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Allure
One dress. One deal. One unexpected baby.
Matteo
When Ellory Matisse—heir to one of the most prestigious jewelry houses in the world—secretly buys a showstopping gown with our diamonds, I know we have the start of something extraordinary.
She’s gorgeous, brilliant, and impossible to read… until fate throws us together again in San Francisco. This time, I’m not walking away.
Then a baby shows up at my door—my baby—and my world tilts. I’m juggling midnight feedings, billion-dollar deals, and a woman who’s making me believe in forever.
Ellory
Matteo Marino was supposed to be a business move—one that could push Olivier into the next era of luxury. I didn’t expect him to be charming, infuriating, and very, very tempting.
Then I see him again… with a baby strapped to his chest. And against all my better judgment, I start falling for a man who’s clearly in over his head—but who might just be everything I didn’t know I needed.
Our families are rivals. Our work is high stakes. And one wrong move could cost us everything.
Allure is a sizzling billionaire romance featuring high fashion, scandalous secrets, and a baby twist that will melt your heart. It follows Spark as the second book in the Lust & Luster series
What you can expect from Allure:
Billionaire hero with a surprise babyHeir-to-the-throne heroine in the luxury jewelry worldRivals-to-romance tensionHigh fashion meets high heatFound family moments that will make you swoonSan Francisco & Paris glamour
Matteo
When Ellory Matisse—heir to one of the most prestigious jewelry houses in the world—secretly buys a showstopping gown with our diamonds, I know we have the start of something extraordinary.
She’s gorgeous, brilliant, and impossible to read… until fate throws us together again in San Francisco. This time, I’m not walking away.
Then a baby shows up at my door—my baby—and my world tilts. I’m juggling midnight feedings, billion-dollar deals, and a woman who’s making me believe in forever.
Ellory
Matteo Marino was supposed to be a business move—one that could push Olivier into the next era of luxury. I didn’t expect him to be charming, infuriating, and very, very tempting.
Then I see him again… with a baby strapped to his chest. And against all my better judgment, I start falling for a man who’s clearly in over his head—but who might just be everything I didn’t know I needed.
Our families are rivals. Our work is high stakes. And one wrong move could cost us everything.
Allure is a sizzling billionaire romance featuring high fashion, scandalous secrets, and a baby twist that will melt your heart. It follows Spark as the second book in the Lust & Luster series
What you can expect from Allure:
Billionaire hero with a surprise babyHeir-to-the-throne heroine in the luxury jewelry worldRivals-to-romance tensionHigh fashion meets high heatFound family moments that will make you swoonSan Francisco & Paris glamour
379 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 22, 2025
107 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Ainsley St. Claire
46 books254 followersAinsley St Claire is a Romantic Suspense Contemporary Romance Author and Adventurer on a lifelong mission to craft sultry storylines and steamy love scenes that captivate her readers.
An avid reader since the age of four, Ainsley’s love of books knew no genre. After reading, came her love of writing, fully immersing herself in the colorful, impassioned world of contemporary romance.
When she isn’t being a bookworm or typing away her next story on her computer, Ainsley enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones. She is happily married to her incredible soulmate and is a proud mother of two rambunctious boys. A scotch aficionada and lover of good food (especially melt-in-your-mouth, velvety chocolate) St Claire has an appreciation for the finer things without pretention. Travel and adventure have taken her around the world, getting inspiration for many of her stories from the characters she meets and observes along the way.
To find out more about Ainsley St Claire both creatively and personally, feel free to visit her official website at www.ainsleystclaire.com or follow her on social media (@ainsleystclaire). St Claire always loves to hear from her readers so feel free to reach out via ainsley@ainsleystclaire.com
An avid reader since the age of four, Ainsley’s love of books knew no genre. After reading, came her love of writing, fully immersing herself in the colorful, impassioned world of contemporary romance.
When she isn’t being a bookworm or typing away her next story on her computer, Ainsley enjoys spending quality time with her loved ones. She is happily married to her incredible soulmate and is a proud mother of two rambunctious boys. A scotch aficionada and lover of good food (especially melt-in-your-mouth, velvety chocolate) St Claire has an appreciation for the finer things without pretention. Travel and adventure have taken her around the world, getting inspiration for many of her stories from the characters she meets and observes along the way.
