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Nine Months: A Billionaire Marriage of Convenience Pregnancy Romance
One year. One promise. Multiple Secrets.
One reckless night with Ethan Castille was supposed to be a mistake.
Instead, it changed everything.
I was expected to marry New York’s golden boy—the man who would protect my family’s reputation and secure our future among the city’s elite. But now I’m pregnant with another man’s baby.
And not just any man.
Ethan Castille is cold, brilliant, and dangerously powerful—a billionaire who built his empire by trusting no one and never losing control. The last thing he wants is a family. The last thing I want is to need him.
But when scandal threatens my name and enemies circle his empire, Ethan offers me a solution: A secret marriage contract.
No emotions. Only loyalty.
It was meant to be simple...
Until stolen kisses turn into sleepless nights.
Until pretending starts to feel real.
Until the man who swore he could never love me becomes the only one I can’t walk away from.
Because in a world built on power, betrayal, and secrets, falling in love might be the most dangerous risk of all.
Nine Months is a steamy contemporary romance featuring a surprise pregnancy, marriage of convenience, billionaire family drama, emotional tension, and an underestimated heroine guaranteed to earn her happily ever after.
One reckless night with Ethan Castille was supposed to be a mistake.
Instead, it changed everything.
I was expected to marry New York’s golden boy—the man who would protect my family’s reputation and secure our future among the city’s elite. But now I’m pregnant with another man’s baby.
And not just any man.
Ethan Castille is cold, brilliant, and dangerously powerful—a billionaire who built his empire by trusting no one and never losing control. The last thing he wants is a family. The last thing I want is to need him.
But when scandal threatens my name and enemies circle his empire, Ethan offers me a solution: A secret marriage contract.
No emotions. Only loyalty.
It was meant to be simple...
Until stolen kisses turn into sleepless nights.
Until pretending starts to feel real.
Until the man who swore he could never love me becomes the only one I can’t walk away from.
Because in a world built on power, betrayal, and secrets, falling in love might be the most dangerous risk of all.
Nine Months is a steamy contemporary romance featuring a surprise pregnancy, marriage of convenience, billionaire family drama, emotional tension, and an underestimated heroine guaranteed to earn her happily ever after.
- GenresMarriage Of Convenience
351 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 11, 2026
About the author
Elena Marie
1 book4 followersWith a B.A. in Communications and Creative Writing, Elena Marie built a successful career as a media executive. After the pandemic reshaped her sense of purpose, Elena Marie returned to her long-held passion for writing romance. A proud California native, she resides in Los Angeles with her husband and two cats, continuing to dream up stories about love in its many beautiful forms.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Review of advance copy
This book is definitely one of my favourites, it was nothing like I expected, yet so much more. Francesca knows life isn't everything she hoped it would be. Yet she gets one night that she claims for herself, before giving everything up to please her parents. Or so she thinks. Ethan is now CEO of his families company, a playboy and definitely doesn't believe in love or relationships. Then he spends one night with her and everything changes. He just can't get her out of this head, but they both said "one night" but here he is still wanting more. That one night changes both their lives. Nothing is simple and family is even more complicated. How will they both deal with the hurdles they face. Will past experiences plague any chance to find a happy ending. Or will secrets and half truths be the ultimate betrayal. “I’m acknowledging that love makes us do complicated things. It doesn’t make it right, but it makes us human". I absolutely love this story and can't wait for more from this author. Both main characters are flawed with complicated pasts, yet together they're rebuilding a new normal.
Review of advance copy
Nine Months by Elena Marie
4 ⭐️
1.5 🌶
This was an amazing book. Normally I'm not such a fan of the marriage of convenience trope because the drama tends to get way too complicated. But with Nine Months I got absolutely hooked from the first chapter.
“I’m acknowledging that love makes us do complicated things. It doesn’t make it right, but it makes us human.”
Francesca has been living her entire existence trying to prove she's the perfect daughter but that puts her in a place where she feels like her life is not hers but what the others want.
“You’ve shown me that vulnerability isn’t weakness. That trust can be a strength, not a liability. That loving someone is the bravest thing a person can do, and loving the right person, the most rewarding.”
Ethan, known as a playboy for a few years already, has taken the place as CEO in his family's business. For him nothing is more important than keeping the business afloat and also prove that he deserves the spot and that he'll do magnificent things.
I really liked both characters, I think the fact that Ethan was older, and not a young character helped a lot, because he was not immature or a brat with money. Francesca just nine or ten years younger than him was also a nice FMC, she's super smart and was decided to continue with her life, starting from zero if things went wrong.
