When Grandpa Stinson dies, he expects nothing more than to keep his grandsons together, running the family's multibillion-dollar business. But he's got just one unfaltering They have to get married and have a baby first. The brothers disagree...wholeheartedly.
But it's set in stone. Follow the rule, or you're the one grandson out of luck....
Stubborn, rugged, but oh-so-sexy Roark Stinson, the oldest brother, refuses to give in to his grandfather's manipulations. After all, women are the root of all evil, and he's never witnessed a relationship that actually works. Then it hits him; it doesn't have to work.
Roark just needs a warm body to agree to the terms....
Zoe Morgan never wanted to be anyone's "means to an end," especially not Roark Stinson's. But his proposal is one she's in no position to refuse - can't refuse. When the stakes are this high, a warm body might just be exactly what she needs.
Maybe - just maybe - Grandpa Stinson knew exactly what he was doing....
USA Today Bestselling Author Krystal Shannan lives in a sprawling ranch style home with her husband, teenage son, and two almost teenage daughters. Her home is full of love and laughter and lots of animals. In fact the welcome mat warns visitors that it’s a zoo inside—chickens, rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, dogs and fish! You name it, they’ve probably had it in their home at some point.
Krystal writes stories filled with magick, fantasy, passion, and just enough humor to make you laugh out loud. Join the fun and escape to a whole new world.
Hated the h. Hated her with a passion. H was a sweet caring guy and deserved so much more. Someone much better than her.
For Reasons and spoilers. Read Updates.
0.0% "Oh god she is such a cry baby. She cries at the drop of the hat" April 13, 2020 – 60.0% "She is such a selfish bitch. She read the contract knows the condition for the will but she still not telling him she may not get pregnant. C selfish, self-centered btch. If he doesn't fulfill the condition of will not only he loses the company but also hundreds of people may loses their job because of her." April 13, 2020 – 80.0% "Stupid h why is she hiding the pregnancy and how long does she thinks she can hide it. He is worried sick. Poor man. He's such a great sweet and caring guy." April 13, 2020 – 90.0% "Omg, I really hate her and her, I me myself attitude. He is worried about her that's the reason why he is not sleeping with, wants her to rest and doesn't want to disturb her. He's so considerate. He's unable to to concentrate on work because of her stupid secrets, so he's working late. He is afraid she is dying." April 13, 2020 – 94.0% "He wants to take her on a date as soon as she is able to eat and even has a surprise for her but the way she talks to him on the phone I wanted to throat punch her. Ungrateful btch. He gave her the world but she acts like he's trying to change her or something which he wasn't. Anyway her behavior left much if, you can say nothing to be desired. Now she whines he is not giving her the attention she deserves." April 13, 2020 – 94.0% "He told her he loves her and is ready to marry her WITHOUT a prenup and can have 50% of the company if they divorce but she told him to get out and leave her alone. What does he even sees in her? Why does he even loves her? He can literary have any woman he wants but he's settling for this self centered ungrateful annoying crying selfish btch." April 13, 2020 – 100.0% "H deserved someone much better than her. He's settling for someone unworthy of him. She didn't even apologize for her bitchy behavior but for some reason, he did when he did nothing wrong." April 13, 2020 – Finished Reading
I broke my “never rate below three stars” rule bc of this book. I’ve never had a worst time reading a book than this one. It started out pretty strong, I really liked their meet cute, but then they didn’t even get engaged until 62% through and you don’t ever see them get married.
The female main character was one of the worst ones I’ve ever had the displeasure of reading. The third act break up was completely unnecessary. She forces him to leave her alone and refuses to tell him she’s pregnant, yet is angry because he doesn’t interact with her? She refused to communicate him with, and suddenly decided he was trying to control her entire life bc he… was fulfilling his side of their marriage of convenience by giving her the money to take care of what she needed. And had the audacity to assume she would complete her own side of the contract.
I didn’t really like the mmc that much either, but next to her I found myself taking his side on matters that in a normal situation I would’ve been upset with him too.
