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Paid to Pretend
She needed tuition.
I needed a wife.
So I paid her.
To wear the dress.
Sign the papers.
Sleep in my bed—without letting me touch her.
For a while, I behaved.
Watched her study while wearing my ring.
Listened to her lie through her teeth about how this didn’t mean anything.
But then she walked into the room in that tight white dress...
And I stopped pretending.
Now the press is watching.
My grandmother’s dying.
And the woman I bought for a lie is the only truth I’ll ever want.
She thinks she can walk when the contract ends.
She forgets—I’m not just her husband on paper.
I’m the man who’ll burn this city to keep her.
She walked into my house in heels.
She’ll crawl out carrying my child.
Read on for fake marriage heat, possessive billionaire obsession, betrayal fallout, and a heroine who traded her dream for a ring—and woke up in his bed. HEA Guaranteed!
I needed a wife.
So I paid her.
To wear the dress.
Sign the papers.
Sleep in my bed—without letting me touch her.
For a while, I behaved.
Watched her study while wearing my ring.
Listened to her lie through her teeth about how this didn’t mean anything.
But then she walked into the room in that tight white dress...
And I stopped pretending.
Now the press is watching.
My grandmother’s dying.
And the woman I bought for a lie is the only truth I’ll ever want.
She thinks she can walk when the contract ends.
She forgets—I’m not just her husband on paper.
I’m the man who’ll burn this city to keep her.
She walked into my house in heels.
She’ll crawl out carrying my child.
Read on for fake marriage heat, possessive billionaire obsession, betrayal fallout, and a heroine who traded her dream for a ring—and woke up in his bed. HEA Guaranteed!
202 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2025
146 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 29, 2025
This was a typical fake marriage story. Actually I fail to see why any CEO billionaire has to go this road. Also I don't know why it is anyone else's business what agreements 2 consenting adults come to. Marriage is a contract in its purest sense and most rich people have prenups and NDA's standard. I'd be willing to bet Bezos does. Also I always have a hard time buying that the company's board gives a hoot about such personal arrangements, since most of them are likely to have similar arrangements in their personal lives. To a board of directors the things that matter about a CEO are his focus and performance, not his personal relationships.
Aside from this premise, I was pleased to find this book well written, grammatically correct, with no editorial error that I can recall, though I admit to somewhat skimming through the last chapters.
I agree with another reviewer, there is too much repetition of Matthew reviewing what his life was like one year ago. More than three times is way too many.
Also, there was a glaring continuity error. Matthew is 50 and has employed his housekeeper for 15 years. That means he was 35 when she came on board, yet she supposedly baits Eleanor into inquiring about his parents as if she would know anything about them on a personal level. How could she, when his parents died when he was 14, fully 20 years before she came on the scene. I found this scene so jarringly false it stopped me in my reading. If this housekeeper tried to claim this superior knowledge about his life at a period of time when she wasn't a part of it, Eleanor should have immediately called her on it, since a woman who wants to be a doctor has to have some basic math skills. Since this book has 2 authors this feels like a scenario where one didn't crosscheck the other's work to verify that it worked with the basic premise.This actually happens a couple of times throughout the book, but this example was the most egregious.
Aside from this premise, I was pleased to find this book well written, grammatically correct, with no editorial error that I can recall, though I admit to somewhat skimming through the last chapters.
I agree with another reviewer, there is too much repetition of Matthew reviewing what his life was like one year ago. More than three times is way too many.
Also, there was a glaring continuity error. Matthew is 50 and has employed his housekeeper for 15 years. That means he was 35 when she came on board, yet she supposedly baits Eleanor into inquiring about his parents as if she would know anything about them on a personal level. How could she, when his parents died when he was 14, fully 20 years before she came on the scene. I found this scene so jarringly false it stopped me in my reading. If this housekeeper tried to claim this superior knowledge about his life at a period of time when she wasn't a part of it, Eleanor should have immediately called her on it, since a woman who wants to be a doctor has to have some basic math skills. Since this book has 2 authors this feels like a scenario where one didn't crosscheck the other's work to verify that it worked with the basic premise.This actually happens a couple of times throughout the book, but this example was the most egregious.
October 1, 2025
Repetitive
There are only so many times we need to hear about *just one year ago I was cold hearted.* This should have been shorter. The last few chapters added nothing to the story.
