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The Davenports #7
The Christmas Trap
Snowed-In with My Billionaire Boss… and We’re Fake Married Under the Mistletoe
One grumpy, emotionally unavailable billionaire CEO.
One spirited, overworked assistant with an ex to outshine.
One marriage of convenience that’s supposed to be all business… until a Christmas blizzard traps us together on his private island.
My boss walked in on me getting dumped.
So naturally, he asked me to marry him—right in front of my ex.
I should’ve been humiliated.
Instead, I said yes.
Brody Davenport—cold, calculating, frustratingly gorgeous—is about to become my husband.
Not for real, of course.
He needs a wife to unlock his trust fund.
I need a fake husband to make my ex regret ever letting me go.
We sign the prenup. We set the rules. We promise to keep it strictly business.
Then the snowstorm hits.
Now we’re stuck on his luxury island estate over Christmas—no staff, no escape, and way too much time for my grumpy, guarded boss to start looking at me like I’m more than just his assistant.
He swears he doesn’t believe in love.
I’ve already had my heart broken once.
But the more we play this game, the more it stops feeling like pretend… and the more I start to wonder if the most unexpected Christmas gift might just be him.
Unwrap Brody & Lark’s story this holiday season—because sometimes, love is the best plot twist of all.
TropesGrumpy/ sunshineOpposites attractSnowed-in romanceBillionaire boss/ assistantFake marriageholiday rom-comsChristmas romanceOne bed
One grumpy, emotionally unavailable billionaire CEO.
One spirited, overworked assistant with an ex to outshine.
One marriage of convenience that’s supposed to be all business… until a Christmas blizzard traps us together on his private island.
My boss walked in on me getting dumped.
So naturally, he asked me to marry him—right in front of my ex.
I should’ve been humiliated.
Instead, I said yes.
Brody Davenport—cold, calculating, frustratingly gorgeous—is about to become my husband.
Not for real, of course.
He needs a wife to unlock his trust fund.
I need a fake husband to make my ex regret ever letting me go.
We sign the prenup. We set the rules. We promise to keep it strictly business.
Then the snowstorm hits.
Now we’re stuck on his luxury island estate over Christmas—no staff, no escape, and way too much time for my grumpy, guarded boss to start looking at me like I’m more than just his assistant.
He swears he doesn’t believe in love.
I’ve already had my heart broken once.
But the more we play this game, the more it stops feeling like pretend… and the more I start to wonder if the most unexpected Christmas gift might just be him.
Unwrap Brody & Lark’s story this holiday season—because sometimes, love is the best plot twist of all.
TropesGrumpy/ sunshineOpposites attractSnowed-in romanceBillionaire boss/ assistantFake marriageholiday rom-comsChristmas romanceOne bed
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2025
3886 people are currently reading
3804 people want to read
About the author
L. Steele
51 books2,522 followersL. Steele loves to write romance novels featuring powerful men and strong women who bring them to their knees. When she's not writing she enjoys trading trivia with her filmmaker husband, watching lots and lots of movies, and walking nature trails.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews
dnf
December 11, 2025dnf@ 82%
I really tried but I can’t convince myself to pick it up again.
-instalust was overkill and not believable
- I refuse to believe the FMC is whip smart and deserves to be a CEO. She has terrible reasoning
- the MMC referred to the FMC’s p-spot. I’m no doctor but I don’t think she has a prostate gland
-other over the top unrealistic sex scenes that made me guffaw
- the MMC gave me whiplash from his I love her I love her not routine
Thank you to Hambright PR for a copy of this book
I really tried but I can’t convince myself to pick it up again.
-instalust was overkill and not believable
- I refuse to believe the FMC is whip smart and deserves to be a CEO. She has terrible reasoning
- the MMC referred to the FMC’s p-spot. I’m no doctor but I don’t think she has a prostate gland
-other over the top unrealistic sex scenes that made me guffaw
- the MMC gave me whiplash from his I love her I love her not routine
Thank you to Hambright PR for a copy of this book
December 9, 2025
I loved this book so much Brody has to be my favorite Davenport by far. I 10/10 recommend this book and series.
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
December 6, 2025
This was such a fun Christmas romance! I’m a total sucker for marriage of convenience and snowed-in tropes, and this book delivered exactly the cozy holiday vibes I wanted.
I really liked the FMC, she’s strong, capable, and just instantly likable. The MMC had that grumpy broody energy that works so well in holiday romance, and watching them get stuck together and slowly thaw toward each other was super satisfying.
Spice-wise… the tying-up elements just weren’t my thing. Totally well done, just not my personal preference, and that’s honestly the only reason my rating isn’t higher. Plenty of readers will absolutely eat that up, so don’t let my taste stop you.
Overall, this was a charming, snowy, trope-filled delight and a perfect seasonal read. If you love forced proximity, holiday tension, and a grumpy boss who melts at the worst possible moment then add this one to your list.
I really liked the FMC, she’s strong, capable, and just instantly likable. The MMC had that grumpy broody energy that works so well in holiday romance, and watching them get stuck together and slowly thaw toward each other was super satisfying.
Spice-wise… the tying-up elements just weren’t my thing. Totally well done, just not my personal preference, and that’s honestly the only reason my rating isn’t higher. Plenty of readers will absolutely eat that up, so don’t let my taste stop you.
Overall, this was a charming, snowy, trope-filled delight and a perfect seasonal read. If you love forced proximity, holiday tension, and a grumpy boss who melts at the worst possible moment then add this one to your list.
January 1, 2026
After previously disliking this author's books, I don't know why I went back for more, but it's a mistake I'll never make again. I feel like this series is the same storyline regurgitated over and over again. You could swap the names of the main characters out and never know they were from another story in this series.
The characters are some of the most one-dimensional I've ever read, and they have zero chemistry. I don't buy their connection and couldn't force myself to be invested in their love story. Nothing in this story feels believable or authentic.