Overall, it was a bad reading experience. Don’t recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
3/5 STARS! I really enjoyed this audiobook. The billionaire plot is always fun & I liked the 3 brothers. I also found Zoe to be a relatable & interesting protagonist & how the relationship evolved with Rourke. My only complaint was the overdramatic ending. I didn't get why that conflict needed to happen tbh. Still a solid listen though.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of Can’t Get You Off My Mind by Emma Roman and I could NOT put it down! From the beginning, the plot sucked me in and I was already rooting for Zoe in the first pages. She has a large scar covering her face from an accident and feels completely self-conscious about it, which I can feel her pain about scar consciousness as I have a few (most of which I can hide, but still!).
The characterization throughout the book was spot on. There wasn’t one character that I didn’t feel some sort of emotion toward. Even Jasper! Roark has two brothers as well, TJ and Nic, who both were stand outs in spite of being secondary characters. Roman does a great job connecting you with all three of the Stintson men, as I believe the next two books will center around TJ and Nic! I know I’ve found a good book when all characters are completely developed.
I fell in love with Roark, much as Zoe did. I understand why Zoe was a bit flabbergasted that a hunk and millionaire like Roark would even glance her way. She wasn’t in his circle of people. The way in which these two stumble into each others lives is pretty memorable and I found myself laughing at it, just like Roark did. Sidenote, I have got to say: he is one of my favorite book boyfriends I have had! I pictured him as hunky America’s Next Top Model winner, Nyle DiMarco. Seriously, there is NO ONE better who could portray him. I dare you to find someone better than this dreamy hunk to portray Roark. Guess what? YOU CAN’T!
Anyways, the way that Zoe and Roark’s relationship develops is both sweet and frustrating. Of course the reader knows that they both love each other and want to have sweet little Zoark babies running around (Yep. Zoark babies. I’m copyrighting that. lol). The two of them are just so difficult with their back and forth banter, but their reasonings for why they act the way they do is 100% reasonable.
The backstories for both Zoe and Roark are completely believable. My heart hurts for Zoe and all the torment and pain that she has to go through on a daily basis simply because of a scar. I couldn’t begin to imagine such a heartache and I am in her corner rooting her on. Same goes for Roark. While he may have not had to struggle financially in his childhood, he was left without parents. Though I have to admit, Pamela makes the best replacement for them. Why can’t I have a Pamela?
Probably my only complaint with the book was one of the hospital scenes (no spoilers!). Zoe is attended to both very quickly and has a nurse with her for an extended period of time. As someone who has had tons of experiences with hospitals and emergency rooms, I couldn’t suspend my disbelief for that scene and how it was portrayed. I’d knock off less than half a star for that bit alone as it doesn’t encompass a great part of the book, although it is part of the plot moving forward. I’m really picky when hospital scenes are written and very few books do them complete justice (it’s usually books that revolve around an illness that portray it best).
Overall, superb writing, plot, characterization, and a solid ending…even though I so wanted more! I see there are two more books in the series (for both Nic and TJ) and I am already ready to read them. Right now. This book gets a 4.9/5 if I’m being really picky, but if I’m not, it’s a total 5 star book.
Get it, read it, and love it. You won’t be disappointed.
The book starts out okay, and it's a trope I've seen and read before: rich guy needs to marry fast because otherwise he can't inherit, so the random girl he chooses (usually not as rich) has to sign a contract etc.
This book follows that to a T, but then veers right off a cliff in the last third. The first two thirds are actually enjoyable in that Zoe has a backbone and isn't afraid of showing it.
Then the backbone sadly becomes an excuse to become the most royal bitch ever.