There are only so many times we need to hear about *just one year ago I was cold hearted.* This should have been shorter. The last few chapters added nothing to the story.
November 9, 2025
Matthew Connelly was in for a life's lesson.
He thought real love and marriage was for fools. But his love for his aging grandmother drove him to do the unthinkable. He was impressed by Eleanor Frances when he met her in the cafe. She worked and studied hard so she could go to med school. They both thought it was a good business deal to marry. Matthew was doing what his grandmother wanted to see happen and Eleanor would have the money for med school. All was working well until one of Matthew's competitors pitched a monkey wrench in the fan that attacked Eleanor in the worst way. Both Eleanor and Matthew didn't expect to fall in love with each other but they did. Matthew was the last person to expect to fall in love but his over whelming feelings of love and protection was a complete surprise to him. Dispute the storm that erupted in their lives, they manage to get through it and vow to have their HEA.
He thought real love and marriage was for fools. But his love for his aging grandmother drove him to do the unthinkable. He was impressed by Eleanor Frances when he met her in the cafe. She worked and studied hard so she could go to med school. They both thought it was a good business deal to marry. Matthew was doing what his grandmother wanted to see happen and Eleanor would have the money for med school. All was working well until one of Matthew's competitors pitched a monkey wrench in the fan that attacked Eleanor in the worst way. Both Eleanor and Matthew didn't expect to fall in love with each other but they did. Matthew was the last person to expect to fall in love but his over whelming feelings of love and protection was a complete surprise to him. Dispute the storm that erupted in their lives, they manage to get through it and vow to have their HEA.
October 5, 2025
The best deal he ever made - He needs a wife to appease his grandmother; she needs money for med school. What better way to achieve their goals than with a marriage of convenience? No tender feelings or intimacy required, but there's no contingency in the contract for if they do fall for each other. When the truth of their marriage is blasted for all to see, their world is rocked. The betrayal in his grandmother's eyes is crushing, the business repercussions negligible in comparison. They do make their way back to each other, a heated reunion that seals their passionate future. An enjoyable read from two writers who know how to weave a great yarn. A few inconsistencies and questions left unanswered, but a good read still.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2025
I really enjoyed this storyline. I loved Matthew's character most. He didn't take no shit literally and he didn't back down from no one including his own board of directors. Eleanor was not as put together as Matthew, she was always doubting herself, lacked self esteem and was easily intimidated. Grandma was a strong tough intelligent woman who saw right through her grandson scheme. She played her role well. In the end it all worked out and Eleanor got accepted in the Medical School she preferred. I love the bonus of a baby for this family. Matthew is in his 50's starting a new young family. He seems excited and ready for midnight feedings and diaper changes. I wish the book had been a bit longer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 24, 2025
He would do anything for his grandmother the woman who raised him and her dying wish is to see him married. To achieve this Matthew enters into an arrangement with Eleanor. She needs financial support for medical school and together they form an ally but when feelings begin to grow between them will their arranged marriage turn into the real deal and lead them along the path to happiness. This delightful story had me connecting with Matthew and Eleanor as they chartered their path to happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2025
A delightful story about Eleanor and Matthew who help each other out because they both need help. Matthew wants to fulfill his grandmother's wish for him to marry, which is her last wish he's eager to fulfill. Eleanor, on the other hand, desperately needs money to continue her medical studies. They join forces and slowly grow closer, trying to figure out their future together and find a happy ending.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an Advance Reader copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2025
No chemistry between the main characters…
The plot is a well-played trope. And I was willing to read along because it featured somewhat more mature characters; and, when the writing is good and the chemistry is great, tropes don’t really matter. Unfortunately, this book felt incredibly formulaic, an almost write by numbers, with no real chemistry between the MMC and FMC. I stuck it out to the end but it was kind of like eating a bland meal…it’s not bad, it’s just something I wish I hadn’t done.
The plot is a well-played trope. And I was willing to read along because it featured somewhat more mature characters; and, when the writing is good and the chemistry is great, tropes don’t really matter. Unfortunately, this book felt incredibly formulaic, an almost write by numbers, with no real chemistry between the MMC and FMC. I stuck it out to the end but it was kind of like eating a bland meal…it’s not bad, it’s just something I wish I hadn’t done.
November 25, 2025
Helping beyond pretense, because it was never in the contract
It's a wonderful feeling to be seen more than portion of service.
A waitress and a patron. She served him get strength in giving kindness. He would mountains to please her. It a story that two people can look beyond their job description or status.
It's my first time reading a book by Aliyah Cox and Tyla Walker. I'm looking forward to reading another heart felt romance in the city of Philadelphia (Philly ) Rittenhouse is the perfect spot to read and dream.
It's a wonderful feeling to be seen more than portion of service.
A waitress and a patron. She served him get strength in giving kindness. He would mountains to please her. It a story that two people can look beyond their job description or status.
It's my first time reading a book by Aliyah Cox and Tyla Walker. I'm looking forward to reading another heart felt romance in the city of Philadelphia (Philly ) Rittenhouse is the perfect spot to read and dream.
December 22, 2025
Great book
The book captivates readers with its compelling narrative and expertly crafted storyline, offering an immersive reading experience that draws audiences into its rich and engaging plot. The author's skillful storytelling techniques and well-developed characters create a memorable journey that keeps readers thoroughly invested from the first page to the last.
The book captivates readers with its compelling narrative and expertly crafted storyline, offering an immersive reading experience that draws audiences into its rich and engaging plot. The author's skillful storytelling techniques and well-developed characters create a memorable journey that keeps readers thoroughly invested from the first page to the last.
September 28, 2025
Grandma Gertrude!!!!!
I love that old lady!!! The heart and soul of that family. I am happy that Elle and Matt figure it out what truly matters. ( plays Nat King Cole - L. O. V. E 🎷🎹 )
Beautiful Story ❤️
I love that old lady!!! The heart and soul of that family. I am happy that Elle and Matt figure it out what truly matters. ( plays Nat King Cole - L. O. V. E 🎷🎹 )
Beautiful Story ❤️
September 29, 2025
Such a heartwarming story. Ms. Cox penned a story of adorable and believable characters, with just enough drama to reel in the reader without the story being either improbable or sappy. Very balanced writing and I enjoyed the HEA! Great read.
October 12, 2025
Wistful and Well Paced
Great addition to the fake marriage turned real love trope! I like the characters, the drama, the recompense, the reconciliation, and the reward of life coming together.
Great addition to the fake marriage turned real love trope! I like the characters, the drama, the recompense, the reconciliation, and the reward of life coming together.
November 19, 2025
wonderful love story
I loved the characters in this book. This book was well written.It was a beautiful love story about how relationships can change with two people really love other each other
I loved the characters in this book. This book was well written.It was a beautiful love story about how relationships can change with two people really love other each other
January 14, 2026
Waitress Eleanor is desperate to become a doctor , but she lacks the astronomical tuition. Billionaire Matthew needs to marry before his beloved grandmother passes away. But it needs to look real. Can they pull it off?
Loved the story but hated the abrupt ending!
October 13, 2025
Good Book
I know that any resemblance in reading is a coincidence and reading is fictional however my name is Eleanor and I hate cilantro 😄😄😄. Excellent book
I know that any resemblance in reading is a coincidence and reading is fictional however my name is Eleanor and I hate cilantro 😄😄😄. Excellent book
October 25, 2025
I really liked this heroine and I felt very sorry for the hero and I hated the media.
November 1, 2025
Bwwm way to go.
Read in onw setting . The characters were so enjoyable and their love just flowed off the pages. Love these authors. Will be buying more.
Read in onw setting . The characters were so enjoyable and their love just flowed off the pages. Love these authors. Will be buying more.
November 30, 2025
Chandra's Review
I truly enjoyed reading this book it was intriguing, mysterious, loving, and full of action! I would definitely recommend this book to read! 🤗🤗👏🏾👏🏾
I truly enjoyed reading this book it was intriguing, mysterious, loving, and full of action! I would definitely recommend this book to read! 🤗🤗👏🏾👏🏾
December 29, 2025
cute read!
New to me authors, enjoyed the arranged marriage trope. Matthew stood on big business behind Eleanor. Definitely reading more by them.
New to me authors, enjoyed the arranged marriage trope. Matthew stood on big business behind Eleanor. Definitely reading more by them.
January 5, 2026
The story had promise
But it was not a good read I had a hard time following this book. But it likely due to the fact that this is not an author I follow or read in a regular basis.
But it was not a good read I had a hard time following this book. But it likely due to the fact that this is not an author I follow or read in a regular basis.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews