Hooker Heels

by Ryan Ringbloom

New Adult Contemporary Romance

Kenna Winston's world revolves around money, and the men who spend it. Men are mere pawns in the game that she calls life. However, her game is about to change once she's offered a business contract with some interesting caveats. Kenna has to decide whether she is ready to up the ante and play in the big leagues. Or decide if the proposal being offered is crossing the line, even for her. With her heels high and morals low, she wonders what will happen if her heart gets involved?

Oh that's right, she doesn't have one.

Zackary Knight has always had things handed to him. That's not the life he wants. Can't anyone see that he goes deep, that he's more than just a shallow dollar sign? Who is this beautiful woman who just appeared on his doorstep? Is she someone he can finally open his heart up to?

Because his heart, it's a big one.

Warning: Mature Content

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Forbidden Romance

218 pages, ebook

First published October 1, 2015

About the author

Hi, I’m Ryan Ringbloom, a Jersey girl who doesn’t write Alphas. I couldn’t if I tried. Social Media stresses me the frick out, yet I can’t seem to walk away from it. I love to binge watch TV. I think cats are awesome. I’m obsessed with coffee and Fireball. But never together. I am counting down the days until self-driving cars are the norm. And if there is ever a zombie apocalypse, I won’t even try to run. I will let the first one I see eat my brain and get it over with.

Reviews

[Wendy'sThoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Climbing Back From a Slippery Slope Stars * * * 1/2
There are a lot of reasons why we pick a book to read...I am sure there have been all kinds of studies done; academic ones... and the more crass kind, marketing...But whatever the reasons, they are personal to us.

Ryan Ringbloom has a knack with her covers, titles and content. In the two books I have read, Fake Boobs and now Hooker Heels, their covers match perfectly with the titles and story enclosed. She has taped into the perfect visual which carries throughout while reading... meaning all of it held true for me. I mention this Obvious observation because many times a title/cover/story just do not deliver as promised.

But more importantly, somehow this book may have been predictable at times in the overall plot points... but for me, it had me engrossed and wanting to see how it all played out anyway.

We have Kenna Winston, a girl taught early by a selfish, horrific mother that she was not worthy... that she was not lovable... her only valuable asset, her body. She was introduced to the reader in Fake Boobs, but it is not necessary to read that book to enjoy this at all.

A victim of sexual abuse, justified and cloaked in her mind as away to pay for her college education, she was set on a path which colored her world. Beauty, manipulation and acquiring from men will be the way through life...she learned her lessons well.

Our other focus is a man who lived under the constant oppression of his father's fame, life standards and desires. Zackary Knight was a talented chef coming into his own. He was also a witness to how his father's life destroyed his mother's. He learned from her the joy to do good for those in need; the opposite of what his father lived. He watched as his mom suffered the inner torments of anxiety and stress and how she coped. All of these factors molded Zachery. He did not trust others around him for all friendships and relationships were suspect... were they friends of his...of the man... or were they just trying to get close to the Billionaire's son with an agenda of their own.

Now both of these two characters are at a crossroad... Zack has finished all the Culinary training and has been asked by his father to be the chef at the new luxury hotel he is building. Zack told him what type of place he wanted... and he has just been shown the over-the-top designs for the restaurant. He is pissed beyond belief... nothing he had agreed to is happening and told his father as much. Of course, the man isn't listening again and informs him it will be ready in 6 months. Zachery is furious; goes to the only place which means anything to him, a soup kitchen he financially supports anonymously...by volunteering and running the kitchen. There he is himself.... there he is free.

Kenna has just been given a very harsh wake up call...no, literally...the hotel butler has woken her up from her overnight stay in the penthouse with a man she dreamed would be taking her on his business trip to Japan...She met the man in the bar... she eyed his Rolex, worked her magic and allowed him to take her to his suite for fun and games. She used all of her skills assuming he was hooked on her delights and a mutually happy relationship was born. It had happened before and paid off with trips, gifts and housing...so this had all the markings. Instead she received the cold slap of reality from the polite but firm butler informing her and they escorting her out of the suite, to her car to ensure her departure. As her fury is controlled, barely, he hands her an envelope. A bit shocked, Kenna drives away.