Let's not even talk about the poor writing and multitude of grammatical errors. I mean, the author describes the FEMALE lead as having a PROSTATE, FFS. What editor let that slide???
Never again.
The characters are some of the most one-dimensional I've ever read, and they have zero chemistry. I don't buy their connection and couldn't force myself to be invested in their love story. Nothing in this story feels believable or authentic.
Let's not even talk about the poor writing and multitude of grammatical errors. I mean, the author describes the FEMALE lead as having a PROSTATE, FFS. What editor let that slide???
Never again.
December 6, 2025
I was allowed to read an early copy of this book by HambrightPR and the author. Thank you! I am leaving my voluntary honest review.
I adored this “Christmas Trap” by L. Steele! If you like billionaires, bad a** bosses, marriage of convenience, cozy reads with hot spice thrown in, this book is for you! Steele creates characters that are lovable, sometimes detestable, but no doubt belong together!
Lark is a woman on a mission! She holds an MBA, but aspires to be the CEO of a major corporation one day. She has applied to be the executive assistant to CEO Brody Davenport. Brody Davenport is very strict and knows what he wants in the ideal candidate for the position. What he did not expect was Lark to show up for interview in a Christmas sweater! Everyone at the office knows he detests Christmas. After a grilling interview, Lark is offered the position of EA. While working for her new boss, she discovers her fiancé is cheating on her and wants to call off the wedding. Her boss, Brody, wants to help her save face, and he shuts down Lark’s now Ex, Keith. Now Lark is faced with a problem. All her family and friends are ready for her wedding in 2 weeks. Brody, himself, has a problem. In order to receive his inheritance from his grandfather he must marry, before the end of the year. A marriage of convenience sounds like the best option for both of them at any angle. Can they actually follow through with it? Can you find love with the loveless? What difference can the right connection with the right person make in intimacy?
I tried to not give spoilers! This was an awesome read, and I’m running out now for some emerald Christmas packaging rope!
Happy reading,
Crystal
Booked_in_mississippi
I adored this “Christmas Trap” by L. Steele! If you like billionaires, bad a** bosses, marriage of convenience, cozy reads with hot spice thrown in, this book is for you! Steele creates characters that are lovable, sometimes detestable, but no doubt belong together!
Lark is a woman on a mission! She holds an MBA, but aspires to be the CEO of a major corporation one day. She has applied to be the executive assistant to CEO Brody Davenport. Brody Davenport is very strict and knows what he wants in the ideal candidate for the position. What he did not expect was Lark to show up for interview in a Christmas sweater! Everyone at the office knows he detests Christmas. After a grilling interview, Lark is offered the position of EA. While working for her new boss, she discovers her fiancé is cheating on her and wants to call off the wedding. Her boss, Brody, wants to help her save face, and he shuts down Lark’s now Ex, Keith. Now Lark is faced with a problem. All her family and friends are ready for her wedding in 2 weeks. Brody, himself, has a problem. In order to receive his inheritance from his grandfather he must marry, before the end of the year. A marriage of convenience sounds like the best option for both of them at any angle. Can they actually follow through with it? Can you find love with the loveless? What difference can the right connection with the right person make in intimacy?
I tried to not give spoilers! This was an awesome read, and I’m running out now for some emerald Christmas packaging rope!
Happy reading,
Crystal
Booked_in_mississippi
January 3, 2026
The Christmas Trap – L. Steele
⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5)
EN
This one started off strong and had a lot of potential, but the balance between plot and spice didn’t quite work for me. I enjoy spice when it serves the story, but here it felt excessive, there’s a stretch with several consecutive spicy chapters that don’t really move the plot forward.
That said, I really liked Brody’s introspection and emotional depth. His grumpy demeanor paired with Lark’s sunshine energy worked well, and I appreciated how caring and protective he was toward her. The foundation of the story is solid, and with a better balance, it could have hit harder for me.
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
FR
Le début était prometteur et l’histoire avait un bon potentiel, mais la balance entre l’intrigue et le spice n’était pas optimale selon moi. J’aime quand une histoire est bien équilibrée, et ici, j’ai trouvé que le spice prenait parfois trop de place, notamment avec plusieurs chapitres consécutifs qui n’apportaient pas grand-chose à l’avancement de l’histoire.
Cela dit, j’ai beaucoup aimé l’introspection de Brody. Son côté grumpy fonctionne bien avec la personnalité sunshine de Lark, et j’ai apprécié la façon dont il prend soin d’elle. Le fond de l’histoire est bon, même si l’exécution m’a un peu moins convaincue.
Merci à Hambright PR et à l’auteure pour la copie ARC.
⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5)
EN
This one started off strong and had a lot of potential, but the balance between plot and spice didn’t quite work for me. I enjoy spice when it serves the story, but here it felt excessive, there’s a stretch with several consecutive spicy chapters that don’t really move the plot forward.
That said, I really liked Brody’s introspection and emotional depth. His grumpy demeanor paired with Lark’s sunshine energy worked well, and I appreciated how caring and protective he was toward her. The foundation of the story is solid, and with a better balance, it could have hit harder for me.
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
FR
Le début était prometteur et l’histoire avait un bon potentiel, mais la balance entre l’intrigue et le spice n’était pas optimale selon moi. J’aime quand une histoire est bien équilibrée, et ici, j’ai trouvé que le spice prenait parfois trop de place, notamment avec plusieurs chapitres consécutifs qui n’apportaient pas grand-chose à l’avancement de l’histoire.
Cela dit, j’ai beaucoup aimé l’introspection de Brody. Son côté grumpy fonctionne bien avec la personnalité sunshine de Lark, et j’ai apprécié la façon dont il prend soin d’elle. Le fond de l’histoire est bon, même si l’exécution m’a un peu moins convaincue.
Merci à Hambright PR et à l’auteure pour la copie ARC.
December 15, 2025
Insta attraction
Dual pov
Steamy
"I can’t remember feeling this alive before in someone else’s presence."