To find out more about Ainsley St Claire both creatively and personally, feel free to visit her official website at www.ainsleystclaire.com or follow her on social media (@ainsleystclaire). St Claire always loves to hear from her readers so feel free to reach out via ainsley@ainsleystclaire.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 15, 2025
This was the page turner I needed! After we briefly met Dante Marino in the series beginner, "Spark," this story focuses on brother Matteo Marino, who with his three brothers and one sister, run the company "Luster." They own a diamond mine and attempt to partner with a renowned jeweler, Ellory Matisse to create a new line of jewelry to move both companies forward in the future. Both Matteo and Ellory have forces behind the scenes trying to take them down. Matteo discovers he has a daughter and is attempting to change from his former carefree ways to total single father. Ellory's problems are coming from within her own company, who she will inherit once her father retires, but the forces there are working hard to disqualify and intimidate her. The two of them slowly come to see each other as the family they want to have, but will it happen? I loved this story. There is another mystery in there that will hopefully be in the next story. Another amazing story and can't wait for Ciro's!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2025
Unpacking the Baggage: Balancing Work, Family and Love
Everyone’s life comes with “baggage”. The challenge is learning how to manage the appearance and removal of life’s unexpected bags, filled with both challenges and opportunities.
The arrival of Ellory Matisse’s “baggage” began when Dad hired Heather, her childhood frenemy who, even as a child, was a “mean girl.” Now as an employee at the family flagship of Olivier’s, Heather experiences a rapid elevation from clerk and manager at a mall chain jewelry store to the top levels of management at Olivier’s one of San Francisco’s most stellar jewelry stores. Heather’s elevation into management had also paralleled her involvement in the personal life of Ellory’s dad, Olivier Matisse.
So now, as Ellory understands that she must keep the focus on responding to the market trends and the changing tastes of a new generation, Ellory seeks inspiration at an amazing Felicity Ford show where a red dress incorporating rough diamonds down the garment’s back provides Ellory with a new vision for precious jewels where the garment becomes “the setting” for the unusual, uncut diamonds. And, in Ford’s vision of red silk adorned by rough diamonds down the back--"A Night to Remember”—becomes the fashion innovation that blasts the future of gems into a whole new world. And Ellory wants to help supply such newly envisioned gems for the future of fashion and fine jewelry.
And luckily, the diamonds are from a locally based San Francisco vendor—Luster. Like Olivier’s, Luster is a generational family business. Following the death of their mom and dad in a car accident, the children— Dante, Matteo, Luca, Ciro, and Gina—were loved, nurtured and guided by their dad’s recently married sister Rebecca, and her husband, Henry. Now, as adults, the siblings with the support of their aunt and uncle have begun to explore the family’s inheritance of diamond mines and the unique and breathtaking diamonds being gathered from the family mines.
So, with a vision for Olivier’s future, Ellory Matisse reaches out to Luster, the supplier of the unique diamond buttons stitched on “Night to Remember.” Her hope is to meet with CEO Dante Marino. However, when Dante is unable to make the lunch appointment, he sends Matteo, who generally handles Luster’s online outreach. And while there is a dynamic personal connection between Ellory and Matteo, she is not impressed by his incessant, incoming phone messages that continue to blow up with messages from “Celeste,” creating a constant irritation, and a most unimpressive interruption for an introductory business meeting.
Upon his return to his condo building— “Celeste”—he finds that he has acquired his own unique “baggage—a collection of diapers, formula, bottles, a stuffed animal and a beautiful baby girl with blue eyes and blonde hair. Initially stunned, he eventually recalls the hazy details of one forgettable night with an unknown woman, who now has dropped off her “baggage” with the Celeste’s doorman.
Allure continues the intriguing story of the Marino family, and the family’s inherited diamond mines first introduced in Luster. Now, the author weaves in the enchanting Ellory who is seeking to embrace her position in her family’s business by connecting Olivier’s future with the Marino family. As with all Ainsley St. Claire’s romances, the author carefully crafts a sophisticated and engaging series of family and friends who become a blended and supportive group. Each romance is stand alone, but each romance fits into a delightful series--having read one, it's impossible not to want to read all!
