Morally Black Betrothal

Morally Black Billionaires #1

by Nicole French

He’s a morally gray grump who needs a fake fiancee.

She’s small town sunshine…and the only one he wants.

Simone

I should’ve said no.
Brendan Black is everything I’ve been warned about—grumpy, controlling, devastating in a suit.

But the family farm is days from foreclosure, and his proposal is too good to pretend to be his fiancée, live in his penthouse, and walk away with enough money to save everything I love.

I can survive the tension. The way he says my name like a command.

It’s fake. Just a job.

Until one real kiss makes pretending impossible.… and suddenly, I can’t pretend anymore.


Brendan

They call me the Black Prince.
Heir to Blackguard Holding, until my father demands the impossible.
No wife, no CEO crown.

So I recruit the perfect fake fiancé Simone Bishop, the sweet, small-town candy striper who sat by my father’s bedside when no one else could stand him.

She’s soft, warm, too good for the world I live in.
But she needs money. I need her hand.

Four months. One address. Zero feelings.

Simple… until I start wanting to wreck that perfect hair in my bed every night.
Simple… until I start wanting her for real.

MORALLY BLACK BETROTHAL is the first standalone novel in the Morally Black Billionaires series.
May cause uncontrollable sighing, blushing, and an inability to think about anyone but Brendan Black for days. Proceed with swoon-caution.

Genres: Romance, Slow Burn, Marriage Of Convenience, Family, Contemporary

542 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 14, 2025

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Nicole French is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She's also a hopeless romantic, low key fashion addict, and total bookworm.

Keep up with Nicole French and receive your FREE copy of one of her books when you subscribe to her newsletter: bit.ly/NicoleFrenchNewsletter

When not writing, she is hanging out with her family, playing soccer with the rest of the thirty-plus crowd in Seattle, or going on dates with her husband. In her spare time, she likes to go running or practice the piano, but never seems to do either one of these things as much as she should.

www.nicolefrenchromance.com

Follow her on Facebook for weekly snippets and other news about her newest projects:

www.facebook.com/authornicolefrench

Other social media links:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nfrenchauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornicol...
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/nfrenchauthor/

Reviews

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh…you’re going to want to read this.

This book is so good and I couldn’t get enough of the characters. A new trope for French and I am loving her dark girl era!

Simone and Brendan come from two completely different worlds but life threw them together and with so much on the line for both, they have to strike a bargain to both get what they want!!

Brendan is hot and cold but Simone finds ways to break down his walls one kind gesture at a time. But is their new found relationship enough to keep Brendan’s darkness at bay?

I loved Simone. The way that she grew and found her voice is what makes me love French’s heroines. They have this edge and though it took Simone a while to find her voice once she did she stood her ground and didn’t give up on her goals. I think her strength complimented Brendan and balanced him out. They just fit and I loved everything about them!

[Kim Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read a decent amount of books this year and have recalled this one showing up in my subscription emails a few times throughout the year. I forgot I wanted to read it until it was finally released, albeit I didn’t get to it until a little bit after release day. This was a bit darker than I thought it would be but I still thought it was a good story. The only things I didn’t like about this were the long chapters, the way Brendan and Simone dragged out their attraction and didn’t act on it quickly, Brendan’s brothers, his sister, Simone’s sister Selena and his dad. They are actually the main reason I couldn’t give this a 5 and while it may have drawn from the main reasoning why I gave this a 4, it also had to do with the slow burn as well. Brendan’s siblings were too calculating, you didn’t trust them and you knew they would turn on each other in a matter of minutes which actually ends up happening in this book anyway, but I wasn’t surprised. This was actually a big part of why it took me a while to read this book. I couldn’t get past the family dynamic and didn’t like how they were with each other and I got tired of it. Instead of showing love and support, they only thought of themselves and what they wanted. They looked down on feelings and anything that defined the family other than work and money. I don’t know if they are vying for approval from their dad or because they are just greedy people who want more. I would even put Selena in there with that revelation too. I’d like to think there’s some humanity and emotions in them somewhere because they are all going to get a book, regardless on if I liked them or not. I have to believe that they are good people somewhere or else Nicole wouldn’t give them the time and write their story. I have to believe that there is more than meets the eye with them but this story didn’t do a good job of showing it. They were always arguing and fighting, putting each other down and just beating the shit out of each other, well maybe that was just Owen and Brendan. There was also verbal insults and digs at each other that I didn’t like either. I feel this way about Selena too but without the fists flying. For some reason, I doubt Nicole will write a story for her, not with how things ended with them but who knows? If Brendan’s brothers and sister can get a story, why wouldn’t Selena? I actually really liked Brendan and obviously Simone. Brendan was this man who couldn’t be himself around his family because of their reputation and how they view emotions and anything that really reflected who they were as people. He was expected to act a certain way and anything else would cause him to be insulted and made fun of. I can’t imagine being part of a family that would do that. I think he was truly himself around Simone. He had causes and things he cared about that he didn’t give a second thought to putting money towards. On top of that, even though he was trained to not show emotions, I think he was a very emotional man. He felt things, wanted things and more for himself. Simone helps him realize his worth and anything that he felt defined him before her disappears. He realizes that he wanted more out of life and not be a slave to image or work. The message was really good that came out of this story and essentially captures a man falling from grace and being happy, feeling lighter and not having these expectations of him. His family was really awful and they didn’t give off the vibe that they are good people which is why I’m hesitant to see where Nicole takes them because how do they redeem themselves after this book? It doesn’t make any sense to me and I have a hard time picturing Brendan’s siblings having even an ounce of love, humanity or emotions in them. It was easy to fall for Simone. She was simple, cared too much and knew when she was being taken advantage of when it came to Selena. She literally was the lightness to his dark and they balanced each other perfectly. The analogy that gets used to describe Simone and Brendan to that of eagles mating for life and how they get there fits them. If you are familiar with birds then this would be easy to pick up the meaning of from just this review alone. By the way I felt after reading this book, you would think I would give it a lower rating than a 4 from the siblings alone and they did take up a big part of this story but its the love that grows between Simone and Brendan that brings this rating higher. It’s how Simone makes him a better person and the vulnerability I read in him that his family doesn’t see and how he overcomes his expectations. Let’s be honest too, the spice and passion was a big plus. While it took some time to get there, it made up for it as the book drew to a close because Brendan could express himself that way, leading back to him actually being an emotional man than what he shows to the world. We’ll see if Nicole is able to bring this out of Ronan because I’m curious how he will get cracked open.

[Whit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Simone was way too nice and wholesome to be corrupted by that lack of ALL morals - The Black Family of millionaires. They all lived like their billions covered ALL of their sins! It did not!!! I kept hoping that Simone would run far, far away from that ungodly crew!!!!!!

[Booklover · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐2.5 Only rounded up because no OWD/cheating

This was very cringe to read.

The FMC was the typical doormat, people pleaser, stupid, ignorant and cringe. There is sunshine and there is naivety. Simone was the latter.

The MMC was a mediocre guy. Surely wouldnt call him morally black. He got tears in his eyes because the FMC gave him a hug? He asked her whether she earns good money from volunteering at the hospital. Does he even know what volunteering means? Their family is involved in any industry, from fashion to chip manufacturing to water rights? Then he was into pharmaceuticals, but running properties and farms. What in the cocktail is this?! It just became a mess.

“You really didn’t look us up after the nurses told you who he was?”

“Most of the patients I work with don’t exactly have the ability to consent. What right do I have to pry into their lives when they’re unconscious or ill?”

Since when do you need consent to look someone up on the internet?🙄

Simone should’ve thrown her sister out right when she told her to deal with her daughter and left her to Simone to deal with. Disgusting behavior from a spoiled brat.

A nanny who is in her mid-sixties, actually retired, but since her husband passed she needs something to do. So now she is going to help babysit a 4 year old. Lmfao.

There was also way too much inner-monolgue. Had to start skimming this ridiculousness. Things became repetitive very fast.

Sadly, this had so much potential. If the sister was even a little bit deserving it would've made more sense for Simone to help her out. The blackguard family is no better, toxity dripping al over them. Also I didn’t like the ending, it was actually disappointing. Not sure whether I will read the rest of the books in this series, since everyone is just despicable. Did not like a single one of the characters in the book.

[Karay · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not what I would expect from this author.
It was mediocre.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazon



Brendan's soul is black. He's ruthless and cold and only cares about his family's empire and controlling it. But when he has to be married to achieve that, he picks someone no one would have suspected, a sweet, innocent candy striper who made a memorable impression on him at the hospital. He's not expecting to fall in love, so what happens when he does? Can the Black Prince keep the only woman who makes his heart feel?



Whew, this fake turned real couple is layers deep. Brendan is more than expected from a cold billionaire - complicated and possessive, with a heartbreaking backstory. Let's just say his dad is a disgusting excuse for a father, and he messed up his kids terribly. And then there's sweet, compassionate Simone - it makes perfect sense that someone with her tender heart would be the one to bring Brendan to his knees and bring his heart to life. She too has a horrible family member, but there's one light in her life, and I hope in the next stories we get to know more about what happens with that relationship. I was invested in this story from their first meeting, in the way they slowly developed from strangers in a fake engagement to deeply in love, so deeply that Brendan's little surprise move at the end was the strongest statement he could have made to show just how far he had fallen for Simone. I can't wait for Brendan's brother Ronan's story next now because this morally black family is seriously intriguing.



ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.

Review Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Bookbub | StoryGraph | Linktree

[Jackie (Jackie's Book World) · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World.***

French delivers a swoon worthy and addictive romance in the first book of the Morally Black Billionaires Series. Morally Black Betrothal is a must-read!

At the beginning of the story we are introduced to Simone Bishop, a twenty-eight year old bartender, baker and candy striper who has moved from her small town of Vermont to Boston. With hopes of opening her own bakery one day, Simone works hard to save enough money to be able to save the family farm. To make things even more stressful, her twin sister needs her now more than ever. Leaving Simone with no choice but to help her sister out. It’s with the help of a ruthless billionaire that her life is about to change forever the minute she agrees to be his fake fiancee. No matter how different their worlds might be, it’s what they have in common that ultimately brings them closer. Until what they have gets threatened do they have to decide if being together is worth it or walking away all-together.