Dual pov
Steamy
"I can’t remember feeling this alive before in someone else’s presence."
dnfs
December 17, 2025I will not rate it because I DNF’d at 60%
Only 1 word - “slurped”
*cringe*
Only 1 word - “slurped”
*cringe*
December 5, 2025
BETA review
5⭐|4🌶|24%🌶frequency
You can bet, when I see a new book coming from Laxmi, I'm already super excited. This is her 32nd book, 4 series (prequels not included), and I've read and loved every single one.
It's also the last one in the Davenport series 🥺 But every Davenport is married now, thanks to Arther, the head of the family 😁
Brody is a typical Davenport 😎 Broody 😉, grumpy, alphahole, dominant,... You name it, he is it. And he is an absolute Grinch! And I think you can already guess it, Lark is a Christmas junkie, a Christmas groupie, however you want to name it 😁
Brody also has problems admitting his feelings. Especially when it comes to Lark. Who, btw, knows how to get under his skin 😉
Is he the one who falls in love first? Absolutely! But as I said, he would NEVER admit it 😖 These damnit Davenports 🙈 They really are all the same! Possessive as f, but admitting their love, NOOOO. Luckily, Arthur and Tiny know what to do. Because the Great Dane loves to matchmake as much as Arthur does 😁
One thing is for sure, I could never decide on just one of the Davenports. I would need to have a harem with all 7 😎 On second thought, 7 doms? 😱 My poor body 🤣
You know me, you'll never get a traditional review from me. But you will always get an honest one.
So, even though I haven't said much about something deeper, you hopefully get how much I enjoyed the book 🩷
And you can bet you 🍑 on it, I'm already super excited to read the next book. The Hamiltons get their own series, and it will start with Chef James. And I have a very strong feeling the head of the Hamiltons has a lot in common with the head of the Davenports 😉
One last thing...
Don't wait! Go and read Laxmi's books!!! If you love alphaholes, billionaires, doms 😎
Thanks to the author for trusting me with a BETA🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
5⭐|4🌶|24%🌶frequency
You can bet, when I see a new book coming from Laxmi, I'm already super excited. This is her 32nd book, 4 series (prequels not included), and I've read and loved every single one.
It's also the last one in the Davenport series 🥺 But every Davenport is married now, thanks to Arther, the head of the family 😁
Brody is a typical Davenport 😎 Broody 😉, grumpy, alphahole, dominant,... You name it, he is it. And he is an absolute Grinch! And I think you can already guess it, Lark is a Christmas junkie, a Christmas groupie, however you want to name it 😁
Brody also has problems admitting his feelings. Especially when it comes to Lark. Who, btw, knows how to get under his skin 😉
Is he the one who falls in love first? Absolutely! But as I said, he would NEVER admit it 😖 These damnit Davenports 🙈 They really are all the same! Possessive as f, but admitting their love, NOOOO. Luckily, Arthur and Tiny know what to do. Because the Great Dane loves to matchmake as much as Arthur does 😁
One thing is for sure, I could never decide on just one of the Davenports. I would need to have a harem with all 7 😎 On second thought, 7 doms? 😱 My poor body 🤣
You know me, you'll never get a traditional review from me. But you will always get an honest one.
So, even though I haven't said much about something deeper, you hopefully get how much I enjoyed the book 🩷
And you can bet you 🍑 on it, I'm already super excited to read the next book. The Hamiltons get their own series, and it will start with Chef James. And I have a very strong feeling the head of the Hamiltons has a lot in common with the head of the Davenports 😉
One last thing...
Don't wait! Go and read Laxmi's books!!! If you love alphaholes, billionaires, doms 😎
Thanks to the author for trusting me with a BETA🩷
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
December 9, 2025
The final book in the Davenport series starts off with a strong immediate attraction between Brody and Lark when she interviews to be his Executive Assistant.
The first 40% of the book is focused on Lark settling into her new role as Brody’s EA and kicking butt with each additional responsibility he puts on her plate. While surpassing his expectations at Davenport Capital, Lark is also coordinating her upcoming wedding to her fiancé, Keith, who has been traveling for work and barely in contact with her.
When Keith shows up at Lark’s office and tells her he thinks they should break up Brody steps forward and asks her to marry him. Brody has a deadline to get married by year-end to claim his inheritance.
Once married, the story shifts to Brody and Lark exploring their physical relationship and it is spicy! The last 50% of the book is nearly all spice and them figuring out their feelings for each other. I like spicy books, but the storyline pretty much falls to the wayside while they explore every spicy combination possible.
I finished the book, but ended up skimming a good portion of the last 30% of the book. This was a strong 3.5 stars which I rounded up to 4 stars.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
The first 40% of the book is focused on Lark settling into her new role as Brody’s EA and kicking butt with each additional responsibility he puts on her plate. While surpassing his expectations at Davenport Capital, Lark is also coordinating her upcoming wedding to her fiancé, Keith, who has been traveling for work and barely in contact with her.
When Keith shows up at Lark’s office and tells her he thinks they should break up Brody steps forward and asks her to marry him. Brody has a deadline to get married by year-end to claim his inheritance.
Once married, the story shifts to Brody and Lark exploring their physical relationship and it is spicy! The last 50% of the book is nearly all spice and them figuring out their feelings for each other. I like spicy books, but the storyline pretty much falls to the wayside while they explore every spicy combination possible.
I finished the book, but ended up skimming a good portion of the last 30% of the book. This was a strong 3.5 stars which I rounded up to 4 stars.
I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
December 13, 2025
⭐️4🌶️3💧0
Entertaining read. Marriage of convenience billionaire boss and spice? Sign me up. I quite enjoy these Davenport men. Bring on the next one!
#smutreader #darkromancereader #steamybooks #bookrecs #steamyreads #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
Entertaining read. Marriage of convenience billionaire boss and spice? Sign me up. I quite enjoy these Davenport men. Bring on the next one!