While at the gas station, she opens the envelope and see the 5 crisp 100 dollar bills... causing everything she has recently experienced to come flooding back...Her firing from her job as a server at a place which prides itself on the corset uniform of the women...a specific standard of weight, a figure Kenna had difficulty maintaining. She thinks of all the men she had learned to use. They had used her enough, so it was only fair she turn the tables...but this...this envelope, this wake up call...it seems she turned into everything she swore she wasn't going to be... she sees she was her mother's child after all.

As all of this is running through her head, she receives a call from a man who was like a dysfunctional brother to her. He was the son of a short lived relationship of her mom's. These two children connected on a level higher than usual. They had an understanding of who their parents were, what it meant as to the value of them and cynical belief in life. It bonded them through the years. Not always in touch, Kenna receiving the call is a surprise...

Tariq had a proposition for her...and Kenna had nothing going for her at all...only the home with her hateful mother. She listened to him invite her to his apartment with the promise of dinner and discussion. What the hell, she would go, have dinner, rest and regroup.

What happens next is the first turning point for her; she is offered a contract from Mr. Knight to keep Zack "occupied" while the hotel is finishing the restaurant. Tariq is involved with the construction and Mr. Knight pulled him aside to find someone to do this job. It pays enormous money for very little "work" and a payout at the end which provides more. He thought of Kenna for she fit the bill.

Kenna ponders this and they go to have dinner at Zack's place in the same building. There Kenna and Zack meet over the dinner he is cooking. The food is amazing, Kenna cannot believe she is eating as much as she is... she cannot stop...She also is trying some of her flirtatious ways and no response from Zack...

After dinner, they leave and Tarqi asks her again...framing it with the observation and reminder of where she is in her life, what the money would do for her and her past history. She says yes.

Now this story as I said earlier had a lot of predictability to it... However, I really didn't care, for what I got was written with insight. There was an intangible feeling I had to stay the course and see where this was going to go...for the hints of other elements layering these characters were enough.

The development of a cynic with a man who was also a cynic about those around him, for good reason, was interesting to see. Here we had a woman who had molded herself to whatever the man in question wanted... and she was at a loss with Zack...

Overt flirting.... nope, a turn off for him...
Sexy Stripper heels...nope, he thought they were classless...
Touching his strong bicep and give a squeeze... nope, an gentle move to separate her from him...

What the Fucking Hell....
What did he want from her...
Turns out he wanted just her... stripped of all her tricks...
Kenna was scared...how was she supposed to do that...
She didn't know who she was without them...

This is told with each of their POV's and it was a terrific way to be in their heads and see all the changes and realizations. There was a hopefulness yet our own knowledge of what was coming ... the good, the lull of happiness and then the realization of it all... we knew it would happen but could not look away.

It takes a bit but I will let you know, when these two get together it is something...It had its own way.. not overly explicit or even often... but when it took place, there was a rush... and yes, Zack had equipment and tattoos which made it all quite enjoyable.

This story had all of the above plus the additional focus on the need for the homeless and those who go without meals in our country. The soup kitchen and Zack's efforts to teach and provide held my attention. It also gave him his platform to be who he wanted, not a pawn of his father's.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention the other part of this story; eating disorders. Kenna is fighting one and Zack has been touched by it. If there are those of you who may have triggers regarding them... then maybe this read is not for you. It is handled in a forthright manner and addressed.

Although many may feel the beginning of the book was too much relationship building and not enough sizzle, I happened to think it was strong and interesting to see how things were going to progress. I did feel the flow had its ups and downs but overall I was there throughout.

Ryan Ringbloom has guts. She seems to tackle subjects of difficult people working out who they are... and sometimes these people are not easily loved. I respect that. I will be looking to see what she presents next...I have a feeling it might be that other cynic Tarqi...

A gifted copy was provided by the author via NetGalley for an honest review.

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[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75 stars

"I can’t promise you he won’t be hurting when I’m done with him.”

Hooker Heels was just an okay read for me, and it was all due to my relationship with the characters. For me Kenna came off as a petty selfish heroine while Zack was too sweet for his own good. This is a me versus the book issue, because I know some of my friends who really enjoyed the book. I might be heartless, because I couldn't sympathize with Kenna at all, my first interaction with her just left a bad taste in my mouth that I just shut down after that. But Zack was such a sweetie, he was so good and had the best of intentions, it was just those around him who decided they knew what was best for him. I encourage you to give this a try, like I said it was more my personal issues than anything else.

ARC kindly provided by the author, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.

***Quote above are taken from the ARC version of the book and may differ upon publication.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Kenna Winston is looking for her next meal ticket when heir to the Knight empire falls into her lap. But Zack Knight isn’t looking for another gold digger and certainly isn’t interested in his own fortune, so Kenna is going to have her work cut out for her.

When Zack begins to stray from the plan, his father steps in to keep him otherwise engaged with the help of Kenna... gold digger turned whore.

This was a quick, enjoyable read that sort of plays along the lines of Pretty Woman, if first, the guy had no clue she was a hooker and second, the girl had any real morals. Okay, so it’s nothing like Pretty Woman.

Although predictable in the plot, this was a light read for a quiet afternoon and Kenna was sort of endearing as a character. Sure she wasn’t one of those hearts of gold type heroine’s but she had her reasons and because of that, you really couldn’t find fault with her character.

Zack was likable even if a little dull. There just wasn’t anything about him that made him stand out. He was just sort of this average nice guy that had money, but lived like he didn’t (to an extent).

I think if this story had more of a spark I would have enjoyed it more. At just shy of a 3 star read, it just was okay – predictable and not too complex. But sometimes that is the exact read a reader needs.

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

***I was provided a complimentary ARC of this book by the publisher, through Netgalley.com, in exchange for honest feedback.***

This was the first book I've ever read by this author, but it won't be the last. With a title like 'Hooker Heels', I have to admit that I thought I was going to read a much dirtier, smuttier story than what I got. However, I'm not complaining at all. This book may not have been what I was expecting, but it was great!

When we first meet Kenna, the heroine, she's trolling for wealthy men at a hotel bar. She's materialistic, shallow and pretty unlikable. The first impression was not a good one and I wasn't sure that she was redeemable. From the start, she's the type of character that you love to hate.

Out of work and out of luck, Kenna receives an offer that she can't turn down. A friend from her past calls her to ask for a favor. It seems his billionaire mogul boss wants a distraction for his son, who is reconsidering the grand opening of a new restaurant. His son, Zack, is a chef, but seems more interested in his charity work than opening the new world-class restaurant. His father wants him distracted so that he won't think about backing out of the new venture, and there's nothing like a pretty woman to keep a man distracted.

From the start, Zack is the kind of character that draws you in. He is down to earth and just an all-around nice guy. He's spent his life trying to avoid the trappings of wealth and the disingenuous gold diggers that flock to him once they learn who his father is. He wants to be loved, but his past experiences have taught him to be skeptical.

As Kenna and Zack grow closer, there was a looming feeling of dread, as I waited for the other shoe to drop. Kenna was slowly becoming a better person the more time she spent with Zack. He was slowly infusing her with a sense of self-worth that she had been lacking. Little by little, Kenna grew on me. Her vulnerabilities were exposed and suddenly the facade of a vapid bombshell that she pretended to be was crumbling.

As expected, the secret does eventually come to light. The consequences are devastating and the couple is torn apart. Just when these two seem to have found happiness, it all comes crashing down around them.

It all works out in the end and the story closes with a HEA. I felt the full range of emotions when reading this story. I hated Kenna, then pitied her, and eventually, even admired her.

Another perk is that this story was easily read as a stand-alone. While there may be other books in this series, it seems that they will focus on characters introduced in this book, but also be able to be read as stand-alone stories. A sneak peek into Tori's story is provided at the end of this book.

[Carissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was first introduced to Ryan Ringbloom in Fake Boobs, a wonderfully realistic story with the tell tale signs of low self esteem. Hooker Heels fall along those same lines, with some more interesting themes, simply told in a different way. What I love about RB's stories, are the way her female characters are portrayed as anti-heroines. Along with the important themes within the stories. Ryan Ringbloom always creates these flawed female characters that go after the impossible and still come out on top. Despite the road traveled and the many obstacles faced. They persevere and fight. Even if the fight is wrong and unethical and seemingly unforgivable.

Hooker Heels is an unconventional anti-heroine story told in dual POV's. We're given insight into each character's past and how it has molded them into the present.

Zackary Knight the heir to the Knight empire has always had things handed to him on a silver platter.  His father's success and riches has marred Zackary's outlook towards money, while opening his eyes to devastating hunger all around him.  A man whose ambitions goes beyond the deceit and corruption of a dollar. A son whose pride and joy is to help those in need. Using his riches and his experience to enrich the lives of others.

Kenna Winston is looking for her next paycheque. Growing up independent and surviving on her own skills. Kenna started off early, by trading sex for money. Lacking parental support, constant bitterness from her family, and the lack of proper and respectable role models. Kenna has traded all her self esteem and confidence, in order to get ahead and live a life of luxury. It's the only life she knows. Working at a strip joint, until she was fired, Kenna lands a new position within the Knight employment.

Signing a contract, Kenna must seduce and divert Zack's attention away from the development of Mr. Knight's newest business venture. Her mission is to keep Zackary happy and sated, so that he doesn't feel the need to contest his father's grandeur plans for the new venture. A venture, that seems to opulent for Zakary tastes.

Along the way Kenna starts to fall for Zakary. He isn't what she expected. He's dull and boring, yet he exudes confidence and knowledge. As they get to know each other, Kenna finds herself enjoying Zackary's company and helping out at the soup kitchen. Ingraining herself into his life, meeting his little friends and being taught to cook. To be self sufficient, and confident with what little she had. Learning that it's the small things that matter in life. No one has ever believed in Kenna and shown her to love herself and never, feel ashamed to be the person she wants to be.

When Mr. Knight realises that Kenna will become problematic, as she and Zakary's relationship is taken to the next level, he fires Kenna, and soon, she again is grappling with what to do. But what she fears the most, is leaving Zack, and the pain he will feel at her betrayal.

Hooker Heels was a light and enjoyable read, a bit slow at the beginning. Zackary is strange and not your usual male protagonist in a story, while Kenna, is definitely not lovable at all. Extremely self-centred and conceited. But somehow, it all seemed to work. Opposites do attract. Or sometimes, I guess, we see the insecurities in others, the we believe we can fix.

*ARC provided by GIVE ME BOOKS on behalf of the author for an honest review* Thanks!

[Melyssa Winchester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Hooker Heels
Author: Ryan Ringbloom
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Humor
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Rating: ★★★★★

Review



Hooker Heels is a New Adult Standalone Romance from author Ryan Ringbloom told from the dual point of views of main characters, Zackary and Kenna.

While this book does and can in fact be read as a total standalone, you also get a little bit of Kenna in the book featuring her best friend Tori, titled Fake Boobs.

Because I had the luxury of reading that book beforehand, I eagerly awaited this story. There was just something about her that I wanted to know more about. I knew there was more layers to her than what we were privy to in Tori’s book and after reading Hooker Heels, I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was right.

There are going to be people that find Kenna and her attitude hard to take. The way she lives her life, the choices she ultimately makes, they aren’t ones that a lot of people would make, but they are uniquely hers and there are reasons for them. A poor self-image added to onto by a mother that I would have loved to take a baseball bat to, along with being used in the past so that using became her future. It all combined to take this girl who is deserving of love become someone who didn’t think she was worthy of much of anything.

She wasn’t picture perfect and I think that’s what I loved so damn much about her. She needed her eyes opened. She needed what she found in Zackary. She needed the wakeup call she received and boy did she get it with him.

Now before I go into Zackary and then how I felt about them as a couple, I feel that it should be mentioned that there is mention of an eating disorder here. Of course Kenna believes she’s got a handle on it and that it’s not one, but it very clearly is. It was portrayed very realistically in my opinion and I do think the author took a great deal of care with the issue, but if it’s a trigger just tread carefully.

Zackary. Best hero I’ve read in a romance in a while. Truly. He had his own set of issues, baggage as it were in terms of his family, but at the end of the day, his heart was pure. That boy *sighs* Kenna hooked me with those heels and he took me the rest of the way. What he spends his days doing—what he eventually has Kenna be a part of—what can I say, it was so damn good natured and pure hearted. He was an inherently good guy.

I’ve called the author the queen of redemption before, and also the person that inspired me to write my own set of redemption stories, but there was none of that here. She didn’t redeem someone for me this time around. She didn’t have to. I understood Kenna and well, Zack was…well, he was Zack.

What she did do was make me fall in love with the good boy that has a frisky as hell side.

Can I just say…..damn for the steamy scenes? #TeamZackary. It’s those sweet ones you gotta worry about. LOL. Okay jokes aside, the scenes with them fit perfectly into the story and when they did finally act on their feelings, it was pretty damn epic.

This couple worked for me because at first glance, you’ve got the girl that seems to only be interested in money and the guy trying to escape it. Disaster waiting to happen right? Well, not here. Here it was healing and sweet. Also humorous. Being in Kenna’s head for some of the stuff she went through with Zack was hilarious. They just plain worked for me.

What else can I say here? Ryan Ringbloom has another winner in the NA oven here…or maybe I should just shut up and quote Zack since he said it best.

“A BUN.”

This was a fantastic read with near flawless pacing and characters you can’t help but fall in love with, both together and separate, along with a good coming of age and growth story right alongside the romance. It was everything I’ve come to expect from this author and more.

My thanks to all involved in getting an ARC of this story before release. It was a treat and a journey I’m glad I was a part of.

[Lillian ☁ Cloud 9 Books ☁ · Rating 5 out of 5]

**** 4.5 'Yes, Chef' Stars ****

When I read the blurb, I was thinking this was just going to be some average cliche love story. There were some moments where it was a bit predictable... BUT I ended up LOVING it!!! I got attached with Kenna and Zach almost immediately.



Chef Zach's father told him that with his name, the only woman he'll end up with will only be with him for his money. He didn't believe it. Someone is out there for him that not looking for his fat wallet. When he had a disagreement with his father about the direction of a restaurant, his father had a plan to distract him.

Kenna learned from her mother that in life you have to take what you can get and move on. Sleeping with men was her paycheck. But what happens when you're getting old and not the freshest meat in town?

When she got handed a 6 month contract for $10,000 a month, she couldn't refuse. Making a guy fall for you is easy, but unfortunately her heart gets involved and things get tricky.

"He didn't want the fake me. So what did that mean? Who was I supposed to be?

The story had moments where I laughed and almost cried. There were a lot of steamy moments, but I wouldn't consider this erotic. I enjoyed the ride completely. I can't wait to read more from Ryan Ringbloom!

[Tink Magoo is bad at reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Redeeming stars

I put off reading this book for ages because I had let the reviews influence me. When I started I could see why some of the reviews weren't great. Kenna wasn't likeable and had a lot of issues and Zack was just so blah. I could see why they were both like that but for a while the whole book seemed a bit stunted.

Needless to say I carried on reading... I'm not a quitter damn it!

I'm actually glad I did, yes this is predictable and clichéd. It isn't anything I haven't read before but it wasn't overly cheesy like a lot of books similar to this one are. I started to like Kenna and Zack and found myself having to keep turning pages just to see the shit hit the fan.



I did feel like Kenna should have explained her feelings a bit better and that the whole book lacked sex. Still I liked it in the end

[Jennifer Weiser · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are books and then there are books. The ones that sit and linger with you long after you've read them. Books that no matter how busy you get with daily life, they still stick with you. Hooker Heels is one of the books. Raw, intense and filled with anguish and angst, this phenomenal author Ryan Ringbloom has brought one of the falls best books to the table. What makes this book so memorable are the characters that Ringbloom brings forward. Kenna, a girl taught at a young age that she's worthless is faced with challenges throughout her adolescence that lead her down a winding path of self destruction, believing that this is all life will hand her. Faced with a choice of remaining as she is, closed off and fearing the magnetic pull and strength of love, Kenna must decide...continue on the self destructive path, or chose a new direction, one filled with possibilities and most importantly--a chance to truly discover what falling...for the right guy...could really mean.

There isn't much Zack can't get. He's the son of a billionaire after all. Need and want are two completely different things. Zack has never needed...wearing his heart of his sleeve, Zack is nothing like his greedy father. He feels for those less fortunate and spends his time when he can, helping where he can. Kenna and Zack are from too completely different worlds--and luck has nothing to do with bringing these two face to face. Hired and under contract, Kenna is there simple as a job. Make the guy, get the cash, hit the road. But something unexpected happens...Zack begins to show Kenna just how much she's truly worth...and Zack...finds something he wasn't out looking for.

A chance of redemption, of love, of choices, Kenna and Zack weave together an unexpected friendship that not only guides the heart to want...but to what each truly need...

Sexy, irresistible and wonderfully inspiring, this book will remain with you long, long after you've turned the last page.

[Tish · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG... I loved loved LOVEEEEEEED this book. It is soooo good; I read it all in one sitting. When I first started, I disliked Kenna just a tad bit. I thought she was a selfish, conniving B%$&@, but as I got to know her, she truly won me over. She is just a victim who grew up in a screwed up home and despite it, she grew to be a headstrong woman who I think would be one of my BFF's had I known her in real life. Zack on the other hand *swoon* - he is all that and then some. I absolutely adored him. Tall, sexy and a man who is in control. Did I mention he has tattoos? On his knuckles? Ohhh and he's a chef? God, where is this man in real life??? I fell for him from the very first page. A man who knows what he wants and doesn't waste any time on bullshit. Definitely not the typical man whore from every other book I usually read. Oh no...he's much better than that. He's wanted by many women but he's a man of standards that won't settle just for anyone (not even one-night stands). I don't know about everyone else, but that just makes him so much sexier in my eyes. More mysterious perhaps.

The relationship between the two is something out of this world. From the way they meet, to the way they grow as friends and lovers (sorry, no insta-love here). From their funny moments, which are hilarious by the way, to the sexy moments that will have your heart skip a beat or two. The story of Kenna and Zack keeps you anxiously flipping the pages. Desperate to know what happens next. This book not only gives you an AMAZING story but a great message as well. To everyone who suffers from any sort of insecurity, even the tiniest bit of it - this story makes you realize that a person who truly loves you, will love you for WHO YOU ARE and not for who you're trying to be. Besides, why would we want it any other way? Ryan Ringbloom - you've outdone yourself AGAIN. With every book you write, you only keep reminding me over and over why I love you and your writing so damn much. I am so proud of you !!!!!

I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone and everyone.

[Christina Szczepan-santos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenna is a gold digger in this story. Zachary isn't having it.
Kenna has to do alot of work for this to work out.
Love and Choices, I was happy with the flow
I will not go into the story and post spoilers. It was a quick read and I did enjoy it.
Some was a bit predictable but I didn't mind.
I say go for it, it's definitely an enjoyable read.

(Recommended Reads)

[Books Laid Bare · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life was simple for Kenna, and she liked it that way.
She had mastered two things in her life to make sure that she had what she needed with consummate ease… had mastered money and men and one didn’t go without the other – a life lesson passed on very early in life from her mother.
But while this is all good and well in theory it doesn’t always pan out in practice, because kicking her heels is not something that Kenna enjoys, so when Tariq, gives her a call and asks her pay him a visit, she is more than a little intrigued as to what her step brother may have up his sleeve.
Knowing exactly what Keena is like, which in this instance I have to say doesn’t say too much for how he perceives his step sister. Tariq has an offer for Kenna that he hopes she will be unable to refuse. All she had to do was keep his boss happy.
Zachery Knight may have been the toast of the culinary world but he himself would have been happier flying completely under the radar. This bashful man was being handed a beautiful restaurant by his father, designed to be the most glorious of gastronomic experiences, to showcase Zach’s prodigious talent but all Zach wants is to keep things simple.
Zach’s father needs to keep his boy entertained until he could get the restaurant open and his son back where he belongs – in the kitchen but projects like this don’t happen overnight – so hence the need for Keena.
So what is the favour – well it’s a contract from Mr Knight to keep Zach company for the next six months… now I was a little taken aback by that but then thinking about it – Keena , spending time with an obscenely rich man and getting paid for it- in her book, that is a result!
Signing on the dotted line was never in doubt, but the rules attached, well that might not be so straight forward.
Could they stick to them, I mean would she be able to keep this reluctant man happy?
Zach was so far removed from the guys that Keena usually associated with that it initially it had her on the back foot but he had a heart of gold and was determined that he would have things his own way.
I liked Zach, he was a genuinely good guy, one that moved through life at his own pace, doing what he wanted and what he was good at, refusing to allow the money that surrounded him to change who he was inside.
He was what Keena needed and not the other way round, we was almost an antidote to her excesses.
I loved the influence that he had on her and the encouragement she took from being around him but when he discovers the truth about how she came into his life, is it all over for good?
Or can they open their eyes and hearts a little more to see that they have both changed and that is because of what they have between them?
Can they finally see what it is to be truly loved by someone?
A great story with a moral compass that may wobble a little but ends up pointing in the right direction. Keena may not be everyone’s cup of tea but bear with her she isn’t all bad and Zach is a little stayed at times, old before his time but it is surprising what the love of a good woman can do!
Character driven this is a quick solid read that you won’t want to put down.

[Carolina Godinho · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this copy in exchange of a honest review

I loved this book. It has everything. Drama, love, steamy hot sex.

Zachary is a chef and his father is a billionaire which makes Zachary unhappy because he doesn't know if people likes him or his money.

Kenna is a whore, really, which made me uncomfortable at beginning because,for me, unless you are trying to save someone's life, whoring herself is unacceptable. She had problems? Yes, but not enough to accept this life. She just did not had good examples or someone to guide her when she was a kid.

Zachary´s father hires Kenna to scort his son, for 6 months. But all her knowledge about men proves wrong when dealing with Zack. He´s a beautiful, humble, sweet, swoon-worthy man, who loves to help people in need. And he see her trough all smokes and mirrors.

They fall in love beautifully. Kenna really falls for him, and she falls hard. And when Zack discovers Kenna was hired by his father, he feels destroyed, and he says terrible words to Kenna. They goes separate ways, but he miss her too much. And, while Kenna mis him just as much, she can´t forgive herself for what she did to him.
He have to fight for her.

Eu amei esse livro. Tem tudo, drama, amor e escaldantes cenas de sexo.

Zachary é um chef de cozinha, filho de um bilionário. Ao contrário do que muitos achariam, isso faz Zack infeliz, pois ele não sabe se as pessoas gostam dele ou do dinheiro dele.

