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Executive Suite Secrets #4
The Temptation
There was no escape.
Pierce had been running from me for years.
No more.
This time, Pierce needs me to play the role of doting boyfriend to keep his parents from dragging him back to Boston.
With the help of some sneaky accomplices, I’m turning this fake boyfriend into something real.
I will finally understand all his secrets and the haunted look that darts through his eyes every time my brother is mentioned.
Preferably before Pierce learns the truth behind too many of my own secrets.
The Temptation is the fourth and final full-length novel in the Executive Suite Secrets series, which includes a grumpy, too-serious billionaire, a sassy world-class violinist, evil schemes, fake boyfriend, best friend’s brother, snark, teasing, stolen kisses, “helpful” friends, hurt/comfort, caretaking, and finally getting to the bottom of an old mystery so we can have that sweet, forever kind of love.
Pierce had been running from me for years.
No more.
This time, Pierce needs me to play the role of doting boyfriend to keep his parents from dragging him back to Boston.
With the help of some sneaky accomplices, I’m turning this fake boyfriend into something real.
I will finally understand all his secrets and the haunted look that darts through his eyes every time my brother is mentioned.
Preferably before Pierce learns the truth behind too many of my own secrets.
The Temptation is the fourth and final full-length novel in the Executive Suite Secrets series, which includes a grumpy, too-serious billionaire, a sassy world-class violinist, evil schemes, fake boyfriend, best friend’s brother, snark, teasing, stolen kisses, “helpful” friends, hurt/comfort, caretaking, and finally getting to the bottom of an old mystery so we can have that sweet, forever kind of love.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2025
118 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Jocelynn Drake
143 books2,898 followersNew York Times Bestselling author Jocelynn Drake loves a good story, whether she is reading it or writing one of her own. Over the years, her stories have allowed her to explore space, talk to dragons, dodge bullets with assassins, hang with vampires, and fall in love again and again.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
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September 16, 2025I am so excited that we are getting closer to the release of the final book in the Executive Suite Secrets series. I love Simon and Pierce from The Temptation. And you’re going to get them that much sooner! I bumped the release date from December to OCTOBER! Have you pre-ordered your copy?
To entire you, I’ve got a quick trope list for you to check out:
Tropes for The Temptation:
Billionaire
Forbidden Romance
Best Friend’s Younger Brother
Age Gap
Hurt/Comfort
Burden of Talent
Fake Boyfriend
Forced proximity
Are you ready to fall in love?
To entire you, I’ve got a quick trope list for you to check out:
Tropes for The Temptation:
Billionaire
Forbidden Romance
Best Friend’s Younger Brother
Age Gap
Hurt/Comfort
Burden of Talent
Fake Boyfriend
Forced proximity
Are you ready to fall in love?
October 26, 2025
A satisfying ending to this series
Although I found this worked well as the final book in the series, nicely wrapping up all four of the best friends' romances, I'd have liked a bit more exploration of the past to get a fuller understanding of Sawyer.
Mainly because he came across as a dick and so I couldn't really sympathise with Pierce's determination to not do anything about Simon and his feelings.
When the big reveal happened, I felt even more of the same, so I'm not sure it necessarily had the impact it was supposed to have.
I know there was the whole tragic element of him dying after their argument, but if Pierce had used just one bit if his intelligent brain, combined with his knowledge of how Sawyer was, he would have seen it was unreasonable to continue to honour such a dumb request.
Anyways, that out of the way, the rest of the narrative works well as both a fake boyfriend relationship (for a brief period) and also as a best friend's brother one.
Pierce and Simon work well as a pairing, each needs something the other is good at, Simon to help lighten up Pierce's life, and Pierce's caretaker ways help sooth Simon's creative exhaustion.
It's hot, as all Jocelynn's writing is, but it also has the wonderful friends element at the heart of it all.
Although I found this worked well as the final book in the series, nicely wrapping up all four of the best friends' romances, I'd have liked a bit more exploration of the past to get a fuller understanding of Sawyer.
Mainly because he came across as a dick and so I couldn't really sympathise with Pierce's determination to not do anything about Simon and his feelings.
When the big reveal happened, I felt even more of the same, so I'm not sure it necessarily had the impact it was supposed to have.
I know there was the whole tragic element of him dying after their argument, but if Pierce had used just one bit if his intelligent brain, combined with his knowledge of how Sawyer was, he would have seen it was unreasonable to continue to honour such a dumb request.
Anyways, that out of the way, the rest of the narrative works well as both a fake boyfriend relationship (for a brief period) and also as a best friend's brother one.
Pierce and Simon work well as a pairing, each needs something the other is good at, Simon to help lighten up Pierce's life, and Pierce's caretaker ways help sooth Simon's creative exhaustion.
It's hot, as all Jocelynn's writing is, but it also has the wonderful friends element at the heart of it all.
October 14, 2025
There is no doubt this is a good book, very well written and many people will enjoy it, as they should. But I can't and I didn't. We have been teased in the past books about these two MC's, so the story should have been a banger. But it was uninspired. Having Simon coooonstantly being the one to initiate and pursue an unmoving Pierce got old pretty fast.
Kudos to Simon for carrying the entire book. Pierce was too little too late the whole time
.
.
.
My pet peeve rant:
*No need to read this, just me blowing off steam😤
I hate it when years go by for no reason. (You'll understand me more the older you get😉)
I would not have minded if this was a five year gap in time, but here we have ten years.
Another misguided sense of doing the right thing and sacrificing years and years of love because someone said something way back in time.
(They weren't even his dying words, they just happened to be in the last fight the two friends had)
These types of stories do not feel good to me, quite the opposite, the anxiety that they create feels more like anger than enjoyment. I find these types of men cowards for not having the guts to feel what they feel and act upon their feelings based on their own supposed integrity. They could have just talked.
Why does the dead brother's wish take precedence over the wishes of your one true love? Why is Pierce's allegiance to Sawyer stronger than towards Simon?
A story like this could have only held up if the reason Pierce stayed away from Simon all these years was a valid one. Here, it was not. The silly immature words of an immature man should not have been held at face value.
Seriously, the more I read on the more moronic Pierce feels like. My eyes are about to fall out of their sockets for all the eye rolling. Lame.
Kudos to Simon for carrying the entire book. Pierce was too little too late the whole time
.
.
.
My pet peeve rant:
*No need to read this, just me blowing off steam😤
I hate it when years go by for no reason. (You'll understand me more the older you get😉)
I would not have minded if this was a five year gap in time, but here we have ten years.
Another misguided sense of doing the right thing and sacrificing years and years of love because someone said something way back in time.
(They weren't even his dying words, they just happened to be in the last fight the two friends had)
These types of stories do not feel good to me, quite the opposite, the anxiety that they create feels more like anger than enjoyment. I find these types of men cowards for not having the guts to feel what they feel and act upon their feelings based on their own supposed integrity. They could have just talked.
Why does the dead brother's wish take precedence over the wishes of your one true love? Why is Pierce's allegiance to Sawyer stronger than towards Simon?
A story like this could have only held up if the reason Pierce stayed away from Simon all these years was a valid one. Here, it was not. The silly immature words of an immature man should not have been held at face value.
Seriously, the more I read on the more moronic Pierce feels like. My eyes are about to fall out of their sockets for all the eye rolling. Lame.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 10, 2025
"𝙉𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣?
𝙊𝙝, 𝙈𝙧. 𝙎𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙤𝙣. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣. 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙤𝙤𝙢."
After so many books dancing around the subject of Pierce and Simon, we finally get their story! I think I speak for all of us readers that we've had enough waiting for Pierce to pull his head out of his rear. Based on his past actions, it didn't look like he was planning on it anytime soon. I think Simon figured the same, since he decided it was time to take their futures into his own hands - by seducing his man.
"𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙪𝙥 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙃𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤."
Pierce definitely gave Simon a fight. And I couldn't understand WHY. Neither could Simon. Or any of their friends really. In the end, it all boiled down to Sawyer. Sawyer who was Simon's protective older brother and Pierce's best friend. Sawyer, who was no longer alive yet his past with Pierce still stood in the way of their happily ever after.
I was chomping at the bit for the big reveal because I needed these two to get over that final hurdle standing between them. It was so obvious how good they were for one another. Pierce was a caretaker by nature and was the perfect match for someone like Simon who could get so lost in his music he forgets to eat. Simon made Pierce feel needed. He made him feel appreciated. He also made him feel loved. It was these things that eventually broke down Pierce's walls and gave these two men the HEA they deserved.
𝙊𝙝, 𝙈𝙧. 𝙎𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙤𝙣. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙣. 𝙒𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙙𝙤𝙤𝙢."
After so many books dancing around the subject of Pierce and Simon, we finally get their story! I think I speak for all of us readers that we've had enough waiting for Pierce to pull his head out of his rear. Based on his past actions, it didn't look like he was planning on it anytime soon. I think Simon figured the same, since he decided it was time to take their futures into his own hands - by seducing his man.
"𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙣 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙪𝙥 𝙣𝙤𝙬. 𝙃𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤."
Pierce definitely gave Simon a fight. And I couldn't understand WHY. Neither could Simon. Or any of their friends really. In the end, it all boiled down to Sawyer. Sawyer who was Simon's protective older brother and Pierce's best friend. Sawyer, who was no longer alive yet his past with Pierce still stood in the way of their happily ever after.
I was chomping at the bit for the big reveal because I needed these two to get over that final hurdle standing between them. It was so obvious how good they were for one another. Pierce was a caretaker by nature and was the perfect match for someone like Simon who could get so lost in his music he forgets to eat. Simon made Pierce feel needed. He made him feel appreciated. He also made him feel loved. It was these things that eventually broke down Pierce's walls and gave these two men the HEA they deserved.
October 6, 2025
This was bittersweet because I've really enjoyed this series and I'm sad to see it end, but it went out before it got stale, so that's a win. This one focused on Pierce and Simon. Their attraction to each other is undeniable, but Pierce has to first come to terms with his promise to Simon's older brother, Sawyer, before he died. I loved how persistent and confident Simon was, but it was also really nice to see Simon go through some rough patches that Pierce helped guide him through. It really helped make the relationship feel more balanced and equal, despite the slight age gap between the two. The fake dating setup is a bit contrived to me (Pierce is in his mid-thirties, so I never really understood why he couldn't just stand up to his family), but it ended up not being a huge focal point of the story anyway. Overall, this was a fantastic wrap-up to this solid series!
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
***
I was provided with an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 21, 2025
I really liked it. We have been slow burning Simon and Pierce almost since book one, and getting not just a resolution, but a satisfying resolution, feels delightful
October 11, 2025
The dynamic between Simon and Pierce drove me nuts! Sure the bit at the start, it wasn't good and I thought Pierce did a good job of explaining things to Simon, he was just a bit too young to really get it. Now it's all these years later and this is still hanging over their heads. There was more too it and it wasn't pretty when it came out what it was and easy to understand why Pierce was messed up. I'm just glad that the group weighed in and gave both Pierce and Simon some great advice. These 2 really worked together and they deserved all the happiness they finally found.
October 26, 2025
I knew that Simon had his work cut out for him with Pierce, but their romance was even more satisfying because of it. Simon was Pierce's best friend's younger brother, and he'd had a crush on Pierce since his teenage years. I admire how committed he was to getting his man even when he didn't budge for over a decade, and if anything he was even more determined once they were working in the same city that it was their chance for more. Pierce was emotionally locked down when this book started, not interested in dating or hooking up or a serious relationship. Even as Simon flirted and bantered with Pierce, there was no getting past his iron resolve not to pursue anything beyond friendship, at least, not until a fake boyfriends scenario provided the golden opportunity for Simon to start wedging himself into every aspect of Pierce's life. I know I'm making it sound like Pierce didn't care for Simon, but that wasn't true at all. Safely in his inner thoughts, all Pierce thought about was how amazing Simon was and how much he wished he could sweep him off his feet in an epic romance. It was a promise he'd made to a dead man that kept him paralyzed from moving forward, and that emotional weight was the driver for several of his actions throughout the book. No matter how thoroughly Simon charmed Pierce's parents, how protective Pierce got when Simon wasn't properly taking care of himself, how steamy their kisses and touches were, that promise tore at Pierce's soul. I knew there would be no HEA without Pierce figuring out how to forgive and move forward, and I'm so pleased by the way his closest friends came together to support him through it. Simon's journey was centered around his music and the way his perfectionist tendencies had warped his ability to create, and he too had to learn to lean on others to get him through his toughest times. It was wonderful to see their combined friend group enjoying life and lifting each other up, and I'm really going to miss these guys now that the series is done. Simon and Pierce's happy ending was as swoony and romantic as you'd imagine from a musician and a buttoned up lawyer who'd only just given himself permission to express himself, and if I had to choose a time to say goodbye I can't think of a better one than what Jocelynn Drake crafted!
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 18, 2025
A BEAUTIFUL CONCLUSION TO THE SERIES!💕🎻
At last we get the inside scoop to what really took place between Sawyer and Pierce before Sawyer died at the age of 21 and how it played a gastronomic role in Pierces future dating life and why he avoided Simon for nearly 15 years after Simon’s 13th birthday party!
“The heart wants what it wants.”
Oh my freaking heart it just exploded with these two characters who were pining for each other for years and a sly suggestion by Liam was the ultimate catalyst to get Pierce to drop his guard where Simon is concerned…
They were just cuteness overload with their fake boyfriend spiel that was so real everybody could see it and it was that aspect that played beautifully into Simon Miller’s wheelhouse of unrequited love for Pierce Sutton!
Fifteen years is a long time to ghost someone and treat them like a stranger but guilt and a promise made will do that however they do have a found family of friends that will gladly help them and give advise when required…
Pierce 35 was a teddy bear and a caregiver that just wanted his partners to feel safe and cared for but they couldn’t accept him like that except for child prodigy violinist and composer Simon Sutton 27…
Oh my word the redeeming gesture that Pierce did for Simon was so swoon worthy and heartwarming!
All the couples played a major role in getting these two longing souls together and it worked out perfectly….
This is their story…
Followed by a sweet heartfelt epilogue that will have the tear ducts working overtime!
A bonus story regarding what happens when they come clean to Pierce’s parents to download, thank you!
I loved this series with the gorgeous billionaires that found their perfect persons and found family!
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author and GRR for an honest non-biased review.
At last we get the inside scoop to what really took place between Sawyer and Pierce before Sawyer died at the age of 21 and how it played a gastronomic role in Pierces future dating life and why he avoided Simon for nearly 15 years after Simon’s 13th birthday party!
“The heart wants what it wants.”
Oh my freaking heart it just exploded with these two characters who were pining for each other for years and a sly suggestion by Liam was the ultimate catalyst to get Pierce to drop his guard where Simon is concerned…
They were just cuteness overload with their fake boyfriend spiel that was so real everybody could see it and it was that aspect that played beautifully into Simon Miller’s wheelhouse of unrequited love for Pierce Sutton!
Fifteen years is a long time to ghost someone and treat them like a stranger but guilt and a promise made will do that however they do have a found family of friends that will gladly help them and give advise when required…
Pierce 35 was a teddy bear and a caregiver that just wanted his partners to feel safe and cared for but they couldn’t accept him like that except for child prodigy violinist and composer Simon Sutton 27…
Oh my word the redeeming gesture that Pierce did for Simon was so swoon worthy and heartwarming!
All the couples played a major role in getting these two longing souls together and it worked out perfectly….
This is their story…
Followed by a sweet heartfelt epilogue that will have the tear ducts working overtime!
A bonus story regarding what happens when they come clean to Pierce’s parents to download, thank you!
I loved this series with the gorgeous billionaires that found their perfect persons and found family!
I voluntarily received an ARC from the author and GRR for an honest non-biased review.
October 15, 2025
A Fitting End to a Lovely Series
This series has been a delight, I have fallen in love with all the main characters, Sebastian, Declan, Rome and Pierce who have all remained best friends since college and are now very successful business men. The series is set in Cincinnati which as a Brit I knew nothing about but it made a nice change from the usual US cities, but the weather💨❄️
All of the lifelong partners they found for themselves were perfect for them, all likeable, feisty and kept the guys on their toes. The author saved the enigmatic grumpy Pierce till last and we now know why he always seems pained and the reason behind his treatment of the loveable Simon.
There was at college a fifth member of the group, Sawyer, a temperamental impulsive guy and Pierce’s best friend. He died in a freak accident and Pierce was never the same again. Twenty years on and Simon, the younger brother of Sawyer and now a world famous violinist, arrives in Cincinnati and turns Pierce’s life upside down. Simon has had a crush on Pierce since he was 13.
I loved Simon’s feisty and bubbly personality and his determination when it came to Pierce. He was a force to be reckoned with and came up with a plan to worm his way into Pierce’s life and the friends and their partners were only too keen to help out.
They were perfect for each other and by the end of the book Pierce was actually smiling.
Low angst, feel good books, full of spice, romance and gentle humour which I have no hesitation in recommending. If I had to pick a favourite then I think it would be Declan and Parker’s story and baby Joy made it joyful.
This series has been a delight, I have fallen in love with all the main characters, Sebastian, Declan, Rome and Pierce who have all remained best friends since college and are now very successful business men. The series is set in Cincinnati which as a Brit I knew nothing about but it made a nice change from the usual US cities, but the weather💨❄️
All of the lifelong partners they found for themselves were perfect for them, all likeable, feisty and kept the guys on their toes. The author saved the enigmatic grumpy Pierce till last and we now know why he always seems pained and the reason behind his treatment of the loveable Simon.
There was at college a fifth member of the group, Sawyer, a temperamental impulsive guy and Pierce’s best friend. He died in a freak accident and Pierce was never the same again. Twenty years on and Simon, the younger brother of Sawyer and now a world famous violinist, arrives in Cincinnati and turns Pierce’s life upside down. Simon has had a crush on Pierce since he was 13.
I loved Simon’s feisty and bubbly personality and his determination when it came to Pierce. He was a force to be reckoned with and came up with a plan to worm his way into Pierce’s life and the friends and their partners were only too keen to help out.
They were perfect for each other and by the end of the book Pierce was actually smiling.
Low angst, feel good books, full of spice, romance and gentle humour which I have no hesitation in recommending. If I had to pick a favourite then I think it would be Declan and Parker’s story and baby Joy made it joyful.
October 17, 2025
I've been waiting for Pierce's story since the first book in this series - he was always so mysterious and closed off and seemed so angry at Simon's very existence. I wanted to know why and the author didn't let me down.
Simon has wanted Pierce for 14 years, and he finally has a chance to show Pierce how good they could be together when Pierce asks him to be his fake boyfriend. But Pierce has been carrying the guilty weight of a promise made to Simon's brother, Sawyer, years before, just before Sawyer died in an accident. This promise and everything that came with it has been destroying Pierce, and the weight of it almost broke me along with him. But Simon is persistent and, quite honestly, perfect for Pierce. His determination to break through Pierce's walls will make you want someone who fights for you like that. How could anyone not give in?
But this isn't a light and fluffy and easy HEA. Pierce is stubborn as all get-out and he's got years of self-inflicted torment to work through. He's afraid of losing everything if he comes clean with his secrets - his friends, his happiness, Simon - but he really has nothing to worry about. (If you've read the first three books, you know. And if you haven't, you should.) They help him realize how his view of it all has been skewed by his guilt, that loving Simon isn't a betrayal, and that letting go of the past doesn't mean forgetting it.
If you love grumpy billionaires and fake dating and emotional payoff that is worth the ache, this book is for you.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Simon has wanted Pierce for 14 years, and he finally has a chance to show Pierce how good they could be together when Pierce asks him to be his fake boyfriend. But Pierce has been carrying the guilty weight of a promise made to Simon's brother, Sawyer, years before, just before Sawyer died in an accident. This promise and everything that came with it has been destroying Pierce, and the weight of it almost broke me along with him. But Simon is persistent and, quite honestly, perfect for Pierce. His determination to break through Pierce's walls will make you want someone who fights for you like that. How could anyone not give in?
But this isn't a light and fluffy and easy HEA. Pierce is stubborn as all get-out and he's got years of self-inflicted torment to work through. He's afraid of losing everything if he comes clean with his secrets - his friends, his happiness, Simon - but he really has nothing to worry about. (If you've read the first three books, you know. And if you haven't, you should.) They help him realize how his view of it all has been skewed by his guilt, that loving Simon isn't a betrayal, and that letting go of the past doesn't mean forgetting it.
If you love grumpy billionaires and fake dating and emotional payoff that is worth the ache, this book is for you.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
October 12, 2025
Pierce and Simon have been mentioned throughout the series and everyone has always wondered why Pierce avoided Simon. Pierce was Simon's older brother's best friend until the day Sawyer died in a diving accident. Pierce never told anyone what he and Sawyer fought about prior to the accident when thy were 21 years old. Simon has had a crush on Pierce since he was 13 years old and requested a birthday kiss from Pierce which Pierce refused to give due to their age difference. Simon is now 25 years old and a world class violinist and is the featured artist with the Cincinnati Orchestra. Pierce runs the family law branch in Cincinnati. His parents want him to retune to Boston to run the family's main law firm there but Pierce likes living in Cincinnati with his friends from college. He impulsively tells his family that he has begun dating someone and Simon volunteers to be his fake boyfriend. As the two get to really know each other as adults, their attraction to each other grows but Pierce is still haunted by a past promise to Sawyer and Simon is afraid to let Pierce see the perfectionist and anxiety ridden side of him when he becomes too obsessed with his music. This was a great ending to the series and what happened that final between Pierce and Sawyer is finally revealed.
October 18, 2025
More then meets the eye!
I have been waiting for this book to come out since we first meet Pierce and saw the tension with Simon in the beginning of the series. I was surprised by the backstory driving Pierce’s actions because it definitely was not what I was expecting! Pierce also was not at all what I was expecting from the glimpses we’ve seen of him throughout the series. The grumpy man was hiding a cinnamon roll underneath the quiet brooding and snarky remarks towards Simon. Watching his character growth as he learned to accept what he wanted and forgive himself was heartwarming and touching. Pierce and Simon deserved to find their HEA. Simon was a wrecking ball of a character in the best way possible. He was knocking down every wall and obstacle between him and the future he wanted with the man he wanted! I honestly came into this story viewing Simon as a man who had it all and it was equally surprising to see the man behind the violin in this story. Hs growth was equally important and I appreciated how they communicated to help each other through tough moments in the book. I think those moments of being open and vulnerable helped guide them into being more. It was a good book and I recommend giving Simon and Pierce a shot to learn their story!
I have been waiting for this book to come out since we first meet Pierce and saw the tension with Simon in the beginning of the series. I was surprised by the backstory driving Pierce’s actions because it definitely was not what I was expecting! Pierce also was not at all what I was expecting from the glimpses we’ve seen of him throughout the series. The grumpy man was hiding a cinnamon roll underneath the quiet brooding and snarky remarks towards Simon. Watching his character growth as he learned to accept what he wanted and forgive himself was heartwarming and touching. Pierce and Simon deserved to find their HEA. Simon was a wrecking ball of a character in the best way possible. He was knocking down every wall and obstacle between him and the future he wanted with the man he wanted! I honestly came into this story viewing Simon as a man who had it all and it was equally surprising to see the man behind the violin in this story. Hs growth was equally important and I appreciated how they communicated to help each other through tough moments in the book. I think those moments of being open and vulnerable helped guide them into being more. It was a good book and I recommend giving Simon and Pierce a shot to learn their story!
October 10, 2025
Fourth in series (Executive Suite Secrets), best if read in order. Brother’s best friend. Fake relationship. Slight age gap. Hurt/comfort. Found family. Dual POV.
Simon has been infatuated with Pierce for years, and he jumps at the chance to be Pierce’s fake boyfriend in hopes of gaining his affection. As an attorney, Pierce is used to arguing his point, but somehow the beautiful violinist wears him down while they are fake dating, and Pierce regrets a past promise he made.
This story was long awaited, the tension between Pierce and Simon throughout the series finally gets some on page time between the two men. Simon really is the star of this story, a determined, talented man that pursues Pierce but has his own personal struggles that Pierce seems made to help him with. Every time Pierce pulled back from Simon was frustrating, and luckily Simon was able to brush off Pierce’s attempts to push him away. The found family remains important and supportive, and it was fun to see the fake relationship give Pierce and Simon a chance to be together and rebuild their bond. A sweet finale, sad to see this series end. 4.25
Simon has been infatuated with Pierce for years, and he jumps at the chance to be Pierce’s fake boyfriend in hopes of gaining his affection. As an attorney, Pierce is used to arguing his point, but somehow the beautiful violinist wears him down while they are fake dating, and Pierce regrets a past promise he made.
This story was long awaited, the tension between Pierce and Simon throughout the series finally gets some on page time between the two men. Simon really is the star of this story, a determined, talented man that pursues Pierce but has his own personal struggles that Pierce seems made to help him with. Every time Pierce pulled back from Simon was frustrating, and luckily Simon was able to brush off Pierce’s attempts to push him away. The found family remains important and supportive, and it was fun to see the fake relationship give Pierce and Simon a chance to be together and rebuild their bond. A sweet finale, sad to see this series end. 4.25
October 17, 2025
The absolute perfect ending to this great series! We finally learn Pierce’s heavy secret that he has been carrying alone for many years. Simon, the younger brother of Pierce’s best friend (who has, unfortunately, passed away after their graduation) is as lovely as we could have guessed from the small appearances he made in the previous book. A gifted violin player, his love of music is only eclipsed by his love of Pierce. Stubborn as a mule (more so than even Pierce), he is determined to get the heart of this grumpy lawyer, so when he has to pose as a fake boyfriend, he does everything possible to show Pierce what he is missing out on and make the relationship real. With plenty of support from their friends (and their partners), we get to follow these two finally cozying up. I actually really loved how Jocelynn handled the resolution of Pierce’s pain and enjoyed the epilogue very much.
I have received a copy of this book from the author via GRR, and this is my honest review.
I have received a copy of this book from the author via GRR, and this is my honest review.
October 24, 2025
inflatable dinosaur costume, lemmings, Babs, scarf, arm of bread, gloves, juicy dirt, fake rain, age cranny, sweet & fruity
I sure hope there's another book in the series coming. I haven't gotten my fill of the gang and their other halves. Maybe a en masse Xmas novel? This story is wonderful and great. In fact, all the books in this series are.
Lawyer Pierce Sutton has a lot of angst and has his head up his butt. But, he's just a cinnamon roll. Concert violinist Simon Miller is Pierce's late best friend's younger brother who is hung up on Pierce. He has been since he was 13 years old -- 14 long years ago. Pierce made a promise to Sawyer before he died 14 years ago: to take care of Simon. But, Simon doesn't make it easy for Pierce to avoid his attraction to Simon. However, Simon is determined to win over Pierce.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It has the right balance of angst and romance -- suffering and joy. I wholeheartedly recommend this book!
I sure hope there's another book in the series coming. I haven't gotten my fill of the gang and their other halves. Maybe a en masse Xmas novel? This story is wonderful and great. In fact, all the books in this series are.
Lawyer Pierce Sutton has a lot of angst and has his head up his butt. But, he's just a cinnamon roll. Concert violinist Simon Miller is Pierce's late best friend's younger brother who is hung up on Pierce. He has been since he was 13 years old -- 14 long years ago. Pierce made a promise to Sawyer before he died 14 years ago: to take care of Simon. But, Simon doesn't make it easy for Pierce to avoid his attraction to Simon. However, Simon is determined to win over Pierce.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It has the right balance of angst and romance -- suffering and joy. I wholeheartedly recommend this book!
October 16, 2025
This series has been an absolute joy from start to finish, and The Temptation is the perfect finale. I’ve loved getting to know Sebastian, Declan, Rome, and finally Pierce, the grumpy mystery of the group — and seeing him slowly unravel for Simon was everything.
Simon’s vibrant, determined personality was the perfect match for Pierce’s guarded heart, and their fake-boyfriend setup had just the right mix of tension, chemistry, and heartfelt moments. The backdrop of Cincinnati made a refreshing change too (though the weather... honestly!).
With a mix of humour, warmth, and emotional depth, and of course, plenty of spice, this was a definite 5-star read for me. Raunchy, romantic, and totally satisfying. I’ll miss this group so much.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Simon’s vibrant, determined personality was the perfect match for Pierce’s guarded heart, and their fake-boyfriend setup had just the right mix of tension, chemistry, and heartfelt moments. The backdrop of Cincinnati made a refreshing change too (though the weather... honestly!).
With a mix of humour, warmth, and emotional depth, and of course, plenty of spice, this was a definite 5-star read for me. Raunchy, romantic, and totally satisfying. I’ll miss this group so much.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
October 19, 2025
This one was frustrating because of Pierce mostly. We have been waiting this whole time to find out why the hell he doesn't want anything to do with Simon. Simon was also borderline stalkerish in this and consent doesn't seem to be a thing he considered while trying to get Pierce's attention. I understand he was desperate, but it kind of rubbed me the wrong way, especially in the beginning. When we finally find out what has been holding Pierce back, (which took almost the ENTIRE book), it was kind of underwhelming. I didn't feel the impact the author probably wanted me to feel. It was sad and unfortunate that communication ultimately ruined what could have been, but overall I was like, really? That's it? Maybe I'm not seeing something. I am glad they worked out their shit and the ending was really sweet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2025
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
This is the fourth, and seemingly final, story in Jocelynn Drake’s Executive Suite series, as Pierce is the last man standing single of the group of friends. I was looking forward to this one the most, since the animosity emanating from Pierce has been brewing since the end of the first book. Out of all the books, this one might just be my favorite.
There are definitely some heavier themes here, and Pierce may have held onto the past a little too long, but in the end, their love won and they really work well together. If you’ve been reading along, don’t hesitate to pick this one up.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
This is the fourth, and seemingly final, story in Jocelynn Drake’s Executive Suite series, as Pierce is the last man standing single of the group of friends. I was looking forward to this one the most, since the animosity emanating from Pierce has been brewing since the end of the first book. Out of all the books, this one might just be my favorite.
There are definitely some heavier themes here, and Pierce may have held onto the past a little too long, but in the end, their love won and they really work well together. If you’ve been reading along, don’t hesitate to pick this one up.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
October 8, 2025
The reason Pierce was avoiding Simion—the big secret.
It is a good book, and Pierce and Simon make a good couple. Even though they entered into a fake relationship, it was never fake to either of them.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
angst 2/5
heat 2.5/5
story 2.5/5
POV dual
break up
It is a good book, and Pierce and Simon make a good couple. Even though they entered into a fake relationship, it was never fake to either of them.
I received a free copy of this book via GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
angst 2/5
heat 2.5/5
story 2.5/5
POV dual
break up
October 9, 2025
This final installment was a bittersweet ride—I've truly loved this series, and while I'm sad to see it end. The story centers on Pierce and Simon, whose chemistry is undeniable from the start. What adds depth is Pierce’s emotional struggle with a promise he made to Simon’s late brother, Sawyer. That internal conflict gave the romance a poignant edge. Simon’s persistence and confidence were a joy to watch, but what really stood out was his vulnerability. Seeing him navigate rough patches with Pierce’s support made their relationship feel grounded and equal, even with the slight age gap.
Overall, this was a heartfelt and satisfying conclusion to a consistently strong series. It left me smiling, a little teary-eyed, and already missing these characters.
Overall, this was a heartfelt and satisfying conclusion to a consistently strong series. It left me smiling, a little teary-eyed, and already missing these characters.
October 9, 2025
Pierce was Sawyer's best friend in college. Sawyer asked him to go home with him to vellore his 13 year old brother's birthday. After everyone was asleep, Simon (the 13 year old), asks Pierce for a kiss. Flash forward 14 years and Simon's crush hasn't changed, but Pierce has treated him terribly ever since Sawyer died. Pierce's parents start pressuring him to move back home to Boston. But Pierce's life is in Cincinnati! So, with his friends' advice, he asks Simon to pretend to be his boyfriend to get them off his back.
While fake boyfriends is one of my favorite tropes, it has to be done well to show real chemistry. JD does that, and you are rooting for the couple from the very beginning! And the cover art--- this book is the whole package!
While fake boyfriends is one of my favorite tropes, it has to be done well to show real chemistry. JD does that, and you are rooting for the couple from the very beginning! And the cover art--- this book is the whole package!
October 13, 2025
I was looking forward to this one after enjoying the previous book, but this one unfortunately didn't land for me. It had all the ingredients for a great story but if anything it was just *too much*. Too much fake dating, too much drama, too much angsting about stuff that didn't really matter, too much sex, too much *cheese*. By which I don't mean the actual physical cheese, I was very much in favour of that and frankly share Simon's attitude to cheese, but all the grand gestures when nobody has really done anything that wrong seem a bit superfluous. Money being no object got old too. In fairness, there were some good caretaking vibes and I loved the friendship group, but the romance arc didn't really make sense to me.
October 14, 2025
Pierce and Simon, at last!
A fun, sweet story to wrap up the series ☺️
Pierce and Simon have been circling each other for years, well more running away on Pierce's part lol.
Luckily for Simon, Pierce is forced to pull Simon closer, with some very sweet, sometimes funny, sometimes tender moments. I loved seeing Pierce go into caretaker mode, even while fighting to put distance between he and Simon. I loved Simon's bratty side, but he allowed Pierce to care for him when the world became too much. Once I got to know why Pierce had avoided Simon, (and talking about it with his close-knit friends), I wanted to kick his so-called friend, Sawyer, ugh!
Both men have their struggles, but together they are each other's strength.
A fitting end to the series.
A fun, sweet story to wrap up the series ☺️
Pierce and Simon have been circling each other for years, well more running away on Pierce's part lol.
Luckily for Simon, Pierce is forced to pull Simon closer, with some very sweet, sometimes funny, sometimes tender moments. I loved seeing Pierce go into caretaker mode, even while fighting to put distance between he and Simon. I loved Simon's bratty side, but he allowed Pierce to care for him when the world became too much. Once I got to know why Pierce had avoided Simon, (and talking about it with his close-knit friends), I wanted to kick his so-called friend, Sawyer, ugh!
Both men have their struggles, but together they are each other's strength.
A fitting end to the series.
October 15, 2025
The Temptation is the fourth and last book in Jocelynn Drake's Executive Suite Secrets series. It was rather nice to finally read Simon and Pierce's tale. But to me, the book was a pretty standard brother's best friend story.
Simon and Pierce have sizzle, no doubt about that. There is the necessary, "I made a promise to your brother" trope. But did we really need the fake boyfriend trope? Secret pining desire for the other ✅, secrets, secrets ✅, lots of scenery chewing ✅ ✅. We also get billionaire, age gap and hurt/comfort. What... no stuck in a snowbound cabin with one cot and no firewood?
It wasn't bad. Mostly mindless. A quick read.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
Simon and Pierce have sizzle, no doubt about that. There is the necessary, "I made a promise to your brother" trope. But did we really need the fake boyfriend trope? Secret pining desire for the other ✅, secrets, secrets ✅, lots of scenery chewing ✅ ✅. We also get billionaire, age gap and hurt/comfort. What... no stuck in a snowbound cabin with one cot and no firewood?
It wasn't bad. Mostly mindless. A quick read.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
October 4, 2025
This was a difficult review to write. While the catalyst to Pierce avoiding Simon for years is a tad cringe-worthy, once the guys start spending quality time together under the pretense of being boyfriends and they really get to know each other, their relationship seems balanced. One needs taken care of and the other is a caretaker. One is hurting and the other wants to comfort. The best part was when Pierce and Simon both finally share some of their secrets. And I loved all of the guys and their meddling. Even Pierce's parents get into the act. Overall, another good story from this author.
I noted maybe half a dozen proofreading issues in the ARC.
I noted maybe half a dozen proofreading issues in the ARC.
October 4, 2025
Simon and Pierce story ends this series with a bang, and the cat and mouse chase gets to a beautiful conclusion.
We found their deep secrets, their anguish, their desires, and with outside intervention from their trusted friends, they get their much deserved happiness.
I liked their teasing and shenanigans, their moments of vulnerability, and their moments of shining.
I liked how their love bloomed, how they learned to trust in each other, and how they started to appreciate each moment they had together.
I really liked this series and I’m going to miss the characters.
* this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
We found their deep secrets, their anguish, their desires, and with outside intervention from their trusted friends, they get their much deserved happiness.
I liked their teasing and shenanigans, their moments of vulnerability, and their moments of shining.
I liked how their love bloomed, how they learned to trust in each other, and how they started to appreciate each moment they had together.
I really liked this series and I’m going to miss the characters.
* this is an ARC review and is my honest opinion
October 4, 2025
After reading the rest of the Executive Suite series, I was so ready for Pierce's and Simon's story!! I'm so glad they found their happily ever after! The "drama" of why Pierce was staying away from Simon wasn't nearly as "big" as I thought all his avoidance and craziness deserved....I thought maybe there would be more to the story there than the obvious....but this book was so well written and these two characters were fabulous!! Not super spicy, but this series really isn't about that. The relationships of these men is so fun and we get to see lots of appearances from the characters from books 1-3. I've really enjoyed this series!
October 14, 2025
This book is absolutely fantastic. I’ve really loved this series and this story was the most anticipated for me and it didn’t disappoint. I knew I already loved Simon, and Pierce I knew that once we got to see deeper into his mind I’d really love him too. There’s a lot of layers to this couple, a long history, some of it tragic and terribly sad but it’s definitely history that should bring them together.
Pierce has had the ghost of his best friend on his shoulder for a long time and it’s difficult for him to see past it. Simon doesn’t understand his reticence in them having any form of friendship/relationship. He’s been quietly chasing Pierce for a long time and he’s decided it’s finally time to step it up and try to get some time together.
It’s a fun plot and I loved the fake relationship angle. It made for lots of fun moments and they got to know each other again without so much pressure. Once they both open up it’s a beautiful thing to read. The chemistry is red hot from the very start, no problems in that department and Pierce really got to enjoy taking care of Simon. I loved Pierce’s parents, it was fun to see them interact with their son, they have the best intentions for him.
I love this friendship group and I love when all the friends are together, lots of snarky banter but always filled with love and care.
Brilliant last book and I’m sad the series is over.
Pierce has had the ghost of his best friend on his shoulder for a long time and it’s difficult for him to see past it. Simon doesn’t understand his reticence in them having any form of friendship/relationship. He’s been quietly chasing Pierce for a long time and he’s decided it’s finally time to step it up and try to get some time together.
It’s a fun plot and I loved the fake relationship angle. It made for lots of fun moments and they got to know each other again without so much pressure. Once they both open up it’s a beautiful thing to read. The chemistry is red hot from the very start, no problems in that department and Pierce really got to enjoy taking care of Simon. I loved Pierce’s parents, it was fun to see them interact with their son, they have the best intentions for him.
I love this friendship group and I love when all the friends are together, lots of snarky banter but always filled with love and care.
Brilliant last book and I’m sad the series is over.
October 16, 2025
The Temptation is the fourth book in the Executive Suite Secrets series. We finally get Simon and Peirce’s book.
We have watched Simon & Peirce back and forth for some time now. We finally get to see them sort out their S#it. And what an emotional swamp it is. We can feel the pure emotions, the guilt, the want and desire. Simon is a determined ray of sunshine but can get lost in his music and forget everything else. Someone like Peirce who is protective and a caretaker is perfect for him.
Such a heartwarming way to end the series.
Tropes:
Billionaire
Forbidden Romance
Best Friend’s Brother
Age Gap
Hurt/Comfort
Fake Boyfriend
Forced proximity
Grumpy/Sunshine
We have watched Simon & Peirce back and forth for some time now. We finally get to see them sort out their S#it. And what an emotional swamp it is. We can feel the pure emotions, the guilt, the want and desire. Simon is a determined ray of sunshine but can get lost in his music and forget everything else. Someone like Peirce who is protective and a caretaker is perfect for him.
Such a heartwarming way to end the series.
Tropes:
Billionaire
Forbidden Romance
Best Friend’s Brother
Age Gap
Hurt/Comfort
Fake Boyfriend
Forced proximity
Grumpy/Sunshine
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