As the eldest son of the most cut-throat venture capitalist in New England, Brendan Black has always known his place in their world. That one day, he would take over the family business and make it profitable for many generations to come. But being called The Black Prince has it’s drawbacks, especially after meeting a lovely mysterious woman watching over his dad. He should have been the powerful lion Brendan was raised to be, but instead he is the complete opposite when it comes to Simone Bishop. There is something about her that keeps bringing him to her, an effect that he uses in order to convince her to pretend to be his fake fiancee in order to get the role as CEO of Blackguard Equity. Neither expected for sparks to fly between them and the attraction so powerful that it would blurt the edges of their relationship, forcing them to figure out a way to be together for real.

I absolutely loved reading Morally Black Betrothal, French has a way of absolutely captivating me every time she releases a book. Her stories are always so thought-out and hard to put down. In her latest release, we get to meet Simone and Brendan, two complete opposites that attract the minute they see each other for the first time. While Brendan has a lot of weight on his shoulders trying to look out for his family and the upcoming role as CEO. He is not interested in having a romantic relationship and that makes the board question his ability to commit. So when he is presented with an ultimatum, Brendan finds himself turning to Simone for help. Everyone has a price to him and he just needs to figure out a way to get her to agree to be his fake fiancee. But things are not always what they seem to be and as the two go through ups and downs, they have to rely on each other in order to find their happily ever after. All in all, this was such a great start to the series. I cannot wait to read the rest, I would highly recommend checking out this book as well. :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★★★★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: November 14 2025
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:

I honestly didn’t expect to become so completely invested in Brendan and Simone’s story. But from the very first moment Brendan sets his sights on Simone, I was hooked.

Brendan is exactly the kind of antihero you can’t help but root for, even as he’s ruthless and gruff, always keeping his distance. But there’s something about the way he reacts to Simone that changes everything. His obsession with her builds so naturally, and it feels so raw and real. The way he looks at her, the way he wants her, it’s absolutely magnetic.

Simone, on the other hand, is everything I adore in a heroine. She’s strong, independent, and kind hearted, yet there’s a quiet vulnerability to her that just made me want to protect her. The contrast between her warmth and Brendan’s cool exterior is one of the most compelling aspects of their relationship. She's a sweet, small town girl who doesn't quite realize how deeply she’s getting caught up in this whirlwind with someone like him.

The tension between them is so thick, you could cut it with a knife. Watching them try to keep things "fake" for the sake of the contract is an absolute joy because as much as they try to deny it, their connection is way too strong to ignore.

The pacing of the book is perfect. It’s a slow burn that intensifies with every chapter. Every scene, from their bickering to the charged silences, feels so perfectly crafted. I found myself constantly grinning like an idiot as their relationship evolved from strictly business to something so much more. The playful teasing, the vulnerable moments, and the fiery passion.

Nicole French really knows how to build a romance that makes your heart race.

One of the things I really loved about this book was how real it felt. Sure, it’s a billionaire romance but it’s also about two people with their own lives, their own dreams, and their own struggles.

Brendan isn’t just some distant billionaire who swoops in to fix everything. He’s complicated, flawed, and driven, and the way he gradually opens up to Simone and the way Simone starts to understand him, feels organic. There's no rushing of emotions, just the natural progression of two people falling for each other in a way that’s both tender and messy.

And let me just say, Brendan’s possessiveness? WHEW. I’m not usually one for alpha male types but the way he’s completely consumed by Simone? It made me melt. There’s something about a man who knows what he wants, and he wants Simone.

By the time I finished reading, I felt like I had been on an emotional rollercoaster. I laughed. I blushed. I sighed. And most of all, I absolutely fell in love with Brendan and Simone. The chemistry between them is one for the books ;)

Thank you to Nicole French and wildfire marketing for the ARC.

𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Billionaire romance, fake fiancée, grumpy/sunshine, small town girl/city boy, age gap, opposite attract

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25stars-MORALLY BLACK BETROTHAL is the first instalment in Nicole French’s contemporary, adult MORALLY BLACK BILLIONAIRES erotic, romance series focusing on the Black family. This is heir to Blackguard Holdings Brendan Black, and twenty-eight year old, bartender / baker / candy striper Simone Bishop’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Brendon and Simone) MORALLY BLACK BETROTHAL follows in the wake of the fight for control of Blackguard Holdings. Patriarch and CEO Niall Black’s health is failing, and Brendon is ready to assume control but a caveat and moral clause forces Brendon to find a suitable wife before taking his place at the top. Brendon’s reputation accords him the nickname as the Black Prince, and with only one option, Brendon offers hospital volunteer Simone Bishop an offer she cannot refuse. Six months and ten million dollars to play the role of loving fiancé but all does not go according to plan as more than one person works simultaneously to bring down our story line couple, taking aim at Blackguard Holdings.

The world building follows several paths including the mutual dysfunctional families for both Simone and Brendon. With billions on the line, and a position of power, the Black siblings begin to maneuver and manipulate as they fight for control; meanwhile, Simone’s twin sister Selena, who is unreliable and questionable , adds fuels to the proverbial fires, and sparks a spiral of no return.

The relationship between Simone and Brendan begins as a fake engagement; a formal arrangement meant to appease the people in charge but Brendan finds himself falling for a woman who could break his heart, a woman whose own reality is heart breaking and lost. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of diverse and controversial secondary and supporting characters including Simone’s twin sister Selena, and her niece Kylie; Brendon’s siblings Ronan, Owen, Shea and friend Liam, and their father Niall.

MORALLY BLACK BETROTHAL is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, family and relationships, acceptance and love. The premise is dramatic and edgy with some similarities akin to the movie Pretty Woman™. The characters are desperate, determined and charismatic: the romance is seductive and energetic.

copy supplied for review

[Ria Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant start to a new series

Now that's the way to start a series! Nicole French's MORALLY BLACK BETROTHAL, Morally Black Billionaires #1, was brilliant. A grumpy/sunshine, age gap, billionaire, country girl/city boy, forced proximity, opposites attract, fake engagement romance which wasd intense, complicated, touching, and romantic.

Simone Bishop and Brendan Black were from two different worlds, opposite sides of the track, they should never have met, but when they do their chemistry is undeniable. Simone is beautigul, both inside and out. She care and loves deeply, often to her own detriment, yet she has a fierceness about, a protective side. Brendan is a cold, calculating businessman, his nickname 'The Black Prince' suits him perfectly. He's in line to become the next CEO of his family's company and he needs help to prove he is capable of committment. and candy-striper Simone just might be the person who could help him.

A contract is signed, four months the time limit, in return Simone would no longer be struggling to help herself and her family. Brendan has certainly earnt his nickname, both in his professional and personal life, but Simone's personality and her caring nature begin to crack the walls he has built around his heart. She gives him a different perspective on life, even though he does hide some personal secrets which give glimpses into the man he really is. Simone has always been the person who looks after everyone else, and because of this her family has often taken advantage of her, especially her sister (who is a nasty self-centered piece of work), so learning to be looked after by someone else isn't easy for her. I love that Brendan fell first, his gentleness with her was sigh inducing.

MORALLY BLACK BETROTHAL was a captivating read. Nicole French pulled me in from the moment Brendan and Simone meet. It was a story of power, relationships, and family. This is a lengthy book, but this couple's journey warranted every word and every emotion. The ending was absolute perfection, everything this couple deserved. Next up is Ronan Black's story, and after the sneak peek I can't wait.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE STARS

[Keri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I worry that I sound like a broken record when I review Nicole French's books because I always mention how moving her stories are, but I have to mention it because it's my favorite thing about her writing! All her books, including Morally Black Betrothal, are beautifully and devastatingly emotional, as all her characters are real, relatable characters with real, relatable issues and relationships.

It's not that I can relate to being a billionaire like Brendan or having one fall in love with me like Simone (I wish), but as an empathetic person, I relate to and like them a lot. For instance, as a people pleaser, I relate to Brendan's wanting to impress his demanding father, manage his envious siblings, and advance their successful family business and Simone's wanting to take care of her grieving father, self-serving twin sister, and innocent niece, both putting their desires and needs aside to be the perfect selfless son and brother and the perfect selfless daughter, sister, and aunt since that's how and who they've become out of necessity.

I love how cold, ornery billionaire workaholic Brendan and sweet, warm small-time baker Simone are so different in so many ways but similarly generous with their time, money, and affection when it's for a good cause--or someone they love. They find what's missing in their lives in each other and bring out the best in each other while respecting (if not quite understanding) their familial, financial, lifestyle, and moral differences. Incidentally, their fathers and siblings are arguably some of the worst people I've ever read about for various (and sometimes somewhat understandable) reasons; however, that makes them great characters (except for Selena; she just sucks).

In addition to loving the main characters, I love the plot of this book, which is part rom-com and part romantic suspense. It has all the heart, heat, and humor that I expect from Nicole's books and books with the billionaire, fake dating, and opposites attract tropes, but it also has angst, danger, and intrigue, not to mention dynamic characters. I love that Brendan and Simone have to make changes and a genuine effort to realize the life and love they want together, because life and love are difficult and messy, and Nicole never shies away from that fact.

Overall, Morally Black Betrothal is not only an entertaining dark(ish) romance with interesting characters and an engaging story but also a strong start to what should be an amazing series. As much as I found myself rolling my eyes and shaking my head at Brendan's siblings' antics for most of the book, I absolutely have no doubt that I'll love reading Ronan's story in Morally Black Elopement, where he might be able to redeem himself (here's hoping).

[Loverulesall_books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐
2🌶️

It's been a hot minute since reading one of Nicole's books and this one certainly did NOT disappoint! I absolutely adored Brendan and Simone and this book was simply EVERYTHING! 💗

Brendan is the current interim CEO of Blackguard, and has practically been groomed from a young age to hopefully one day take over the family business. He is ruthless, cold and lives up to his moniker "Black Prince", until he stumbles upon Simone - candy striper at the local hospital. Their meeting is intense, the attraction palpable and Brendan is intrigued how Simone has elicited these 'feelings' from him.

