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Hawkston Billionaires #1
Worth Every Penny
She hates him, but he wants her.
And he always gets what he wants.
Kate Lansen
Everything was fine until the day he walked back into my life. Tall, dark, handsome and with billions in the bank. That’s Nico Hawkston to a T.
By any measure, he should be irresistible. But I'll never go there because Nico is my brother’s best friend.
He’s also the man who caused my father’s death.
When my brother informs me he’s selling our family company to Nico, I’m more than a little pissed off.
If Nico thinks I’m another woman who’ll roll over and do exactly what he wants, he’s sorely mistaken.
Nico Hawkston
It’s no secret that most things come easy to the Hawkston brothers.
But not Kate Lansen. My best friend’s little sister.
Gorgeous, off-limits, and holding a grudge like a pro. She hates me, but I’m determined to have her, one way or another.
And Hawkston men always get what they want.
Worth Every Penny is a standalone, full-length sizzling office enemies-to-lovers romance starring a billionaire male lead and a feisty younger heroine.
Perfect for fans of TL Swan, Catharina Maura and Ana Huang.
And he always gets what he wants.
Kate Lansen
Everything was fine until the day he walked back into my life. Tall, dark, handsome and with billions in the bank. That’s Nico Hawkston to a T.
By any measure, he should be irresistible. But I'll never go there because Nico is my brother’s best friend.
He’s also the man who caused my father’s death.
When my brother informs me he’s selling our family company to Nico, I’m more than a little pissed off.
If Nico thinks I’m another woman who’ll roll over and do exactly what he wants, he’s sorely mistaken.
Nico Hawkston
It’s no secret that most things come easy to the Hawkston brothers.
But not Kate Lansen. My best friend’s little sister.
Gorgeous, off-limits, and holding a grudge like a pro. She hates me, but I’m determined to have her, one way or another.
And Hawkston men always get what they want.
Worth Every Penny is a standalone, full-length sizzling office enemies-to-lovers romance starring a billionaire male lead and a feisty younger heroine.
Perfect for fans of TL Swan, Catharina Maura and Ana Huang.
439 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 692 reviews
September 14, 2024
4.5 stars
the only thought that consumed my mind as I devoured this debut novel was, 'I can't believe this is the author's first book!' I genuinely loved every aspect of it, despite not being a fan of the 'brother's best friend' trope, which is often accompanied by the infamous homosapien act of 'don't sniff near my sister🧌'.
as I delved into Worth Every Penny , I discovered that the narrative was cemented on the slow-burning development of the romance and the mutual pining between the characters, rather than the said trope. I appreciated that the storytelling was orchestrated in a certain way to conceal a significant revelation, which I had intuited as a reader, but wasn't explicitly aware of until the big reveal. I was impressed by how Rae Ryder’s masterful scheming connected various subplots, culminating in a surprising twist that caught me off guard.
when it comes to the main characters, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they were both lovable and well-developed, whether painted as an entity or as individuals. Kate, in particular, stood out as a strong and hardworking female character, driven by the aspiration to complete her father's last project and honor his memory. she was refreshingly free from caricatured plot-line-arcs, such as the silly girl who harbors a crush on her brother's best friend-turned-enemy, and accessorily boss. instead, she was a multi-dimensional character who navigated her emotions with vulnerability, even as she struggled to cope with her father's death and her mother's suffocating hyper-fixation on withering everything she said or did. Nico, on the other hand, was the archetype of the rich and imposing boss, but with a twist. he consistently spoke with perfect timing and insight, whether defending Kate or offering words of wisdom. I found myself genuinely fond of his character, despite his tendency to earn Kate's cold shoulder - and couldn't blame her for it either. he didn't always deserve her ire, but his actions often led to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
all in all, it was an enjoyable read and i’ll certainly be looking forward to this author’s future works, especially for one particular side character (one of Nico’s brothers !).
many thanks to the author for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
——————
he’s a billionaire AND her brother’s best friend 😋
”because there’s only one you, and I love you. I fucking love you, Kate Lansen. you’re one in a million. one in a billion.“
❦ age gap
❦ slowburn
❦ billionaire
❦ ennemis to lovers
❦ workplace romance
❦ brother’s best friend
the only thought that consumed my mind as I devoured this debut novel was, 'I can't believe this is the author's first book!' I genuinely loved every aspect of it, despite not being a fan of the 'brother's best friend' trope, which is often accompanied by the infamous homosapien act of 'don't sniff near my sister🧌'.
as I delved into Worth Every Penny , I discovered that the narrative was cemented on the slow-burning development of the romance and the mutual pining between the characters, rather than the said trope. I appreciated that the storytelling was orchestrated in a certain way to conceal a significant revelation, which I had intuited as a reader, but wasn't explicitly aware of until the big reveal. I was impressed by how Rae Ryder’s masterful scheming connected various subplots, culminating in a surprising twist that caught me off guard.
