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Billionaire Inheritance Arrangement #1
One Year Husband
I don’t believe in fairytales.
I believe in contracts. Clean exits. Ironclad terms.
So when my father lays down the ultimatum—get married, have a child, and prove I’m worthy of the Westwood empire—I do what I do best.
I go get what I want.
She’s gorgeous. Curvy. Smart-mouthed.
And absolutely furious that I now own 51% of her struggling business.
Lucky for her, there’s room to negotiate.
She wants to save her company—and have a baby.
I want my inheritance—and zero romantic entanglements.
One year. One baby. No feelings. Just signatures.
Simple enough… until she starts showing up in my head, in my bed, and in my carefully controlled life like she belongs there.
Now I’m pretending to be a devoted husband in public, sleeping a little too close in private, and breaking every rule I set in the fine print.
I built my legacy on logic.
Falling for my fake wife?
That’s a complication I didn’t plan for.
NOTE TO The Inheritance Series features standalone happily-ever-after romances. While the books share a connected family and recurring characters, each story can be enjoyed on its own.
I believe in contracts. Clean exits. Ironclad terms.
So when my father lays down the ultimatum—get married, have a child, and prove I’m worthy of the Westwood empire—I do what I do best.
I go get what I want.
She’s gorgeous. Curvy. Smart-mouthed.
And absolutely furious that I now own 51% of her struggling business.
Lucky for her, there’s room to negotiate.
She wants to save her company—and have a baby.
I want my inheritance—and zero romantic entanglements.
One year. One baby. No feelings. Just signatures.
Simple enough… until she starts showing up in my head, in my bed, and in my carefully controlled life like she belongs there.
Now I’m pretending to be a devoted husband in public, sleeping a little too close in private, and breaking every rule I set in the fine print.
I built my legacy on logic.
Falling for my fake wife?
That’s a complication I didn’t plan for.
NOTE TO The Inheritance Series features standalone happily-ever-after romances. While the books share a connected family and recurring characters, each story can be enjoyed on its own.
382 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 15, 2025
About the author
Ali Parker
366 books2,090 followersHi! I’m Ali Parker, a USA Today bestselling author who has been writing contemporary and new adult romance for over a decade, creating heartfelt, swoony stories that give readers a place to escape and feel a little lighter. Every book I write starts with a simple “what if” and is crafted the old-school way; with imagination, long nights, too much coffee, and a deep love for storytelling (no AI here, just heart and a dedicated human team I treasure like family).
I left my career as a CPA to follow that calling, inspired by the power one great story can have to bring hope and joy. These days, I live in Tennessee with my husband (my real-life book boyfriend), our family, and my sweet grandbabies who make life even sweeter. When I’m not writing, I’m dreaming up new stories, crafting A LOT, and soaking up every moment with the people I love most. Oh, and drinking way too much coffee. Don’t judge.
Welcome to my stories, your escape, your adventure, and maybe even your next favorite love story.
Website- http://aliparkerbooks.com/
Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/AliParkerAut...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/AliParkerAuthor
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/aliparkerau...
Insiders Group- https://aliparkerbooks.com/come-join-...
I left my career as a CPA to follow that calling, inspired by the power one great story can have to bring hope and joy. These days, I live in Tennessee with my husband (my real-life book boyfriend), our family, and my sweet grandbabies who make life even sweeter. When I’m not writing, I’m dreaming up new stories, crafting A LOT, and soaking up every moment with the people I love most. Oh, and drinking way too much coffee. Don’t judge.
Welcome to my stories, your escape, your adventure, and maybe even your next favorite love story.
Website- http://aliparkerbooks.com/
Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/AliParkerAut...
Twitter- https://twitter.com/AliParkerAuthor
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/aliparkerau...
Insiders Group- https://aliparkerbooks.com/come-join-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
August 16, 2025
I thought this book was really good. It’s the first in a new series and is a standalone. I thought the characters were well developed and Laney was the perfect match for Sterling. She was just what he needed to turn him from the robotic ice king into someone able to feel and love. I am looking forward to Jameson’s story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 19, 2025
One Year Husband
Absolutely loved this story. Who still believes in arranged marriages? Sterling is definitely wanting to be CEO of the company, but can he get married and have a baby in a year? The irony of this story is that he meets someone who absolutely pushes his buttons and makes him think it could possibly work out. Read this amazing story about how these two make a marriage of convenience work out for both of them. Beautiful story.
Absolutely loved this story. Who still believes in arranged marriages? Sterling is definitely wanting to be CEO of the company, but can he get married and have a baby in a year? The irony of this story is that he meets someone who absolutely pushes his buttons and makes him think it could possibly work out. Read this amazing story about how these two make a marriage of convenience work out for both of them. Beautiful story.
August 26, 2025
If you enjoy arranged marriages and quirky people this is for you. I enjoyed the characters and family dynamics. He’s got to be married and child produced within the year or he can’t become head of family company. She wants a baby. Another must read by Ali Parker. Great start to a new series. I couldn’t put down.
January 6, 2026
This review is for the entire series. Not just this book, I will put the same review on all four books.
MANY SPOILERS AHEAD
One year husband was the first and honestly my favourite. I ADORED Sterling and Laney. She was such a cool FMC, feisty, not a push over.
And he started off aloof and became a Golden retriever / Dobermann husband for her.
Sterling was also the one who wasn’t a huge playboy before Laney, which I loved.
Bad boy husband was my least favourite. He couldn’t communicate for sh*t and continued to be a man wh*re because he couldn’t tell her he loved her. He was just a coward.
Fortunately it worked out and I liked Sadie and them together in the later books.
But it’s no wonder she didn’t trust him given her experience with him and his reputation.
Playboy husband was my third favourite. I LOVED Maisie and Brody, they were super cool. She was a badass mum and really smart, I loved that.
I think her keeping it from Callum that he was Brody’s dad for so long though was cruel.
I do understand why she did it, but I’m not sure I could have been as forgiving as Callum. Although he did treat her terribly when he found out, but I could understand his reaction.