It was nice to see that Francesca and Ethan had a friendship before we got to the whole drama 👀🫣. And yes, there was miscommunication, secrets and truths that needed to be told. But the outcome was good for everyone.
Ethan's siblings where brilliant, but my favourite was Penny, she's such a badass. Francesca's sister, Lisa, and brother and law were also lovely side characters. I loved how William made clear that he was going to protect Francesca, even if Ethan was his friend.
I'm excited for the next books in this series!
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC.
4 ⭐️
1.5 🌶
This was an amazing book. Normally I'm not such a fan of the marriage of convenience trope because the drama tends to get way too complicated. But with Nine Months I got absolutely hooked from the first chapter.
“I’m acknowledging that love makes us do complicated things. It doesn’t make it right, but it makes us human.”
Francesca has been living her entire existence trying to prove she's the perfect daughter but that puts her in a place where she feels like her life is not hers but what the others want.
“You’ve shown me that vulnerability isn’t weakness. That trust can be a strength, not a liability. That loving someone is the bravest thing a person can do, and loving the right person, the most rewarding.”
Ethan, known as a playboy for a few years already, has taken the place as CEO in his family's business. For him nothing is more important than keeping the business afloat and also prove that he deserves the spot and that he'll do magnificent things.
I really liked both characters, I think the fact that Ethan was older, and not a young character helped a lot, because he was not immature or a brat with money. Francesca just nine or ten years younger than him was also a nice FMC, she's super smart and was decided to continue with her life, starting from zero if things went wrong.
It was nice to see that Francesca and Ethan had a friendship before we got to the whole drama 👀🫣. And yes, there was miscommunication, secrets and truths that needed to be told. But the outcome was good for everyone.
Ethan's siblings where brilliant, but my favourite was Penny, she's such a badass. Francesca's sister, Lisa, and brother and law were also lovely side characters. I loved how William made clear that he was going to protect Francesca, even if Ethan was his friend.
I'm excited for the next books in this series!
Thanks to BookSirens for the ARC.
December 19, 2025
Nine Months delivers everything readers love about billionaire pregnancy romance while adding emotional depth and sharp tension. The premise is immediately engaging. One night, one impossible choice, and consequences that refuse to stay hidden. Elena Marie sets the stakes early, blending family pressure, public image, and raw vulnerability into a story that feels both glamorous and deeply personal.
The chemistry between the heroine and Ethan Castille is undeniable. Ethan is powerful, controlled, and emotionally guarded, while the heroine brings strength, uncertainty, and heart into every interaction. Their marriage of convenience never feels simple. What begins as a calculated arrangement slowly unravels into something far more complicated as trust, attraction, and genuine connection begin to blur the lines between deal and desire.
What stands out most is the emotional slow burn. The story allows space for hesitation, fear, and longing, which makes the romance feel earned rather than rushed. The external pressures on both characters amplify the tension and keep the narrative moving toward a deeply satisfying payoff.
Nine Months is a strong series opener that will appeal to readers who enjoy unplanned pregnancy, powerful heroes, high stakes romance, and a guaranteed Happily Ever After. It sets the foundation for an addictive billionaire saga and leaves readers eager for what comes next in The Castille Chronicles.
The chemistry between the heroine and Ethan Castille is undeniable. Ethan is powerful, controlled, and emotionally guarded, while the heroine brings strength, uncertainty, and heart into every interaction. Their marriage of convenience never feels simple. What begins as a calculated arrangement slowly unravels into something far more complicated as trust, attraction, and genuine connection begin to blur the lines between deal and desire.
What stands out most is the emotional slow burn. The story allows space for hesitation, fear, and longing, which makes the romance feel earned rather than rushed. The external pressures on both characters amplify the tension and keep the narrative moving toward a deeply satisfying payoff.
Nine Months is a strong series opener that will appeal to readers who enjoy unplanned pregnancy, powerful heroes, high stakes romance, and a guaranteed Happily Ever After. It sets the foundation for an addictive billionaire saga and leaves readers eager for what comes next in The Castille Chronicles.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I haven't physically read a book in quite a few years thanks to Audible but to my delight I received a copy of this BEAUTIFULLY written novel by Elena Marie! Let me me tell you, I was locked in from the prologue honey! It's been a while since I've read something that just had me so invested from beginning to end. It's something about reading a novel and you feel like your watching a movie. I appreciated the descriptiveness in the way it was written.
I wasn't too sure about Ethan at first, but he thoroughly surprised me at every turn and by the end I was rooting for his happily ever after with Francesca. I absolutely LOVED Phoebe she was sprinkled throughout the story, and I think a lot of us can resonate with being her or having a Phoebe in our lives! Mrs. Castille was refreshing given her status, I wasn't expecting her to be who she authentically was. Mr. Montoya was probably my favorite character for many reasons, his ability to genuinely read someone while showing grace was just so admirable! Every character will imprint on you and leave you wanting more, it was just written that well with so much passion!
I'm completely invested in the Castille family and looking forward to the next book of this series!
I haven't physically read a book in quite a few years thanks to Audible but to my delight I received a copy of this BEAUTIFULLY written novel by Elena Marie! Let me me tell you, I was locked in from the prologue honey! It's been a while since I've read something that just had me so invested from beginning to end. It's something about reading a novel and you feel like your watching a movie. I appreciated the descriptiveness in the way it was written.
I wasn't too sure about Ethan at first, but he thoroughly surprised me at every turn and by the end I was rooting for his happily ever after with Francesca. I absolutely LOVED Phoebe she was sprinkled throughout the story, and I think a lot of us can resonate with being her or having a Phoebe in our lives! Mrs. Castille was refreshing given her status, I wasn't expecting her to be who she authentically was. Mr. Montoya was probably my favorite character for many reasons, his ability to genuinely read someone while showing grace was just so admirable! Every character will imprint on you and leave you wanting more, it was just written that well with so much passion!
I'm completely invested in the Castille family and looking forward to the next book of this series!
Review of advance copy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Nine Months by Elena Marie is the kind of book that pulls you in quietly and then completely owns your heart before you even realize what’s happening. It’s emotional, raw, and beautifully written in a way that feels real like you’re living every moment right alongside the characters.
The story balances vulnerability and strength so well. The emotions hit hard, the connections feel genuine, and nothing feels rushed or forced. Elena Marie does an incredible job capturing the fears, hope, love, and growth that come with life-changing moments. I laughed, teared up, and had to pause more than once just to breathe and process everything.
What truly stood out was how human this story felt. The characters aren’t perfect, and that’s what makes them unforgettable. Their journey is messy, emotional, and heartfelt in the best way possible, with a romance that develops naturally and stays with you long after the last page.
If you’re looking for a book that’s tender, emotional, and full of heart Nine Months is absolutely worth the read. Elena Marie delivers a story that lingers, and I loved every second of it. 💛📚
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
Nine Months by Elena Marie is the kind of book that pulls you in quietly and then completely owns your heart before you even realize what’s happening. It’s emotional, raw, and beautifully written in a way that feels real like you’re living every moment right alongside the characters.
The story balances vulnerability and strength so well. The emotions hit hard, the connections feel genuine, and nothing feels rushed or forced. Elena Marie does an incredible job capturing the fears, hope, love, and growth that come with life-changing moments. I laughed, teared up, and had to pause more than once just to breathe and process everything.
What truly stood out was how human this story felt. The characters aren’t perfect, and that’s what makes them unforgettable. Their journey is messy, emotional, and heartfelt in the best way possible, with a romance that develops naturally and stays with you long after the last page.
If you’re looking for a book that’s tender, emotional, and full of heart Nine Months is absolutely worth the read. Elena Marie delivers a story that lingers, and I loved every second of it. 💛📚
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
March 1, 2026
Full disclosure: I am completely biased because I’m in love with Ethan Castille.
This is an incredibly well-written romance/family drama with fully fleshed-out supporting characters, but let’s be honest — Ethan owns my heart. I was completely invested in how he and Francesca would get their HEA, and I was not disappointed by the buildup. There’s drama, but it’s thoughtfully done (and I especially loved the use of the gossip column!).
I also loved that Elena Marie tells us upfront what the tropes are. As someone who usually reads historical romance, I’m an absolute sucker for a good “marriage of convenience,” and I was wildly impressed by how well a modern version worked here. It all made sense and felt real.
From beginning to end, the book flows beautifully. There are so many poignant, powerfully written lines — and a love story with natural chemistry and believable growth. I’m helpless for the “good guy” trying to prove himself, striving to rise above his emotional trauma while still being quietly held back by it… so yes, I 100% fell in love with Ethan.
I am only slightly bitter that he and Francesca worked out.
(Just kidding. Mostly.)
This is an incredibly well-written romance/family drama with fully fleshed-out supporting characters, but let’s be honest — Ethan owns my heart. I was completely invested in how he and Francesca would get their HEA, and I was not disappointed by the buildup. There’s drama, but it’s thoughtfully done (and I especially loved the use of the gossip column!).
I also loved that Elena Marie tells us upfront what the tropes are. As someone who usually reads historical romance, I’m an absolute sucker for a good “marriage of convenience,” and I was wildly impressed by how well a modern version worked here. It all made sense and felt real.
From beginning to end, the book flows beautifully. There are so many poignant, powerfully written lines — and a love story with natural chemistry and believable growth. I’m helpless for the “good guy” trying to prove himself, striving to rise above his emotional trauma while still being quietly held back by it… so yes, I 100% fell in love with Ethan.
I am only slightly bitter that he and Francesca worked out.
(Just kidding. Mostly.)
Review of advance copy
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ 4.5 Stars
I received an ARC copy of Nine Months by Elena Marie, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m not going to lie, I really like the trope and the overall concept of this story. It’s one of those ideas that immediately hooks you and makes you want to see where it goes. That said, I did find myself doing more skimming than I expected, and at times I struggled to fully stay engaged while reading.
This is absolutely more of a me thing than a reflection of the author’s talent. The story has heart, intention, and a solid foundation, and I genuinely didn’t want to give this book a bad review because you can tell how much care went into it. Even when I was skimming, I still wanted to know what happened next, which says a lot.
Overall, Nine Months is a book I think many readers will enjoy, especially those who love this trope and don’t mind a slower or more detailed reading experience. I’m glad I read it, and I’m excited to see what Elena Marie writes next. 💕
I received an ARC copy of Nine Months by Elena Marie, and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I’m not going to lie, I really like the trope and the overall concept of this story. It’s one of those ideas that immediately hooks you and makes you want to see where it goes. That said, I did find myself doing more skimming than I expected, and at times I struggled to fully stay engaged while reading.
This is absolutely more of a me thing than a reflection of the author’s talent. The story has heart, intention, and a solid foundation, and I genuinely didn’t want to give this book a bad review because you can tell how much care went into it. Even when I was skimming, I still wanted to know what happened next, which says a lot.
Overall, Nine Months is a book I think many readers will enjoy, especially those who love this trope and don’t mind a slower or more detailed reading experience. I’m glad I read it, and I’m excited to see what Elena Marie writes next. 💕
Review of advance copy
I received an ARC for this book and this is my honest review of it.
3,75⭐️This book has a lot of cute and adorable moments that had me squealing. Ethan and Francesca were so good together even though Ethan did some stupid stuff within the book. I love how Francesca grew as a character from a timid people pleaser to a strong woman. Some problems in their relationship could’ve been solved by a simple conversation but what can I say people are dumb sometimes. The side characters were also well developed and I enjoyed their chemistry with the main couple. Would recommend. 3,75⭐️This book has a lot of cute and adorable moments that had me squealing. Ethan and Francesca were so good together even though Ethan did some stupid stuff within the book. I love how Francesca grew as a character from a timid people pleaser to a strong woman. Some problems in their relationship could’ve been solved by a simple conversation but what can I say people are dumb sometimes. The side characters were also well developed and I enjoyed their chemistry with the main couple. Would recommend.
3,75⭐️This book has a lot of cute and adorable moments that had me squealing. Ethan and Francesca were so good together even though Ethan did some stupid stuff within the book. I love how Francesca grew as a character from a timid people pleaser to a strong woman. Some problems in their relationship could’ve been solved by a simple conversation but what can I say people are dumb sometimes. The side characters were also well developed and I enjoyed their chemistry with the main couple. Would recommend. 3,75⭐️This book has a lot of cute and adorable moments that had me squealing. Ethan and Francesca were so good together even though Ethan did some stupid stuff within the book. I love how Francesca grew as a character from a timid people pleaser to a strong woman. Some problems in their relationship could’ve been solved by a simple conversation but what can I say people are dumb sometimes. The side characters were also well developed and I enjoyed their chemistry with the main couple. Would recommend.
Review of advance copy
I couldn't put this book down. I started yesterday and finished this morning at 6am. I truly enjoyed this love story. Ethan and Francesca, even thought they started in a very unconventional way. The way Ethan fought not to love her, and they way she pushed and made him see what they had. I felt very connected with the characters, felt their feelings and love for each other. All the characters contributed and made this story real. I hope they all get to tell their stories. Elena Marie is now in my favorites list. Can't wait for her next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 11, 2026
"I'm acknowledging that love makes us do complicated things. It doesn't make it right, but it makes us human." - Francesca
Nine Months was just an okay read for me. It wasn’t bad, and I can’t say I disliked it, but it didn’t really excite me either. I kept reading because I wanted to see how things would unfold, but I never felt that strong urge to keep turning the pages.
I also found out that it’s part of a series, which makes me curious about what happens next. Even if this book didn’t fully impress me, I’m still interested enough to read the next one.
Thank you Author Elena Marie and BookSirens for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Nine Months was just an okay read for me. It wasn’t bad, and I can’t say I disliked it, but it didn’t really excite me either. I kept reading because I wanted to see how things would unfold, but I never felt that strong urge to keep turning the pages.
I also found out that it’s part of a series, which makes me curious about what happens next. Even if this book didn’t fully impress me, I’m still interested enough to read the next one.
Thank you Author Elena Marie and BookSirens for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
March 22, 2026
Nine Months had me hooked from the first chapter. It's one of those books that you can't put down. I loved escaping into Ethan and Francesca’s privileged world of wealth and secrets. Their chemistry was palpable, and their love scenes had the perfect amount of spice and were some of the best I've read. I would catch myself smiling when I was reading, and I couldn’t wait for Ethan and Francesca to get their HEA. This book is the perfect escape, and I was sad when it was over. (I was, however, delighted to find that there was an official Nine Months playlist at the end of the book.) I can’t wait to see where Elena Maria will take me in the next book in The Castille Chronicles.
February 8, 2026
Nine months is my favourite book I’ve read this month. I couldn’t put it down. Such a page turner from start to finish. I love marriage of convenience stories and this one is absolutely one of the best.
I love how Ethan and Francesca do what they think is best for their baby and try to deny this obvious love for one another. The characters are amazing and likeable and I was hoping that they would get a happy ending. Nine Months is a fabulous read and very well written. Five top stars!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I love how Ethan and Francesca do what they think is best for their baby and try to deny this obvious love for one another. The characters are amazing and likeable and I was hoping that they would get a happy ending. Nine Months is a fabulous read and very well written. Five top stars!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
May 24, 2026
3.5 rounded up!
This was a great palette cleanser for in between romantasy books.
I really enjoyed this story! The character arcs for both MCs were so good.
It loses a star for me because of the miscommunication (or lack of communication) because y’all, we’re grown adults, let’s have a conversation 👏🏼
But nonetheless, this was a well developed story with some loveable characters, a fun setting, and I of course always love a billionaire romance where they’re showered with luxury. I’m excited to read what’s next!
Thank you to the author for my review copy of this book! 🫶🏼
This was a great palette cleanser for in between romantasy books.
I really enjoyed this story! The character arcs for both MCs were so good.
It loses a star for me because of the miscommunication (or lack of communication) because y’all, we’re grown adults, let’s have a conversation 👏🏼
But nonetheless, this was a well developed story with some loveable characters, a fun setting, and I of course always love a billionaire romance where they’re showered with luxury. I’m excited to read what’s next!
Thank you to the author for my review copy of this book! 🫶🏼
Review of advance copy
This is a wonderful, romantic, emotional and mature billionaire romance which brings more depth to this storyline. I loved every minute of this story from beginning to end, and I loved the emotional depth and how I could connect with the characters rather than superficial emptions. I highly recommend this book!.
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.
Review of advance copy received from Author
For me I don’t ever read romance novels. I actually tend to not read fiction. Elena Marie’s book kept me engaged and yearning to read more. The story is well written and pieced together perfectly for the romance bluff and for someone who doesn’t read these types of books.
I did receive this book as a promotion
I did receive this book as a promotion
February 11, 2026
I really enjoyed this read. There were so many plot twists i had to hold on to my seat. Some parts of the book felt rushed, particularly the beginning and the last chapter or 2. But for the most part it was a really solid read that held me captive. From scandal to family drama, so many secrets are revealed. I enjoyed Ethan and Francesca’s developmental storyline together and individually.
April 13, 2026
What do you do when you find yourself in a situation that puts you into a feeling of no control, but have to play by the rules set about by a legal document. Especially when things change and that document means nothing once tha rule got broken and feelings are in play.
This book had feelings of despair, regret and control that may need to be broken.
This book had feelings of despair, regret and control that may need to be broken.
January 18, 2026
I love a forced proximity trope as well as getting both points of view from the characters. I enjoyed the story and feel like it had the perfect amount of spice without taking away from the story. I received an ARC of this novel from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25⭐️
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews