Law Maker

Clara is desperately trying to keep under the radar. With a less-than-ideal family, and an inability to speak to most peers, all she wants to do is help the kids she's trained to help, and go back to her lonely flat. Rafe has other ideas, after constantly hearing about the woman who's helping his son, and has diagnosed him with dyslexia, he demands to know more about the secretive woman they keep from the parents.

*****

Susie Tate does it again!

This is the second Susie Tate book I've read and I can say that I'm just as obsessed as I was with the first. She has a way of writing female leads that are both broken and strong, and it just makes you want to wrap them up and take care of them. Clara was such a beautifully done lead. Painfully shy, traumatized, dealing with PTSD and unmanageable levels of fear for herself and her younger brother, and still she carried on. Her dedication to her brother, her students, and ensuring Ozzie not only got help for his learning differences, but also that he had pride in his own talents was so sweet and really grounding for who her character is.

I love that she truly was a character living through trauma. As much as I wanted her to ask for help and let others take over, she was fully in her own head about protecting those around her by being individualistic in her self care. It made Rafe trying to bring her out of her shell, feed her, support her, and embrace her needs in a way she needed them, while denying his more abrasive sides to his own character, so lovely. He fumbled, he tried, and he bent for her to give her a safe space and it was everything.

Having her secrets come out, and them work to a resolution had me aching for them both, and I can't wait to see what else the author does with this series.

*****

Thank you to Good Girls PR for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sienasummerrreads

646 reviews357 followers

February 24, 2026

This story follows Clara, a beautiful and intelligent teacher’s assistant with a genuine passion for helping children thrive. When she notices a young boy named Oscar struggling in the classroom, she takes the time to help him understand and navigate his thoughts and feelings, supporting him through the challenges he’s facing. But things take an unexpected turn when Oscar’s father a well-known and highly respected criminal barrister demands a meeting to discuss what’s going on with his son. What could possibly go wrong when tensions rise and boundaries blur?

First off, I need to talk about the DV representation in this story. As someone who comes from a background of family domestic violence that spanned over 10 years, I truly appreciated how it was portrayed. So many of the small details felt incredibly real the flinching, the constant apologising, the instinct to hide the truth from those around you. The way the character reacted, processed emotions, and struggled to express what was really going on was relatable. It was handled with care, sensitivity, and a clear understanding of the complexities of DV situations even though everyone’s experience may differ. The authors notes her knowledge of the topic. Thank you Susie.

Now onto the audiobook Shane and Zara are always brilliant together, and the fact that this was done in duet style made it even better. They captured the emotional depth and intensity of these characters perfectly. I highly recommend experiencing this one in audio format.

I’ve always loved the way Susie writes her characters, and this book was brilliant. I’m obsessed with Clara’s shy, quiet, always blushing and so incredibly sweet. She would do anything for the people she loves. Then there’s Wraith broody, intense, commanding, and undeniably handsome. He thrives on control. They’re complete opposites on the surface, yet their connection is undeniable. Oscar his little boy is just so beautiful and I loved how he was always talking about Clara to his dad.

I loved watching their story unfold, especially as they faced challenges that built tension and tested them both. I will say I did struggle with how Wraith reacted when he discovered the truth, but ultimately, its his personality and his limited understanding of the full picture.

I’m definitely looking forward to reading more of Susie’s work in the future.

Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Audiobook ALC
Audiobook Length: 10hrs 30mins
Narrators: Zara Hampton-Brown and Shane East - Duet
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Book One In The Aristocrats Of London Series
Tropes or Themes: Opposites Attract, Billionaire, Single Dad, Age Gap (10yrs), Forced Proximity, FMC Teacher / Nanny, Protective MMC, Grumpy MMC, She Falls First But He Falls Harder, Made Me Laugh, Mine, Panic Attack, Grovelling, Dyslexia Rep, Family Domestic Violence, Child Abuse , Complex Post Traumatic Stress, Medical Content,f Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Oral Play and Office Scene
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

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Claire

83 reviews1 follower

Not my favorite Susie Tate book, mainly because contrary to the others I’ve read, where characters have debilitating psychological/ mental issues that they must overcome in order to fall in love and gain the understanding and undying love of the MMC, in this one, the MFC’s issues stem from profound physical and emotional abuse at the hands of her father and an utter lack of agency on her part to save herself (and her brother).

The family abuse trope would normally not be a major problem for me (although it is a slight trigger due to issues with my own father as well as sooo many friends of mine suffering physical abuse at the hands of their (ex)husbands), but the fact that Clara was so incredibly timid and afraid throughout the first hundred pages, constantly flinching and stuttering was cringe-inducing for me. And the thing I keep coming back to is, if Rafe hadn’t forced a meeting with her in order to talk about his son’s dyslexia, Clara probably would have died at the hands of her father within weeks.

I just really hate a non-self actualized heroine with so little agency who does so little to save herself. And to be honest, the fact that Rafe initially seems attracted to and even turned on by her defenselessness so that he can be her white knight and protector was also off-putting.