#smutreader #darkromancereader #steamybooks #bookrecs #steamyreads #audiobook #bookaholic #readingtime #bookshelf #instabooks #bookblogger #bookreview #booktok #reading #booklover #bookworm #booknerd #goodreads #aussiebookstagrammers #aussies #australianreaders #bookstagram #bookstagrammer #readersofinstagram #instabook #booksofinstagram #booksarelife #spicybooklover
December 10, 2025
⭐️3 ARC review
I had high hopes for this one, especially as I am a sucker for marriage of convenience, but I just couldn’t fully get into it.
The start was very interesting and pulled me in. When we meet Lark she is a badass woman on a mission to give herself the career she’s always wanted. She wants to make CEO and run a successful company, but it also only feels like she’s doing it to prove that she can. She is a complete people pleaser and seems to want to prove to her mother than she can have it all one day - the career, the husband, the family… only her fiancé is a knob, her boss is an ass, and her ideals about running a company and being mother of the year are far fetched.
Brody at first is the bosshole from hell. The start gave me ‘Devil Wears Prada’ vibes - when Andrea is given every difficult to do task in a minuscule timeframe. I actually liked this and wanted to see the sparks fly when they butt heads over it - but alas, we skipped over that part. I wanted the bickering to add to the tension but it never came.
I found it sometimes a little hard to follow - things felt like they were in the wrong place or like little details had been forgotten. The second half of the book was too spicy for my taste. We go from plot to not so fast, and although it was all well written, it was just a little too much for me.
I think the writing here is actually really good, but the plot felt lost and the spice was too much for me personally. It ended up feeling stuck to me, and I really wanted to love it! Overall, not one for me but I know lots of readers will love this.
I had high hopes for this one, especially as I am a sucker for marriage of convenience, but I just couldn’t fully get into it.
The start was very interesting and pulled me in. When we meet Lark she is a badass woman on a mission to give herself the career she’s always wanted. She wants to make CEO and run a successful company, but it also only feels like she’s doing it to prove that she can. She is a complete people pleaser and seems to want to prove to her mother than she can have it all one day - the career, the husband, the family… only her fiancé is a knob, her boss is an ass, and her ideals about running a company and being mother of the year are far fetched.
Brody at first is the bosshole from hell. The start gave me ‘Devil Wears Prada’ vibes - when Andrea is given every difficult to do task in a minuscule timeframe. I actually liked this and wanted to see the sparks fly when they butt heads over it - but alas, we skipped over that part. I wanted the bickering to add to the tension but it never came.
I found it sometimes a little hard to follow - things felt like they were in the wrong place or like little details had been forgotten. The second half of the book was too spicy for my taste. We go from plot to not so fast, and although it was all well written, it was just a little too much for me.
I think the writing here is actually really good, but the plot felt lost and the spice was too much for me personally. It ended up feeling stuck to me, and I really wanted to love it! Overall, not one for me but I know lots of readers will love this.
December 9, 2025
This book had great premises! I mean—billionaire romance with marriage if convenience and grumpy/sunshine? Yes please. The first half of the book was really good! The slow burn, the arrangement, etc. But the second half was mainly smut and too spicy for me. It was interesting, I enjoyed the ride, but won't read another book by this author 🥴
Lark just got dumped by her dumb fiancé. To save her from humiliation, her boss steps in and propose to her. The wedding is in three weeks. It also helps that she's his EA, and that he's looking for a successor to take on his CEO role. Will the Grinch and Mrs. Christmas get along enough to make this arrangement work? Especially since their chemistry is off the charts...
Quotes out of context:
🎄 I could do worse than marry her, but I don't think I can do better.
✨ "You act like you're a ruthless, untouchable, grouch-face. But underneath? You're a teddy bear."
Tropes include:
🎄 Marriage of convenience ✨ Workplace romance 🎄 Grumpy x Sunshine ✨ Christmas 🎄 Kïnky b0ndage ✨ Dom/sub 🎄 A grandpa matchmaker
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Lark just got dumped by her dumb fiancé. To save her from humiliation, her boss steps in and propose to her. The wedding is in three weeks. It also helps that she's his EA, and that he's looking for a successor to take on his CEO role. Will the Grinch and Mrs. Christmas get along enough to make this arrangement work? Especially since their chemistry is off the charts...
Quotes out of context:
🎄 I could do worse than marry her, but I don't think I can do better.
✨ "You act like you're a ruthless, untouchable, grouch-face. But underneath? You're a teddy bear."
Tropes include:
🎄 Marriage of convenience ✨ Workplace romance 🎄 Grumpy x Sunshine ✨ Christmas 🎄 Kïnky b0ndage ✨ Dom/sub 🎄 A grandpa matchmaker
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
December 17, 2025
Boy. He’s a dick. And I can’t stand it. It’s like this constants bossy bully trope but she likes it. But I don’t. So I can’t stand the MMC.
Read
December 18, 2025DNF at 73%. I didn’t hate it, I just had zero desire to see how it ended bc the MMC was the worst. Counting it towards my reads bc I was 3/4 in😂
December 31, 2025
✨ Thank you to L. Steele and Hambright PR for the eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. ✨
How does L. Steele keep the Davenport family feeling so fresh and exciting? The Christmas Trap isn’t your average marriage-of-convenience story—it’s a whirlwind romance featuring a grumpy billionaire hero and an ambitious, capable heroine.
Lark lands the Executive Assistant position to Brody Davenport and quickly realizes she’s overqualified given her education and background—but she views the role as a stepping stone to build her executive experience. Brody embodies peak grumpiness, especially around the holidays. A quick study, Lark soon begins implementing improvements that positively engage employees across the company.
When Brody is required by his grandfather to name a successor, Lark’s confidence and professionalism—especially during board interactions—make his decision clear. As their professional relationship deepens, Lark and Brody’s connection naturally evolves from colleagues to friends to lovers, particularly after Lark’s fiancé abruptly ends their engagement. What neither of them realizes is that they may be pawns in someone else’s grand plan all along.
Read this if you enjoy warm, heartfelt stories about emotional healing after heartbreak, slow-burn romance, marriage of convenience, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer.
#HPRTheChristmasTrap #LSteele #HambrightPR #BookReview #HolidayRomance
How does L. Steele keep the Davenport family feeling so fresh and exciting? The Christmas Trap isn’t your average marriage-of-convenience story—it’s a whirlwind romance featuring a grumpy billionaire hero and an ambitious, capable heroine.
Lark lands the Executive Assistant position to Brody Davenport and quickly realizes she’s overqualified given her education and background—but she views the role as a stepping stone to build her executive experience. Brody embodies peak grumpiness, especially around the holidays. A quick study, Lark soon begins implementing improvements that positively engage employees across the company.
When Brody is required by his grandfather to name a successor, Lark’s confidence and professionalism—especially during board interactions—make his decision clear. As their professional relationship deepens, Lark and Brody’s connection naturally evolves from colleagues to friends to lovers, particularly after Lark’s fiancé abruptly ends their engagement. What neither of them realizes is that they may be pawns in someone else’s grand plan all along.
Read this if you enjoy warm, heartfelt stories about emotional healing after heartbreak, slow-burn romance, marriage of convenience, and a sprinkle of holiday cheer.
#HPRTheChristmasTrap #LSteele #HambrightPR #BookReview #HolidayRomance
December 9, 2025
Another great Davenport sibling story. Lark is trying to plan her wedding to her fiance who is always working. She finds herself interviewing with a Davenport for an EA job which she feels she is very much qualified for, now to convey that to Brody Davenport. Brody is the last single Davenport, and their grandfather as usual has his plans for that to change. This story is truly fun to read, full of flirty, definitely grumpy Christmas bah humbug Brody, and the never ending pushback with his typical CEO boss type behavior. Enjoy their banter, and see who Grandpa Author sets his sights on for his new bride, loving the antics!
December 10, 2025
The Christmas Trap by L. Steele is a marriage of convenience billionaire romance packed with well-developed characters, undeniable chemistry, witty banter, and plenty of spice.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
I volunteered to read an advance copy of this book.
December 12, 2025
Really enjoyed Brody and Lark’s Christmas romance story. A fun, cute spicy coming together. Two wonderful characters both strong willed though Brody has some issues. Determined, strong Alpha with a woman as determined and strong as he is makes for a great story.
December 9, 2025
I was lucky to read an advanced copy and finished it so quickly. I found this to be a sweet romance and great read. Since they first meet, The chemistry between them is strong. Lark finds Brody to be everything her ex was not. The way he challenges her and supports her through her role at the Davenport Company shows her he is seeing who she is and wants what is best.
Something about the Davenport men, cannot choose which is my favorite.
Don’t miss out, this is a must read.
Something about the Davenport men, cannot choose which is my favorite.
Don’t miss out, this is a must read.
January 21, 2026
little repetitive. felt like Brody didnt have actual character development. Just snapped his fingers and he switched it up
December 10, 2025
This one was cute!
Marriage of convenience, alpha hole, billionaire.
Lark and Brody’s connection was SO good. I loved the snowed in trope too. So cute!
Marriage of convenience, alpha hole, billionaire.
Lark and Brody’s connection was SO good. I loved the snowed in trope too. So cute!
December 9, 2025
The Christmas Trap is the perfect fireside read this holiday season. A merry, spicy Christmas romance with tropes you’ll love. I absolutely love Brody & Lark’s story. Lark’s character is smart, witty and brimming with Christmas spirit and I love it. Brody is grumpy and guarded with no Christmas vibes but you won’t be able to not love him anyway. I loved the supporting characters including Grandpa Author and Tiny the Great Dane,as each character added more entertainment. I relished the banter between Brody and Lark. I highly recommend this book and the series, not to be missed.
December 21, 2025
This book has all the right tropes for me! Fake dating, being snowed into forced proximity, and then real feelings start to develop....chef's kiss 💋
December 12, 2025
His Very Own CEO!
This story was heart-wrenching in away,Brody's heart was broke when he was a child and he never let a women close to open it up or many break the hard shell .Along comes Lark,she has a zing for life,she knows what she wants from life and not afraid to go out there and get it until she steps in front of Brody.Her favorite holiday is Christmas, his is being by his self,no cheer,no decorations, no nothing! But he see's something in Lark when she interviews for a position in his company, he puts her thru many paces and each time she doesn't fail but she shines.She isn't afraid to ask questions, so there is one question! Why does he hate Christmas so much and could she hang up a few decorations to boost up the morale in the office,answer NO! But he changes his mind when he sees that she might of been right.Arthur his grandfather let's him know if he wants his inheritance he has to marry by the end of year,Arthur runs into Lark while he is in the office,he says she would be right for Brody,she says she is engaged and will soon marry.Brody didn't know she was engaged, no ring.Lark is out to prove she can handle anything her boss throws at her and plan a wedding to,but the bride groom is a no show until one day he shows up in her office and breaks up with her almost right in front of Brody,he helps Lark save face with her friends and family by marrying her,he tells her it would please Arthur,get his inheritance and it would save face,she ask questions, she thinks about it,she does care about him.She gets her dreams,like wedding dress that she pick out but couldn't afford it a Karma orginal.She is falling more in love with him after the wedding but his heart is still a solid wall,until a few things happen,many talks with his wife for one,a near mishap on the helicopter another and maybe he can say the words I Love You!This story is like a fairy tale in a way,but the princess saves the prince,it has it strong points,the crying points when Brody tells Lark why he doesn't feel love and the best part is when you feel his walls crumble and he opens up and said the words I Love You Lark! This story is worth more than five stars,it has passion,Lark has compassion,isn't a wall flower but a go getter,she gets the job she always wanted and the prince too!(I love the little hints about Karma and Michael and it would be a nice story but my heart couldn't take it again if that family is hit with more heart ache!)