Everyone’s life comes with “baggage”. The challenge is learning how to manage the appearance and removal of life’s unexpected bags, filled with both challenges and opportunities.
The arrival of Ellory Matisse’s “baggage” began when Dad hired Heather, her childhood frenemy who, even as a child, was a “mean girl.” Now as an employee at the family flagship of Olivier’s, Heather experiences a rapid elevation from clerk and manager at a mall chain jewelry store to the top levels of management at Olivier’s one of San Francisco’s most stellar jewelry stores. Heather’s elevation into management had also paralleled her involvement in the personal life of Ellory’s dad, Olivier Matisse.
So now, as Ellory understands that she must keep the focus on responding to the market trends and the changing tastes of a new generation, Ellory seeks inspiration at an amazing Felicity Ford show where a red dress incorporating rough diamonds down the garment’s back provides Ellory with a new vision for precious jewels where the garment becomes “the setting” for the unusual, uncut diamonds. And, in Ford’s vision of red silk adorned by rough diamonds down the back--"A Night to Remember”—becomes the fashion innovation that blasts the future of gems into a whole new world. And Ellory wants to help supply such newly envisioned gems for the future of fashion and fine jewelry.
And luckily, the diamonds are from a locally based San Francisco vendor—Luster. Like Olivier’s, Luster is a generational family business. Following the death of their mom and dad in a car accident, the children— Dante, Matteo, Luca, Ciro, and Gina—were loved, nurtured and guided by their dad’s recently married sister Rebecca, and her husband, Henry. Now, as adults, the siblings with the support of their aunt and uncle have begun to explore the family’s inheritance of diamond mines and the unique and breathtaking diamonds being gathered from the family mines.
So, with a vision for Olivier’s future, Ellory Matisse reaches out to Luster, the supplier of the unique diamond buttons stitched on “Night to Remember.” Her hope is to meet with CEO Dante Marino. However, when Dante is unable to make the lunch appointment, he sends Matteo, who generally handles Luster’s online outreach. And while there is a dynamic personal connection between Ellory and Matteo, she is not impressed by his incessant, incoming phone messages that continue to blow up with messages from “Celeste,” creating a constant irritation, and a most unimpressive interruption for an introductory business meeting.
Upon his return to his condo building— “Celeste”—he finds that he has acquired his own unique “baggage—a collection of diapers, formula, bottles, a stuffed animal and a beautiful baby girl with blue eyes and blonde hair. Initially stunned, he eventually recalls the hazy details of one forgettable night with an unknown woman, who now has dropped off her “baggage” with the Celeste’s doorman.
Allure continues the intriguing story of the Marino family, and the family’s inherited diamond mines first introduced in Luster. Now, the author weaves in the enchanting Ellory who is seeking to embrace her position in her family’s business by connecting Olivier’s future with the Marino family. As with all Ainsley St. Claire’s romances, the author carefully crafts a sophisticated and engaging series of family and friends who become a blended and supportive group. Each romance is stand alone, but each romance fits into a delightful series--having read one, it's impossible not to want to read all!
September 21, 2025
Wow, just wow!! I loved this book. It has everything I’ve come to expect from Ainsley St Claire’s writing: there’s romance, suspense, mystery, an interesting core group of characters whose stories are set to play out against an ongoing story told across the series, the outcome of which will affect all main characters - I’m making an assumption here, but I think there’s enough clues there. The story is fast-moving with lots happening, sustaining my interest throughout - I couldn’t put it down & read it in a day.
The five Marino siblings are the main characters of the series, Dante the eldest, who we met in Spark, Luca, Matteo, Ciro & little sister Gianna. Their parents died in a car accident around twenty years ago. They vowed to honour their parents by working together to continue their parent's business. Their latest venture is Luster which will market rough diamonds from their mine to jewellery & fashion designers. It was launched in a blaze of publicity at the Paris Fashion Show where a leading designer featured the diamonds in her latest collection including “A Night to Remember” a spectacular red silk dress, which plays an important part in the story.
Matteo & Ellory are the main characters in this story. They first meet to discuss a possible collaboration between their companies. Ellory Matisse is CEO of Olivier who design, make & distribute high end jewellery. There’s an immediate & obvious connection between them. However, Matteo is about to make a life-changing discovery which complicates everything: he has a baby daughter, Amelia. As Matteo adapts to fatherhood, investigators are looking for Amelia’s mother Willow, & his siblings are working on the collaborative project. Ellory’s life is complicated too, she is CEO in her father’s business but he doesn’t like her plans for the company’s future, & she also has to contend with her father’s young girlfriend who has her own agenda. The chemistry between them is electric from the start & intensifies as they get to know each other.
The characters are well developed & believable, I really liked Ellory & Matteo & how their relationship develops- but baby Amelia is the star whenever she’s on the page - she’s so cute & everyone loves her. Except perhaps her mother but you’ll have to read the book to find out about that.
It’s masterful storytelling as ever, weaving a complex narrative incorporating storylines that complete within this book, & others that I suspect will play out across the series. I loved this book & am already rereading it for any details I might have missed & for any hints of what is to come - I can’t wait for the next book!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The five Marino siblings are the main characters of the series, Dante the eldest, who we met in Spark, Luca, Matteo, Ciro & little sister Gianna. Their parents died in a car accident around twenty years ago. They vowed to honour their parents by working together to continue their parent's business. Their latest venture is Luster which will market rough diamonds from their mine to jewellery & fashion designers. It was launched in a blaze of publicity at the Paris Fashion Show where a leading designer featured the diamonds in her latest collection including “A Night to Remember” a spectacular red silk dress, which plays an important part in the story.
Matteo & Ellory are the main characters in this story. They first meet to discuss a possible collaboration between their companies. Ellory Matisse is CEO of Olivier who design, make & distribute high end jewellery. There’s an immediate & obvious connection between them. However, Matteo is about to make a life-changing discovery which complicates everything: he has a baby daughter, Amelia. As Matteo adapts to fatherhood, investigators are looking for Amelia’s mother Willow, & his siblings are working on the collaborative project. Ellory’s life is complicated too, she is CEO in her father’s business but he doesn’t like her plans for the company’s future, & she also has to contend with her father’s young girlfriend who has her own agenda. The chemistry between them is electric from the start & intensifies as they get to know each other.
The characters are well developed & believable, I really liked Ellory & Matteo & how their relationship develops- but baby Amelia is the star whenever she’s on the page - she’s so cute & everyone loves her. Except perhaps her mother but you’ll have to read the book to find out about that.
It’s masterful storytelling as ever, weaving a complex narrative incorporating storylines that complete within this book, & others that I suspect will play out across the series. I loved this book & am already rereading it for any details I might have missed & for any hints of what is to come - I can’t wait for the next book!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2025
I always love a new series, new characters to love and new stories wirh challenges and twists to discover. There is a novella called Spark that gives a little insight via Dante's wedding weekend hookup. Lust & Luster focuses on the Marino siblings - four brothers (Dante, Luca, Matteo and Ciro) and their little sister (Gianna), their parents were killed in a car accident when they were kids and all of them are working together to keep the family business going and their family unit together. This is Matteo and Ellory's story. It all starts with a business lunch that is cut short with a home emergency. Matteo has to figure out some life lessons quickly as he transitions from single, ladies man to single father. Amelia is his eight month old daughter that he did not know existed until she was left in his doorman's care by her mother. This is a great story of how Matteo figures out parenthood, tries to find balance between work and home as well as navigate a professional relationship that is becoming personal. Its alot but all these characters work well together and everyone finds their place. Family is one's strength and the Marino family is loud, opinionated and full of love and support for each other. I cannot wait to see what is in store for the rest of the Marino siblings and happily enjoy the ride as this family grows as they all find their person. Enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2025
Allure
By Ainsley St Claire
Main Characters: Ellory and Matteo
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
M & M – Matisse and Marino. They are a good pairing. Ellory buys a gown at the Paris Fashion Show that featured rough cut diamonds from Luster, the Marino’s Co. The dress was called “A Night to Remember”. Ellory is the CEO of Oliver which is a high end jeweler. Matteo is a bit of a playboy until meeting Ellory. However there is a monkey wrench thrown into Matteo’s life in the form of a young baby girl. (Amelia) It’s a kick watching Matteo try out the father gig with Amelia especially as she is only eight months old. Matteo is enamored with Ellory and is trying to make a go of his newfound fatherhood and dating. Juggling his fatherhood with dating Ellory and his work is taxing to say the least.
I love seeing all the characters from past stories by Ainsley St Claire woven into this book. This is the second book in the series and since there are 5 siblings in the Marino family (4 brothers and one sister) I think we are in for quite the ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
By Ainsley St Claire
Main Characters: Ellory and Matteo
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
5 out of 5 stars
M & M – Matisse and Marino. They are a good pairing. Ellory buys a gown at the Paris Fashion Show that featured rough cut diamonds from Luster, the Marino’s Co. The dress was called “A Night to Remember”. Ellory is the CEO of Oliver which is a high end jeweler. Matteo is a bit of a playboy until meeting Ellory. However there is a monkey wrench thrown into Matteo’s life in the form of a young baby girl. (Amelia) It’s a kick watching Matteo try out the father gig with Amelia especially as she is only eight months old. Matteo is enamored with Ellory and is trying to make a go of his newfound fatherhood and dating. Juggling his fatherhood with dating Ellory and his work is taxing to say the least.
I love seeing all the characters from past stories by Ainsley St Claire woven into this book. This is the second book in the series and since there are 5 siblings in the Marino family (4 brothers and one sister) I think we are in for quite the ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 20, 2025
Changing for Love and Family -
OMG! It took the end tire day to read this book, but I can say without a shadow of doubt, that every single minute spent reading this book has me riveted and on the edge of my seat. The prequel to the Lust & Luster series was great, but this story took it to another level, where I was on tenterhooks from the beginning until the end. The characters were loving, yet irrational at times as they kept making assumptions instead of actually communicating with each other.
The storyline had a few unpredictable and emotional moments that caught me off guard, but watching the mysteries unfold with all the betrayals, family drama and legal issues, made it a worthwhile reading experience. This book was a terrific read that I couldn’t put the book down once I started reading, but it confirmed that the Lust & Luster series is definitely going to be an addictive series. I urge you to carve out an entire day where there would be no interruptions before you start reading this book, because you definitely won’t want to take a break.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
OMG! It took the end tire day to read this book, but I can say without a shadow of doubt, that every single minute spent reading this book has me riveted and on the edge of my seat. The prequel to the Lust & Luster series was great, but this story took it to another level, where I was on tenterhooks from the beginning until the end. The characters were loving, yet irrational at times as they kept making assumptions instead of actually communicating with each other.
The storyline had a few unpredictable and emotional moments that caught me off guard, but watching the mysteries unfold with all the betrayals, family drama and legal issues, made it a worthwhile reading experience. This book was a terrific read that I couldn’t put the book down once I started reading, but it confirmed that the Lust & Luster series is definitely going to be an addictive series. I urge you to carve out an entire day where there would be no interruptions before you start reading this book, because you definitely won’t want to take a break.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 24, 2025
4.5 stars.
Once I started this I had to finish it in one sitting, no matter how late into the night it was. The story took me on a journey of family, friends, work drama, personal drama, beauty, desire, passion, danger and different types of love. The connection between Matteo and Ellory was so strong, it had to be survive what they went through, I loved that they chose each other again and again, that even when every things around them were pulling them in different directions, they stayed connected and supported each other throughout.
My heart hurt for a little girl who was being used in such a way, thank goodness she was surrounded by people who loved her and would do everything they could to protect her. I really enjoyed seeing how well Ellory fitted into Matteo's family and I liked seeing them get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Once I started this I had to finish it in one sitting, no matter how late into the night it was. The story took me on a journey of family, friends, work drama, personal drama, beauty, desire, passion, danger and different types of love. The connection between Matteo and Ellory was so strong, it had to be survive what they went through, I loved that they chose each other again and again, that even when every things around them were pulling them in different directions, they stayed connected and supported each other throughout.
My heart hurt for a little girl who was being used in such a way, thank goodness she was surrounded by people who loved her and would do everything they could to protect her. I really enjoyed seeing how well Ellory fitted into Matteo's family and I liked seeing them get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2025
This was a beautifully written love story - a hot as hell true love story. I didnt want it to end.
Matteo is a sexy billionaire playboy who has his life turned upside down when his baby girl is left on his doorstep the same night he meets the girl of his dreams.