" Old wounds can heal if you only believe" This is a sweet,touching,charming all around amazing story!. Zoe has had a struggle sense she was a teenager, and was in a car accident that left her scarred plus killed her friends who were with her. While she is in college her Grandmother takes Alzheimer's and had to be put into a nursing home. Zoe looses their home has to move in with her friends plus she has to work three jobs just to get her grandmother the proper help she needs. One of her jobs is a package delivery job. While delivering a package to the Stinson Railway co. The CEO Roark comes out of an office knocks into the secretary which in turns slams Zoe into a giant fish tank!. Roark's Grandfather had just died, and Roark had just been informed he and his brothers had to be married and a baby on the way with in one year or they loose the railway co. When Roark sees he hurt Zoe he tries to get her to go to the hospital but she refuses as she can not afford it!. So he takes her to home and calls his private doctor. Roark insists she stay at his home to recover. He likes this spunky young woman and soon wonders if he can talk her into a marriage of convenience. This story is an intense,sweet, touching and steamy romance you will love!.
Grandpa Stinson’s will has Roark needing a wife and baby right quick now all he needs is a warm body in this gripping romance.
Zoe Morgan never wanted to be anyone’s means to an end especially Roark Stinson’s but his proposal’s not one she can refuse and the reader can’t help but get drawn into this emotionally gripping romance as Roark and Zoe as find out that maybe Grandpa Stinson knew just what he was doing. The chemistry sizzles from every page but the relationship is one that will capture your heart and move you to tears as they struggle to overcome hardships and personal issues which keep this courtship in an uproar. These strong, captivating characters win your devotion while demanding your attention and the well written, fast paced and smooth flowing plot captivates readers with suspense, turmoil and romance with expectation keeping tensions high throughout as personal influences continuously interfere in the happily ever after that this couple strives for.
I was completely caught up in the story from the beginning to end with Zoe and Roark both capturing my heart and I can’t wait to find out how Roark’s brothers handle Grandpa Stinson’s rules.
I wish I lived in Somewhere, Texas -- the people there are so great and I wish I could really get to know them. This book is a fantastic look into the lives of the Stinsons who are a founding family just like the VonBrandts but who are a little more on the human side. We get to meet Roark Stinson who needs to find a bride and father a child as quickly as possible. Enter Zoe Morgan who literally crashes into his life (and fish tank) and Roark decides to rescue her from her three jobs and solve his problem all at the same time.
This is a really fun read that flies along. Of course there are a couple of bumps along the way but that's all part of the fun.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and words here are entirely my own. Can't wait for the next book in the series.
A sweet, emotional, sexy, and at times frustrating read. One more chapter for me turned into finishing the entire book in one sitting. I adore anything from this author whether writing contemporary under this name or her paranormal under Krystal Shannan. She has a beautiful way with words and storytelling that just sucks you in and enthralls you until the very last page. I loved both Roark and Zoe. Each are so relatable with baggage and their own demons their fighting. You couldn't help but fall for them and feel emotionally connected to them. This is a beautiful story that takes your emotions through a roller coaster. I am definitely excited to see what's in store for the other two Stinson brothers.
"Can't Get you Off My Mind" by Emma Roman is book 1 in her series 'Somewhere, TX Bachelors.' In this story we meet Zoe Morgan who survived an accident but she had to mortgage her home because of the many hospital bills. She is taking care of her Gram who is in the middle stages of Alzheimer's and is in a facility. She meets Roarke Stinson who is the oldest Stinson brother. Now, Roarke's Grandfather recently passed away and in order to hold on to the family business, and keep the family together he must marry and have a baby. There is a small glitch in the works....Zoe met a guy named Jasper first and he is interested in her also.
The first part of this book is good, then gets tedious, but picks up later. I did not like Zoe. I hate women characters who cry all the time. Don’t tell me how strong a character is and then gets what she wants by crying. Zoe clearly reads about having a baby in the contract, but then denies or doesn’t remember reading that clause. They both keep secrets, but to me Zoe’s were more egregious. A little honesty would have gone a long way here. I did like the brothers and will may read the next book in this series.
It all started with a will and a fish tank. And ends with a wedding and a baby. A very sweet story of finding love in the most unconventional ways. Roark and Zoe are really the perfect couple that are brought together because of a series of unfortunate events but in a short time discover a strong emotional bond and intense love.
(I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review)
Go story line. Weak heroine. OMG. Zoe was a bucket of tears every minute. Portraying her to be strong one minute and weak and immature the next. She had my emotions on a roller coaster and not in a good way
Young Zoe has had a difficult life. She never knew her father and her druggie mother abandoned her, but she raised by her loving grandmother. In high school, she was driving a group of friends, when they were hit by a drunk driver and only she survived, because she was wearing her seatbelt. Relatives, friends and neighbors held her responsible fro the deaths of the other girls and made her life miserable. She and her grandmother then had to mortgage their home to pay some of the debt. Later she had to leave college when her grandmother showed signs of dementia. She is working 3 jobs and sleeping on the couch in her friend's apartment, when she is knocked over and tumbles into a fish tank in the office of Stinson Railroads, but Roark Stinson. Roark is the oldest of the 3 billionaire Stinson brothers. They had just buried their grandfather, who is still trying to control them from the grave. In his will, they each must marry and have a child within a year, or lose their share of the company. Roark rightly feels responsible for Zoe, so when she refuses to go to the hospital, he insist that his private doctor examine her and then that she recover at his home. He and one of his brothers, pitches in to cover her on two of her jobs and as they get to know her, love her. Roark eventually proposes a marriage of convenience, which she refuses until her grandmother has a stroke. They both feel a strong attraction to each other, but don't trust their feelings. The second half of the book, doesn't make much sense. She agrees to the terms of the will, which include a having a child and a divorce in 10 years. She has been told that she can't have children but agrees anyway. Later when she does find herself pregnant, she hides it from Roark, gets mad at him and claims he hid the pregnancy part of the will and wants to call off the wedding 2 days before. I thought this part of the book was just wrong.
A solid read with a fun, marriage of convenience/rich hero-struggling heroine trope storyline.
Roarke is the eldest of three brothers whose rich grandfather left them a successful railway business as an inheritance contingent on their meeting strict requirements. They have 12 months to marry someone and ensure a baby is on the way.
Zoe survived an horrific car crash when she was in high school which left her scarred and deeply in debt with medical bills. Her single mother was an addict who left her in the care of her grandmother at the age of 12. Her gram is now living with Alzheimer's in a care facility. In order to support herself and pay for her gram's care she works three jobs and lives on her best friend's sofa.
Through circumstances, Roarke and Zoe meet. Instant chemistry. The clock is ticking but our H and h have a number of issues to work through before their HEA.
The conflict and melodrama are high in this story. Suspension of belief is needed to enjoy this Cinderella-style romance.
When Grandpa Stinson dies, he leaves the family's multibillion-dollar business to his three grandsons, but his will states that to keep running it, they have to get married and have a baby within the next year. The brothers are outraged, but the terms are ironclad. Roark Stinson, the oldest brother, doesn't believe in a happily ever after and decides a business relationship will work best. When fate and a collision with a fish tank bring Zoe Morgan into his life, he feels he has the perfect solution. Zoe isn't up for sale, but is in no position to refuse his offer. Even if it destroys her.
How a book can go from such a funny meet-cute to so irritating makes it more of a mystery than a romance. I hate miscommunication or lack of communication tropes. Zoe went quickly from being portrayed as a sweetheart to whiny, selfish, and inconsiderate with her behavior and secrets. Not a likable lady! This series might be salvageable because the brothers are charming, and hopefully have better taste in women than Roark did.
This is the first book in the Bad Boys Billionaires Bachelors series by Krystal Shannan. When Grandpa Stinson dies leaving a billion-dollar business empire, he had one stipulation in his will that his grandsons must marry and have a child to inherit their share. Roark Stinson is the eldest grandson. He is determined to keep the company but has no interest in love. Roark has never been in a good relationship with women and believes that women are the root of all evil. Roark makes a proposal to Zoe Morgan she can’t refuse. What starts as a cold contract quickly heats up when Zoe refuses to be anyone’s “mean to an end” but desperate enough to agree. Zoe had a rough life taking care of her Gran while trying to hold down multiple jobs to pay for medical expenses from an accident when she was young. Roark and Zoe’s fake marriage begins to feel real, and Grandpa’s rule might have been more genius than manipulation. This steamy marriage-of-convenience contemporary romance brings sass, secrets and sizzling chemistry. I really enjoyed this opposites attract romance novel.
It started of good and funny. But it went downhill very fast The h is just a selfish little bitch. Can’t stand her at all. She wants everyone around her to serve her every second. The way she treated the H is disgusting. He made a very clear contract but as soon she heard about the money she just took it. While she read the contract and conditions, she doesn’t tell her condition. It was all about the money for her. Not telling about the pregnancy is just evil. No consideration for him at all. He did everything to make her life perfect. Even found her father and still it’s all about her. She doesn’t even want to listen to him. And of course there is the happy ending. Done with just a few words. With no excuse or talking from her part. While he had to open his heart to her only to be send away. And she just has to do nothing.
The book started well, with a good plot, interesting characters and a good narration, although in my opinion the characters were a bit exaggerated (no one is that good unless they are a saint). Then the male and female protagonists began to react like drama queens, and on top of that the lady became a downright cheating b...ad person, signing a contract despite knowing she could not fulfil one of the requirements, then sending her love away (leave me alone, I need time) only to complain when he does not show up every 5 minutes - just two examples of her change in behaviour. And no, pregnancy hormones do not change a person that drastically. I really could not stand her towards the end, which ruined the whole book a bit for me. Personal opinion, not saying the book is bad or good.
Back in one of my favorite Texas towns to an amazing, emotional love story. A woman with a hard, tragic background, a workhorse to keep her beloved grandmother safe and loved meets a man who she believes has everything. But there is something he desperately needs. Even though they seem to be physically drawn to each other, will that be enough to overcome their different needs? The narrator did a great job of portraying the character's strong emotional feelings, his Zoe character would once and a while come out to young, but the emotions were still there. Overall a great audible book, don't pass up this great love story.
I've never read this author before and I'm definitely going to be looking at the next books in the series. The premise definitely caught my attention. By chapter 2, I was hooked. I'd try to put the book down to do other things but I would go back and say one more chapter, then I was 4 more chapters in. I laughed and I was heart broken for them as well. I loved the chemistry between Roark and Zoe. I love the relationship between Roark and his brothers. This is a really good book. For me, I felt the ending was a little lacking but overall I still really enjoyed this story. Now, I'm going to look at the prices of the next book.
This was an unusual story of a working girl, struggling with three part time jobs, crashed into a fish tank. She was accidentally shoved against the tank. Roark Stinson was there when it happened. He was owner of the company she was delivering to, and he felt responsible for her care. Needing a wife and a baby in one year was his problem. The story gets interesting with their involvement.
It's a pretty good story but never hooked me into extra reading time. In addition to several obvious editing errors, it bothered me that no one was ever worried about the poor fish. The extra boyfriend possibility never seemed to have a purpose, either. I liked the unusual way they met and her concern for her grams, but never found any reason to really care about anyone except Pamela.
This was a really enjoyable story and I thought that it was a wonderful read. I thought that the story had a well developed plot with some great characters and interaction. It is a book was a romantic and sexy and I loved finding out what would happen as the book progressed. I really loved the flow to book and the writing style was addictive. It is 4 stars from me for this one, highly recommended!
This is my first book from Krystal Shannan and I loved it! The story was entertaining, humorous and filled with drama. I sympathized with Zoe and her numerous problems and her undeniable grief, but I have to say that some of her behavior was over the top and irrational. Roark is tough but such a kind and loving person that I fell in love with him instantly 🥰 I’m interested to see what will happen with TJ and Nic in books 2 & 3
This was a very emotional and romantically beautiful story about a man who had everything and a woman who had very little...they both had loving hearts. This story was well-written and was full of emotion and humor. I liked the premise and found it easy to read.
Roark Stinson and Zoe. She’s working herself to death paying medical bills for her and her grams. He’s required to get married and have a baby or forfeit his inheritance. The way they met was very unique and humorous. The scene with the fish provided lots of laughs throughout the book. Roark for the most part was a good guy. Enjoyed all the characters, the plot and the HEA.