He did really step up as Brody’s dad. He redeemed himself throughout the whole book. But again was a playbook and it’s no wonder she didn’t think he liked her given he DIDN’T COMMUNICATE, but neither did she.
Holiday husband was honestly a close second or even tied for favourite. Harrison was so emotionally mature and such a sweet guy and so supportive of Aurelia even before they got together.
Aurelia was a badass and so smart. I was annoyed with her near the end but it was understandable.
I’m sad I didn’t get to see a little snippet of them in New York.
Obviously the next series is going to be with Chicago Westwoods (the cousins) and the only sister Charlotte being the FMC with Trent, Sadie’s brother.
Trent is a manwh*re as well, so I don’t know if I will love this one, but we’ll see.
MANY SPOILERS AHEAD
One year husband was the first and honestly my favourite. I ADORED Sterling and Laney. She was such a cool FMC, feisty, not a push over.
And he started off aloof and became a Golden retriever / Dobermann husband for her.
Sterling was also the one who wasn’t a huge playboy before Laney, which I loved.
Bad boy husband was my least favourite. He couldn’t communicate for sh*t and continued to be a man wh*re because he couldn’t tell her he loved her. He was just a coward.
Fortunately it worked out and I liked Sadie and them together in the later books.
But it’s no wonder she didn’t trust him given her experience with him and his reputation.
Playboy husband was my third favourite. I LOVED Maisie and Brody, they were super cool. She was a badass mum and really smart, I loved that.
I think her keeping it from Callum that he was Brody’s dad for so long though was cruel.
I do understand why she did it, but I’m not sure I could have been as forgiving as Callum. Although he did treat her terribly when he found out, but I could understand his reaction.
He did really step up as Brody’s dad. He redeemed himself throughout the whole book. But again was a playbook and it’s no wonder she didn’t think he liked her given he DIDN’T COMMUNICATE, but neither did she.
Holiday husband was honestly a close second or even tied for favourite. Harrison was so emotionally mature and such a sweet guy and so supportive of Aurelia even before they got together.
Aurelia was a badass and so smart. I was annoyed with her near the end but it was understandable.
I’m sad I didn’t get to see a little snippet of them in New York.
Obviously the next series is going to be with Chicago Westwoods (the cousins) and the only sister Charlotte being the FMC with Trent, Sadie’s brother.
Trent is a manwh*re as well, so I don’t know if I will love this one, but we’ll see.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 14, 2026
I liked this quite a bit.
August 20, 2025
This is the first in what looks to be another great series, as such this can be read as a stand alone as it acts as the introduction to the series.
Sterling is the eldest Westwood son and stands to take over from his father when he retires. He is the family fixer and closer of deals, and as such has no time for romance and dating. His father gives him an ultimatum that he needs to find a woman to marry and have a child with, that the marriage only has to last a year and then they can get divorced, if he does this he can take over the company. A version of an arranged marriage.
Laney and her cousin co-own a family business a new parent/baby goods shop. Laney has plans to expand the business, but is also concerned that her biological clock is ticking and she wants a baby.
Laney and Sterlings paths cross, could they help each others situation?
This story has lots of twists and turns but I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which I received as an ARC.
Sterling is the eldest Westwood son and stands to take over from his father when he retires. He is the family fixer and closer of deals, and as such has no time for romance and dating. His father gives him an ultimatum that he needs to find a woman to marry and have a child with, that the marriage only has to last a year and then they can get divorced, if he does this he can take over the company. A version of an arranged marriage.
Laney and her cousin co-own a family business a new parent/baby goods shop. Laney has plans to expand the business, but is also concerned that her biological clock is ticking and she wants a baby.
Laney and Sterlings paths cross, could they help each others situation?
This story has lots of twists and turns but I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which I received as an ARC.
September 28, 2025
I’d rate this 3.8 ⭐️
The spice- 1 ⭐️ it was open door, but very vanilla and not descriptive (possible spoilers ahead)
Both characters were likable. h has a terrible cousin who owns 51% of their baby supply company. h own 49%. The cousin sells her shares to H.
H is a true grump who is a workaholic.
H’s dad has some goofy idea to make H enter an arranged marriage to become CEO. H decides h will be perfect 🙄
After some convincing, she agrees and they marry. She’s doing it to get full shares in her company.
Over time, they both start to develop feelings. They have smex 66% in.
There’s a bit about a mean girl who wants H, but H has never been involved with her. Mean girl starts a hate media campaign against h. It doesn’t amount to much because H handles it fast.
There is a 3rd act breakup when h overhears H NOT admit he loves her (this was kind of weird because ummm. Arranged marriage) but the next day he confesses his love.
2 months later, she’s pregnant. HFN.
It was sweet
The spice- 1 ⭐️ it was open door, but very vanilla and not descriptive (possible spoilers ahead)
Both characters were likable. h has a terrible cousin who owns 51% of their baby supply company. h own 49%. The cousin sells her shares to H.
H is a true grump who is a workaholic.
H’s dad has some goofy idea to make H enter an arranged marriage to become CEO. H decides h will be perfect 🙄
After some convincing, she agrees and they marry. She’s doing it to get full shares in her company.
Over time, they both start to develop feelings. They have smex 66% in.
There’s a bit about a mean girl who wants H, but H has never been involved with her. Mean girl starts a hate media campaign against h. It doesn’t amount to much because H handles it fast.
There is a 3rd act breakup when h overhears H NOT admit he loves her (this was kind of weird because ummm. Arranged marriage) but the next day he confesses his love.
2 months later, she’s pregnant. HFN.
It was sweet
February 18, 2026
3.5 stars from me.
I really enjoyed this story. Not only was a slow burn of a love story but it dealt with grief and how one tries to move forward, but it is just always there.
I was very excited (also) when I started reading realizing it was based in San Francisco, CA. Not only am I born and raised there, I still remain! And then . . . I realized the author did little to no research when basing her book on a City.
1. They are not trolley's. They are Cable Cars and historical. It isn't dangerous to commute to work on them.
2. It does not (no matter how much we wish) take 2 hours to drive from SF to LA. That is a laughable mistake that she could have Goggle Map it before typing it in, so therefore the flight is not 30 minutes.