when it comes to the main characters, I was pleasantly surprised to find that they were both lovable and well-developed, whether painted as an entity or as individuals. Kate, in particular, stood out as a strong and hardworking female character, driven by the aspiration to complete her father's last project and honor his memory. she was refreshingly free from caricatured plot-line-arcs, such as the silly girl who harbors a crush on her brother's best friend-turned-enemy, and accessorily boss. instead, she was a multi-dimensional character who navigated her emotions with vulnerability, even as she struggled to cope with her father's death and her mother's suffocating hyper-fixation on withering everything she said or did. Nico, on the other hand, was the archetype of the rich and imposing boss, but with a twist. he consistently spoke with perfect timing and insight, whether defending Kate or offering words of wisdom. I found myself genuinely fond of his character, despite his tendency to earn Kate's cold shoulder - and couldn't blame her for it either. he didn't always deserve her ire, but his actions often led to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
all in all, it was an enjoyable read and i’ll certainly be looking forward to this author’s future works, especially for one particular side character (one of Nico’s brothers !).
many thanks to the author for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
——————
he’s a billionaire AND her brother’s best friend 😋
December 22, 2024
Part 1
3,5 👙🖼🤔⭐️s
Nicely written and paced, slightly lengthy and more than a couple sideplots.
3,5 👙🖼🤔⭐️s
Nicely written and paced, slightly lengthy and more than a couple sideplots.
December 18, 2024
ARC REVIEW:
1 star.
This is honestly one of the worst books I have ever read. I honestly wish I had DNF’d it. This man embarrassed her throughout the whole book, from when she was young, which made sense because she was only 16 and he was an adult, to when she is a grown woman and he rejects her, AGAIN. Him knowing that the project would be taken away from her and still letting her go up and present and embarrass herself was what I thought was my last straw. But noooooo, she thinks SHE has to grovel and get him back, so she flies to New York and where he is his friend’s fake date to an event. He is supposedly in love with the FMC but turns around and does this…yeah no. Thennn when she turns up, he tells her to go into the taxi back to her hotel while he goes to a gala to be his friend’s fake date. Bear in mind, the FMC was always worried about his friend thinking they had something going on but then he turns around and does that to her. I couldn’t believe what I was reading.
I don’t recommend this book at all
1 star.
This is honestly one of the worst books I have ever read. I honestly wish I had DNF’d it. This man embarrassed her throughout the whole book, from when she was young, which made sense because she was only 16 and he was an adult, to when she is a grown woman and he rejects her, AGAIN. Him knowing that the project would be taken away from her and still letting her go up and present and embarrass herself was what I thought was my last straw. But noooooo, she thinks SHE has to grovel and get him back, so she flies to New York and where he is his friend’s fake date to an event. He is supposedly in love with the FMC but turns around and does this…yeah no. Thennn when she turns up, he tells her to go into the taxi back to her hotel while he goes to a gala to be his friend’s fake date. Bear in mind, the FMC was always worried about his friend thinking they had something going on but then he turns around and does that to her. I couldn’t believe what I was reading.
I don’t recommend this book at all
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2025
4.5 stars. ✨️
I thoroughly enjoyed this. I really loved the British-isms in the writing and from the characters. Felt very much like home. I loved the characters as well, very excited to continue on the series.
I thoroughly enjoyed this. I really loved the British-isms in the writing and from the characters. Felt very much like home. I loved the characters as well, very excited to continue on the series.
September 22, 2024
ARC REVIEW
5/5⭐️ 3/5🌶️
IM BLOWN AWAY!!!😍
I have a feeling this is going to be a very popular book/series once it’s released. Rae’s writing is so dang good! I was hooked immediately and had such a hard time putting this down. I’m ready for the other 2 books in the series now please 😆
I’m such a die hard fan of the brother’s best friend trope with enemies to lovers 😍 I fell in love with Nico’s character right away! I love how he respected his friendship with his best friend but let himself give in to the feelings he’s had for Kate. He is this reformed playboy turned possessive MMC and I’m here for it!! Kate is a such a strong character and I really enjoyed how she didn’t automatically give in to Nico and made him work for it 😉 They had such strong sexual tension and I loved the angry banter 🥵
It’s a slow burn but once the spice hits it HITS! The office scene…the crawling… HOT 🔥🔥🔥
If you love…
-Billionaire
-Enemies to Lovers
-Workplace
-Slow Burn But Lots of Spice
-Brothers Best Friend
-Age Gap
READ THIS BOOK!
Thank you Rae for the ARC, you did a fantastic job with this book and I seriously can’t wait to read more of the series!
5/5⭐️ 3/5🌶️
IM BLOWN AWAY!!!😍
I have a feeling this is going to be a very popular book/series once it’s released. Rae’s writing is so dang good! I was hooked immediately and had such a hard time putting this down. I’m ready for the other 2 books in the series now please 😆
I’m such a die hard fan of the brother’s best friend trope with enemies to lovers 😍 I fell in love with Nico’s character right away! I love how he respected his friendship with his best friend but let himself give in to the feelings he’s had for Kate. He is this reformed playboy turned possessive MMC and I’m here for it!! Kate is a such a strong character and I really enjoyed how she didn’t automatically give in to Nico and made him work for it 😉 They had such strong sexual tension and I loved the angry banter 🥵
It’s a slow burn but once the spice hits it HITS! The office scene…the crawling… HOT 🔥🔥🔥
If you love…
-Billionaire
-Enemies to Lovers
-Workplace
-Slow Burn But Lots of Spice
-Brothers Best Friend
-Age Gap
READ THIS BOOK!