This story was heart-wrenching in away,Brody's heart was broke when he was a child and he never let a women close to open it up or many break the hard shell .Along comes Lark,she has a zing for life,she knows what she wants from life and not afraid to go out there and get it until she steps in front of Brody.Her favorite holiday is Christmas, his is being by his self,no cheer,no decorations, no nothing! But he see's something in Lark when she interviews for a position in his company, he puts her thru many paces and each time she doesn't fail but she shines.She isn't afraid to ask questions, so there is one question! Why does he hate Christmas so much and could she hang up a few decorations to boost up the morale in the office,answer NO! But he changes his mind when he sees that she might of been right.Arthur his grandfather let's him know if he wants his inheritance he has to marry by the end of year,Arthur runs into Lark while he is in the office,he says she would be right for Brody,she says she is engaged and will soon marry.Brody didn't know she was engaged, no ring.Lark is out to prove she can handle anything her boss throws at her and plan a wedding to,but the bride groom is a no show until one day he shows up in her office and breaks up with her almost right in front of Brody,he helps Lark save face with her friends and family by marrying her,he tells her it would please Arthur,get his inheritance and it would save face,she ask questions, she thinks about it,she does care about him.She gets her dreams,like wedding dress that she pick out but couldn't afford it a Karma orginal.She is falling more in love with him after the wedding but his heart is still a solid wall,until a few things happen,many talks with his wife for one,a near mishap on the helicopter another and maybe he can say the words I Love You!This story is like a fairy tale in a way,but the princess saves the prince,it has it strong points,the crying points when Brody tells Lark why he doesn't feel love and the best part is when you feel his walls crumble and he opens up and said the words I Love You Lark! This story is worth more than five stars,it has passion,Lark has compassion,isn't a wall flower but a go getter,she gets the job she always wanted and the prince too!(I love the little hints about Karma and Michael and it would be a nice story but my heart couldn't take it again if that family is hit with more heart ache!)
December 11, 2025
The Christmas Trap delivers a delicious blend of holiday warmth, corporate tension, and irresistible chemistry.
Lark is interviewing to be the executive assistant to Brody Davenport, the demanding CEO of Davenport Capital. From the moment they meet, sparks fly, although Lark is a Christmas-obsessed spreadsheet queen who’s engaged and getting married in just four weeks. She’s juggling the pressures of supporting her family, planning a wedding she’s paying for entirely, and trying to convince herself her absentee fiancé Keith is “just busy.”
Brody, on the other hand, is the embodiment of the anti-Christmas CEO: cold, stern, no decorations, no holiday spirit, no exceptions. Yet he can’t ignore the fire Lark brings into every room. As her boss, he pushes her hard, handing her impossible tasks, including running a full board meeting, and Lark proves she’s far more than just an assistant. She wants to be a CEO one day, and she has the determination to match.
But Brody has a deadline of his own: he must marry before year-end to inherit his trust fund.
Two weeks before the wedding, Keith shows up only to confess he’s been having an affair, with one of her bridesmaids. Heartbroken and humiliated, Lark barely has time to breathe before Brody steps in with a proposal of his own: marry him instead.
Reluctant but drawn to him, Lark agrees, and from there, everything changes. Brody’s icy walls start to melt as he and Lark collide in every possible way. Their chemistry is electric, their dynamic charged with dominance and submission, and the spice is intense. But Brody has spent his entire life avoiding love. The feelings Lark awakens in him terrify him more than any business deal ever could.
Together, they push each other to grow, Lark bringing warmth into Brody’s life, and Brody showing Lark her own strength. Slowly, Brody finds himself drawn into the very holiday he once hated… and into the woman he never expected to need.
A Christmas romance packed with heat, heart, and emotional evolution, this is a perfect pick for readers who love grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and a hero who falls hard even when he refuses to admit it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
♦️BDSM
♦️grumpy/sunshine
♦️opposites attract
♦️fake Marriage
♦️billionaire boos/assistant
♦️One Bed
Lark is interviewing to be the executive assistant to Brody Davenport, the demanding CEO of Davenport Capital. From the moment they meet, sparks fly, although Lark is a Christmas-obsessed spreadsheet queen who’s engaged and getting married in just four weeks. She’s juggling the pressures of supporting her family, planning a wedding she’s paying for entirely, and trying to convince herself her absentee fiancé Keith is “just busy.”
Brody, on the other hand, is the embodiment of the anti-Christmas CEO: cold, stern, no decorations, no holiday spirit, no exceptions. Yet he can’t ignore the fire Lark brings into every room. As her boss, he pushes her hard, handing her impossible tasks, including running a full board meeting, and Lark proves she’s far more than just an assistant. She wants to be a CEO one day, and she has the determination to match.
But Brody has a deadline of his own: he must marry before year-end to inherit his trust fund.
Two weeks before the wedding, Keith shows up only to confess he’s been having an affair, with one of her bridesmaids. Heartbroken and humiliated, Lark barely has time to breathe before Brody steps in with a proposal of his own: marry him instead.
Reluctant but drawn to him, Lark agrees, and from there, everything changes. Brody’s icy walls start to melt as he and Lark collide in every possible way. Their chemistry is electric, their dynamic charged with dominance and submission, and the spice is intense. But Brody has spent his entire life avoiding love. The feelings Lark awakens in him terrify him more than any business deal ever could.
Together, they push each other to grow, Lark bringing warmth into Brody’s life, and Brody showing Lark her own strength. Slowly, Brody finds himself drawn into the very holiday he once hated… and into the woman he never expected to need.
A Christmas romance packed with heat, heart, and emotional evolution, this is a perfect pick for readers who love grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, and a hero who falls hard even when he refuses to admit it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
♦️BDSM
♦️grumpy/sunshine
♦️opposites attract
♦️fake Marriage
♦️billionaire boos/assistant
♦️One Bed
December 9, 2025
✦ 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 4.5✨
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - December 9, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• billionaire x assistant
• fake marriage → real love
• forced proximity
• jealous & possessive hero
• snowed-in holiday vibes
• one bed energy
• touch her & die
• spicy married life
• protective MMC
• office tension
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Brody Davenport has officially taken the crown of the most deliciously possessive hero of the year and I am not even kidding. The way he watches Lark like she is the only thing that matters to him made my heart race the entire time. Lark is soft but strong, career-focused, and just trying to build the life she deserves. Their connection sparks from the very beginning and once the forced proximity hits, it turns into pure fire.
I loved how their fake marriage slowly shifted into something real through stolen glances, accidental touches, and moments where Brody simply cannot control how much he wants her. The workplace romance is unmatched here, especially when your boss makes it very clear that his assistant is now also his wife and he is never letting her go. It is intense in the best way.
The Christmas setting adds so much warmth. Snow, cabin coziness, twinkling lights, a giant dog crashing wedding plans, and two people realizing that love sometimes arrives like a beautiful holiday surprise. The chemistry between them is addictive. Every scene feels like a build-up to a moment that’s going to completely ruin your sanity in the most romantic way.
This story has heart, spice, drama, jealousy and a hero who shows love through actions not words. Watching Brody fall harder every day is my new favorite thing. I genuinely enjoyed how Lark finds comfort and confidence in a relationship that was never supposed to be real. Their journey from a deal to devotion was magical.
If you want a book that wraps you in holiday romance and leaves you blushing at 2 a.m. then this is the one. I am already counting down for more from this series because I need more Davenport chaos immediately.
Thank you so much author for the free ARC! 🤍🎄✨
✦ 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 - December 9, 2025
✦ 𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 -
• billionaire x assistant
• fake marriage → real love
• forced proximity
• jealous & possessive hero
• snowed-in holiday vibes
• one bed energy
• touch her & die
• spicy married life
• protective MMC
• office tension
✦ 𝐌𝐲 𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 -
Brody Davenport has officially taken the crown of the most deliciously possessive hero of the year and I am not even kidding. The way he watches Lark like she is the only thing that matters to him made my heart race the entire time. Lark is soft but strong, career-focused, and just trying to build the life she deserves. Their connection sparks from the very beginning and once the forced proximity hits, it turns into pure fire.
I loved how their fake marriage slowly shifted into something real through stolen glances, accidental touches, and moments where Brody simply cannot control how much he wants her. The workplace romance is unmatched here, especially when your boss makes it very clear that his assistant is now also his wife and he is never letting her go. It is intense in the best way.
The Christmas setting adds so much warmth. Snow, cabin coziness, twinkling lights, a giant dog crashing wedding plans, and two people realizing that love sometimes arrives like a beautiful holiday surprise. The chemistry between them is addictive. Every scene feels like a build-up to a moment that’s going to completely ruin your sanity in the most romantic way.
This story has heart, spice, drama, jealousy and a hero who shows love through actions not words. Watching Brody fall harder every day is my new favorite thing. I genuinely enjoyed how Lark finds comfort and confidence in a relationship that was never supposed to be real. Their journey from a deal to devotion was magical.
If you want a book that wraps you in holiday romance and leaves you blushing at 2 a.m. then this is the one. I am already counting down for more from this series because I need more Davenport chaos immediately.
Thank you so much author for the free ARC! 🤍🎄✨
Read
December 10, 2025This is a fabulously entertaining and spicy grumpy/sunshine, marriage of convenience romance. Brody hires Lark to be his new executive assistant and hopefully his replacement in the near future. Lark is confident, ambitious, and driven, with superior organization skills and nerves of steel. She takes everything he throws at her and maintains her calm and efficient demeanour. No matter what the test, she surpasses his expectations. Both are aware of the attraction and sparks between them, though neither acts on them. Brody is the last bachelor standing among his siblings, though he has agreed to allow his grandfather to pick his prospective bride. Just one little glitch with that. The woman his grandfather has picked for him is Lark, and she is already engaged to another man.
As it turns out, that problem becomes moot when Lark’s fiancé shows up to break off their engagement just weeks before their wedding, in front of Brody, no less. It gives Brody the opportunity to propose a marriage of convenience that will benefit them both. Lark eventually agrees, and Brody sets everything in motion. Brody never counts on falling for Lark, feeling this all consuming need to possess, protect and safeguard her at all costs. He is ready to retreat, but his take-no-prisoners and very determined new wife is not about to allow that. She is a woman who isn’t afraid to push back and stand up to him, but is also willing to follow his lead in more intimate situations. She is his perfect match.
I enjoyed the banter, the battle of wills and the sizzle between them. I loved that Lark was strong, ambitious and very capable. Even more so, I loved that Brody pushed and encouraged her because he truly believed in her capabilities. He wasn’t at all threatened by her skills, just by the strong emotions she inspired in him. I loved the conversations Brody had with his grandfather too. They were heartwarming and insightful. This exceptional book has my heartfelt recommendation.
As it turns out, that problem becomes moot when Lark’s fiancé shows up to break off their engagement just weeks before their wedding, in front of Brody, no less. It gives Brody the opportunity to propose a marriage of convenience that will benefit them both. Lark eventually agrees, and Brody sets everything in motion. Brody never counts on falling for Lark, feeling this all consuming need to possess, protect and safeguard her at all costs. He is ready to retreat, but his take-no-prisoners and very determined new wife is not about to allow that. She is a woman who isn’t afraid to push back and stand up to him, but is also willing to follow his lead in more intimate situations. She is his perfect match.
I enjoyed the banter, the battle of wills and the sizzle between them. I loved that Lark was strong, ambitious and very capable. Even more so, I loved that Brody pushed and encouraged her because he truly believed in her capabilities. He wasn’t at all threatened by her skills, just by the strong emotions she inspired in him. I loved the conversations Brody had with his grandfather too. They were heartwarming and insightful. This exceptional book has my heartfelt recommendation.
December 22, 2025
This was such a great Christmas read. There’s just something about a big ol’ grumpy billionaire discovering the true meaning of Christmas thanks to a holiday-obsessed sweetheart that always puts me in the festive spirit.
Brody has no time for Christmas, and he definitely isn’t expecting Lark, the woman interviewing for the EA role to show up wearing a seasonal sweater. Unfortunately for him, she’s quite impressive. Beyond her love of Christmas and questionable workwear, she’s exactly what he needs. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the more he looks at her, the harder it becomes to look away.
Hiring her is absolutely the right move. She’s smart, determined, and unfaltering, and she meets him toe to toe. But she’s also a distraction his head and his heart weren’t prepared for. Just weeks before her wedding, her cheating fiancé ends things. Brody steps in with a proposal of his own. He happens to need a wife, and he is about to make her his. Suddenly, Christmas magic feels a little more real.
This was the perfect billionaire Christmas romance. Brody needs a wife to access his trust fund, while Lark gets to save face and even step into his role as CEO. Their dynamic was everything. The instant attraction between them was undeniable, and there was just no hiding it.
Lark was such a standout FMC: spirited, brilliant, and tenacious. She knew exactly who she was and where she was going. Even when she hit a few bumps along the way thanks to Brody, she never lost her footing. What I loved most was that she challenged him and called him out on his s*it. It left this emotionally unavailable billionaire completely overwhelmed by unfamiliar feelings of possession, fear, and of course, love. Something he never thought possible and resisted every step of the way.
Their relationship moved at superspeed, yet it never felt rushed or unbelievable. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and the spice delivered. The use of silken rope added an intriguing layer to their dynamic without overpowering the story.
Overall, it was an all-around banger.
Brody has no time for Christmas, and he definitely isn’t expecting Lark, the woman interviewing for the EA role to show up wearing a seasonal sweater. Unfortunately for him, she’s quite impressive. Beyond her love of Christmas and questionable workwear, she’s exactly what he needs. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the more he looks at her, the harder it becomes to look away.
Hiring her is absolutely the right move. She’s smart, determined, and unfaltering, and she meets him toe to toe. But she’s also a distraction his head and his heart weren’t prepared for. Just weeks before her wedding, her cheating fiancé ends things. Brody steps in with a proposal of his own. He happens to need a wife, and he is about to make her his. Suddenly, Christmas magic feels a little more real.
This was the perfect billionaire Christmas romance. Brody needs a wife to access his trust fund, while Lark gets to save face and even step into his role as CEO. Their dynamic was everything. The instant attraction between them was undeniable, and there was just no hiding it.
Lark was such a standout FMC: spirited, brilliant, and tenacious. She knew exactly who she was and where she was going. Even when she hit a few bumps along the way thanks to Brody, she never lost her footing. What I loved most was that she challenged him and called him out on his s*it. It left this emotionally unavailable billionaire completely overwhelmed by unfamiliar feelings of possession, fear, and of course, love. Something he never thought possible and resisted every step of the way.
Their relationship moved at superspeed, yet it never felt rushed or unbelievable. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and the spice delivered. The use of silken rope added an intriguing layer to their dynamic without overpowering the story.
Overall, it was an all-around banger.
January 5, 2026
This book started out so good with an American girl (Lark Monroe) fresh out of her London Business MBA landing the dream job she had worked hard for. She realizes her hot new boss (Brody Davenport) is making her think dirty thoughts she shouldn’t be having because she is engaged. She hasn’t see Keith, the finance in months. He is traveling with his job and hasn’t called but she has been so busy with her amazing new job, it doesn’t bother her too much until it does. Then, the fiancé shows up and breaks things off. Her boss, Brody, hears the whole conversation and rushes in to help her save face. Lark is now single and Brody is moving in for the opportunity.
They decide to get married and keep the plans for the wedding happening in less than 2 weeks to avoid the embarrassment of telling her friends and family what really happened. The boss (Brody) stands to inherit a large sum of money if he marries before the end of the year. So, it’s a win-win for them both. It helps that they are attracted to each other and have felt sparks but have not acted on them out of respect. Brody gives her everything she ever wanted in a dream wedding and offers her the CEO position to his company and more. She feels like she is the luckiest woman on earth with everything she has ever wanted.
Then, the book takes a turn. It was super spicy. It was wonderful to see them marry and really develop feelings but I was not expecting some of the stuff I read. Talk about Fifty Shades of Grey dominate and sub stuff, bondage and too many rules for my tastes. She goes from power hungry CEO to submissive sex slave. It was dumb. Sorry, I said it. Also, women don’t have a prostate so we don’t have a p -spot, her ring was emerald not diamond. Just sloppy.
I have not read the earlier books and assume the Davenport boys all have their own books. This was advertised on FB and sounded like a fun Christmas romance. I need a shower. Wow.
They decide to get married and keep the plans for the wedding happening in less than 2 weeks to avoid the embarrassment of telling her friends and family what really happened. The boss (Brody) stands to inherit a large sum of money if he marries before the end of the year. So, it’s a win-win for them both. It helps that they are attracted to each other and have felt sparks but have not acted on them out of respect. Brody gives her everything she ever wanted in a dream wedding and offers her the CEO position to his company and more. She feels like she is the luckiest woman on earth with everything she has ever wanted.
Then, the book takes a turn. It was super spicy. It was wonderful to see them marry and really develop feelings but I was not expecting some of the stuff I read. Talk about Fifty Shades of Grey dominate and sub stuff, bondage and too many rules for my tastes. She goes from power hungry CEO to submissive sex slave. It was dumb. Sorry, I said it. Also, women don’t have a prostate so we don’t have a p -spot, her ring was emerald not diamond. Just sloppy.
I have not read the earlier books and assume the Davenport boys all have their own books. This was advertised on FB and sounded like a fun Christmas romance. I need a shower. Wow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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