Watching him grow up and fight for his daughter will make you swoon - but watching him fall in love will have youe eyes rolling back in your head.
Ellory is a class act - she's fighting for her place in the world, in her business and her family - she also falling in love with a man who is juggling a new and complicated life.
Ainsley's books always have a mystery running through them and the Lust and Luster series is no different - im excited to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Matteo is a sexy billionaire playboy who has his life turned upside down when his baby girl is left on his doorstep the same night he meets the girl of his dreams.
Watching him grow up and fight for his daughter will make you swoon - but watching him fall in love will have youe eyes rolling back in your head.
Ellory is a class act - she's fighting for her place in the world, in her business and her family - she also falling in love with a man who is juggling a new and complicated life.
Ainsley's books always have a mystery running through them and the Lust and Luster series is no different - im excited to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2025
I read this book cover to cover in 1 sitting & it wasn't because it was a quick read. It is the first book about the intriguing Marino family & the woman they fall in love with. Set in the glittering & glimmering world of Gemology, focusing first on diamonds, specifically the Fire & Ice collection, Ainsley tells us Matteo's & Ellory's love story which includes her daughter Amelia, as well as the entire Marino and Olivier family.
The story is as dazzling and intriguing as the drop dead gorgeous & charismatic Marino brothers & sister. My only hope is that Ainsley St. Claire releases the subsequent stories quickly because I definitely want more. The next book, Glimmer can not release fast enough!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story is as dazzling and intriguing as the drop dead gorgeous & charismatic Marino brothers & sister. My only hope is that Ainsley St. Claire releases the subsequent stories quickly because I definitely want more. The next book, Glimmer can not release fast enough!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 16, 2025
Absolutely love this book. It had all my favourite characters from previous books from Clear Security.
The chemistry between Matteo and Ellory is sizzling but Amelia steals the limelight.
Danger lurks around the corner for both of them, while brokering new business in raw diamonds. Luckily they have family and a perfect nanny to help. Although family problems niggle at them as well.
Ainsley easily weaves previous characters from past series into the story and even though you don’t need to read these, I highly recommend you read these, all are brilliant.
This is a must read book and can’t wait for Glimmer the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The chemistry between Matteo and Ellory is sizzling but Amelia steals the limelight.
Danger lurks around the corner for both of them, while brokering new business in raw diamonds. Luckily they have family and a perfect nanny to help. Although family problems niggle at them as well.
Ainsley easily weaves previous characters from past series into the story and even though you don’t need to read these, I highly recommend you read these, all are brilliant.
This is a must read book and can’t wait for Glimmer the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2025
Ainsley’s new series, Lust & Luster is phenomenal, off to a beautiful start. Allure has it all that we come to look for in St. Claire’s books, suspense, romance, mystery with just enough twists to keep you guessing. Matteo Marino and his family own a diamond mine and are reaching for the stars with their newest business venture along with Ellory Matisse who is the heir to a jewelry house in San Francisco. Yet from day one, Matteo’s world has been turned upside down with a surprise, a baby girl. With danger lurking for Mallory and learning to be a father for Matteo, theory lives are topsy-turvy, turning their love story into one that is intriguing and even with some humor. A definite five-star read.
September 22, 2025
I enjoyed this first full story into the new Lust & Luster series.
Matteo and Ellory are amazing together. From the first meeting, you see the sparks fly between these two characters. I really enjoyed how fast Matteo was able to settle into some semblance of fatherhood and how he made sure that he was there for his new found daughter. Ellory and his daughter were wonderful together, too.
I did have an issue. There was not much addressed when it came to Ellory's bodyguards. If her failed kidnapping attempt was the reason, then I would have liked to have known more about it. It could have impacted her getting together with Matteo and his daughter.
Otherwise, I can't wait to see what comes next!
Matteo and Ellory are amazing together. From the first meeting, you see the sparks fly between these two characters. I really enjoyed how fast Matteo was able to settle into some semblance of fatherhood and how he made sure that he was there for his new found daughter. Ellory and his daughter were wonderful together, too.
I did have an issue. There was not much addressed when it came to Ellory's bodyguards. If her failed kidnapping attempt was the reason, then I would have liked to have known more about it. It could have impacted her getting together with Matteo and his daughter.
Otherwise, I can't wait to see what comes next!
October 22, 2025
I had really been looking forward to Matteo and Ellory’s story and it didn’t disappoint. Overall, the book is well written, the characters well developed, and I love the backdrop of diamonds and jewellery, it adds a unique twist. There were a lot of moving pieces but they were well managed and woven together without overwhelming the story, they added interest and intrigue to the overall plot. I would have enjoyed a little more relationship building, at times it seemed like the focus was being pulled more towards everything going on around them, but I really enjoyed the book overall and am looking forward to Ciro’s story!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2026
Look how this baby made a man of Matteo!
The absolute turnaround of character from nonchalant playboy to responsible single dad was a beauty to watch unfold. Baby Amelia imprinted on Matteo from first look and funny enough she did the same thing with Ellory and almost everyone else she meets. Her conception might not be the best story, but her very existence was clearly meant to bring Matteo and Ellory together, after it revealed Matteo to be the gem of a father and partner he was neant to be.
And Ellory? She wanted and craved a family of her own, someone to feel safe with and who made her feel like she belonged and was worthy. She got all of that from Matteo, even in the midst of hum dealing with the train wreck that is Amelia's biological mother.
The absolute turnaround of character from nonchalant playboy to responsible single dad was a beauty to watch unfold. Baby Amelia imprinted on Matteo from first look and funny enough she did the same thing with Ellory and almost everyone else she meets. Her conception might not be the best story, but her very existence was clearly meant to bring Matteo and Ellory together, after it revealed Matteo to be the gem of a father and partner he was neant to be.
And Ellory? She wanted and craved a family of her own, someone to feel safe with and who made her feel like she belonged and was worthy. She got all of that from Matteo, even in the midst of hum dealing with the train wreck that is Amelia's biological mother.
September 22, 2025
Great story. Matteo has lunch with Ellory to discuss a business offer and has an instant attraction to her. Finding a baby girl left at his building after, stating he is the father, has Mattoe embracing fatherhood. Ellory will find that her attraction to him isn't hindered by the adorable, Amelia. This book has all the feel goods that a child brings, problems from Willow, Amelia's mother, Heather, Ellory's fathers girlfriend and will end with a happy ending. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more from this author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 22, 2025
Allure by Ainsley St. Claire is nothing short of exceptional! The author has once again delivered a magnificent series that perfectly blends intrigue and romance. The characters are vivid and memorable, with little Amelia undeniably stealing the show with her charm and presence.
Set against a luxurious backdrop, the setting is so beautifully described that it will leave readers dreaming of opulence and elegance. The superb plot keeps you engaged from the first page to the last, filled with twists and heartfelt moments that are impeccably crafted.
And of course, the happy ending ties everything together flawlessly, leaving readers both satisfied and eager for more. Ainsley St. Claire has truly outdone herself—this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a well-written, enthralling romance!
Set against a luxurious backdrop, the setting is so beautifully described that it will leave readers dreaming of opulence and elegance. The superb plot keeps you engaged from the first page to the last, filled with twists and heartfelt moments that are impeccably crafted.
And of course, the happy ending ties everything together flawlessly, leaving readers both satisfied and eager for more. Ainsley St. Claire has truly outdone herself—this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a well-written, enthralling romance!
September 22, 2025
ALLURE starts out an interesting series that combines fashion, jewelry, gems and intrigue with romance. Surprise single dad Matteo has to deal with his drama with the gold digger mother of his child, and Ellery with the drama with her father’s gold digger of a girlfriend.
I enjoyed reading an advance copy of this book that has suspense, family chaos, troubled history, high stakes business deals, and a core of well developed characters I can see taking center stage in later books in the series.
I enjoyed reading an advance copy of this book that has suspense, family chaos, troubled history, high stakes business deals, and a core of well developed characters I can see taking center stage in later books in the series.
September 22, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed Matteo and Ellory's story!
Ms. St. Claire does an exceptional job with her world and character building!
I love the inter-connectedness between her series!
Always fun to see prior characters!
Matteo certainly has a reason to curb his playboy ways!
A really good reason!
Does he step up to the plate?
Will Ellory walk away?
Will everything be too much?
She's fighting battles of her own too!
If these two become a couple, it'll be amazing, and right!
So much moving against them!
Really enjoyed the story!
I didn't want to put it down!
Ms. St. Claire does an exceptional job with her world and character building!
I love the inter-connectedness between her series!
Always fun to see prior characters!
Matteo certainly has a reason to curb his playboy ways!
A really good reason!
Does he step up to the plate?
Will Ellory walk away?
Will everything be too much?
She's fighting battles of her own too!
If these two become a couple, it'll be amazing, and right!
So much moving against them!
Really enjoyed the story!
I didn't want to put it down!
September 22, 2025
From the moment Ellory Matisse walks into the restaurant you know there will be something between she and Matteo Marino. She is gutsy, she orders a Burger with Pimento Cheese and Truffle Fries, while Matteo orders Grilled Trout. Luster has the rough diamonds she needs, while the Olivier name has was Luster needs to make a name for themselves. Allure is the first book of a new series that I am looking forward to enjoying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2025
There is a spark between Matteo, one of his family owners of a diamond mine, and Ellory who should be inheriting a jewelry firm from her father in San Francisco. However, when Matteo arrives home he discovers a baby has been left at his house with a note saying he is a father. Matteo's new daughter takes up a lot of his time but he needs to find time to develop his relationship with Ellory.
I look forward to more books on this family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I look forward to more books on this family.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 19, 2025
Allure is another great read with inspiring characters including baby Amelia. Their families are business rivals but the connecting between Ellory and Matteo is undeniable, and their connection had me all caught up in them as their relationship transforms throughout the story. It is well written and had me from the first page.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2025
Matteo wants Emory, more than he'd care to admit. Soon the decision may be out of his hands due to an unexpected situation. Emory wants to bring her company into the 21st century although her father protests. Their passion is slow burning and steady even with the circumstances try to derail the train that fate has already set in motion.
I love this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2025
I enjoyed Matteo and Ellory’s journey to happiness. Their first meeting had sparks flying off the pages. I enjoyed watching Matteo the playboy fall full heartedly into surprise fatherhood. The storyline kept me page turning with treachery, sizzling spice, business intrigue, secrets, humor, and so much more. I can’t wait for the next in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2025
Ainsley St Claire is back! This book is terrific - plot, steam, characters, writing! And a female lead who is strong, smart, and holds her own. I was worried after reading her teaser novella (Spark) that introduces this series because it was just ok. But this is magic. If you like any of her other series, you will love this! Can't wait for the rest of the series (and hope it is more than just 2!).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 29, 2025
This is Book 1 in the Lust & Luster Series by this author. It is a heartfelt billionaire romance between Ellory and Matteo. These two flawed souls and the unique plot make for an enjoyable read. It is a love story filled with drama and steam, sexual tension and chemistry, and twists and turns, plus appealing secondary characters. An engaging page turner.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 14, 2025
I loved this story. It was even better than I expected. The baby was so cute, I couldn't stand it. Matteo and and Ellory were made for each other but with everything going on, it took awhile for them to admit. there was romance, drama, theft and a conniving woman. A very good read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 16, 2025
This is Ellory and Matteo + Amelia’s love story. It’s the second book on the Lust and Luster series. It’s so good! It’s a complex and interesting story with lust, intrigue, passion, love, disappointment, redemption. It has a bit of everything and keeps you turning the page, wanting to know what happens next. It’s a 10/10! I can’t wait for the new book in the series.
September 18, 2025
Wow! Matteo and Ellory have so much chemistry it heats the pages. I love how their relationship developed, two kindred spirits coming together. Add in little Amelia, and this family is complete. I also love the added mysteries in Ainsley St. Claire’s stories. Some solved within the current story, and others carried on to the next. I’m definitely hooked on this new series.
September 19, 2025
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I liked this story and how Matteo handled his unexpected fatherhood. I liked Matteo and Ellory as a couple and I'm glad they fell in love. The subplots added a lot to the story and I'm looking forward to the next book.
September 23, 2025
it was such an easy read. Ellory and Matteo together is what you call a power couple. The support and understanding they provide eachother pulls you in to want to know what’s next. Amelia was the perfect touch to this story.
Totally recommend if you want to read a new series a that will pull you in
Absolutely recommend this book
Totally recommend if you want to read a new series a that will pull you in
Absolutely recommend this book
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