Thank you Rae for the ARC, you did a fantastic job with this book and I seriously can’t wait to read more of the series!
August 22, 2024
4.5 stars🩷 Ob fucking sessed. So lucky to have got an advanced copy of this. Truly ate this book up, the spice was so well written and all the twists and turns of the book just added so well to the story. Rae’s writing style is really good, kept me so engaged and i really didn’t want to put it down. Can’t wait to read more in this series!!
August 23, 2024
Was lucky to be selected as an ARC reader and I’m so glad I put my name forward for it.
I’ve read a lot of books, a lot of billionaire romances and this didn’t miss. It even had a side of mystery and deception that made it just that bit different from the others I’ve read.
I really enjoyed Kate and Nicos story, though I will be honest, it took me a minute to really invest myself! I wouldn’t say the slowest burn but slower than I am used to. Once we really got in to it and the secrets started revealing themselves, I was hooked. Well done Rae for writing an epic debut! 🫶🏼
I’ve read a lot of books, a lot of billionaire romances and this didn’t miss. It even had a side of mystery and deception that made it just that bit different from the others I’ve read.
I really enjoyed Kate and Nicos story, though I will be honest, it took me a minute to really invest myself! I wouldn’t say the slowest burn but slower than I am used to. Once we really got in to it and the secrets started revealing themselves, I was hooked. Well done Rae for writing an epic debut! 🫶🏼
December 7, 2024
3.5⭐️
Worth Every Penny by Rae Ryder is such an impressive debut. This brother's best friend trope often risks feeling clichéd, but Ryder skillfully sidesteps this by focusing on the characters' mutual longing and the slow-burn romance rather than relying solely on the traditional framework of the trope. The plot is structured in a way that teases a large revelation, keeping the reader intrigued and engaged until the big reveal. This subtle mystery added depth to the story, making it stand out from other romances.
The characters are well-developed and endearing, with Kate standing out as a strong and determined female protagonist. Driven by the need to honor her late father's legacy, she avoids falling into typical clichéd roles. She handles her emotions with vulnerability and honesty, despite the overwhelming grief from losing her father and dealing with her mother's emotional baggage. Although there were moments where Kate's reactions toward Nico felt a bit unfair or dramatic, it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of her character arc.
Nico, the typical wealthy and powerful boss, is given a unique twist. His wisdom, timing, and ability to defend Kate make him a compelling character, even as his behavior occasionally leads to misunderstandings between them. While some of his actions caused friction, I couldn’t help but appreciate the complexity of his character. The tension and angst between Kate and Nico were perfectly executed, making their dynamic both exciting and emotionally charged.
This book was full of passion, emotional depth, and a compelling plot. I look forward to continuing this series.
Worth Every Penny by Rae Ryder is such an impressive debut. This brother's best friend trope often risks feeling clichéd, but Ryder skillfully sidesteps this by focusing on the characters' mutual longing and the slow-burn romance rather than relying solely on the traditional framework of the trope. The plot is structured in a way that teases a large revelation, keeping the reader intrigued and engaged until the big reveal. This subtle mystery added depth to the story, making it stand out from other romances.
The characters are well-developed and endearing, with Kate standing out as a strong and determined female protagonist. Driven by the need to honor her late father's legacy, she avoids falling into typical clichéd roles. She handles her emotions with vulnerability and honesty, despite the overwhelming grief from losing her father and dealing with her mother's emotional baggage. Although there were moments where Kate's reactions toward Nico felt a bit unfair or dramatic, it didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of her character arc.
Nico, the typical wealthy and powerful boss, is given a unique twist. His wisdom, timing, and ability to defend Kate make him a compelling character, even as his behavior occasionally leads to misunderstandings between them. While some of his actions caused friction, I couldn’t help but appreciate the complexity of his character. The tension and angst between Kate and Nico were perfectly executed, making their dynamic both exciting and emotionally charged.
This book was full of passion, emotional depth, and a compelling plot. I look forward to continuing this series.
September 16, 2024
I really really wanted to give this book more stars, but it felt so long. I really enjoyed certain aspects but felt the characters were really immature for how accomplished they were and there were too many plot points that it to me felt really drawn out. If this was solely based on spice and vibes I’d give it 4/5.
March 25, 2025
Too much drama...
November 30, 2024
Don’t come for me, but billionaire romances aren’t normally my thing but this was really well written and I didn’t find it to be cheesy.
Kate is an ambitious, independent, career driven woman who finds herself working for her billionaire Nico, who also happens to be her teenage crush.
Let me tell you, the tension alone made me want to chuck my kindle over and over again. I would consider this a slow burn but with tons of tension so it didn’t really feel that slow.
The spicy scenes were pretty good and there was a decent amount of it once things picked up. 3.5 ⭐️🌶️
Kate is an ambitious, independent, career driven woman who finds herself working for her billionaire Nico, who also happens to be her teenage crush.
Let me tell you, the tension alone made me want to chuck my kindle over and over again. I would consider this a slow burn but with tons of tension so it didn’t really feel that slow.
The spicy scenes were pretty good and there was a decent amount of it once things picked up. 3.5 ⭐️🌶️
August 21, 2024
What can I say except Rae Ryder is a literally genius and I can’t wait to get my hands on more of her novels? I’m forever grateful to have had the chance to read this book before launch, especially because I know this is right up there with many good romance books that are highly loved by the BookTok, Bookstagram, and other social communities.
This novel had a slow burn, a tension of a broody gray moral man and his bestfriend’s sister - a sister whom sees him as a horrible person (or does she? Idk bestie but you better read this book!). I loved every minute of this while I was reading, and I truly cannot wait to see more from this author in the future. A fabulous book to begin her writing career and journey with. 🫶🏻
This novel had a slow burn, a tension of a broody gray moral man and his bestfriend’s sister - a sister whom sees him as a horrible person (or does she? Idk bestie but you better read this book!). I loved every minute of this while I was reading, and I truly cannot wait to see more from this author in the future. A fabulous book to begin her writing career and journey with. 🫶🏻
August 23, 2024
The one with the spa.
Where to start? I was given the opportunity to read this as (a/an) ARC. As this being my first experience in the role I’ll try to be as detailed as possible.
The story of Kate and Nico was cute. They met when they were younger, and Kate always had a crush on Nico. She tried to seduce him when she was 17 and he covered his eyes and sent her away. A few years later a deal between the two families goes bad. This is where the feud escalated, because shortly after the downfall Kate’s dad died. Kate’s insistent that the heart attack was from the stress of the situation and therefore Nico is to blame. Kate and Nico meet again after 8 years at a birthday party for her brother where she learns he sold the family business to Nico. Kate still resents Nico after all this time, but damn if he isn’t fine! 🥵 There’s chemistry and sexual tension, but they both refuse to act on it. Long story short they hook up.
That’s the basic premise of the story, but there are side bits within that make it more interesting. There’s deception, cheating (not FMC/MMC), and secrets to reveal.
Unfortunately, this book was very predictable. Not only did I call it a mile away, but it was entirely too long. I love a long story, but this was drawn out. The details were fantastic, and it was so easy to picture and place the characters. However, there are so many words needed to describe something specifically.
I wish Nico had explained with all that detail why he turned her away in the hot tub. Or how he’s felt about her all these years. Those things were glossed over.
I also got the feeling early on that book two would be about Matt. Poor guy.
If you’re looking for a long, light hearted romance this is for you.
Where to start? I was given the opportunity to read this as (a/an) ARC. As this being my first experience in the role I’ll try to be as detailed as possible.
The story of Kate and Nico was cute. They met when they were younger, and Kate always had a crush on Nico. She tried to seduce him when she was 17 and he covered his eyes and sent her away. A few years later a deal between the two families goes bad. This is where the feud escalated, because shortly after the downfall Kate’s dad died. Kate’s insistent that the heart attack was from the stress of the situation and therefore Nico is to blame. Kate and Nico meet again after 8 years at a birthday party for her brother where she learns he sold the family business to Nico. Kate still resents Nico after all this time, but damn if he isn’t fine! 🥵 There’s chemistry and sexual tension, but they both refuse to act on it. Long story short they hook up.
That’s the basic premise of the story, but there are side bits within that make it more interesting. There’s deception, cheating (not FMC/MMC), and secrets to reveal.
Unfortunately, this book was very predictable. Not only did I call it a mile away, but it was entirely too long. I love a long story, but this was drawn out. The details were fantastic, and it was so easy to picture and place the characters. However, there are so many words needed to describe something specifically.
I wish Nico had explained with all that detail why he turned her away in the hot tub. Or how he’s felt about her all these years. Those things were glossed over.
I also got the feeling early on that book two would be about Matt. Poor guy.
If you’re looking for a long, light hearted romance this is for you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2024
Thanks author for the arc copy!
✨ I really like this book! Love the storyline and the characters. I was hooked since the beginning and I'm falling deep when secrets after secrets were unravel. Nico Hawkston was her brother's best friend. They knew each other and got along fine until something happened between their family. Kate grew up hating Nico because of the that. I felt bad for Kate feeling like and outsider in her own family. I really hate her mother. Nico was the ultimate book boyfriend! I like reading about their relationship. The spice scene was really good. Very good for a debut author! Looking forward to read the next one🩵
💜 brother’s best friend
💜 billionaire romance
💜 Workplace Romance
✨ I really like this book! Love the storyline and the characters. I was hooked since the beginning and I'm falling deep when secrets after secrets were unravel. Nico Hawkston was her brother's best friend. They knew each other and got along fine until something happened between their family. Kate grew up hating Nico because of the that. I felt bad for Kate feeling like and outsider in her own family. I really hate her mother. Nico was the ultimate book boyfriend! I like reading about their relationship. The spice scene was really good. Very good for a debut author! Looking forward to read the next one🩵
💜 brother’s best friend
💜 billionaire romance
💜 Workplace Romance
August 5, 2025
The story was kind of boring and the main characters annoyed me most of the time. Kate could never make up her mind about anything and when she finally could that became her only character trait. Like she had no life apart from thinking about Nico which was annoying. Nico himself wasn’t much better I mean I understand that they couldn’t outright be together in front of everyone at the office but him continuously ignoring her for days on end only to text her when he wants something from her was not cute at all.
Kate had no backbone whatsoever especially in front of her mom which got very old very quickly. The 3rd act break up was very understandable because the secret Nico kept from Kate was very big so that’s ok. Overall was a meh read but I’ve read worse so it gets a 2 from me.
Kate had no backbone whatsoever especially in front of her mom which got very old very quickly. The 3rd act break up was very understandable because the secret Nico kept from Kate was very big so that’s ok. Overall was a meh read but I’ve read worse so it gets a 2 from me.
September 19, 2024
5 stars⭐️ I’m so lucky to have gotten a chance to read an advanced copy of Worth Every Penny as this book was incredible! This is book one in the Hawkston Billionaires series, which will be made up of interconnected standalones and I cannot wait for the next one🤭
Tropes:
💙Billionaire
✨Brothers best friend
💙Enemies to lovers
✨Slow burn
💙Workplace romance
I enjoyed this book so much! It was so well written and the mystery aspect to it had me not wanting to put the book down! I loved Kate and Nico’s story and the twists and turns that kept me absolutely hooked! And don’t get me started on the tension between the two🥵
Tropes:
💙Billionaire
✨Brothers best friend
💙Enemies to lovers
✨Slow burn
💙Workplace romance
I enjoyed this book so much! It was so well written and the mystery aspect to it had me not wanting to put the book down! I loved Kate and Nico’s story and the twists and turns that kept me absolutely hooked! And don’t get me started on the tension between the two🥵
September 24, 2024
*Put the gun away this is not the Mafia*
*Shotgun on not telling*
*Shes priceless*
*I would chose her*
I can not believe this is Rae's first book. From start to finish I could not put this book down. For a very small moment I was worried it was going to be a will they won't they only book but then everything took off.
Each character was so well described, I felt the pain, discomfort and happy moments. I experienced so many emotions from laughing, crying, cringing and wanting to hurt someone.
I can not wait for the rest of the series! I already feel invested in these characters.
Thank you Rae for allowing me to be an ARC reader, what an incredible book!
*Shotgun on not telling*
*Shes priceless*
*I would chose her*
I can not believe this is Rae's first book. From start to finish I could not put this book down. For a very small moment I was worried it was going to be a will they won't they only book but then everything took off.
Each character was so well described, I felt the pain, discomfort and happy moments. I experienced so many emotions from laughing, crying, cringing and wanting to hurt someone.
I can not wait for the rest of the series! I already feel invested in these characters.
Thank you Rae for allowing me to be an ARC reader, what an incredible book!
September 9, 2025
This is my first book by Rea Ryder and at times I really enjoyed it but with how much Neco wanted to be with Kate he kept dicking her about and she was always questioning what was happening and the project for the spa she was working on Neco knew it would be taken off her and still didn't tell her.
January 3, 2025
**Worth Every Penny** is a 5-star read!
Rae is a phenomenal storyteller who had me grinning from ear to ear the entire time. Kate, the FMC, is absolutely delectable—sweet, hardworking, and incredibly strong! Nico, the swoon-worthy MMC, was a goner from the very beginning, and their chemistry was undeniable.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Rae's talent for weaving compelling storylines really shines through, and I was completely invested. I especially found myself gritting my teeth whenever Kate’s mom appeared—she drove me *insane*! That woman definitely needs a rude awakening, and I’m hoping she gets it in the next book, especially since Jack, Kate’s brother, is featured in Book 2 ‘Worth Every Game’.
I can’t wait to dive into Jack’s story and continue this series!
Rae is a phenomenal storyteller who had me grinning from ear to ear the entire time. Kate, the FMC, is absolutely delectable—sweet, hardworking, and incredibly strong! Nico, the swoon-worthy MMC, was a goner from the very beginning, and their chemistry was undeniable.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book from start to finish. Rae's talent for weaving compelling storylines really shines through, and I was completely invested. I especially found myself gritting my teeth whenever Kate’s mom appeared—she drove me *insane*! That woman definitely needs a rude awakening, and I’m hoping she gets it in the next book, especially since Jack, Kate’s brother, is featured in Book 2 ‘Worth Every Game’.
I can’t wait to dive into Jack’s story and continue this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2024
This book was very good! It shocked me that this was Rae ryders debut. Thank you Rae for allowing me an ARC of this story it was great. I enjoyed both main characters. I’m a sucker for brothers best friend redemption kinda romance. This story follows Kate (little K) and Nico. Kate was fed some white lies which led to her having a very negative view on Nico who’s basically like family to her as he is her brothers best friend. It followed her becoming more independent, standing up for herself and building her self confidence/esteem. It was a slow burn for sure and Nico’s ability to be hot and cold so easily was frustrating but I do think it made the story. There are some characters in this story that really and truly suck (iykyk). To see Kate finally get her happily ever after with someone she truly never stopped loving was beautiful. I am Interested in seeing what’s in store for the other hawkston brothers. Release day is September 25th. I recommend adding this to your TBR if your looking for a quick read and are a sucker for the brothers best friend, enemies (ish) to lovers and billionaire romance.
October 30, 2024
∽ Je suis en retard dans mes reviews ∽
📚 Worth Every Penny : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
#1 Hawkston Billionaires
Kate & Nico
-✨ Tropes : enemies to lovers / billionaire romance / brother best friend's
Au début du livre les deux personnages sont hyper attirés l'un envers l'autre mais ils ne font pas grand chose et se voilent un peu la face. Donc j'ai trouvé le début un peu long !
Pour moi c'était un peu un enchainement des scènes cliché d'un livre avec ces tropes là, et je l'ai vraiment ressenti comme un empilement sans rien autour, je n'ai pas trop aimé le scénario en général. Par contre, je ne m'attendais pas à certaines actions et le dénouement de l'histoire est assez surprenant donc ça c'est plus positif.
Happy ending mais ça s'arrête un peu net à mon goût. Par contre l'épilogue est trop biennnn.
- Spicy : 🌶️🌶️🌶️
(Ps : Mes review sont destinés plutôt pour moi-même que pour les autres, c’est pour ça que c’est écrit de façon random mais si ça peut vous donner envie de lire le livre lets gooo 🫣 et ptit mix français-anglais parce que WHY NOT )
📚 Worth Every Penny : ⭐️⭐️⭐️
#1 Hawkston Billionaires
Kate & Nico
-✨ Tropes : enemies to lovers / billionaire romance / brother best friend's
Au début du livre les deux personnages sont hyper attirés l'un envers l'autre mais ils ne font pas grand chose et se voilent un peu la face. Donc j'ai trouvé le début un peu long !
Pour moi c'était un peu un enchainement des scènes cliché d'un livre avec ces tropes là, et je l'ai vraiment ressenti comme un empilement sans rien autour, je n'ai pas trop aimé le scénario en général. Par contre, je ne m'attendais pas à certaines actions et le dénouement de l'histoire est assez surprenant donc ça c'est plus positif.
Happy ending mais ça s'arrête un peu net à mon goût. Par contre l'épilogue est trop biennnn.
- Spicy : 🌶️🌶️🌶️
(Ps : Mes review sont destinés plutôt pour moi-même que pour les autres, c’est pour ça que c’est écrit de façon random mais si ça peut vous donner envie de lire le livre lets gooo 🫣 et ptit mix français-anglais parce que WHY NOT )
August 23, 2024
I was so lucky to be able to read this ARC, and do you know what? I’m obsessed with Kate and Nico! What a book! I struggled in the beginning as it was a slow burner, but once I got into it, I couldn’t put it down. Rae Ryder is quickly becoming my favourite author and I can’t wait for the next book!
August 23, 2024
- ARC reader review -
I was fortunate to have received an ARC-version of this book. Read it in almost one sitting, was really invested in the story of Kate and Nico. Rae's writing style really kept me engaged, and the spice was amazing. The chemistry and tension between the FMC and the MMC were on fire. The storyline itself gave me a bit of Pride and Prejudice-vibes, with Nico taking care of Kate behind the scenes.
I can't wait to see what she has in store for the other Hawkston brothers! Secretly also hoping there will be a story about Jack.
Tropes :
💥Brother's best friend
💥Irresistible protective billionaire
💥Teenage crush
💥I hate him, but I love him
💥Boss / employee
💥Slight age gap
💥Spicy 🥵🔥
💥HEA
I was fortunate to have received an ARC-version of this book. Read it in almost one sitting, was really invested in the story of Kate and Nico. Rae's writing style really kept me engaged, and the spice was amazing. The chemistry and tension between the FMC and the MMC were on fire. The storyline itself gave me a bit of Pride and Prejudice-vibes, with Nico taking care of Kate behind the scenes.
I can't wait to see what she has in store for the other Hawkston brothers! Secretly also hoping there will be a story about Jack.
Tropes :
💥Brother's best friend
💥Irresistible protective billionaire
💥Teenage crush
💥I hate him, but I love him
💥Boss / employee
💥Slight age gap
💥Spicy 🥵🔥
💥HEA
November 16, 2024
I was hooked immediately!! Rae’s writing is fantastic I couldn’t put it down. Can’t go wrong with enemies to lovers and brothers best friend trope!! Love Kate’s character development throughout the book.
August 22, 2024
This book!!! It was spicy, romantic, and thrilling, did I mention spicy! I am so lucky to have been an ARC reader for this book. The storyline kept me reading into the early morning hours. If you like a romance with a grumpy hot billionaire, a touch her and d13 vibe. This is it. I'm telling you, you won't be let down. The characters are so fun to get to know, and Nico, well, just you wait. It's a stand-alone. But I can't wait for Book 2 in this series.
November 17, 2024
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this book.
Worth Every Penny is an unforgettable debut that delivers all the tension, spice, and heart you could want in a billionaire romance. Rae’s writing style is impressive, drawing you in from the first page and making it impossible to put the book down.
The story is full of twists and secrets, adding a layer of mystery that sets it apart from typical romances. Kate’s personal growth as she gains independence and confidence is inspiring, while Nico’s transformation into the ultimate book boyfriend will have readers swooning. And when the spice kicks in, it’s chef’s kiss—that office scene? HOT. 🔥
Then this is a must-read! Worth Every Penny is the perfect start to the Hawkston Billionaires series, and I can’t wait to dive into the next book. Highly recommended for fans of slow-burn romance with emotional depth and just the right amount of spice. 🩵
I devoured this book.
Worth Every Penny is an unforgettable debut that delivers all the tension, spice, and heart you could want in a billionaire romance. Rae’s writing style is impressive, drawing you in from the first page and making it impossible to put the book down.
The story is full of twists and secrets, adding a layer of mystery that sets it apart from typical romances. Kate’s personal growth as she gains independence and confidence is inspiring, while Nico’s transformation into the ultimate book boyfriend will have readers swooning. And when the spice kicks in, it’s chef’s kiss—that office scene? HOT. 🔥
Then this is a must-read! Worth Every Penny is the perfect start to the Hawkston Billionaires series, and I can’t wait to dive into the next book. Highly recommended for fans of slow-burn romance with emotional depth and just the right amount of spice. 🩵
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 6, 2025
5 Little K. stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
4🌶
4🌶
April 26, 2026
This wasn’t badly written, but the FMC tested every ounce of my patience. She’s completely fine dating a man she’s convinced killed her father… but suddenly develops a moral compass when he lies to her to protect her? That’s where we draw the line? Be serious.
And just when she finally gains a single moment of self awareness and goes after him, he responds with “I’m giving the opening speech at a charity gala tonight. I can’t miss it. I have to go…” I’m sorry what??
Two stars, and that’s being generous. Elliot carried this entire book on his back. I’d happily read his story instead.
And just when she finally gains a single moment of self awareness and goes after him, he responds with “I’m giving the opening speech at a charity gala tonight. I can’t miss it. I have to go…” I’m sorry what??
Two stars, and that’s being generous. Elliot carried this entire book on his back. I’d happily read his story instead.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2025
okay the story and plot was somewhat interesting, but the way characters behaved and the book was written is just plain bad. The book starts with the mother of FMC being a complete manipulative bitch and I am honestly surprised no one threw a lamp at her head by the end. I absolutely hate when one character is being manipulative and the other just stands there taking it all in, because they are "strong". That's not being strong, that's being dumb.
The brother is also a complete asshole because he sees theway the mother behaves and instead reprimands the FMC when she shows a tiniest bit of emotion at that. He still treats her like a child when he knows about the relation b/w MMC and FMC he punches him. Seems reasonable, right?
But nope, being the utter prick that Jack is, when being confronted by the FMC about why he didnt tell her the truth about their father, he says, and I quote," Why would I tell you? So you can react irresponsibly and emotionally like you did just now?" I mean....
The reaction in case was breaking a photo frame, thats it, for the fact that everyone hid the truth of the father being a gambler while the FMC idolised him. He hit the MMC for simply being with his sister and she shouldn't react when she figures out such a huge truth about her father??? and the fact that everyone lied to her????
The FMC still doesnt say anything worthwhile and she never has any better comebacks, ever.
Then comes the MMC, who spent most of the book ignoring FMC, berating her and hiding stuff that he knows will be used to humiliate her infront of everyone at work and still having the gaul to claim that he loves her.
When the FMC shows a tiniest bit of spine and breaks up with him, he has the audacity to say that he wont be with someone who gives up because he is not someone who gives up????? what the actual fuckk????
what kind of a person he is then? a dishonest, backstabbing lying bitch?????
The FMC still doesnt have any good response to this awful statement and simply leaves🤦♀️🤦♀️
Somehow by the end FMC is convinced that she made a mistake?? and goes after the guy, but of course, he blows her off, goes to some charity gala with the girl that he knows upsets the FMC, while the FMC is just sitting in the hotel restaurant waiting for him.
I was embarrased for the FMC most of the book and aside from these behavioural issues, the plot of the villian was also very easy to guess, so there was no surprise for me there.
Writing wise, the author spends wayyy too much time explaing how gorgeous Nico is. Seriously, the start of the book has every alternate book describing his beauty, which is just not for me.
The sex talk is also filled with how gorgeous Nico is, when they are upset with each other and ignoring each other, there is still a paragraph about his beauty, when the end of the book approaches and FMC goes to US after him, you guessed it, there is still a paragraph about how gorgeous Nico is🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
I should have DNFed at the start itself beacuse this was just absurd, not even bad, just absurd and absolutely horrible. Do yourself a favour and read something else.
The brother is also a complete asshole because he sees theway the mother behaves and instead reprimands the FMC when she shows a tiniest bit of emotion at that. He still treats her like a child when he knows about the relation b/w MMC and FMC he punches him. Seems reasonable, right?
But nope, being the utter prick that Jack is, when being confronted by the FMC about why he didnt tell her the truth about their father, he says, and I quote," Why would I tell you? So you can react irresponsibly and emotionally like you did just now?" I mean....
The reaction in case was breaking a photo frame, thats it, for the fact that everyone hid the truth of the father being a gambler while the FMC idolised him. He hit the MMC for simply being with his sister and she shouldn't react when she figures out such a huge truth about her father??? and the fact that everyone lied to her????
The FMC still doesnt say anything worthwhile and she never has any better comebacks, ever.
Then comes the MMC, who spent most of the book ignoring FMC, berating her and hiding stuff that he knows will be used to humiliate her infront of everyone at work and still having the gaul to claim that he loves her.
When the FMC shows a tiniest bit of spine and breaks up with him, he has the audacity to say that he wont be with someone who gives up because he is not someone who gives up????? what the actual fuckk????
what kind of a person he is then? a dishonest, backstabbing lying bitch?????
The FMC still doesnt have any good response to this awful statement and simply leaves🤦♀️🤦♀️
Somehow by the end FMC is convinced that she made a mistake?? and goes after the guy, but of course, he blows her off, goes to some charity gala with the girl that he knows upsets the FMC, while the FMC is just sitting in the hotel restaurant waiting for him.
I was embarrased for the FMC most of the book and aside from these behavioural issues, the plot of the villian was also very easy to guess, so there was no surprise for me there.
Writing wise, the author spends wayyy too much time explaing how gorgeous Nico is. Seriously, the start of the book has every alternate book describing his beauty, which is just not for me.
The sex talk is also filled with how gorgeous Nico is, when they are upset with each other and ignoring each other, there is still a paragraph about his beauty, when the end of the book approaches and FMC goes to US after him, you guessed it, there is still a paragraph about how gorgeous Nico is🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
I should have DNFed at the start itself beacuse this was just absurd, not even bad, just absurd and absolutely horrible. Do yourself a favour and read something else.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2024
She hates him, but he wants her.
And he always gets what he wants.
Kate Lansen
Everything was fine until the day he walked back into my life. Tall, dark, handsome and with billions in the bank. That’s Nico Hawkston to a T.
By any measure, he should be irresistible. But I'll never go there because Nico is my brother’s best friend.
He’s also the man who caused my father’s death.
When my brother informs me he’s selling our family company to Nico, I’m more than a little pissed off.
If Nico thinks I’m another woman who’ll roll over and do exactly what he wants, he’s sorely mistaken.
Nico Hawkston
It’s no secret that most things come easy to the Hawkston brothers.
But not Kate Lansen. My best friend’s little sister.
Gorgeous, off-limits, and holding a grudge like a pro. She hates me, but I’m determined to have her, one way or another.
And Hawkston men always get what they want.
—————————————————————————-
I can’t believe this is the debut novel of Rae Ryder! This book was everything! I loved it so much! I enjoyed every second of reading this! I couldn’t put the book down. The book is a perfect combination of swoon, love, secrets, lots of hot spice, laughter, big smiles, and a fantastic HEA! Can’t wait for the next book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
And he always gets what he wants.
Kate Lansen
Everything was fine until the day he walked back into my life. Tall, dark, handsome and with billions in the bank. That’s Nico Hawkston to a T.
By any measure, he should be irresistible. But I'll never go there because Nico is my brother’s best friend.
He’s also the man who caused my father’s death.
When my brother informs me he’s selling our family company to Nico, I’m more than a little pissed off.
If Nico thinks I’m another woman who’ll roll over and do exactly what he wants, he’s sorely mistaken.
Nico Hawkston
It’s no secret that most things come easy to the Hawkston brothers.
But not Kate Lansen. My best friend’s little sister.
Gorgeous, off-limits, and holding a grudge like a pro. She hates me, but I’m determined to have her, one way or another.
And Hawkston men always get what they want.
—————————————————————————-
I can’t believe this is the debut novel of Rae Ryder! This book was everything! I loved it so much! I enjoyed every second of reading this! I couldn’t put the book down. The book is a perfect combination of swoon, love, secrets, lots of hot spice, laughter, big smiles, and a fantastic HEA! Can’t wait for the next book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
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