However, Brendan must find a wife and settle down if he wants to convince the board he is the most suitable candidate to take over his father's CEO position. Enter Simone - with a struggling farm back home to save and debts to pay off, this marriage of convenience might be the only way to see the future through.

Brendan was a character you couldn't help but love. Pitted against his siblings from a young age, his relationship with them is somewhat complicated. When he starts to inevitably fall for his fake fiancée Simone, he starts questioning whether Blackguard is the life he wants after all.

Simone is such a selfless FMC with a big heart - who takes care of others and expects nothing in return. When her twin sister Selena comes barreling back into her life asking for help, Simone will do just about anything for family.

I loved how Brendan wanted to be a better man for Simone, and the ways in which he had her back! 🫠 The caring and sweet side of Brendan was a dream to read and I found it so adorable that he could let his guard down enough and be that person for Simone. Together they were just so, so wholesome and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way! 🙌🏻

Thank you to Nicole French and Wildfire Marketing for the eARC, in exchange for an honest review 🫶🏻

𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦:
🩷 Morally Gray Billionaire romance
🩷 Marriage of Convenience
🩷 Forced proximity
🩷 Grumpy X Sunshine
🩷 Small town girl x city boy
🩷 Age gap
🩷 Opposites attract
🩷 He falls first

[Janet Taggart Baldwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

BRENDAN AND SIMONE WERE CLASS ACTS!

This first book in the Morally Black Billionaires series is about Brendan Black, eldest son who has been primed by his father to take over Blackguard Equity since childhood. Their father has pitted the three sons against each other in various cruel ways while growing up to test their mettle. This has caused a lot of rivalry between Brendan and his brothers Owen, Liam, and Ronan. Each has a different mother. They also have a younger sister Shea.

Brendan can't help but be attracted to Simone Bishop's beauty and sweet, kind nature when he meets her as a candy striper in his father's hospital room after emergency heart surgery. She has been sitting with him for 4 hours until family arrived, talking soothingly to him about baking.

Brendan can't leave Simone alone, is fascinated by her, and when he is told he need to present a more stable presence to be CEO, to get engaged and married quickly, he can only think of Simone. She is the only one he wants to be around.

Simone has been taking care of her father and her twin sister ever since her mother died when she was a child. Her sister has a child which is another responsibility. Their family Dairy Farm is in arrears with the mortgage and she has been sending every bit of money she can spare to her father to save it. Her slack sister is constantly getting money from their father and Simone, drinking and using drugs, and owing people lots of money.

Simone enters into an agreement with Brendan to be his fake fiancee for an amount of money that will help both her sister's debts and the farm's mortgage. What happens is that what begins as fake becomes oh too real very quickly. Even with all the interference from both of their families. I could not stand her twin sister Serena or his brother Owen.

Such a good book! Lots of drama and excitement! But both Brendan and Simone were class acts and got their HEA! A great Epilogue about Ronan's story which will be next and an added Extended Epilogue!

[Kelly Drudy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been so invested in Nicole's books lately that I was truly nervous reading this book being that this is a whole new cast of characters. I don't know why I was worried because Nicole is incredible and the book is amazing. We first meet Simone volunteering her time at the hospital taking care of Mr. Black after his surgery, mind you she has no clue who he is or how much money he is worth. Brendan walks into his father's room, shocked to see what his father looks like, but also completely taken off guard by the beautiful girl in the room, just sitting with him. Well, this unusual introduction leads to more unplanned meet ups, which then spirals into a contracted proposal, all so Brendan can help solidify his role as CEO of the family company over his siblings. Simone now has to become a socialite fiancé essentially overnight, to a man she can't fall for. My heart almost burst with the inuendo references to Pretty Woman, which I am sure anyone around my age felt the same.

Brendan and Simone are opposites in so many ways but so similar in ways the outside world doesn't see of Brendan especially. The build up to this couple becoming anything but fake is so good, but Nicole takes it up a notch once they decide to put the contract aside. Brendan wasn't raised with a silver spoon in his mouth, but he has lived this life for so long he sometimes forgets what it is like to not have the money. Simone on the other hand, is barely getting by all while trying to help her family as well as the anyone else she cans. I absolutely loved how Nicole did not change Simone or her morals during the book. Simone is probably one of the strongest female characters I have seen. She refuses to change for anyone, even if that means losing the love of her life. I loved these characters and what they stand for. I loved all the twists and turns along the way to finding happiness. It certainly is not easy for a multitude of layered reasons, but their story is so worth it.

[Teressa - The Sassy Book Tribe · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

What a start to a new series! Brendan and Simone pack an emotional punch that will have you grabbing for tissues and a Xanax. Lol

Brendan is the eldest son to a self-made billionaire and the expectations of the first born are deliberate and harsh. He’s always known he would take over for his father but what he didn’t expect was a little clause that would throw his life into beautiful chaos. He needs a wife and quick.