3. We do not have garages (under large apartments) to have A/C. If we have a heatwave, it is like 2 times a year.
4. The author has the groom's family live on a large estate, with gates and long road to drive into with multiple houses on the property. Even if you drive to Marine or other wealthily areas of the Bay Area - this just isn't a thing. Upstate NY? Sure. Here, no.
Did it take away from the plot - to me yes, bc the bride is a San Francisco based small business owner!
I really enjoyed this story. Not only was a slow burn of a love story but it dealt with grief and how one tries to move forward, but it is just always there.
I was very excited (also) when I started reading realizing it was based in San Francisco, CA. Not only am I born and raised there, I still remain! And then . . . I realized the author did little to no research when basing her book on a City.
1. They are not trolley's. They are Cable Cars and historical. It isn't dangerous to commute to work on them.
2. It does not (no matter how much we wish) take 2 hours to drive from SF to LA. That is a laughable mistake that she could have Goggle Map it before typing it in, so therefore the flight is not 30 minutes.
3. We do not have garages (under large apartments) to have A/C. If we have a heatwave, it is like 2 times a year.
4. The author has the groom's family live on a large estate, with gates and long road to drive into with multiple houses on the property. Even if you drive to Marine or other wealthily areas of the Bay Area - this just isn't a thing. Upstate NY? Sure. Here, no.
Did it take away from the plot - to me yes, bc the bride is a San Francisco based small business owner!
June 20, 2026
🤷♀️ 3.5 Stars
Tropes, spice, steam, specs, etc., listed at the bottom
This story was cute, and I enjoyed it. However… it wasn’t anywhere near my favorite. This book is a slow, slow, slow burn… but not the kind of slow burn that pays off.
The Storyline
Sterling Westwood is a billionaire businessman from old money. As the oldest of four siblings, he has spent his whole life working to inherit the family business. However, now that the time has come, his dad throws him a curveball. He’s given one year to get married and have a baby, or he’ll lose his inheritance.
Laney Rhodes is living her dream, running her family’s baby boutique. The only problem is that her spoiled, selfish cousin owns 51% of the company and refuses to sell. It hardly matters, though, since her cousin doesn’t involve herself in running the business. That is, until Laney finds out her cousin has sold the majority shares to an acquisitions company that plans to dismantle everything.
Sterling needs a wife and a baby. Laney wants her business back. Unfortunately, Sterling goes about everything the wrong way and practically blackmails Laney into an arranged marriage. It isn’t pretty. Honestly, the author did a really good job of making Sterling unlikeable for most of the book.
The Review
Have you ever read The Wall of Winnipeg and Me? That book is the definition of a slow burn, but you finish it feeling satisfied. For some reason, this book left me with a feeling of incompletion.
👎I never really felt a genuine connection between the main characters. Laney completely disliked Sterling, and he completely deserved it… and then, out of nowhere, she just starts liking him for no apparent reason. It’s like the author simply decided it was time to soften her up, but there was no change in Sterling’s behavior and no reason for Laney to suddenly like him. It was frustrating.
👎The relationship development could have been better. The spice could have been better as well. There are four “spicy” scenes, but two of them are hardly more than fade-to-black, and the other two are just wham-bam-done.
Anyway, this book was better than mediocre, but it wasn’t really what I was looking for.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
Book Details & Ratings
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
Tropes, spice, steam, specs, etc., listed at the bottom
This story was cute, and I enjoyed it. However… it wasn’t anywhere near my favorite. This book is a slow, slow, slow burn… but not the kind of slow burn that pays off.
The Storyline
Sterling Westwood is a billionaire businessman from old money. As the oldest of four siblings, he has spent his whole life working to inherit the family business. However, now that the time has come, his dad throws him a curveball. He’s given one year to get married and have a baby, or he’ll lose his inheritance.
Laney Rhodes is living her dream, running her family’s baby boutique. The only problem is that her spoiled, selfish cousin owns 51% of the company and refuses to sell. It hardly matters, though, since her cousin doesn’t involve herself in running the business. That is, until Laney finds out her cousin has sold the majority shares to an acquisitions company that plans to dismantle everything.
Sterling needs a wife and a baby. Laney wants her business back. Unfortunately, Sterling goes about everything the wrong way and practically blackmails Laney into an arranged marriage. It isn’t pretty. Honestly, the author did a really good job of making Sterling unlikeable for most of the book.
The Review
Have you ever read The Wall of Winnipeg and Me? That book is the definition of a slow burn, but you finish it feeling satisfied. For some reason, this book left me with a feeling of incompletion.
👎I never really felt a genuine connection between the main characters. Laney completely disliked Sterling, and he completely deserved it… and then, out of nowhere, she just starts liking him for no apparent reason. It’s like the author simply decided it was time to soften her up, but there was no change in Sterling’s behavior and no reason for Laney to suddenly like him. It was frustrating.
👎The relationship development could have been better. The spice could have been better as well. There are four “spicy” scenes, but two of them are hardly more than fade-to-black, and the other two are just wham-bam-done.
Anyway, this book was better than mediocre, but it wasn’t really what I was looking for.
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
Book Details & Ratings
⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
August 16, 2025
Twenty-nine year old Laney Rhodes feels her biological clock ticking so makes an appointment with a fertility clinic to freeze her eggs since there is no one in her life to get pregnant the traditional way, which is ironic since she is a minor shareholder of Baby Blossom supply store, with her influencer cousin Megan, who sashays one day into the shop to tell Laney she sold her shares to an acquisitions company Westwood and Sons.
Sterling Westwood is in route to meet up with his father when a woman crossing the street barely misses being flattened by a stupid BMW driver, so he slams on the brakes and snarkily tells her to watch where she is going. But he has lower fruit to pick when his father demands that he marry and produce an heir within one year or else lose his opportunity to take over the company. Later, he is confronted by an angry Laney Rhodes who declares that her shares of Baby Blossom are not for sale, even if the law dictates otherwise. But when Sterling actually visits the store, he is surprised how vital it appears to the community, and he comes up with a solution that will ensure benefits for both himself and Laney, if she will only agree.
After much agonizing and soul searching, Laney signs a document that will bind the couple to marriage and child bearing, with an end date of one year if the two parties so wish, but neither he nor she is prepared for the bumpy ride, especially when they are confronted by slanderous accusations. I honestly don’t know how Ali Parker continues to produce such high quality novels with such diverse themes, plots, and lush backgrounds, all while painting interesting, compelling characters. I love not only Sterling and Laney but his quirky brothers and intrusive parents alongside her loyal bestie and grumpy father, not to mention the dastardly mean girls. One Year Husband is an unputdownable, must read, absoultey yummy romance, so don’t miss it!
I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily offer my honest opinion.
Sterling Westwood is in route to meet up with his father when a woman crossing the street barely misses being flattened by a stupid BMW driver, so he slams on the brakes and snarkily tells her to watch where she is going. But he has lower fruit to pick when his father demands that he marry and produce an heir within one year or else lose his opportunity to take over the company. Later, he is confronted by an angry Laney Rhodes who declares that her shares of Baby Blossom are not for sale, even if the law dictates otherwise. But when Sterling actually visits the store, he is surprised how vital it appears to the community, and he comes up with a solution that will ensure benefits for both himself and Laney, if she will only agree.
After much agonizing and soul searching, Laney signs a document that will bind the couple to marriage and child bearing, with an end date of one year if the two parties so wish, but neither he nor she is prepared for the bumpy ride, especially when they are confronted by slanderous accusations. I honestly don’t know how Ali Parker continues to produce such high quality novels with such diverse themes, plots, and lush backgrounds, all while painting interesting, compelling characters. I love not only Sterling and Laney but his quirky brothers and intrusive parents alongside her loyal bestie and grumpy father, not to mention the dastardly mean girls. One Year Husband is an unputdownable, must read, absoultey yummy romance, so don’t miss it!
I received this book as an ARC reviewer and voluntarily offer my honest opinion.
February 2, 2026
📖 Book Info
Format: KU
POV: Dual
Part of a series? Yes - Billionaire Inheritance Arrangement
Series type (if yes): Interlinked: same world, new protagonists/plots
Does reading order matter? Unsure but probably doesn't matter
Will I read the next book? Maybe
I almost DNF’d this: No but yes
🧠 Reading Mood
What I was in the mood for: Fake marriage
Did the book match what I wanted? Mostly
❤️ FMC
She had 1 personality and that was her job and wanting a baby.
😈 MMC
Typical workaholic billionaire. No time for love until he meets her.
🧍♀️🧍♂️Secondary Characters
No one stood out more than anyone else. Very forgettable characters.
🌶️ Steam / Spice Style
Scene type: Open Door – little details
Spice impact: better than closed door but boring
🎭 Tone & Vibes
Humor 😆: not really funny
Darkness 🌑: not dark
Feels 💌: just meh
📖 Storyline (Vibes Only)
Stayed engaged until around 70%
🔁 Reread? No
📝 Final Note
I started out liking this book but then it went downhill for me. The storyline with Charlotte seemed forced and out of no where. It would've made more sense if her cousin did it all because she wasn't "chosen" to be Sterling's wife. A quick backstory of she's always wanted him since HS. The conversation between brothers was inevitable to be overheard. She over reacted by running home to her dad instead of just locking herself in her room. She knew what she was getting into. Yes, she was hurt because she didn't hear him say he loved her to someone else before he said it to her. Lock your door don't go home to dad. I didn't like that she started book 2 while still in book 1. She did too much setting up for Jamie's book in this one and it took away from the story.
Format: KU
POV: Dual
Part of a series? Yes - Billionaire Inheritance Arrangement
Series type (if yes): Interlinked: same world, new protagonists/plots
Does reading order matter? Unsure but probably doesn't matter
Will I read the next book? Maybe
I almost DNF’d this: No but yes
🧠 Reading Mood
What I was in the mood for: Fake marriage
Did the book match what I wanted? Mostly
❤️ FMC
She had 1 personality and that was her job and wanting a baby.
😈 MMC
Typical workaholic billionaire. No time for love until he meets her.
🧍♀️🧍♂️Secondary Characters
No one stood out more than anyone else. Very forgettable characters.
🌶️ Steam / Spice Style
Scene type: Open Door – little details
Spice impact: better than closed door but boring
🎭 Tone & Vibes
Humor 😆: not really funny
Darkness 🌑: not dark
Feels 💌: just meh
📖 Storyline (Vibes Only)
Stayed engaged until around 70%
🔁 Reread? No
📝 Final Note
I started out liking this book but then it went downhill for me. The storyline with Charlotte seemed forced and out of no where. It would've made more sense if her cousin did it all because she wasn't "chosen" to be Sterling's wife. A quick backstory of she's always wanted him since HS. The conversation between brothers was inevitable to be overheard. She over reacted by running home to her dad instead of just locking herself in her room. She knew what she was getting into. Yes, she was hurt because she didn't hear him say he loved her to someone else before he said it to her. Lock your door don't go home to dad. I didn't like that she started book 2 while still in book 1. She did too much setting up for Jamie's book in this one and it took away from the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2026
4.5 stars for Sterling and Laney's story. This has drama, a little spice and good banter!
Laney is co-owner to Baby Blossom, a family owned business, with her cousin Megan. She's a stubborn and determined woman addicted to work. She doesn't have time to date but wants a child and is even prepared to go through IVF to get one.
Sterling is the oldest Westwood brother--the Ice King-- serious, brooding, no humor. And it's about time for this workaholic to see that there's more to life than the four walls of his office. To take over for his father as CEO his father tells him he has to learn this by getting married and having a child. He takes this "duty" like a champ and decides he'll do it with little drama.
Laney learns that her cousin sold the family business to an acquisition company that Sterling owns. Laney tracks down Sterling and tells him it's not happening. No one has ever stood up to Sterling nor has anyone spoken to him like she has and he's intrigued. His plan? She'll be the one to marry him if she wants her company, oh, and her baby. He's sure of it! The contract is incredibly detailed and all in her favor, how can she refuse?