Add to that the nonsensical string of events that create all their conflict—Rafe flaunting Ophelia in front of Clara ‘cause she’s being standoffish, Clara’s inexplicable decision to keep her identity a secret from him until the trial scene (I mean she KNEW that was coming and she CHOSE to reveal her identity in that manner???), and Rafe’s, what, ensuing embarrassment? that causes him to be such a complete dick when she begs for his help afterwards (his cruel denials almost leading, again, to her death). AND, if Rafe hadn’t met with Lily and Mrs. C. directly afterwards, then what?, he would have just gone home and stayed mad at Clara, also leading to her death? You see? There’s just too much frustrating idiocy on both their parts to justify a HEA.

That said, I read this book to the end in one sitting and even got sucked into the bonus epilogue. There’s no doubt that Ms. Tate is an engaging writer. I just wish Clara had had more of a backbone and Rafe had been less of an entitled douche.

Izzie d

4,325 reviews362 followers

Read

First of all I like the writing style.
Author's warning
"Content Warning
This book features scenes of domestic violence and assault, and mentions of child neglect. Please read at your own discretion."

The heroine is painfully shy.
I'm not sure every reader will feel they can forgive the Hero.
The plot is not difficult to see coming, she is snitching on her crime organised family and he is a barrister trying to bring a case against her family, except he doesn't know who she is.
As a reader you may feel she should have told him and she does have opportunity to do so but in two of her past relationships the boyfriend either ran for the hills or used her to get in with the family.

There are no other scenes except the Hero and heroine.
He is a divorced single father and she is his son's teaching assistant.

The big blow up happens around 75%ish, he realises who she is and has to recuse himself from the case, to be fair to his great embarrassment to his career, at this point she asks him for help but he is so caught up in the moment he doesn't give her a chance to explain but sends her packing quite cruelly.
As a result her father who now realises she snitched hurts her physically and she ends up in hospital.
The Hero sees the error of his ways and makes amends.

Whether the Hero should receive forgiveness I think is up to the reader.

Breadcrumbs dropped for next book, a teaser chapter at the end. Poppy, the Hero's sister.

HEA.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.

Monika

1,512 reviews52 followers

26-favorites alc-arc alphahole

Law Maker is the first book in the Aristocrats of London series. This is class difference, teacher x parent, single father, billionaire with trauma/PTSD rep.

Clara is a teaching assistant who works well with students that have special needs. Rafe, Lord Sterling, is a part of the aristocracy and is a lawyer. His son, Oscar, has dyslexia and she works well with him. Rafe realized that his nanny was a part of the problem with his son’s confidence level, so he fired her and hired Clara. They end up falling in love with each other. However, Clara’s family are evil except for one of her brothers. I really liked Oscar, Clara and Rafe. Clara has PTSD. Be aware there is DV and attempted murder on page towards Clara by her father. Rafe is possessive, cool, and an alphahole with slight morals. I really like how Rafe is with Clara. She is a very sympathetic character that is quietly strong. The romance was sexy and emotional. Rafe groveled in his way. The ending and how Rafe and Clara acted is what made this a 5-star read for me! I loved the audiobook. Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown brought the vibes.

Thank you to Must Love Audio for an ALC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Zoe

191 reviews4 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

February 23, 2026

This was probably the darkest/heaviest book from this author to date. The DV representation was well written and thoughtfully portrayed, especially in all the little details and complexities. Thankfully, there were also plenty of light, hilarious moments to help ease the tension.

Lord Sterling has taken the top spot among Susie Tate's MMCs. I loved the way he softens for Clara, how he made an effort to make her feel safe by consciously adjusting his presence and pushing her to go to therapy for her PTSD. Clara started out very meek and shy, but her fierce protective side came out for those whom she cared for and regardless of what she thought about herself, she was strong and courageous. Absolutely loved both Rafe's and Clara's relationships with Oscar, Poppy, and Zach—I love their little family.

4.5-4.75

advance-reader-copy

Joselyn

178 reviews

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ arc review ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

I enjoyed this book so much I could not put this book down. What I loved the most about this story is seeing DV represented in a way that doesn’t shame or pressure the character dealing with it, and it didn’t invalidate/glamorize it in anyway. I loved Clara as a character. Little by little you see her stick up for herself and others. Her relationship with her students, especially Ozzie, is heartwarming. Her admitting her feelings to Rafe had me blushing and with my jaw on the floor! Not so shy after all lol. Loved how Rafe stepped up when it was time to help Clara leave her family behind and made sure she had everything she needed to feel safe. His family’s support was also so touching.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you to Susie Tate and Good Girls PR.

arcs

Ghada

172 reviews14 followers

Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog)

3.5 ⭐

5,916 reviews212 followers

Review of advance copy

February 24, 2026

Amazon

Clara's a teaching assistant at an exclusive prep school who hides behind her glasses and frumpy hair, knowing her secret means she cannot have a normal life. Then Lord Rafe Sterling storms his way into her life because she dares to tell his son Ozzie that his brain is wired differently. Except, she's not wrong, and she's the first one who's gotten through to Ozzie. Now he's demanded she tutor him, and what Rafe wants, Rafe gets. Somewhere along the line, though, she's started to see Rafe is more than just a bossy, grumpy lawyer. But what will he do when he finds out her horrible secret? She can only hope he'll forgive her.

Rafe took one look at the mousy teaching assistant who had constantly avoided meeting with him, and felt something he wasn't used to feeling. He's mad of course, that she'd been thwarting him, but more than that, he's fascinated. He wants Clara, but will he be the one to protect her or discard her when her secret is revealed? He's spent all this time bringing her into his life, watching her bond with his son, but will he revert to his old ways the first time he finds out something about her he doesn't like?

Whoa, I was not expecting the direction Law Maker took with Clara's character. And yet, it made me appreciate her even more. She may have seemed a shy wallflower at first glance, but that was just a disguise for her very strong mind and backbone. I love that she had an agenda, but one that was only to help people. She (and Ozzie) is the best part of this story. I have to admit I don't like Rafe that much, too domineering without the necessary softness that alphaholes need for me to love them. I do like how much he loves his son, though, and that he groveled enough to get Clara to forgive him. The rest of the story I really enjoy - Clara, Ozzie, Clara's secret and her character growth, and the surrounding family - Clara's brother and Rafe's sister. I can't wait for sister Poppy's story next, her sunshiney character is going to be great with Rafe's grumpy friend.

age-gap arcs billionaire

Allie | Looking for Likeminded Souls | Addicted to my Kindle 🫀

81 reviews

Review of advance copy received from Publisher

February 18, 2026

I Need a Pink Dress and Therapy After This. 🎀
⸻

I don’t even know where to start with Lawmaker because this book was everything… and somehow also an overwhelming kind of everything. My thoughts are still all over the place, and I probably need a full night’s sleep (or three) to process it properly — but here we are, while it’s still fresh and chaotic in my head.

ARC Review

First of all: I did not expect this level of dark.
I know Susie Tate‘s heroines usually come with difficult pasts, but this was a whole new level.

I was prepared for trauma, grit, emotional weight. I was not prepared for mafia-level, organized-crime, law-and-order, morally complicated darkness and protective bosshole?? hero romance. ⚖️🖤

From the first 20 pages I was already spiraling. My brain kept going:
“Okay… this could go here. Or there. Or THERE.”
There were so many popping elements — dysfunctional family dynamics, crime, politics, law, secrets — that I genuinely felt like anything could happen.

And honestly? Almost everything did.

Let’s talk about Clara.
Her life is basically a crashing plane, and instead of collapsing, she tries to put her own oxygen mask on first so she can help her brother from the sidelines. That takes courage. Even if she doesn’t see it that way. She tries to survive, tries to protect, and still keeps getting hurt. She carries so much trauma — visible and invisible scars — I was constantly anxious for her. 😭

Now… Lord Sterling.

Oh. Lord. 🙏🏻

I love Jane’s Mr. Darcy. But Lord Sterling? He might have taken the crown. 👑
The way he softens for Clara. The way he consciously tempers his voice, his presence, his dominance so he doesn’t overwhelm her. The way he pushes her to get help for her PTSD. Ovaries please calm down!!

And yet… here’s where my brain won’t rest.

Part of me wonders if Clara ever truly had the time to understand her feelings for him. To breathe. To exist without someone „watching over“ her.

Yes, he’s a good man in this scenario. Yes, he supports her. Yes, he forces therapy (which she needs). But I can’t help thinking — does she actually know what she wants in a partner yet? Or is she moving from one intense situation straight into another?

I love him. I really do.
But I also kind of wanted her to have space first. To heal. To choose from strength, not just relief.

And then there’s Ozzy. Sweet, emotionally intelligent Ozzy. 🥹
How is this child more self-aware than most adults? Him reminding his father to use his “inside voice” around Clara? Him practically worshipping Miss Clara more than anyone else? He was such a light in a very dark story.

Zachary — her youngest brother — absolutely broke my heart too. So small and still with so much weight on his shoulders..

Poppy? I am obsessed already. The fact that her book is coming in November feels criminally far away. I need it immediately. She brought so much light and fun and definitely leveled the book, and I just know her story is going to hurt just as bad as this one. Rory… I’m sorry, I’m side-eyeing him for now. We’ll see.

——————-

So let me say this clearly:

This is NOT a cozy Sunday afternoon read.
Do not sit down with this expecting calm vibes and soft romance.

Grab your comfort drink. Wrap yourself in your favorite blanket. Prepare emotionally. ☕🛋️
Because I was stressed the entire time. I could not relax. I was waiting for disaster — and when it came, it hit.

And the pink dress. 😍

Listen.

I need a pink dress now. 👗💗
If you know, you know. And if you don’t — you will.

Rating? I’m still torn.

Objectively? The depth, the complexity, the emotional intensity — it’s five-star material.
For me personally? I wasn’t prepared for how dark and heavy it would be, so I’m still processing whether that shock factor affected my experience.

But one thing is certain: this book made me feel. A lot. And I won’t forget it anytime soon.

bookseries-to-read-next

BiblioDarling

388 reviews57 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

age-gap-romance arc domestic-violence

Law Maker (Aristocrats of London #1)
Susie Tate

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating System (as of 8/14/2025):
⭐: It was a struggle to read. I almost DNF
⭐⭐: This could have been so much better.
⭐⭐⭐: Good/Average
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Great book. I will probably reread it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: I absolutely loved this book.
***********************************************************************
Triggers:
🚩Domestic Violence
🚩Assault
🚩Child Neglect
🚩PTSD

Tropes:
💕Opposites Attract
💕Billionaire
💕Single Father
💕Protective Hero
💕Grumpy MMC
💕Dyslexia/Speech Impediment
💕Forced Proximity
💕Teacher/Nanny
💕She Fall First/He Falls Harder
💕Secret Identity
💕Grovel to HEA

**********************************************************************
Spice: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice Level Rating System (as of 9/4/25)
🔥: Clean. Handholding. Kissing.
🔥🔥: Non-Descriptive/Implied on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥: Hot-Descriptive on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥🔥: So Hot—Do Not Read in Public
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥: Oh My-BDSM. Blood Play. Smut.
************************************************************************
THIS IS THE FIRST BOOK OF THIS SERIES

Quote:
Why couldn't I have felt this way on my date last weekend? Ever since I'd met this small, shy, weirdly nervous woman, I didn't seem to work properly in the libido department.

Summary:
FMC is MMCs son's teacher. She is helping him with his dyslexia. MMC is a lawyer. MMC bulldozes hi way into the FMCs life. She is very shy and timid. FMC has a secret and when it comes to light it may change things. Eventual HEA.

Review:
Susie Tate has done it again. Her books always give me the feels and this one----chef's kiss.
I found myself curious as to what the FMCs secret was, who was hurting her, etc. The MMC was written as an obnoxious jerk, but you begin to understand him as their relationship grows.

When the MMC realized his mistake and the cost the FMC would pay because of it he immediately went to rectify his ways. I stood with the FMC as she didn't immediately jump into the MMCs arms.

The siblings of both the MMC and FMC were loveable and added to the story. I loved the MMCs sons and his classmate🤣. Also, the representation of a child dealing with dyslexia and a domestic violence victim was done with care and respect.

The pacing of this book was amazing. It kept me engaged. The way the author described the town, the homes, foods, etc. draws you in. I look forward to the rest of the books in this series.

I RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS AN ARC HOWEVER MY REVIEW IS BASED ON MY OPINION OF THE BOOK ITSELF AND NOT INFLUENCED BY THE AUTHOR, ETC.

Grovel to HEA Romance Authors Recommendations:
Groveltohea (Wattpad Author)
Maya Alden
Natasha Anders
Cate C Wells
Christine Michelle

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334 reviews25 followers

Review of advance copy

February 19, 2026

Audiobook Review

🩷 Single dad
💛 Teacher/Nanny
🩷 Age gap
💛 Grumpy billionaire
🩷 Protective hero
💛 She falls/he falls harder

Story: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Narration: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

**DV trigger warning (not MMC)**

I swear, Susie Tate, Shane East, and Zara Hampton-Brown are like the holy trifecta when it comes to an audiobook for me 😅 Tate writes a story that sucks you in, makes you feel for the characters, and also makes you never want to leave. Ever. East and Hampton-Brown enhance Tate’s story to the point that you are listening to the characters, not narrators, feeling every single freaking emotion. It’s incredible. I’m in awe and totally didn’t want this story to end. Like, at. all.

As soon as I saw the ALC sign up for this book I legit fumbled my damn phone for how quickly I ran to sign up! I was completely enthralled from start to finish of this book. Ms. Tate, ma’am. Do you infuse crack into your writing? Because why is it so utterly addicting? East and Hampton-Brown completely add to the addiction of your stories. Maybe the crack is in their voices? 🤔 Whatever it is, I’m OBSESSED.

The dynamic between the timid Clara and Lord Rafe was mesmerizing. Clara, for all the bullshit she’s had to deal with in her life, has this spark of spine deep inside her. And for some reason, Rafe brings that out in her. The Lord may want to lash out at the stuttering Clara, but the fiery side of her intrigues his entire being. Watching the two of them circle each other until the inevitable happens is ,*chef’s kiss* perfection. Does the Lord still have idiotic moments? Uh, he’s a man so, yeah. But my gosh, seeing him step up is amazing. I also loved how wonderful therelationship Clara and Rafe’s son was.

Anyone who has listened to Shane East or Zara Hampton-Brown knows how talented they each are. I feel like this is one of the best performances that I have heard from either one of them. East voiced the Lord with such skill. Honestly, every character he voiced had their own unique personality and I believed every single one. Especially the haughty Lord 😅 East added so much to the already complex character. Opposite him is one of my all time FAVORITE female narrators EVER. Hampton-Brown. I don’t even know how to put into words how immaculately she brought Clara to life. This character was so conflicted— there were so many facets to her, all of which Hampton-Brown voiced with such feeling, such utter perfection. The narration of both of these superstars was EPIC.

Every single time Must Love Audio approves me for an ALC, I’m floored. That feeling comes with even more depth when I fall head over heels for a story like this one. I am so genuinely grateful for this team, to be able to listen and review this title. East House. My gosh, you did a bang up job on this one! Well done to everyone who had a hand in bringing this story to the world, Especially to its creator, Susie Tate. Thank you. 🩷

⚖️“Am I bigger than in your dreams?”
📖“You gave me color back.” “All I did was love you.”

Jocelyn

697 reviews15 followers

contemporary kindleunlimited

This is probably going to be an unpopular opinion, but I don't think Rafe was a great guy. He constantly bossed Clara around to get what he wanted and frequently forced himself into her orbit despite her taking active measures to avoid him. He forces her to move in with him. I understand this is supposed to show us how much he cares about her, but it ended up feeling like Clara's wants didn't matter to him because they were "wrong." Clara pulls away from him and is obviously struggling, and his response is to "show her what she will be missing" if she breaks up with by inviting another woman to be his date to an event AND having that woman meet him at his house to Clara can see her. He finds himself puzzles why she would be devastated by that.

He didn't even have a second of hesitation when it's revealed who Clara's family is, even though he knows she experienced domestic abuse. Nevermind the fact that Clara never mentions another guy and Rafe already flagged that she was uncomfortable talking about her family. Apparently the idea that a horrific criminal enterprises could be abusive to a woman is just a bridge too far for him. Then, he doesn't believe the three separate women (two of which are her close friends and actual confidants) who try to tell him that more seems to be going on that he realizes, but he suddenly sees the light when a 15 year old boy comes barreling in.

Finally, he understands the truth and decides that he is going to take care of Clara and force her to stay with him, regardless of her saying she does not want that. I think we are supposed to find it romantic because he pays for her health care and takes care of her brother. But if we are supposed to find him redeemed because he is rich and powerful, I'm not buying it. I would have been more impressed if he provided support for her to rebuild her life the way she wants and then actually date her to let her feel safe and demonstrate his steadiness. Alas, we are left with Rafe bulldozing his way through life and getting exactly what he wants. Clara realizes he loves her and isn't only acting out of guilt when he admits he wants to resume having sex with her and they live happily ever after.

I did like Clara for the most part though. I think the author did a great job of showing that Clara wasn't actually shy so much as she was adjusting to traumatic circumstances. I like that her personality had more facets than shyness and being short. I also enjoyed her steadfast support to dyslexic learners. It's nice to see more representation of that.

Overall, idk. I just can't get behind a guy who takes over a woman's life after she has endured so much with so few choices. If you have a different perspective about that, you might really enjoy this.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.

Emily Knaus

494 reviews3 followers

Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers

February 22, 2026

Reading Susie Tate’s books feels like being quietly ushered into someone else’s soul. She writes with this rare blend of warmth, wit, and emotional honesty that makes her stories feel lived-in rather than imagined. Her characters don’t just speak, they breathe, they ache, they hope and somehow you end up feeling every bit of it right alongside them. There’s an intimacy to her writing that wraps around you, pulling you so deeply into the moment that the real world slips away. It’s immersive in the gentlest, most powerful way, the kind of emotional storytelling that leaves you a little changed when you finally look up.

Clara is the kind of quiet, mousy teaching assistant people overlook, everyone except Ozzie, the Lord’s son who clings to her gentle patience as she helps him navigate the world through the fog of his dyslexia. And then there’s Lord Sterling, cold, commanding, carved from old money and older expectations, who takes one look at her and goes utterly, irrevocably still. Tate’s men always have this presence, this gravitational pull, and Rafe Sterling is no exception. He’s smitten before he even understands why, watching the way Clara softens the edges of his son’s world, watching the way she tries to make herself small even as everything about her draws him in. It’s that signature Tate spell: the powerful man undone by the woman no one else thought to see, absolutely captivated, absolutely hers before either of them dares to speak it aloud.

The intimacy between Rafe and Clara is electric in that slow‑burn, skin‑prickling way that makes every glance feel loaded. He’s all controlled power and a dirty mouth he wields with precision, but never without care; he’s the kind of man who can unravel her with a single low‑voiced promise. And Clara, quiet as she is, meets him with this soft bravery that makes their connection feel both tender and scorching. Their chemistry isn’t just spice for spice’s sake; it’s character‑deepening, trust‑building, the kind of intimacy that shows exactly how much he sees her, wants her, and would burn the world down before letting her feel small again.

For me, what makes this story a must‑read is how profoundly human it feels. Clara’s quiet devotion, Ozzie’s vulnerable bravery, and Lord Sterling’s slow, aching unravel into someone capable of love all unfold with a tenderness that feels real rather than written. There’s grovel, there’s charm, there’s genuine growth, not just romantic development but emotional evolution. Tate doesn’t just craft characters; she breathes life into them, and you feel every beat of their journey as if you’re living it alongside them.

A huge thank you to Susie Tate & Good Girls PR for the early copy!

Paperbacks & Blushes

4 reviews

Review of advance copy received from Author

February 23, 2026

⚖️ Book Review | Law Maker by Susie Tate⚖️

Tropes? Oh we have them.
✨ Single dad
✨ Age gap
✨ Opposites attract
✨ Protective, powerful MMC
✨ And dare I say… a reverse-mafia microtrope situation

This book hooked me immediately. I read the first 65% in one sitting because I genuinely could not put it down. The tension? Addictive. The pacing? Sharp. The writing? Genuinely great.

Clara is such a sweet FMC — shy, quiet, clearly hiding something, but still relatable and endearing. You just want to wrap her up.

Rafe is strong, intimidating, powerful… definitely grumpy-coded at first, but that edge softens as the story unfolds. I really enjoyed both of them and their dynamic.

Now… after that 65% mark, it didn’t lose me — but I was ready for it to wrap up. We finally uncover what Clara is hiding, attempt to fix it, and then everything falls apart with a miscommunication of sorts. And listen… this trope gets old FAST for me. It wasn’t the worst version of it I’ve read, but it still tested my patience.

What frustrated me more was that Rafe directly asks two side characters for information about Clara’s situation — and they still withhold key details. I understand the need for drama and tension, but this felt unnecessarily dragged out and honestly a little (hella) annoying.

