True Colors: A Billionaire Office Love Story

by Maya Alden

He showed his true colors, and nothing will ever be the same again.

Anouk Starling has built her life around silence. As a senior data analyst at a management consulting firm, she’s brilliant, precise, and invisible by design. Years of trauma and a speech disorder have taught her it’s safer to stay in the background than to risk being judged.

Everything changes when the new CEO, Luther Grant, storms in with a mandate to clean house. Thrust into the spotlight during a high-stakes presentation, Anouk freezes and nearly gets fired.

Luther soon finds himself falling for the sharp, funny, and unexpectedly kind woman who creates brilliant reports. And Anouk, despite a lifetime of reasons not to, starts to believe she’s finally being seen.

But when Luther betrays her in a single careless moment, choosing reputation over respect, Anouk’s fragile trust shatters.
Now Luther must face the cost of his mistake and prove he deserves a second chance with the only woman who ever truly saw him.

True Colors is a Modern Vintage Romance and features your favorite tropes:

• Workplace
• Other Woman Drama
• Overheard
• Neurodivergent Heroine
• Betrayal & Grovel
• No Cheating
• Complete Standalone

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Second Chance, Found Family

344 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 28, 2026

About the author

A top 20 Amazon Bestselling Author, Maya Alden pens angsty contemporary romances.

Reviews

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an great read!

Oh, how I love Luther! He was so smitten with Anouk from the beginning! I loved Anouk too. She was so strong! And omg Finn too! Such an amazing brother to her.

Highly recommend.

[BiblioDarling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rating System (as of 8/14/2025):
⭐: It was a struggle to read. I almost DNF
⭐⭐: This could have been so much better.
⭐⭐⭐: Good/Average
⭐⭐⭐⭐: Great book. I will probably reread it.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: I absolutely loved this book.
***********************************************************************
Triggers:
🚩Child Abuse
🚩Domestic Violence
🚩Physical Assault
🚩Parental Substance Abuse
🚩Trauma and PTSD
🚩Trauma Related Mutism and Speech Impairment
🚩Emotional Abuse/Gaslighting
🚩Institutional Care/Foster System Experiences
🚩Workplace Humiliation/Ableism
🚩Mental Health Struggles: Imposter Syndrome and Anxiety
🚩Death/Murder of a Parent

Tropes:
💕MF Romance
💕OW Drama
💕Overheard
💕Neurodivergent Heroine
💕Betrayal and Grovel
💕No Cheating
💕Complete Standalone
💕Virgin

Spice Level: 🔥🔥🔥
Spice Level Rating System (as of 9/4/25)
🔥: Clean. Handholding. Kissing.
🔥🔥: Non-Descriptive/Implied on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥: Hot-Descriptive on Page Sex
🔥🔥🔥🔥: So Hot—Do Not Read in Public
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥: Oh My-BDSM. Blood Play. Smut.
************************************************************************
Quote:
She has a stutter, and I didn't even bother to learn that.
I just walked all over her.
I thought decisiveness would inspire confidence in a new CEO. But here I am--an expensive office, expensive education, expensive watch--fully aware that I've screwed up.

Summary:
FMC is an analyst at the company the MMC is now CEO of. FMC has had a traumatic childhood resulting in speech impediment. MMC is a new CEO and unaware of the FMCs impediment. He is also, unaware of what it takes to be a great leader. Their first meeting is horrific.

MMC finds himself intrigued by the FMC the more he gets to know her. This leads to relationship. They both find themselves falling in love. Then the MMC makes a decision that guts the FMC. The decision has to do with an upcoming presentation to a much-needed client.

FMC cuts ties with the MMC except for business. MMC finds himself having to reevaluate what it means to be a leader and protect those who work for him. MMC also learns what it means to protect the one you love. HEA

Review:
I have read almost all of this author's books. I have heard the criticism and praise of her as well. I myself feel as Maya Alden has found her lane and sticks in it. She pushes the boundaries at time and when she does---she does it well. This book is a prime example of that.

Lately, I have been reading a bunch of books with neurodivergent characters. I have only found a few that have written these characters in a realistic way. This book is one of them. You really get insight into how the FMC feels. You see and feel her struggles. You are so glad that she had support throughout her life. You want to cheer for her as she stands up for herself, as she steps outside her box. Literally, there were moments when I cheered.

The MMC is written in such a way that in the beginning you think---I am going to hate him. Then you realize he has his own insecurities and his actions reflect that. You will want to strangle him at times but then you will cheer as you see him change. As you see him address the problems in his thinking.

The writing draws you in from the first page to the last. The journey is emotional--and I loved it. If you have been following my reviews, you know I don't give out a lot of five star, I am honest to a fault about how I feel about a book---while trying to stay respectful of the author. This book deserves the five stars I am giving it. I hope to see more neurodivergent, special needs, etc. characters in future books by this author. She shows them the respect and care that they deserve.

Grovel to HEA Romance Authors Recommendations:
Groveltohea (Wattpad Author)
Maya Alden
Natasha Anders
Cate C Wells
Christine Michelle

Recommended Authors with Neurodivergent Characters:
Susie Tate
Maya Alden
Isa Oliver

I RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS AN ARC HOWEVER MY REVIEW IS BASED ON MY OPINION OF THE BOOK ITSELF AND NOT INFLUENCED BY THE AUTHOR, ETC.

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[Shannon Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Main trope: This is a contemporary romance.

Additional tropes:
✅Close proximity
✅Found family
✅Other woman drama
✅Overheard

Detailed spoilers/trigger warnings (if any) and final thoughts can be found below. There is a warning right before the spoiler and trigger section so you have the choice to proceed or stop reading.

Summary: The FMC is Anouk, a brilliant data analyst with a traumatic past that has resulted in a severe speech impediment, made worse when she is nervous. Luther is the MMC and the new CEO, taking over for his father. He wants to prove himself worthy and has no tolerance for anyone he deems unable to fulfill their job to his expectations. This leads to a disastrous first meeting between the main characters, where he is inexplicably mean to the FMC.

Thankfully, the FMC has someone there at work who believes in her and supports her fully, and this person confronts the MMC to call him out on his behavior, which he now a sees as wrong. He decides to bring Anouk on to a very special project he is working on, much to the chagrin of his ex and now right hand person, who is the other woman in the story. Anouk exceeds Luther’s expectations and he grows more respectful of her, and enamored. He knows he shouldn’t pursue a relationship with her, but he cannot help himself.

The FMC has trust issues, but she slowly lets her guard down with Luther and is enjoying their time together. All the while, the other woman is in his ear to talk down the FMC, speaking directly to his intent on wanting to make sure everything is perfect regarding the project. Ultimately he makes a poor choice, leaving the FMC heartbroken. He realizes his mistake and works to make amends, but is the FMC ready to forgive him?

⚠️SPOILERS/SPICE/DETAILED TRIGGERS⚠️

✋
✋
✋

*Past recollection of child abuse and neglect and details surrounding violence, murder, and drug use.
🌶️: 1.5/5: The FMC is very inexperienced and the MMC takes his time to help her navigate all her firsts.

Final thoughts: Oh my heart. The author did such an amazing job broaching sensitive subject matters and disability to create an amazing female main character. You are going to love Anouk for many reasons, but her bravery and strength will be at the top of the list. Yes Luther messes up, to which he recognizes and takes full responsibility for, not just privately but publicly, but you will love him for his support and patience with the FMC. It didn’t start that way, that’s for sure, but he grows into being exactly what the FMC needs.

This book is a great example of found family. The FMC has always had her best friend Finn, who we LOVE, but the MMC’s family embraces and cares for her fully, recognizing she has become a special person to the MMC.

The other woman drama was good and provided a lot of angsty moments. I wished for more comeuppance for her as I thought the MMC was generous in what he insisted happen. But that’s just my personal opinion and doesn’t change the fact that this book was absolutely amazing and is truly a must read. You will laugh, you will cry, and will grow to fall in love with another amazing character created by this talented author.

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anouk and Luther’s story is emotional, resonant and compelling. Anouk commanded my attention, drew my empathy and my admiration. She survived a very traumatic childhood and persevered to make a good life for herself. As a senior analyst at a management consultant firm, she had the respect of her colleagues and a job that fulfilled her. Until Luther became the new CEO, Anouk was able to do her job and pretty much stay in the background, her trauma induced speech impediment not being an issue. Her first meeting with Luther left Anouk feeling bullied and humiliated. He had equated Anouk’s speech impediment to being incompetent and unprepared. After her immediate boss went to bat and vouched for her, Anouk worked with Luther on an important project. He was forced to acknowledge her brilliance, her thoroughness and her commitment to her job.

Luther’s dismissal and cruelty to Anouk hardly endeared him to me. Time and again his own arrogance, ego and jealousy had him misjudging Anouk and lashing out at her. Anouk’s generously forgave his behaviour and gave him a chance to really know her better. She believed that he truly saw and understood her after they started seeing each other outside of work. He knew about her traumatic childhood and how hard she was working to overcome her speech impediment. Then he betrayed her trust and decimated her faith and confidence in their relationship, and in herself.

Luther eventually redeemed himself with the help of his wonderfully warm and meddling family. His father took him to task for his poor leadership and his treatment of Anouk, the woman Luther professed to love. He imparted words of reprimand and wisdom that Luther took to heart. On his own, he might not have gained another chance with Anouk, but his loving and very welcoming family did their best to ease Luther’s way back to her. I appreciated Luther’s earnest efforts and determination to be a better man, a man worthy of Anouk’s love. What truly impressed me was Anouk’s grace, generosity of spirit and ability to forgive.

This beautiful and masterfully written book has my heartfelt recommendation.

[UH1340 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anouk Starling is a senior data analyst at a small management consulting firm that has just been acquired by a larger corporation. The new CEO is Luther Hale, the driven son of the company’s founder. Determined to prove himself worthy of the position, Luther has spent years working his way up through the ranks. Now that he’s finally in charge of his own division, the pressure to perform flawlessly for his father is immense.

When Luther takes over Anouk’s company, he brings several members of his existing team with him. Among them is a woman who has long harbored feelings for Luther and believes she is the perfect partner for him—personally and professionally. She quickly makes it clear that she views Anouk as competition. Her dismissive and often cruel treatment of Anouk makes her the kind of “other woman” readers love to hate.

Luther and Anouk’s first meeting does not go well. Anouk, who has trauma-induced selective mutism, struggles to speak during high-pressure situations, particularly when presenting her work. Misinterpreting her silence as incompetence or unpreparedness, Luther makes a decision that immediately creates friction—he assigns the presentation of Anouk’s data analysis to the other woman instead.

However, as the meeting unfolds, it becomes obvious that the work being presented is far deeper and more insightful than Luther initially realized—and that the person presenting it doesn’t truly understand the analysis behind it. Luther quickly recognizes that he misjudged Anouk and allowed his assumptions to override his judgment.

Determined to correct his mistake, Luther begins to look more closely at Anouk’s work—and at the woman herself. The more he learns, the more he realizes that Anouk’s quiet strength, intelligence, and resilience are exactly what the company needs… and perhaps what he needs as well.

But making things right may prove harder than he expects, especially with a jealous colleague determined to keep them apart and a past that still makes it difficult for Anouk to trust anyone in power.

[JillyB · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh…so I my original review doesn’t seem to be in my notes but these were part of my early notes….so this will be short until I can get back to it a flush it out more.

Another great addition to the modern vintage series. This was a pretty easy going love story. I found it quite sweet. When the gut punch happened it hurt quite a bit, because Luther was doing so well up to that point. However, he turned it around quite quickly. His family? I would be willing to put up a lot to be part of his family 😂 Finn who was bff of Anouk was opposite sex done right friendship. I never saw them as more than a brother and sister relationship. Sometimes that is a hard thing to portray in stories and people want the h to be with the bff. That was not the case here. Now Finn will be a great uncle someday. His character was awesome. Erin was a great ow wannabe, and I liked that she was way in Luther’s past and not even a blip on his radar as a love interest. Luther actually didn’t sound like he was a f””boy either.  Honorable mention to the other supporting characters such as Dot and Vijay. Some of the best supporting characters! Anouk stole my heart. I found it interesting that her stutter was brought on by trauma, in most stories I have read the stuttering was not caused by a traumatic event and the stuttering itself becomes the trauma the character experiences through bullying. In this case the stuttering was a result of trauma.I think stuttering is still looked upon as an intelligence thing even though people know better, I like how his dad compared it to someone in a wheelchair. You wouldn’t deny them a place at the table.  I felt the portrayal of her relationship with her mom was a genuine reaction. The handling of the dying scene was on point! Sadly  I have experienced this end of life scenario with 3 loved ones. In those last hours they are not responsive. I remember talking to my dad anyway. Not knowing what he may or may not hear. The eye twitches and shallow breaths…all too real. 

[Tania Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms Alden has written another book that respectfully deals with issues that unfortunately life sends some peoples way. Firstly, the triggers should be noted prior to reading.

Luther new to his role as the CEO in the organisation where Anouk works makes the assumption on first impression that Anouk is incompetent in communication and treats her badly in a meeting with the team.

On learning afterwards that he has made a significant error in judgement, what he has taken as incompetence is in fact a disability that in no ways effects Anouk's ability to do her actual work, and it becomes clear quickly to Luther that Anouk is actually the best data analyst he has on his team.

Luther puts Anouk on a project, its success of the highest importance to his father and God father, a project that will secure his future in taking over the control of the family business. During the time of working on this project, Luther and Anouk venture into a romantic relationship.

The architecture built by Anouk is brilliant, however Luther is swayed by his work right hand woman Erin, also someone he previously had a relationship, to have her present the project rather than Anouk. Luther agrees to this, while deep down acknowledging this may not be the best thing to do. The presentation is a flop, and Anouk uninvited to the presentation by Erin is not there to save the day. Luther realises through the presentation he has in fact made a complete error in judgement and a core leadership decision.

Anouk while having had a horrendous childhood, knows her worth and ends things with Luther. Finn, Anouk's best friend/sudo brother is an amazing support to Anouk throughout the story.

The story then follows Luther's growth as a person, challenged in some of his thinking by his family, redeeming himself fully with Anouk.

This is a story I recommend and one I will re-read again.

[Kelsey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A neurodivergent h, Anouk, meets her bosshole H, Luther and sparks fly. Well, at first, they are angry sparks bc Luther is a jerk. He’s feeling the pressure to make this company all it can be and not disappoint his father and his family’s expectations. While Luther’s Dad does want excellence, he wasn’t horrible or mean. He expects people to be able to do their jobs, and wants Luther to be the best man he knows he can. That means calling out Luther when it’s obvious he’s made a mistake at a presentation.

Anouk is a steady, smart woman who knows what she’s doing, but struggles with her voice failing her from past trauma. Luther at first looks down on Anouk bc he only sees her speech impediment and not what she brings to the table, regardless of the fact that she can’t control it 🙄. Stupid Luther. He starts to see Anouk’s light shine through, in spite of her stuttering, and they fall in love. But Luther still has expectations weighing on him and he mucks it up. Luther essentially tells the Erin (OW, Project Manager) that she can present the project, despite it not being her work or data model, and that he doesn’t think Anouk should represent them bc of her stuttering.

It’s awful! Poor Anouk is broken hearted bc the man she loves cast her aside based on something she has no control over and devalued her contributions. I was mad and I was devilishly gleeful when Erin gets called out on not knowing the ins and outs of the model during the presentation. Luther’s Dad calls him on it immediately and in the scale of optics vs performance, the performance was pretty rotten so the optics shouldn’t matter. Anouk is doing her job brilliantly and Luther is swanning around bc he doesn’t know how to fix it. Show up, be better, don’t do it again.

Luther works on showing Anouk she can trust him, by being a better leader and better man. Anouk is then left to decide if it’s enough and she should trust Luther again. Actions rather than words.

I loved Anouk’s fire so much! She’s muttering things to herself and thinking to hell with you thoughts during the grovel and I was internally cheering. She an awesome character and it was a good book!

[Priscila Aramburo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Anouk was amazing, I loved her. How strong and determined she was. Luther was great as well, dude made mistakes but he learned from it, and he was completely smitten with her from the start. His family! God they’re amazing! I love how they all took her side when he messed up. AND FINN!!! God I hope one day we’ll get to see him again. He deserves a happy ending as well. Such a great story, I connected with it a little bit more than I do the others. Firstly, I am born in raised in the Bay Area of California. So San Francisco trips came often, I loved seeing things in the book that I can remember having been to many times. The academy of sciences was such a popular spot for school field trips and I got so much nostalgia when I read it being mentioned. Next up was the stutter. I don’t have one, but I have a close family member who does, my uncle. I’ve heard stories about how much struggle he had growing up, how much bullying he went through, how much people underestimated him, saying he’d never amount to anything because of his disability. For as long as I can remember he has stuttered, sometimes more so than others, like when we switch from English to Spanish. But it’s also always just been him, I don’t see him differently at all. In fact he is one of my role models, despite what people have said he has done really well for himself. He is a P.I. And on tract to one day open his own business. He is someone look up to, his stutter is something that I’ve viewed as just completely normal. Reading this book I feel like I’ve gotten to see a little of what he may have experienced, or maybe still does experience. I like that I am able to learn a little from this book an in a way apply it to my life. Thank you Maya for that.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Author.

Angst = OMG the gut punch of how traumatized the h has been throughout her life and the hurdles she has had to jump to just be functional is agonizing to read about. It feels like any time the h has tried moving forward, she gets shoved back down by others misunderstanding her disability or just down right bullies. Thankfully she has Finn...everyone needs a Finn to show that unconditional love and to give out hugs!!

Grovel = H is h's boss and he is the new CEO who feels he has something to prove so is only looking for and demanding excellence. H discounts the h initially due to her speech impairment, but learns to really listen and realizes how amazing and whip smart the h is. The betrayal is overheard and said directly to the h by the H. H said some awful and disrespectful things to OW about the h, then tried to sugarcoat but yet reiterate directly to the h the same things. H comes to realize after seeing how spectacularly that fails and after hearing from others how much he messed up. H works to redeem himself and succeeds (but it may be more from how much the h loves him that for how much he grovels <3 )

OW drama = OW is a clout chaser who piggy backs off others and steals credit not her due. She is a bully to the h and a suck up to the H. H and OW had a brief relationship eight years ago and it is obvious to the reader that she is angling to restart that relationship. OW undercuts the h at every opportunity and goes so far as to try and take full credit for a huge project which leads to her own professional burnout. Comeuppance? H doesn't fire OW, but kind of does by re-assigning her elsewhere.

Highly enjoyable read.

[Misty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Luther is just trying to prove himself to his father. His latest task in the management rotation is to be the CEO of one of the many family businesses.

Anouk is the quiet senior data analyst whose skills put her in a class of her own. She has overcome the hardest obstacles in life and she is thriving now.

Luther is easily manipulated by one of his confidants and lets his desire for perfection to impress his father led to the betrayal we all love to read!

Luther’s betrayal was a double punch because he betrayed our sweet Anouk personally and professionally.

Our man realized he was wrong before the betrayal, and he just had to sit there and watch it burn. Karma was delivered immediately in this story and I love that!

Maya’s books always have a phenomenal supporting cast. Family and friends that I wish I had! They offer wisdom and insight and of course a swift kick in the butt when needed!

With the assistance of his family and friends, Luther sets off to redeem himself and get our sweet Anouk back in his arms.

This story opened my eyes to situations I might face in my own workplace or everyday life, and it helped me think more intentionally about how I can make meaningful accommodations for others and treat them fairly. I enjoy walking away from a romance book with leadership advice and with a life lesson.

Favorite Quotes

The fact that he thought your stutter would be a problem shows that he’s got a long way to go when it comes to being a good leader.

Right now, I’m more worried about how I failed her and how she’s never going to forgive me than the fact that you and Martin think I’m a $hit CEO.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Gut-punch angst, epic grovel, and a heroine you’ll never forget

True Colors: A Billionaire Office Love Story by Maya Alden absolutely wrecked me—in the best way.

Anouk Starling is one of those heroines who quietly steals your heart. Brilliant. Precise. Guarded. After years of trauma and living with a speech disorder, she’s built a life where she can stay invisible and safe. Watching her get shoved into the spotlight under a new CEO and nearly lose everything? Heartbreaking.

Then there’s Luther Grant. Powerful. Decisive. Used to control. And completely unprepared for the way Anouk gets under his skin. Their chemistry builds in subtle ways—shared glances, quiet respect, moments where he truly sees her. It feels earned.

And then he shows his true colors. That betrayal moment? It hurts. It’s not cheating—but it’s worse in a way because it’s about respect. About choosing optics over the woman who trusted him. You will be furious. I was.

Erin? Absolutely evil. The manipulation added so much tension, and I loved hating her.

But what makes this story unforgettable is the grovel. Luther has to sit in his mistake. He has to understand what he broke. And Anouk doesn’t fold easily—nor should she. Her strength in the aftermath is powerful.

The side characters add so much warmth. His parents and sister? Wonderful. And Finn—her roommate/chosen brother—was everything. Protective, loyal, grounding. He gave Anouk the unconditional support she deserved.

You will cry. You will want to shake Luther. And then you’ll fall for the redemption arc.

Emotional, intense, and deeply satisfying. 💔❤️

[Mairi Swan · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Billionaire
*CEO
*Neurodivergent
*Workplace
*OW drama
*Overheard
*Betrayal
*Grovel

Heroine, Anouk, is a data analyst who has a stuttering problem due to PTSD. Hero, Luther, is the new CEO of the company who wants to prove himself to his father by building a project.
Initially Luther is an ass to Anouk as he doesn't understand her diversity but as he gets to know her better he feels attracted to her and falls in love. Anouk, as the major data analyst on the project tries her best as always and now more than ever to prove herself that she isn't just a stutter.
Until the day of presentation comes and Luther feels insecure and makes the mistake of listening to others instead of trusting Anouk.
Anouk is a brilliant and fragile little thing. So strong and resilient despite having experienced all those dreadful events in her childhood. My heart and soul ached for little Anouk and all the little ones out there.
Luther was raised in a protected but supportive environment who don't hesitate to call on his mistakes and make him work to do it right. Though he acts as a butt in some scenes it isn't who he is but rather his insecurity speaking for him. And in the end he owns and calls publicly his mistake and wrongdoing.
I loved how easy their relationship was and the chemistry between them. Luther understood Anouk's need to make it on her own and prove herself not only to others but mainly to herself that she survived and succeeded.
This story was quite heavy due to the hard subjects it portrayed so be sure to check trigger warnings before diving in.
I received this arc and this is my honest opinion.

[Athina · Rating 5 out of 5]

He didn’t fall in love with the loudest voice in the room. He fell for the one who’d taught herself to survive in silence.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Some stories crack you open gently. True Colors shattered me slowly - one soft page at a time.
Anouk Starling doesn’t walk into a scene - she slips in like a whisper. A woman who has learned to armor herself in silence and precision, she doesn’t beg for attention. She simply is. Quiet. Brilliant. Unseen. And it’s in this invisibility that the world underestimates her - until she’s forced into the spotlight and nearly breaks beneath it. Enter Luther Grant, a CEO who mistakes disruption for leadership - until he meets the one person his ambition doesn’t intimidate, because she’s already survived worse. Their love story isn’t grand or flashy. It’s fragile, hard-earned, and lined with shadows. It’s full of hope, and hesitation, and trust that gets broken not with infidelity, but with a careless moment that cuts deeper than betrayal ever should. What Maya Alden captures here is rare: the voice of a woman who doesn’t yell when she’s hurt, and a man who must listen harder to hear what he almost destroyed. This isn't just a story of second chances. It’s about the cost of carelessness when someone has entrusted you with their trust. This book isn’t loud. It doesn’t need to be. It’s a pulse, steady and true, buried deep beneath a world that rarely slows down long enough to hear it. But if you do - if you pause and listen - True Colors will wreck you ...and then it will rebuild you.

[Joanne Farley · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: You know I am going to be reading this one again and again and …. well you get the picture.

Anouk shows an inner strengh that few of us ever acheive. This book that will make you pause to think before every interaction with someone new that you meet. People are rarely what they seem on the surface and we do ourselves and them an injustice when we assume they are.

Anouk had a horrible childhood and that has left her with a trauma-based stutter. She refuses to play the victim, instead she works daily to overcome her childhood and heal the visible and nonvisible scars it has left. Not once does she play the victim all she wants is to be judged on her merit.

Luther had a wonderful childhood and has grown up blessed but that can also be a double edged sword. He is now in the process of learning the ropes of his father’s company with the result being he will take it over one day. He is full of insecurity about this, and he also wants to be judged on his merit and not as his father’s son.

The difference in how Luthar and Anouk navigate being seen is what sets this book apart. Anouk refuses to allow anyone to talk for her, she does her level best to get her message across even though it is heartbreaking hard for her to do so. Luther is happy to let people talk for him but only those that communicate on what he deems a positive way. He sidelines Anouk when he thinks she will make him look bad making the biggest mistake of his life and career.

When Luther realises what he has done and what that says about him, he pulls out all of the stops to make himself a better man and a better person.

This may actually be my favorite Maya book to date and that is saying something.

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Maya has done it again!

I loved Anouk. She was so sweet, and I absolutely loved her support system. After everything she’d been through, seeing the people around her genuinely show up for her was just wonderful.

Luther, however… What an idiot!!

His betrayal was technically professional, but it felt so personal because of what it did to Anouk and the trust she had placed in him. And honestly, I was less forgiving of his stupidity in believing and following the OW than anything else. She was conniving, and Luther really should have known better.

My biggest issue?
The grovel... Or should I say… the lack of it.
It was very, very, very minor. We got a workplace apology, but the personal fallout was skimmed over, and I really wanted more. Anouk's trust was shattered, and I needed Luther to work a lot harder to earn it back. That said, he wasn't irredeemable, and I absolutely loved his family. They were fantastic, both in helping him see the error of his ways, and the way they accepted her and her 'brother' Finn so easily.

But Anouk was definitely the star of this story for me. Watching her go from someone who had spent years trying to stay invisible to someone who was finally seen, valued and loved was beautiful.
So yes, Luther was an idiot, the OW was awful, and I wanted more grovel… But I still really enjoyed this one.
Anouk deserved better. Luther needed to grovel harder. And that support system? I loved them… they almost stole the show.

[emm · Rating 5 out of 5]

True Colors
This beautiful story is about Anouk and Luther. Anouk has had a traumatic experience in her childhood that causes her to stutter when she is anxious or nervous. A new CEO arrives where she is working, (Luther) and from day one she is caught of guard. He treats her badly in the meeting but later regrets how he conducted himself. Luther has been made the temporary CEO to prove to his father that he is ready to lead the family company, but it all hangs on this big account that he needs to present to his father and God father. Anouk is given the task to build the base model and then present it.
He gets to know Anouk and her amazing abilities as an analyst and slowly after a few months of them seeing each other they fall in love.
Fast forward to the big meeting that Anouk needs to present, Luther is convinced by Erin his right-hand person, to let her present instead of Anouk. She also uninvites Anouk to the meeting.
As you can imagine the meeting doesn’t go down well. Luther realizes that he has totally done the wrong thing.
Whist there wasn’t a lot of grovel he does acknowledge his mistake and he truly loves her.
I loved this story. I hope Finn gets his HEA as well.

[Anna9 · Rating 5 out of 5]

​If you are looking for an emotional rollercoaster that first breaks your heart and then tenderly mends it back together, "True Colors" is a must-read. Maya Alden has crafted a story that lingers in your mind long after the final page.

​Why You Should Read It:

​An Extraordinary Heroine: Anouk Starling is deeply relatable. Her struggle with trauma and neurodivergence is portrayed with immense sensitivity. She isn't your "typical" loud, strong lead; her strength lies in her intellect and the bravery it takes to be vulnerable.

​The "Grovel" is Real: If you love a hero who truly has to work for forgiveness, this is for you. The moment of betrayal is gut-wrenching, but the redemption process is satisfying, painful, and—most importantly—earned.

​Workplace Stakes: The dynamic between the data analyst and the CEO is a classic setup, but it’s elevated by the "overheard" trope that turns their world upside down.
​
This is a beautiful story about how being truly "seen" is the greatest gift we can receive, but also a massive responsibility. Alden masterfully balances workplace drama with raw, heartfelt romance.

I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[T · Rating 4 out of 5]

* Overheard
* Betrayal & Grovel
* Workplace romance
* Other Woman Drama
* Neurodivergent Heroine
* No Cheating
* Standalone
* FMC Anouk x MMC Luther
* Found Family

Trigger warnings
* Child abuse - Physical and emotional
* Death of Parents
* Domestic Violence
* Post-traumatic stress disorder
* Trauma related Speech impairment
* Workplace ableism and humiliation

Maya has done it again she has brought to paper the difficulties individuals with disabilities face in their personal and work life. Anouks speech impairment came about from trauma but her strength and courage in this book shows us the readers that everyone deserves respect.

Luther's growth as an individual is not overlooked or drawn out, he realises his mistakes and overcomes this by creating a safe environment for Anouk. knowing that although she doesn't need him she wants him.

Most heartbreaking thought:

"Luther doesn’t only think I’m unfit to speak— he doesn’t want me to be seen. I am something to be managed quietly, behind the scenes. Something embarrassing."

Disabilities come in all forms Anouks thoughts here show the impact that externals have on others. Its the breakdown of her mental health thinking she didn't deserve to take up space.

[Angela Rene · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know when you're reading a book and it's so good you want to keep reading but part of you doesn't want to finish it because then it'll be over? You only read a book the first time once. That's this book for me. It was so good. Anouka has a tragic childhood and the trauma of that has caused her to stutter. Despite everything that's happened to her, she is an extremely strong person. Luther is desperately trying to show his father that he's ready to be a leader. Their first encounter is far from enchanting but eventually they learn about each other and fall in love. Luther lets his fear of failure and the manipulation of a colleague, who wishes she was the other woman, win and he betrays Anouka. It's written so well. Anouka is hurt, angry, a little snarky with a pinch of petty. Luther realizes his mistake immediately. It was hard to be mad at him because he was so devastated by it. He has to work to regain her trust. I love the found family in the book. Finn and Anouka are a found family and have a deep relationship. Finn's firefighter friends are also her found family. Luther's family becomes a found family for Anouka. I'm really hoping Finn gets his own book because I loved his character. This is such a great book with themes of sweetness, romance, and resilience.

[Dianne Laidler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, this book was lovely :)

Firstly, although Anouk had a difficult childhood and developed a stutter through stress, she was not portrayed as a victim, she knew presenting to the team at work would cause her to stutter but she practiced and insisted she was given the opportunity to present HER work.

Lachlan was her new boss, he was not convinced as he thought it would reflect badly on his leadership. They started a relationship.

LACHLAN: Was never nasty to Anouk which I appreciated, I feel it is harder to redeem a MMC when he is a horrible person, Lachlan fell hard and never doubted her, however his next in charge ERIN got in his ear and Anouk overheard that conversation.

ERIN: She was a past girlfriend and now co-worker, she is ambitious and mean.

FINN: Like a brother to Anouk and a fabulous character in the story, you will fall in love with Finn.

Overall I loved this book, Anouk was strong and stood up for herself through many challenges, Lachlan made mistakes but not unredeemable, the support characters were appealing and well written. I would recommend this book!

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great Modern Vintage Romance from Maya. I absolutely fell in love with both Anouk and Luther. When the story started I thought for sure I was going to hate Luther but I actually started to like him pretty quickly. He makes a bad call due to his on insecurities and as much as you hate what he did - you can understand where it came from.

This story made me think about my own internalized biases/abelism. I had moments where I thought "Why would Anouk even want to do this if she is stuttering" but then just as quickly I smacked myself and thought about how just because she stutters doesn't mean she shouldn't be able to present and work the same as anyone without a stutter. I loved that it made me reflect on my own thoughts and how I would handle if this was my coworker/friend.

The only part that I was a little iffy on is how would Luther have felt if the meeting didn't go so poorly with Erin running? If everything went smoothly with no issues then he would have been justified in his choice. Yes he would have felt bad personally because of their relationship but as a leader it would have reinforced it was ok

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ugh. The MMC. This man. I love a good rage read however and the FMC is lovely.

I love her - Anouk is brilliant, excellent at what she does but plagued with a stutter and occasionally mute because of an incredibly traumatic childhood.

Luther is a man-child eager to prove himself and incredibly ableist at times. He repeatedly doesn't show up for Anouk when it counts, and allows the OW to convince him allowing Anouk to present an important proposal for the board is a bad move because of her stutter.

Anouk polishes off her shiny spine, and with the help of her bestie and brother-by-choice Finn (he absolutely steals the show IMO) she moves on with her life.

Luther quickly realizes how badly he screwed up, and gets an ear full from all the people around him who are not conniving bigots. He has a lot of character development, but I honestly don't know how Anouk forgives him. He truly would have been SOL if it wasn't for his parents.

It's worth the read, be sure to heed the triggers.

[Gloria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anouk's story will tear you up and her character will make you fall in love with her. h is a survivor and has the scars to prove it but she doesn't let her story define her. She survived and thrived with the support of some amazing side characters and her own inner strength.
At first I disliked the H but Maya gave me a glimpse into his own insecurities which were what drove him to betray the h and then ultimately grovel for her forgiveness.
Although the betrayal was heartbreaking for the h, I found it to be a little light compared to the usual betrayals l prefer which have a bigger gut punch. However, I think it was perfectly fitting for the h, otherwise she may not have been able to forgive Luther, the H, at all. I think Maya truly followed the h's character and made sure she didn't give her more than she could handle. Otherwise, the h and H would not have gotten their hea which they truly both deserved! loved it! Well done Maya!

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

There were so many things I really enjoyed about this book. The mFc, a brilliant neurodivergent woman with a ptsd stutter, has spent her life working to overcome childhood trauma. She falls for her boss, the billionaire ceo-in-training and lets someone close to her for the first time in years. When we combine overheard bashing with being told to “sit this one out” she gets sent right back into her trauma response of making herself smaller. Luther has a battle to get back the woman he fell for and then let down.
I will say I was disappointed with Luther’s grovel. I felt that Anouk was too quick to get past what he did. While his public apology was good, I felt like his family including her and the issues with her mom sort of allowed things to get glossed over and have her “get over” her issues faster. But honestly that was the only thing I struggled with. Otherwise another amazing Maya Alden story! And Finn (best friend) and Luther’s entire family are amazing

[Book Junkie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the story of Anouk and Luther. Luther is gearing up to take over as CEO of his fathers company where Anouk works as a data analyst. Anouk suffers from a stutter due to childhood trauma but during their first meeting Luther mistakes it for incompetence and does not make a first impression. He is convinced to give her a chance on an important project and he is blown away by her both professionally and personally. He pursues her and they date in private but not at work.

Unfortunately, Luther has a right hand women who does not have his bests interests at heart and Anouk hears an unfortunate conversation between them where Luther says some things driven by fear and insecurities. It backfires spectacularly on him both professionally and personally and he has to embark on a grovelling and apology tour.

Anouk's relationship with her foster brother is a joy to read.

Another solid read by Maya!

[Bridget · Rating 5 out of 5]

Please read the trigger warnings…and, as in Maya Alden’s way, she delivers, with the utmost care. some disabilities are not obvious, but should be treated all the same.

First time CEO, Luther, trying to show his father he can run the company. So, he meets with his new team and eviserates their best analyst because she didn’t respond fast enough for his liking. anouk has a stutter, that, when on good days, she has to practice before speaking. The backstory on how she acquired is heartbreaking.

OW has a history with Luther, and has mean girl vibes. Luther lets this woman call the shots, which ends poorly for Luther.

Luther, while his style is to bull doze through, is trying to understand how to lead vs. manage. So, while you want to hate him, he does have a conscience. He just doesn’t listen to it when he should have, instead, listening to the mean girl OW. It was a delight to see what happens.

[Kristine Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know you have just finished an amazing book when you are sad that it's over.

I wanted more of this couple, so much so I read it again the minute I finished it.

Luther is a CEO trying to impress his father. Anouk is a brilliant data analyst who has undergone serious childhood trauma and had a stutter due to her trauma.

Luther makes some serious errors in his developing relationship with Anouk, one being listening to a jealous coworker who is also an ex who wants him back.

I love Luther's family, who is warm and welcoming, and doesn't hesitate to call Luther out on his mistakes.

Please pay attention to triggers, but as always, Maya Alden has identified them ahead.

I loved this book and highly recommend it. I'm looking forward to taking this one camping with me this summer for another reread!

[S K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just in time for my Birthday!

Anouk, the heroine, immediately had me by the heartstrings. Her backstory is devastating and the ensuing stutter is pain she carries as a result of one abusive parent and the other a murderer.

Luther, the hero, starts out self absorbed and more concerned about the appearance of being a great CEO to his father and others, than a man who prioritizes the woman he loves and her needs.

I appreciated that the author spotlighted the importance of understanding that a person's disability is not a weakness. That some of the most capable people in the world don't look or sound the way that the rest of society considers to be "normal."

There was a real sweetness to the love between these two.

ARC given in exchange for an honest review.

[Angel W · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this story and I'm leaving this review of my own will.

this story was simple amd deep all at the same time bringing light to a struggle people deal with everyday that is not always talked about. while she likes to stay in the shadows because it's safe he is trying to prove himself to his family. when he makes an assumption because the wrong person has his trust he messes up so big that doesn't know if he can ever fix it. She has kept.to herself because being exposed makes things worse and when she finally finds the courage to stand in the front he destroys her confidence. this story gives full insight on both sides of learning to be strong on your own and learning the real meaning of leadership and support