This is a story that has a bit of drama peppered throughout it. The way Laney speaks to him surprises not only her but him as well--some of it is even funny. The two MC's are a good match, the supporting characters definitely add a layer of fun and drama to everything. There are many hurdles for this couple to get over but in doing it together they can only form a solid foundation, right? I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series!
Laney is co-owner to Baby Blossom, a family owned business, with her cousin Megan. She's a stubborn and determined woman addicted to work. She doesn't have time to date but wants a child and is even prepared to go through IVF to get one.
Sterling is the oldest Westwood brother--the Ice King-- serious, brooding, no humor. And it's about time for this workaholic to see that there's more to life than the four walls of his office. To take over for his father as CEO his father tells him he has to learn this by getting married and having a child. He takes this "duty" like a champ and decides he'll do it with little drama.
Laney learns that her cousin sold the family business to an acquisition company that Sterling owns. Laney tracks down Sterling and tells him it's not happening. No one has ever stood up to Sterling nor has anyone spoken to him like she has and he's intrigued. His plan? She'll be the one to marry him if she wants her company, oh, and her baby. He's sure of it! The contract is incredibly detailed and all in her favor, how can she refuse?
This is a story that has a bit of drama peppered throughout it. The way Laney speaks to him surprises not only her but him as well--some of it is even funny. The two MC's are a good match, the supporting characters definitely add a layer of fun and drama to everything. There are many hurdles for this couple to get over but in doing it together they can only form a solid foundation, right? I can't wait to read the rest of the books in this series!
May 26, 2026
Cute run-of-the-mill HEA
One Year Husband by Ali Parker delivers exactly what you'd expect from a standard romance: a cute, run-of-the-mill Happily Ever After (HEA). It’s a sweet story that hits the familiar beats of the genre, making it a comfortable and predictable read if you just want to see a couple find their way to each other.
However, there are a few things that kept this from being a top-tier read for me:
* The Pacing: The story progresses at a fairly slow crawl overall. If you prefer a brisker narrative or more dynamic plot development, you might find your patience tested waiting for things to move forward.
* Low Spice Meter: If you are going into this hoping for high heat, you will likely be disappointed. The romance ranks very low on the spice meter. There simply isn't enough spice for readers who prefer a steamier, more passionate dynamic between the main characters.
* Editing Hiccups: There are noticeable grammar issues scattered throughout the text. If you're a stickler for clean editing, these typos and grammatical errors will probably pull you out of the story on more than one occasion.
* Final Verdict: Ultimately, One Year Husband is a decent, middle-of-the-road romance. It doesn't break the mold, but it wraps up with a satisfying, cute ending. It’s best suited for readers who don't mind a slow pace, prefer sweet over spicy, and can easily overlook a few editing flaws along the way.
One Year Husband by Ali Parker delivers exactly what you'd expect from a standard romance: a cute, run-of-the-mill Happily Ever After (HEA). It’s a sweet story that hits the familiar beats of the genre, making it a comfortable and predictable read if you just want to see a couple find their way to each other.
However, there are a few things that kept this from being a top-tier read for me:
* The Pacing: The story progresses at a fairly slow crawl overall. If you prefer a brisker narrative or more dynamic plot development, you might find your patience tested waiting for things to move forward.
* Low Spice Meter: If you are going into this hoping for high heat, you will likely be disappointed. The romance ranks very low on the spice meter. There simply isn't enough spice for readers who prefer a steamier, more passionate dynamic between the main characters.
* Editing Hiccups: There are noticeable grammar issues scattered throughout the text. If you're a stickler for clean editing, these typos and grammatical errors will probably pull you out of the story on more than one occasion.
* Final Verdict: Ultimately, One Year Husband is a decent, middle-of-the-road romance. It doesn't break the mold, but it wraps up with a satisfying, cute ending. It’s best suited for readers who don't mind a slow pace, prefer sweet over spicy, and can easily overlook a few editing flaws along the way.
March 4, 2026
The Ice King Gets Melted By Miss Ray of Sunshine
She is the warmth to his cold, icy personality...and she melts him without him realizing it.
Have you ever heard the story of the frog in the pot? If you put a frog in hot water to cook, it will jump out. If you put it in a pot of cold water, heat it up slowly, the frog will stay.
Sterling is the frog and Laney is the expert chef. He had no chance.
Laney is a sweet, ambitious, hard working woman. She runs the Baby Blossom, a boutique baby store that also serves and greatly supports the community. The store means EVERYTHING to her.
Sterling is a methodical, ambitious, ask no questions but always win type of business shark. He gets everything he wants and takes no prisoners because he just kicks them all out of his orbit.
This is a fakeish relationship. A contract marriage. She needs to save her business and he is the one threatening it. An offer is made. Stay married a year and she saves her business... but there is the other major term ... she has to have his baby.
* Fake Relationship
* Billionaire
* Contract Marriage
* Wanted : Baby
* Grumpy Antagonist
* Miss Golden Sunny Heroine
* Family Pressure
* Jealous Bitch causes problems
* Spicy
* Series book
Takes place in San Francisco, L.A. and Napa.
She is the warmth to his cold, icy personality...and she melts him without him realizing it.
Have you ever heard the story of the frog in the pot? If you put a frog in hot water to cook, it will jump out. If you put it in a pot of cold water, heat it up slowly, the frog will stay.
Sterling is the frog and Laney is the expert chef. He had no chance.
Laney is a sweet, ambitious, hard working woman. She runs the Baby Blossom, a boutique baby store that also serves and greatly supports the community. The store means EVERYTHING to her.
Sterling is a methodical, ambitious, ask no questions but always win type of business shark. He gets everything he wants and takes no prisoners because he just kicks them all out of his orbit.
This is a fakeish relationship. A contract marriage. She needs to save her business and he is the one threatening it. An offer is made. Stay married a year and she saves her business... but there is the other major term ... she has to have his baby.