Noteworthy mention: I really did not love the baby-style childhood nickname still being used by Clara’s 15-year-old brother. It felt cringey and uncomfortable to read. I totally understand affectionate nicknames (the one used by her older brother worked perfectly), but this one just didn’t land for me.

All that said? I liked this book. A lot. The writing is strong, the characters are compelling, and any story that keeps me completely locked in for over half of it is doing something right.

This is the first in the Aristocrats of London series — and yes, I will be picking up book two.

Overall: a book I really liked, with a handful of things I really didn’t. But still absolutely worth recommending to readers who love these tropes. 💕

Brooke Hunter

484 reviews12 followers

age-gap angst-fest billionaires

Rafe and Clara are from opposite sides of the legal world. He's a prosecutor and she's a mafia kingpin's daughter. Unbeknownst to Rafe, the very men who he's trying to take down in the biggest case of his career are her father and brothers. She hates her family, especially her father, as he's an abusive piece of shit. She turns into an informant for the police and is who kicked off the investigation to begin with. She's also Rafe's son's teacher. Ozzie was adorable. He's dyslexic and Clara specializes in special needs teaching. So Rafe brings her to his house to help him with that and be a kind of nanny-ish presence in his life. Being at Rafe's house is the first time Clara's ever felt safe which made me sad for her.

This runs like a typical Susie Tate book. There's an awkward first meeting where she's a timid mouse and he's a bulldozer. They have a secret love affair, then the problems catch up, and he says some dumb shit and has to grovel once he pulls his head out of his ass. His grovel was him trying not to bulldoze but also making it clear she's not alone.

They both frustrated me. Rafe is a Lord and has a lot of power. Clara could have just told him about her father. I also get she'd never been able to trust anyone in her entire life but by this point, she was in love with him and his son and should have come clean instead of letting him find out how he did. I'd like to know how his career moved forward after that ordeal. That's a plot hole that never was expanded on. Maybe we'll learn more about that in Poppy's book. Rafe went to a gala with another woman because Clara had retreated into herself again and he was so sure it was because she regretted being with him. They were both a little dense when it came to their intentions with each other.

I still loved the book and can't wait to read Poppy and Rory's book. That first chapter was brutal and reminded me of another Tate book called Unworthy.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.

Spinster Pam

194 reviews13 followers

Review of advance copy received from Author

Brilliant. Beautiful. Maddening. Swoony. Sweet. Feet kick-y. Book throw-y. And all the other good book things. This story was an incredibly emotional & intense ride and I adored every second of it.

Clara is working as a teaching assistant and she specializes in helping brains that work differently.

Rafe is a single dad, barrister, lord, and pushy richy rich.

She teaches his son. He gets upset. He makes demands because rich. She has a big crush. He gets her to work for him.

Clara is an incredible woman. She has the worst family. The. Worst. But she has fought to be more, to be brave, to be free. And she keeps fighting. She has every reason to hide, to not trust but she still shows up for the kids who need her, she stands up for people who have been hurt, she supports her brother. I love her. And I love how amazing & brave & powerful she is just by being herself and standing for what is right.

Rafe is....oh boy. He is a bossy, arrogant, confident, gets his way, privileged beyond privileged man. He is the perfect gonna-screw-up-and-need-to-grovel-to-save-his-life book boyfriend (but, like, don't date in real life) and I am here for his dirty talking. He is yummy & pushy & confident & arrogant. And he is a good dad. He loves his kid so much. And when he falls for his woman? Gah! He falls so hard! He has to work for it and I love that for him.

These two have a beautiful & complicated love story and I loved every single second of it.

Susie writes some of my favourite stories. They capture my heart & mind completely and I find it so easy to completely lose myself in her worlds. A new favourite!

I received this as an ARC and am beyond grateful. This had zero impact on my review (but is why I have read it twice...so far).

R Dawson

765 reviews3 followers

October 13, 2025

[eARC]I couldn’t put this book down — I read it all in one go.

After getting a glimpse of Law Maker at the end of Outlier, I was eagerly anticipating Rafe and Clara’s story, and it absolutely delivered.

Susie Tate did an outstanding job portraying Clara — a woman shaped by deep trauma and trying to stay invisible in a world that had hurt her. Reading from Clara’s point of view was an emotional experience. I could feel her fear, her quiet resignation, and the heartbreaking belief that she didn’t deserve more from life. But I also felt her deep compassion, especially for children who needed extra understanding because their brains worked differently.

I found myself grinning whenever Rafe encountered women who didn’t bend to his charm — it was so easy to imagine him being taken down a peg and treated like a scolded boy. Those moments added a great touch of humor and humility.

The relationship between Rafe and Clara developed in such a genuine and touching way. Even though I had a sense of where their story was headed, it didn’t stop me from feeling all the emotional highs and lows — especially for Clara.

From the very first chapter, this book completely captured my attention. I loved seeing more of Margot (Ollie and Lottie’s daughter), and I’m excited to discover which other characters will get their turn at a happily ever after.

This story stayed with me long after I turned the final page. Susie Tate has a remarkable talent for creating heartfelt, deeply human stories about characters who are imperfect, often quietly struggling — and yet, who still find the courage to reach for joy. I truly loved this book.

Maggie Harris

318 reviews15 followers

October 14, 2025

Law Maker is yet another sensational read from this wonderful author who has your heart pounding and spirits uplifted, wrapping all your emotions in a warm blanket whilst you laugh and cry with the wonderful characters she creates.
Clara is a teaching assistant at a exclusive prep school in London, her specialty is helping children with dyslexia. One such child is seven year old Ozzie who has been responding well with Clara’s help. When his father Rafe Stirling the Duke of Buckingham and also a top barristers is told by his son his teacher said his brain was wired differently he is incensed thinking his son had been told he was stupid and demands to speak to Clara though she is resistant to this as she is shy and for other reasons likes to stay unseen in the background.
Rafe realises that Clara is actually doing a lot to help Ozzie read and gain confidence, he also can see beneath her plain clothing and glasses she is very attractive and can stand up to him on behalf of her son.
These are three characters that have great depth, wonderful personalities and with a great cast around them leap off the pages and into your heart.
This is not just a great romance but also a hard hitting tale of domestic violence and the repercussions it causes throughout victims lives. The cruelty and violence Clara has endures will shock but the strength of her character and the support she receives off others are a joy.
So at times a hard hitting pulse raising story but still has much humour and love…an abundance of love. For me ( and thousands of others) Susie Tate writes stories that are beautiful, uplifting and above all a fabulous read, this one is yet another of them.

Ellianna

34 reviews

Review of advance copy received from Author

February 22, 2026

Law Maker

While I’m always eager to read a Susie Tate book (her MMCs’ groveling is top-notch), I was definitely cautious stepping into this one, as domestic abuse was mentioned. Tate has never strayed from the very real problem of abuse (especially abuse towards women), so I shouldn’t have been surprised, but still, I found it hard to enjoy this book when the subject took up as much (if not more) than the romance between Lord Rafe Sterling and Clara- and if I had to read the phrase “The Big Terrible Thing” one more time, I was going to go crazy (why not just say what it was up front, instead of unnecessarily dragging it out the length of the entire book?). Clara spent most of the book terrified and stuttering (though standing up to Rory when she thought he hurt Poppy was definitely a moment of triumph for her and the reader), while Rafe spent much of it angry (at his ex, at Clara, even himself), so I didn’t find myself rooting for them as much as I have other couples (like Vicky and Mike). I wish she could have just *told him the truth* and saved us from a third-act breakup (has Tate *ever* kept her MCs from such a fate?), but then again, doing so would have denied me the groveling I’m so fond of, so perhaps I am at an impasse.
I personally did not need the mounting anxiety brought on by the actions Clara’s horrific family, but at least justice came through in the end, and her final confrontation with her insidious father was like a mic drop for the soul. Even so, I’m not sorry to leave this story behind, though I am very eager to learn about Poppy and Rory.

I received an advanced copy of this book through Book Funnel.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.

Lina Woods

Author 1 book3 followers

Review of advance copy

📚✨ Book Review: Law Maker by Susie Tate ✨📚

Clara is the quiet assistant teacher at a prestigious private school, happiest staying in the background. Every Tuesday she allows herself one tiny indulgence: secretly admiring Lord Sterling when he comes to pick up his son. Yes, she definitely has a little crush. 😍

Things change when she realizes Ozzie, the son of the divorced lord, has dyslexia. When Ozzie admits he feels “stupid,” Clara gently explains that his brain just works differently. 🧠✨

Unfortunately, Lord Rafe Sterling is not amused when Ozzie tells him that his beloved teacher said his brain works differently. Rafe confronts the painfully shy Clara, who can barely look him in the eye without blushing or starting to stutter.

But when it comes to his son, Clara suddenly turns fierce and stands her ground. 💪

Rafe’s interest is definitely piqued. But Clara is hiding a secret. 👀🔥

Law Maker is a fast paced story filled with romance, Cinderella vibes, a struggling heroine, and a protective hero who absolutely knows how to grovel. 👑💘

There is some angst woven into the story, so definitely check the trigger warnings beforehand.

I had such a great time reading it and I completely fell in love with Ozzie, Rafe’s son, who delivers some truly hilarious moments. I laughed so much when Rafe tried to explain how he accidentally ended up on the couch with Clara because she had lost her glasses. And it was even better when Ozzie proudly retold that story to Poppy Sterling, his aunt and Rafe’s sister. 😂

We also get a short teaser in Law Maker about Poppy’s story, which will be told in book two of the Aristocrats of London series named Deal Breaker.

If you enjoy billionaire romances with moderate spice, emotional depth, and a touch of angst, you should definitely pick this one up. It is available as a paperback, on Kindle, and as an audiobook narrated by Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown. 🎧📖✨

K. Ramjohn

2,559 reviews

audiobook billionaire-romance forced-proximity

Lawmaker is the first installment in the Aristocrats of London series, a heartfelt single-dad romance that pairs a powerful barrister with his son’s compassionate teacher. Clara and Rafe’s story is emotional, layered, and utterly engrossing—I found myself hooked from the very first page.

Clara is a dedicated teacher who helps children overcome learning challenges. Having grown up in a dangerous, abusive household, she carries deep scars and a painful shyness. Yet beneath that vulnerability lies a quiet strength, especially when it comes to protecting her students.

Rafe, on the other hand, is intense and commanding, shaped by generations of influential barristers. His initial approach to Clara is forceful, but winning her trust requires patience and sincerity. Watching him soften and open up to her was one of the most rewarding aspects of the story. Together, they navigate a beautiful yet complicated love story that feels both tender and hard-earned.

The supporting cast adds richness, but it’s Rafe’s son who truly steals the spotlight in many scenes. The novel does contain sensitive themes, so readers should check trigger warnings beforehand. Still, the emotional depth and compelling romance make this a standout tale for readers who enjoy opposites-attract love stories.

🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧
The audiobook narration by Shane East and Zara Hampton-Brown was exceptional. Their duet performance brought Clara and Rafe vividly to life, capturing both vulnerability and intensity with perfect nuance. Their delivery kept me fully immersed, making the listening experience a genuine pleasure.

Fatma

400 reviews18 followers

Review of advance copy

February 27, 2026

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

ARC Review

Tropes:
Single Dad x Teaching Assistant
Shy FMC x Dominant MMC
Morally Grey MMC
Mafia vibes
Secret Identity
Forced Proximity
Workplace Romance

OMG, another amazing story by Susie😍 And to be clear Ozzie stole the show and his bits added so much to the story!

Susie has such a unique way of writing FMCs who may seem vulnerable and weak at first, but in reality are fierce and stand up for themselves when it truly matters. Clara is no different. She’s shy and has closed herself off from most people, aside from her students, but she’s incredibly brave and will do anything to protect her brother.

Rafe is the typical man who’s used to getting his way, but he’s not cruel or unjust. He loves with his whole heart and is willing to do anything to protect the people he cares about. While he does come across as a jerk at times, he knows when to step back. I loved that he saw the fire in Clara and did everything in his power to bring out the powerful woman she truly is—even if it meant being the bad guy sometimes.

Their romance was unconventional, but it was so uniquely theirs. Rafe becomes Clara’s safe place, recognizing what she needs even when she can’t voice it herself. And Clara pushes Rafe to become a softer, better version of himself, standing up to him when he’s wrong and challenging him in ways no one else ever has.

The spice in this book was 🔥🥵—but also hilarious at times! I absolutely loved their dynamic.

While the story may seem filled with miscommunication, it felt incredibly realistic. Clara is used to being let down and not being able to ask for help. She doesn’t know what an emotionally healthy relationship looks like, especially with a man, so her hesitancy and misunderstandings made sense. And Rafe is simply used to getting his way—he’s never had to justify or fully explain himself before. The character development for both of them was beautifully done.

I loved every bit of this story. It was an emotional rollercoaster, but worth every second. Watching Clara and Rafe come together as a family and finally seeing her feel safe was so heartwarming. Rafe truly becomes Clara’s safe space 😍

I can't wait for the next book!!

Snow

1,383 reviews12 followers

Review of advance copy received from Publisher

2.5 - 2.75 stars.

i don't quite understand how or why the H and h fell in love... 🤔 they didn't have all that many conversations about something other than the hero's son, and then one day they had sex and it seemed like it turned into love basically immediately. it didn't feel all that deep to me. seemed more like lust or superficial interest than love.

also, it was so gross that the hero tried to hurt/anger the heroine by bringing another woman out on a very public date. a woman who plastered herself to him and tried to kiss him and whom he'd dated before the heroine, too. the heroine and hero were together at this point, when he decided to go on this date. like, sure, their relationship was a bit rocky but that did not make it alright.

and then when he got back to the house after the date, the heroine immediately forgot all about how devastated she'd just been and threw herself at him and they had sex?????? what the fuck?????

much later on, they had a conversation that sounded a lot like the heroine thought the hero had had sex with the other woman on that date. so she'd thrown herself at him even though she thought he'd just been with someone else?? whyyy does the author do this 😭 she did the same in the book Gold Digger, where the hero also tried to use another woman to get a reaction from the heroine. exhausting.

the few stars i give this book is because i do love a traumatized heroine who has to be tenderly lured closer like a stray cat. the hero had to learn how to be gentle with her, and i liked that.

This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.

Kristi Johnson

336 reviews

Review of advance copy received from Publisher

Merrit Townsend (always1morebook)

Thank you to the publisher and Good Girls PR for the advanced copy.

Law Maker was a quick, easy read that kept me engaged from start to finish. While it’s fast-paced and accessible, it doesn’t shy away from heavier subject matter, thoughtfully addressing sensitive topics such as domestic violence and learning difficulties.

Clara, the main female character, is a teacher who works with Rafe’s son, Ozzie. Her situation is especially difficult because the abuse she experiences from her father—an abusive criminal drug dealer—is ongoing rather than something left behind. This constant threat adds tension to the story and makes Clara’s vulnerability, resilience, and determination feel raw and realistic.

Rafe, the main male character, is a lawyer and a devoted father. He does show dominance, but in a way that feels protective rather than controlling. His instinct to step in, take charge, and keep Clara and Ozzie safe is rooted in care and responsibility, and I appreciated how this side of him was balanced with patience and respect. His role as a father to a child with learning difficulties also added emotional depth and warmth to his character.

Susie Tate does a great job of balancing emotional weight with an engaging storyline, allowing both Clara and Rafe to grow individually while their relationship develops naturally alongside the plot.

Overall, an engaging and easy read that handles sensitive topics thoughtfully and keeps you invested throughout.

1,194 reviews53 followers

Review of advance copy received from Publisher