Simone is a care volunteer in the ICU of the local hospital. On her shift, she finds herself sitting with and elderly man who has just come out of surgery. Hours later she comes face to face with Brendan Black.

Here is where the messy saga of Black family begins.

Brendan and Simone are great characters, and you will feel for them throughout the book. The struggles and obstacles they will have to face (sister is just ERGH!) are tremendous. There is nothing left out about them, and it just brings you closer to their characters.

Nicole gives you all the information you need for the underlying story and details of each character that I’m not sure how any of them can be redeemable. But it will also keep you reading this series just to see if she can rectify any of it or them.

Nicole’s writing sucks you in and leaves you satisfied but also wanting more. She brought so many emotions out of me with this book. I felt so much for Brendan and Simone and the choices they had to make. And let’s not forget - you will seriously want to throttle the family – I mean Owen and Selena? C’mon I wanted to strangle them both. I may have said a few choice curse words and yelled a bit. lol But, that is a testament to Nicole.

I really can’t wait for the next one. This person might be ok... but that remains to be seen.

Grab this book asap!!!

[Curtis E Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nicole French comes out the gate with a fun story with strong undercurrents. Morally Black Betrothal is more than what you think, but plenty of what you want. But then, what better can you expect from such a talented writer?

Brendan is known as the Black Prince. Strong, alpha, ruthless and calculating he is the face at the top of the mountain others look up to. Yes, he is driven, but that is where the questions and the memories come into play. Because this man carries more weight than he should have ever had to bear. Desire to grow in the corporate world can be so cutthroat…especially when family is involved. A blind eye sometimes is the one blacked first. But other times that same eye may just recognize the direction a person really needs to travel. Sometimes that eye sees the future.

Simone came on the screen like a whirlwind. Beautiful, smart and strong, she was not what anyone expected, but exactly what some needed. Never let it be said that a woman does not feel the worth of her man daily, because he will show it willingly once he is sure. And with Simone, there was little to no question. She is captivating and gentle. The best sort of person.

While I think I am a relatively fast reader, I slowed down reading this one. Nicole French had me captivated and quite curious how these two were going to work through the turns and twist of family manipulations. I wondered if Brendan would make the right decision and if Simone would see through the smoke screen at the truth about her own life.

In the end, all the pieces came together oh so well and that warm feeling you were hoping for definitely arrives. Very nice work Nicole French and well worth all the stars posted. Now on to the next in this series. That one already has me laughing.

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

"What an amazing start to a brand-new series. I thought I knew what I was in for when I decided to read this book, and it did for the most part pan out that way. But I have to say towards the back end of the story, it took a turn that absolutely blindsided me.
From their first meeting and the little snippets of information revealed, I was on the edge of my seat reading Brendan & Simone's relationship play out. Two completely different people, that under normal circumstances should have never crossed paths, but that they did and what proceeded for the couple was absolutely incredible to read. You could tell Brendan had a bit of a dark side to him, but as I alluded to above, I honestly didn't think he would go so far. But the feelings that he had for Simone pushed him to make a stand. It cost him so much, but in the end, did it really?
I have to say I absolutely loathed Simone's sister. By the end of the book, I would have been pretty ok if she ended up like some of the characters did - if you read this story, you will know what I mean!!
But all in all, this book was hard to put down, and as it's quite lengthy, I would have read it in one sitting." ~sharon


This story immediately sucked me into the world of Brendan and Simone. I felt what the characters felt and experienced. It's intense and so good. Some secondary characters will make you want to throttle them, but it adds to the experience. The growth of Brendan and Simone together and personally is written so well I forgot I was reading instead of watching a movie. I need more and cannot wait for the next book! ~Andrea

[Luisa Rivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This romance swept me up with its mix of high‑stakes family drama and tender emotional beats. At its heart, it’s about Brendan, the eldest son in a ruthless billionaire dynasty, and Simone, a woman whose life is rooted in responsibility, community, and quiet strength. Their worlds couldn’t be more different—corporate boardrooms versus sourdough starters—but when fate throws them together, sparks fly in ways neither expected.

What I loved most is how the book balances the cutthroat atmosphere of power struggles with the gentleness of a slow‑burn romance. Brendan is a fascinating hero: outwardly hardened by years of competition, yet inwardly yearning for something softer, something real. Simone, meanwhile, shines as a heroine who knows her worth, even when others try to diminish her. Watching them navigate fake‑turned‑real feelings, family expectations, and the chaos of ambition was both exhilarating and deeply moving.

The story is layered with themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the courage to choose love over legacy. It’s not just about romance—it’s about finding safety and joy in someone who sees you fully, even when the rest of the world doesn’t. The slow burn feels authentic, the chemistry builds beautifully, and when the relationship finally ignites, it’s both tender and passionate.

If you enjoy romances that weave together emotional healing, family conflict, and the thrill of falling for someone who challenges your world, this one will keep you hooked. It’s a tale of resilience, vulnerability, and love that feels hard‑won—and all the more satisfying because of it.

[Mrs R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt that this book was a bit different to the last few fake fiance books I've read. The plot was much more complicated, it included some quite intense characters and several twists in the story.

The FMC is Simone Bishop, who gets tangled up with the super intense Brendon Black. He's a very powerful guy, used to getting his way, but Simone intrigues him from the first time they met. Their connection is really strong, even when everything around them is crazy with family issues and high-stakes business deals.

This story is about the family business Brendon has been training to take over for decades. His family have been pitted against each other for years and with the CEO spot up for grabs, the siblings are only looking out for themselves.

Simone has had to figure out how to look after herself and also her twin, niece and father. She looks after them all, but nobody is looking after her. She was fairly naive and her family really took advantage of that, forcing her into some tough decisions.

The book does a great job showing how power affects relationships and decisions. You'll be hooked, wondering what's next!

A romance that's a bit dark and suspenseful.

💜Morally gray antihero
💜Grumpy boss
💜Sweet sunshine heroine
💜Fake relationship
💜Contracted engagement

[Grace grace_loves_books13 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haha okay so I’m obsessed with this line by the author in her acknowledgments—“It’s hard these days to be a billionaire romance writer when you kind of hate billionaires.” Because SAME as a billionaire romance reader! 😂 F them in real life but man I’ve always been such a sucker for a dreamy escapist billionaire romance!

Morally Black Betrothal by Nicole French has tropes I’ve read again and again but damn does French do them well!!!! Her books have such depth and evoke stronger emotions that many of the other dime a dozen billionaire romances bookstagram is flooded with. French’s novels are such elevated, smart, high quality stories!! I always find myself wanting to return to the world and being disappointed once I remember I’ve already finished the novel!!

This novel centers around a business related fake engagement, and I absolutely LOVE that we got to read the contract in full! (maybe that’s the nerdy lawyer in me 🤪). Morally grey, cold, boss man MMC, and sweet, baker, heart of gold FMC. Their chemistry is electric. This book skirts darker themes with some seedy ruthless business dealings.

This is book one of French’s Morally Black billionaire series following the Black family and I am so pumped for the rest of this series!!!

4.5⭐️!

[Sharon Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing start to a brand-new series. I thought I knew what I was in for when I decided to read this book, and it did for the most part pan out that way. But I have to say towards the back end of the story, it took a turn that absolutely blindsided me.
From their first meeting and the little snippets of information revealed, I was on the edge of my seat reading Brendan & Simone's relationship play out. Two completely different people, that under normal circumstances should have never crossed paths, but that they did and what proceeded for the couple was absolutely incredible to read. You could tell Brendan had a bit of a dark side to him, but as I alluded to above, I honestly didn't think he would go so far. But the feelings that he had for Simone pushed him to make a stand. It cost him so much, but in the end, did it really?
I have to say I absolutely loathed Simone's sister. By the end of the book, I would have been pretty ok if she ended up like some of the characters did - if you read this story, you will know what I mean!!
But all in all, this book was hard to put down, and as it's quite lengthy, I would have read it in one sitting.

[Joy Westerfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been eagerly waiting for this new series to start, and what a start it is! So much goes on that my head was spinning like a top! Brendan Black and Simone Bishop are two characters I will never forget. Plus who doesn’t love a fake fiancée story, I know I certainly love them. Plus being introduced to a whole new family means more stories to come! Simone is such a breath of fresh air, beautiful, kind, yet fierce. And Brendan, is all dark and moody, yet I knew he had to have a heart somewhere in that deliciously described body. When Brendan first meets her, he is enamored, but yet knows while he can’t have her, she can help him. How can she resist the offer he makes her, I know I certainly couldn’t have. This story takes you on their journey, some of which is sad and some of which is happy, yet all of which blew my mind. I enjoyed their witty interactions, and how they each fought their attraction, yet I knew that somehow, they had to end up together. But I won’t give any spoilers away! Just know that this story is worth every word, sentence and paragraph and I can’t wait for more in this intense, wonderful new series.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Morally Black Betrothal by Nicole French is a captivating historical romance that immerses readers in a world of intrigue, passion, and complex relationships. The story features rich, well-developed characters whose moral struggles and emotional depth add significant layers to the romance. I appreciated French’s ability to blend tension, drama, and heartfelt moments, making the story both compelling and satisfying.

French’s writing is elegant and evocative, painting vivid historical settings while deeply exploring the characters’ internal conflicts. The slow-burn romance is charged with tension and emotional vulnerability, creating a richly textured narrative that kept me invested throughout.

While the plot includes some classic historical romance elements, French’s fresh perspective and nuanced characterizations elevate the story above the usual tropes. The pacing was balanced, though a few scenes could have been expanded to deepen emotional impact.

Overall, Morally Black Betrothal is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant read for fans of historical romance. I’m rating it 4 stars and look forward to more from Nicole French.

[Joan Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my my what a ride !!! what a saga ..what a catastrophic ending to a legacy, an empire worked hard for , and what a reason to gladly lose it all !! Brendan had no qualms whatsoever in givng up his legacy of the family business, he had worked a decade to build and make worth billions. He did not bat an eyelid for the one thing he never thought he wouild ever in his lifetime find, or be capable of giving to another human TRUE LOVE !!! and boy did he fall hard and fast for his angel Simone !!
What a twisted web we weave as fathers of dangerous and powerful enterprises, who will willingly pit his children against each other brutally, to gain the top position as heir to the crown. So happy our hero Brendan was able to walk away from that mess, to find himself a real home, a real family with his true love and find the happily ever after that he did not even know he needed. Being able to live on Simone's dad's farm, get his home cooked bakeed goods from his adorable baker of a wife, and to get the icing on the cake, his birdwatching at his will and fancy all year round...priceless !!

[Cindy Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Morally Black Betrothal is the first story in the Morally Black Billionaires. It is a great fake relationship story and well-written.

Simone is a bartender who also works as a baker and volunteers at the hospital. She has recently moved and has dreams of owning her own bakery. Brendan is a cold billionaire who is fighting for control of his family's company. When he meets Simone he makes her an offer to be his fake fiance'. She desperately needs the money for her family and he needs to prove he is capable of commitment. What starts out as a contract changes as they get to know each other. Brendan sees that Simone is such a good person.

I loved Simone who is such a good and strong person. She is always doing things for everyone else and puts them above herself. I love how Brendan changed from being a ruthless person after he meets her. I loved their amazing chemistry. Great story and I look forward to the next one.

Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

WoW

Brendan Black AKA The Black Prince- Heir to the Blackguard Throne. Has not had it easy sure he’s a dill pickle if you catch my drift, but that’s no fault of his own when he was basically raised by the monster he calls father. There’s so much trauma to uncover because you can clearly tell he’s been through a lot in his life and we do find out eventually, but Brendan needs to look the part of a “family man” a man ready to settle down a pop out a few kids in order to take over as interim CEO for his ailing father, but that proves to be difficult for the Black Prince that’s married to his job.

No time for social life, but things also change when he meets the pretty volunteer that’s been sitting by his father’s bedside for hours waiting for someone to show up for the man.

Things escalated quickly boy meets girl, girl meets boy it apparent that they are smitten and Brendan wastes no time to get Simone to agree to fake marry him, but soon the lines begin to blurr between reality and fakeness.

I received an arc copy for an honest and voluntary review

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simone has a big heart and her loyalty she loves knows no bounds even if that means marrying a man for business reasons. This arrangement will give her the financial stability to help her family as well as pursue her dreams however she needs to protect her heart as developing feelings for him would only end in heartbreak.

Brendan has learnt that the only way to succeed is remain focused and not be distracted from his goal of becoming the CEO of the family business. When his business acumen is not enough and the only way to secure the position is by being married he convinces Simone that the arrangement would be a win-win for both of them however developing feelings for her wasn’t part of the plan.

Both Simone and Brendan have challenging family relationships that they are dealing with as well as the unexpected feelings between them. The personalities and lifestyles of Brendan and Simone couldn’t be more different however they find the perfect balance in each other as they work together to overcome all the outside forces trying to tear them apart.

[Rozebudzz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simone and Brendan

Another intensely emotional Nicole French romance. Brendan is toxic masculinity personified. Simone is nurturing and sunshiny. Somehow when they meet, the chemistry simmers despite not being each other’s type. This is a fake engagement trope, but not enemies to lovers. They started as friends and immediately became much more.

Both have incredibly toxic siblings. Brendan’s dad is a piece of work too. They all get in the way of Brendan’s feelings for Simone. The dynamic and rivalry between the siblings is very Succession-like (hope you’ve seen the series to understand). Brendan has perfected the black prince armor all his life but it took just a few minutes with Simone for him to start slowly dropping the facade. When Brendan falls, he sweeps Simone away with his obsession.

So many emotions in this one and the passion between the two MCs is deep and lasting. I loved some of the side characters (maybe not his brother Owen) and can’t wait for Ronan’s story next.

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new author for us, and we thoroughly enjoyed our first read by them. The story revolves around Brendan's family business, where siblings compete for the CEO position.

This fake relationship and toxic family dynamic were portrayed perfectly. I loved how Brendan evolved throughout the story. We loved the characters, although we were not a fan of Simone's sister; but we loved Simone. Simone, who has been taking care of her family, finds herself in challenging situations due to her family's manipulative behavior.

The plot was complex, with intense characters and unexpected twists. Simone Bishop, the female protagonist, becomes entangled with the powerful and intense Brendan Black. Their connection is strong despite the chaos surrounding them, including family conflict and much more.

The book explores the impact of power on relationships and decisions, keeping readers engaged and intrigued. Overall, this dark and suspenseful romance is a compelling read.

[Elsie · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG This book!!!

First I said when I opened it was: damn this is a big one, super long. However once I started I couldn't out it down and finished in two days. Get ready to fall in love with Brendan and Simone.

“My soul is as black as night,” he said quietly. “But you make me feel like the sun, angel. Like maybe I can be saved after all. Like maybe I’m worth saving.” (Swooooon)

This book gives you a bit of everything, beautiful story of love, trust between your main characters, you have conniving people in the back (I've never wanted to smack some sense into some characters like in this book, Selena for example and Owen), some action going on but all leading to a happy ending.

I can't wait to read the epilogue and the next one in the series. That little preview at the end: Amazing!!