* Fake Relationship
* Billionaire
* Contract Marriage
* Wanted : Baby
* Grumpy Antagonist
* Miss Golden Sunny Heroine
* Family Pressure
* Jealous Bitch causes problems
* Spicy
* Series book
Takes place in San Francisco, L.A. and Napa.
August 17, 2025
One Year Husband, book one in the Billionaires Inheritance Arrangement series follows Laney Rhodes and Sterling Westwood. Laney is twenty nine years old, who only wants one thing, a child of her own. Worried that she won’t get pregnant any time soon, she makes an appointment at a fertility clinic to have her eggs frozen. Sterling works under his father at the acquisitions company, Westwood and Sons. Determined to replace his father as CEO, his father makes him a demand - marry and produce an heir within one year’s time and he will step down and let Sterling take over. When her cousin, and business partner sells her share of their Baby Blossom baby supply store, Laney meets with Sterling, determined not to sell her portion of the business. When Sterling discovers the truth, and how the company benefits the community, he comes up with a different type of deal. One that will benefit both parties. He and Laney get married, beginning the process of completing his father’s demands, and Laney gets her baby.. and the option to leave after one year if she wants to. Will Laney take him up on his offer? Or will something get in the way of what they both really want?
October 26, 2025
Such an in depth love story.
Sterling and Laney meet when she almost gets run over by a car which throws him off for the day. He is very precise and grumpy. Laney owns a baby boutique called Baby Blossom with her cousin in San Francisco. Laney wants to open another branch in LA. Sterling’s dad is going to retire in a year and he wants Sterling to get and have a baby within that time period, even though he has no interest in doing so. Then her cousin sells her shares, which is the majority to Westwood and Sons, which is Sterling’s father’s company of which he is CEO. She barges in his offices to speak to him. Sterling is known as the ice King in business. He’s shocked by the warmth feeling he feels from her, but that does not change his mind. The only way she can fight him is by not selling her shares. He feels she is the one he should marry for one year and he proposes a contract to her. Through the early time they are together such twists and turns come up and he starts getting protective of Laney. There is a lot the two of them go through emotionally and it’s interesting to see how this all turns out. The story holds your attention throughout.
Sterling and Laney meet when she almost gets run over by a car which throws him off for the day. He is very precise and grumpy. Laney owns a baby boutique called Baby Blossom with her cousin in San Francisco. Laney wants to open another branch in LA. Sterling’s dad is going to retire in a year and he wants Sterling to get and have a baby within that time period, even though he has no interest in doing so. Then her cousin sells her shares, which is the majority to Westwood and Sons, which is Sterling’s father’s company of which he is CEO. She barges in his offices to speak to him. Sterling is known as the ice King in business. He’s shocked by the warmth feeling he feels from her, but that does not change his mind. The only way she can fight him is by not selling her shares. He feels she is the one he should marry for one year and he proposes a contract to her. Through the early time they are together such twists and turns come up and he starts getting protective of Laney. There is a lot the two of them go through emotionally and it’s interesting to see how this all turns out. The story holds your attention throughout.
March 19, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ This was a new author to me and while I enjoyed the story overall, Laney was a bit of a contradiction to me. She was strong and determined at the beginning but I wouldn’t say entirely likeable. Her relationship with her best friend didn’t feel authentic, or mutually giving, and once she was living with Sterling, she seemed to lose a lot of her spark. Sterling, on the other hand, was enjoyable to read while he fell for Laney.
Side note: I though the way the Sadie character was written was not flattering in the least. If an almost stranger showed up uninvited to my penthouse and stood in the doorway watching me sleep, after dumping a cat on my bed, I would be calling 911. Such a weird storyline. I get that the author wants to build a rapport between the 2 women so that they have a bond prior to Sadie’s love story, but she could have made it way less bizarre. Even Sterling alluded to Sadie being a family friend that they lost contact with, so the level of familiarity Sadie shows and her “insights” into Sterling’s character and personality came off a bit stalker-ish. I’m interested to see how the author writes about Sadie in book 2.
Side note: I though the way the Sadie character was written was not flattering in the least. If an almost stranger showed up uninvited to my penthouse and stood in the doorway watching me sleep, after dumping a cat on my bed, I would be calling 911. Such a weird storyline. I get that the author wants to build a rapport between the 2 women so that they have a bond prior to Sadie’s love story, but she could have made it way less bizarre. Even Sterling alluded to Sadie being a family friend that they lost contact with, so the level of familiarity Sadie shows and her “insights” into Sterling’s character and personality came off a bit stalker-ish. I’m interested to see how the author writes about Sadie in book 2.
August 16, 2025
What a great story, one that will pull you in at the beginning and you won’t be able to put it down. I stayed up all night as I couldn’t wait to find out if Sterling and Laney got their forever love. The characters are amazing, complex and well developed with multiple layers. He’s over the top rich, a workaholic, a confirmed bachelor and ready to take over his father’s position as CEO of the family empire. He’s blindsided when his father adds special requirements before he can be elevated to the position. Not wanting to give away the plot, but there’s plenty of family dynamics, and flareups with their acquisitions. Throw in some social media disasters, sabotage, jealousy and past history. What happens when the Ice King starts to melt? An amazing story that you will love. The brothers were interesting and who knows, there might be some stories in the future featuring them. No cliffhanger and an HEA that you’ll love. I read a free arc via the author’s team and I voluntarily chose to review it.
August 18, 2025
Ali Parker delivers a clever and emotionally charged twist on the marriage-of-convenience trope. Laney Rhodes is nearly thirty and ready to have a child—with or without a partner. But when her cousin unexpectedly sells their baby supply store shares to a corporate acquisitions firm, Laney clashes with Sterling Westwood—a man under pressure to marry and produce an heir within a year or lose his chance to take over his family’s company.
What begins as a business standoff quickly turns into a surprising proposal: a one-year marriage that could benefit them both. Laney gets the child she’s dreamed of, and Sterling secures his future. But neither is prepared for the emotional complications, growing attraction, and outside drama that threaten their carefully planned arrangement.
With sharp dialogue, heartfelt moments, and just the right touch of steam, One Year Husband is a compelling, feel-good romance perfect for fans of unconventional love stories with emotional depth.
I received an ARC of this book and am sharing my honest opinion.
What begins as a business standoff quickly turns into a surprising proposal: a one-year marriage that could benefit them both. Laney gets the child she’s dreamed of, and Sterling secures his future. But neither is prepared for the emotional complications, growing attraction, and outside drama that threaten their carefully planned arrangement.
With sharp dialogue, heartfelt moments, and just the right touch of steam, One Year Husband is a compelling, feel-good romance perfect for fans of unconventional love stories with emotional depth.
I received an ARC of this book and am sharing my honest opinion.
March 11, 2026
The Ice King Is Melting
Yessssss!! That’s what my last word was when I finished this book!! Great opener and an absolutely great ending to the story!
We have the billionaire 1st born son set to inherit the family business, but dear ol dad says “get married and start a family within a year and it’s all yours”. Easy peasey…except Sterling is the “Ice King” who doesn’t date and isn’t really looking for love.
And then there is Laney. Hometown, girl next door, co-owner of a booming baby store in town. She has no idea her partner is about to sell her entire company to the Ice King and leave hang her out to dry on their family business, but she gets an offer from him that she simply cannot refuse. Marry Sterling and give him an heir in 1 yr and the business will be hers. Sounds simple enough….until it isn’t!
The emotional roller coaster this boom took me on was fabulous! The twists and turns and drama of the high society players will keep you on your toes. And there’s a little bit of spice to top off this layered cake 😘
5.0 🌟
2.5 🌶️
Yessssss!! That’s what my last word was when I finished this book!! Great opener and an absolutely great ending to the story!
We have the billionaire 1st born son set to inherit the family business, but dear ol dad says “get married and start a family within a year and it’s all yours”. Easy peasey…except Sterling is the “Ice King” who doesn’t date and isn’t really looking for love.
And then there is Laney. Hometown, girl next door, co-owner of a booming baby store in town. She has no idea her partner is about to sell her entire company to the Ice King and leave hang her out to dry on their family business, but she gets an offer from him that she simply cannot refuse. Marry Sterling and give him an heir in 1 yr and the business will be hers. Sounds simple enough….until it isn’t!
The emotional roller coaster this boom took me on was fabulous! The twists and turns and drama of the high society players will keep you on your toes. And there’s a little bit of spice to top off this layered cake 😘
5.0 🌟
2.5 🌶️
August 20, 2025
Well Ali has kicked this new series off with a bang. One Year Husband doesn’t disappoint.
Laney and her cousin Megan co own a baby store together with Lacey only having 49%. Megan sells out to Westwood and Sons without Laney knowing and this is how she meets Sterling Westwood. Sterling is preparing to take over as CEO but his dad gives him an ultimatum and that is he has to marry within the year. He has plans to tear down the baby store but when he sees Laney at her story, he realizes how good she is at it and also comes up with the idea for to help them both out of their problems will he get Laney to agree to the terms and conditions?
Wow oh wow this story delivers it all. Plenty of ups and downs and steam. We get introduced to all the characters and I am sure the other brother’s stories will soon follow or at least I hope so! This was one book that you won’t be able to put down. Great job Ali.
I received an arc copy of this book and I am freely leaving an honest review.
Laney and her cousin Megan co own a baby store together with Lacey only having 49%. Megan sells out to Westwood and Sons without Laney knowing and this is how she meets Sterling Westwood. Sterling is preparing to take over as CEO but his dad gives him an ultimatum and that is he has to marry within the year. He has plans to tear down the baby store but when he sees Laney at her story, he realizes how good she is at it and also comes up with the idea for to help them both out of their problems will he get Laney to agree to the terms and conditions?
Wow oh wow this story delivers it all. Plenty of ups and downs and steam. We get introduced to all the characters and I am sure the other brother’s stories will soon follow or at least I hope so! This was one book that you won’t be able to put down. Great job Ali.
I received an arc copy of this book and I am freely leaving an honest review.
August 19, 2025
Ali Parker came up with this new series and it will be a fun one for sure! Laney owns a minority stake in the baby store with her cousin Megan. One day Megan tells her that she sold her majority stake to a large firm who plans on demolishing the building where the store is situated. Sterling Westwood is vying to become the next CEO of the family business but his father imposes something to make this come true. He must be married and have a child within one year! When he meets Laney, he realizes the potential this business has and it's importance. He comes up with a plan that would benefit both of them. Who will it benefit more and who will fall first? I was dragging my feet to start reading this story, but I was happy to see that it was a captivating read that I could not put down. Ali you made this jaded reader a new one all over again! I can't wait to see what you will come up next.
August 22, 2025
Sterling was the crowned price of the Westwood family, the eldest son set to inherit the family business and the billions that came with it… until his father put stings on the role. Marry and have a baby within a year and everything was his.
Fate literally threw Sterling and Laney on a crash course to each other. Their arranged marriage provided him an easy answer to his father’s demands, while it afforded her the ability to keep her family’s shop and legacy intact. But all the contracts and clauses couldn’t keep his strait-laced, ice man persona from melting for her creative, driven energy. Add in a smear campaign from a jealous shrew, a vapid influencer, and plenty of romance, sparks flew in lots of different directions.
Their story was on the longer side, but a great introduction to the Westwood family and the brothers who we will be seeing much more of in this series.
Fate literally threw Sterling and Laney on a crash course to each other. Their arranged marriage provided him an easy answer to his father’s demands, while it afforded her the ability to keep her family’s shop and legacy intact. But all the contracts and clauses couldn’t keep his strait-laced, ice man persona from melting for her creative, driven energy. Add in a smear campaign from a jealous shrew, a vapid influencer, and plenty of romance, sparks flew in lots of different directions.
Their story was on the longer side, but a great introduction to the Westwood family and the brothers who we will be seeing much more of in this series.
September 15, 2025
One track mind Sterling proposed a marriage of convenience to Laney, whom really wanting to have kids. Sterling needs to be married to inherit his family's company, meanwhile Laney simply wants to be a mother.
It is obvious Sterling has a crush on Laney, sadly his weird mind dumbly said it's transactional. I'm not so sure about that. I actually started to think Sterling is an asshole, considering how much he stupidly not acknowledge his feeling. He comes from a good family, have a nice relationship with them, didn't have any traumatic childhood, so what's wrong with him?
Anyway, I actually hate Laney's so called bestie. She's like pressing Laney to accept marriage of convenience, while if it's me, it sounds so fishy. Her friend was like shallow, only thinking how much money and how handsome Sterling is.
It is obvious Sterling has a crush on Laney, sadly his weird mind dumbly said it's transactional. I'm not so sure about that. I actually started to think Sterling is an asshole, considering how much he stupidly not acknowledge his feeling. He comes from a good family, have a nice relationship with them, didn't have any traumatic childhood, so what's wrong with him?
Anyway, I actually hate Laney's so called bestie. She's like pressing Laney to accept marriage of convenience, while if it's me, it sounds so fishy. Her friend was like shallow, only thinking how much money and how handsome Sterling is.
June 27, 2026
I’m so happy I didn’t put this book down, even though I was tempted. It starts slow, but the second half hooked me.
The narration felt off for both characters. The voices lacked emotion and didn’t really make you feel what was being said, which pulled me out of the story.
However, once you get to the heart of the book, it really turns into a good listen. This is very much a billionaire legacy setup, which adds extra weight to the characters’ choices and the stakes of their arrangement. Yes, it has the familiar setup of a billionaire MMC and a hard‑working, low‑income MFC who doesn’t put up with anything, and they do find their HEA. But what stood out to me was how the story shows two people from completely opposite sides of the tax bracket learning the importance of a real relationship and choosing to look past the money line.
The narration felt off for both characters. The voices lacked emotion and didn’t really make you feel what was being said, which pulled me out of the story.
However, once you get to the heart of the book, it really turns into a good listen. This is very much a billionaire legacy setup, which adds extra weight to the characters’ choices and the stakes of their arrangement. Yes, it has the familiar setup of a billionaire MMC and a hard‑working, low‑income MFC who doesn’t put up with anything, and they do find their HEA. But what stood out to me was how the story shows two people from completely opposite sides of the tax bracket learning the importance of a real relationship and choosing to look past the money line.
August 16, 2025
I started out thinking this was another story of a loveless contract marriage. You know, the “forced proximity becomes love” thing that runs rampant through the rom com world every couple of years. And, yeah, it kind of is that book, but this heroine is never going to be a weakling dependent on her rich husband, never going to be a trophy wife. This woman has strength and wisdom more than she even realizes.
The character who really changes is the billionaire husband who really believes the marriage contract is all about getting the CEO job when his dad retires. He’s been aptly described as “The Ice Prince.” He’s the one who loses his frozen veneer and lives beyond expectations.
A delightful book!
The character who really changes is the billionaire husband who really believes the marriage contract is all about getting the CEO job when his dad retires. He’s been aptly described as “The Ice Prince.” He’s the one who loses his frozen veneer and lives beyond expectations.
A delightful book!
August 16, 2025
Laney and Sterling were destined to be together! Not sure they'll make it. Brilliant love story! He's a billionaire and soon to be CEO of Westwood Holdings, but only if he has a contract marriage! Wait, What? Yep, that's what his father tells him, he gets married, has a baby in the first year and stays married one year, then they can renegotiate if need be. Her father is a homicide detective and there seems to be some hard feelings between the fathers of Westwoods and the Raynors, oh boy! A few bumps and bruises along the way! You may have trouble putting this book down! Thank you Ali for a beautifully written romance can't wait for the next book! I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author, and voluntarily leave my honest opinion.
August 16, 2025
Another fantastic story by Ali to open this latest series.
Laney was such a lovely character and despite her doubts, agrees to a twelve month marriage contract with Sterling in order to keep running the business which her mother had worked so hard to develop prior to passing away. Sterling, guilty by omission, didn’t tell Laney the real reason why he was so keen on the arrangement so there were always going to be hiccups once she became aware.
They had a rollercoaster of a time, including a vicious and jealous female who wanted Sterling for herself. He came into his own though when he took on Laney’s troubles as his own.
An enjoyable read that was full of emotion but with a HEA to close. Definitely recommend this story and I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
Laney was such a lovely character and despite her doubts, agrees to a twelve month marriage contract with Sterling in order to keep running the business which her mother had worked so hard to develop prior to passing away. Sterling, guilty by omission, didn’t tell Laney the real reason why he was so keen on the arrangement so there were always going to be hiccups once she became aware.
They had a rollercoaster of a time, including a vicious and jealous female who wanted Sterling for herself. He came into his own though when he took on Laney’s troubles as his own.
An enjoyable read that was full of emotion but with a HEA to close. Definitely recommend this story and I’m looking forward to the next in the series.
August 16, 2025
This author is one of my favorites and has been for a long time now. This book for me was a bit slow in the beginning and I almost gave up and not read the rest of the book which completely surprised me but I powered through. Good thing I did because it did get better. Sterling needs a wife and Laney doesn’t want to lose her business due to her cousin screwing up. So when these two first come together, they’re like oil and water but there is definitely chemistry. When they decide to sign a business contract so they both can get what they want but things go way beyond that, can they come through with a happy ending? Out of respect for the author, I don’t give the book away so if their synopsis sounds good, give it a try.
August 17, 2025
What a great story by a great author to begin a new series. Laney is contemplating freezing her eggs as she wants to have a baby and there is no prospects in sight and her biological clock is ticking. Sterling is known as the “Ice King” of New York, a workaholic and marriage is no where on his radar Until his father adds stipulations before he can take over as CEO. Get married and produce an heir!!! Will Laney agree to his proposal for 1 year of marriage to get what she needs? Add a dysfunctional cousin, both fathers that have secrets and one that can't stand the other, a jealous woman who wants Sterling and you have a book that you won't be able to put down until you have all the answers. I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next one in this series.
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