being speechless at times and screaming outta pure frustration during others . That had you cheering so freaking hard from start to finish, Well we may only be on book # 2 of Avery’s Happiness Ever After Series , but it’s done all of the above in spades ♠️ and I’m already completely obsessed. One storm , One Bed and One Unforgettable night changes absolutely everything for Savvy and Greyson . I could not get enough of these two , the love hate relationship between them was so much fun to watch . And then the way they fell for one another and gave into their feelings, so beautiful and emotional. How protective he was of Savvy I devoured every single word and was left wanting so much more .

[Kia B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall: 4

First my usual points:

- I do not do spoilers unless warned.
- If you’re looking at books, I assume you can read - read the summary above; it will tell you what the book is about. I will not reiterate.

Book:

POV/narrative: 1st person alternating viewpoints
SA/ cliffhanger: standalone but part in a series; best enjoyed when read in order as prior characters are involved

Ingredients:

writing quality: 5
ease of reading: 5
plot: 4
steam: 4

Notes / opinion:
Overall, the story was good; entertaining and flowed well; good banter between all characters. Kept my attention mostly.

I did have a hard time connecting with both characters and I'm still not sure why but that's a 'me' thing. Unfortunately, sometimes it happens. I still would recommend it.


I rate this book as “Adult” to include:– (Note: rating description below borrowed from another site)
• May contain profanity (or words considered crude)
• May contain passionate and extended kissing
• May contain one or more onscreen semi-detailed or detailed love scenes
• May also contain non page but descriptive intimacy scenes
• May contain graphic descriptions of nudity and/or body
• May contain drug, alcohol or tobacco use

[JLBBM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read every single book Avery Maxwell has written and I think I’ve said this before, but each one gets better and better. The Elusive Billionaire, book 2 in the Happiness Ever After series deserves 10 or even more stars. Savvy and Grey both have so much trauma from their childhoods that it’s a miracle that they have been able to function let alone become productive, successful adults thriving in their respective careers. Their romantic lives haven’t fared as well. When they meet they immediately have a explosive spark that becomes a hate/love relationship - hate by day but secretly love at night, though they are so broken they can only see it as a purely physical attraction to someone they hate. Mother Nature said “Hold my beer!!” and led them on a wild ride that only Avery Maxwell could come up with.

Be aware, this story does have some triggers, but they’re written with sensitivity and respect. If you like small town romance, Happiness, GA is a small town with friends that become family, the mean girls, nosy neighbors, festivals and everyone has your back. There’s also some suspense and mystery, the best banter, humor, a billionaire (he falls first), an adorable huge puppy and of course a happily ever after. This a well written book with something for everyone.