Kenna é uma prostituta, de verdade. O que me deixou desconfortável, no começo, pq pra mim, a não ser q vc esteja tentando salvar a vida de alguém, não existe desculpa pra isso. Mas, com o desenrolar da história vc percebe que o modo fútil e vazio de Kenna reflete a criação ou falta de criação que ela teve. Ele teve uma vida ruim, cercada de pessoas ruins.

O pai de Zack contrata Kenna pra ser acompanhante de Zack por 6 meses. Mas tudo que ela sabe sobre homens se prova errado quando ela conhece Zack. Ele é doce, humilde, carinhoso, possessivo, perfeito.

Eles se apaixonam. Lindamente. Quando Zack descobre, ele se sente destruído e diz coisas terríveis para Kenna. Eles seguem seus caminhos separadamente. Mas Zack nunca deixou de sentir falta dela, e depois se arrepende de suas palavras duras, perdoando-a de seus erros. Ele tenta reconquistá-la, mas Kenna é quem não pode se perdoar. E Zack tem que ajudá-la a se perdoar para que eles possam ficar juntos.

[Kathleen R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Stars: 4 STARS

Restaurant owner
Money


Will the desperation for money force a woman to play a ruse on a man searching for sincerity?

Kenna Winston's world revolves around money, and the men who spend it. Men are mere pawns in the game that she calls life. However, her game is about to change once she's offered a business contract with some interesting caveats. Kenna has to decide whether she is ready to up the ante and play in the big leagues. Or decide if the proposal being offered is crossing the line, even for her. With her heels high and morals low, she wonders what will happen if her heart gets involved? Oh that's right, she doesn't have one.

Zackary Knight has always had things handed to him. That's not the life he wants. Can't anyone see that he goes deep, that he's more than just a shallow dollar sign? Who is this beautiful woman who just appeared on his doorstep? Is she someone he can finally open his heart up to? (Amazon blurb)

Let's all admit it: we all have a pair of shoes or boots that we call our 'hooker heels', that one pair that we (women) feel amazingly sexy and extraordinarily confident. Kenna owns a pair of six inch heels that simply attract the attention of men that surrounds her, and not any man, but the upper class. I must admit however, she's a mess and needs to find out what she wants to do in life rather what needs to do to survive, maybe then she wouldn't have to rely on her looks to get ahead (and stop believing that at 24 she's old and done for). On the flip side, we have Zachary, wealthy, gorgeous, talented and has women draping themselves all over him - yet, all he wants is a woman who wants him for him and not his wealth, one who's looking for the happily ever after and believes in love. Two unlikely characters get together and create a love story that is as true as any we live through in our day to day lives: there are the good, the bad, the ugly and the hilarious, and that is why Ryan Ringbloom hits the ball out of the ballpark with Hooker Heels.

.
**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.  Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read the full review on Bookaholics Not-So-Anonymous.

Note: This ARC was provided by Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.

Hooker Heels is a standalone contemporary romance from Ryan Ringbloom and is my first ever read from this author. This was so much more than I expected and a book that I enjoyed from beginning 'til the end and one that I finished in one sitting. There was an honesty and lightheartedness to the story that was utterly appealing and it had a fresh and creative take on a basic story line (i.e. girl gets paid to be with guy but falls for him) and made it a cut above the rest. This wasn't an overly long tale yet you can easily see how the relationship between Kenna Winston and Zackary Knight developed over the next few weeks they were in each other's company. Written in a way that made you feel as if you were listening to a couple of friends relay their love story, this is the kind of book that I look forward to reading any day of the week.

The lead female character is flawed and there are a number of times that I found myself disliking her and the choices she made and how she justified them, but Kenna also makes you grow to like her as you read her story. Yes, she could have handled the challenges life threw her way in many different ways, and while it did take a good long while before she learned her lesson, the fact is, she did. It took her meeting Zack and realizing that this man wanted to strip away, not her clothes (well, at least not initially) the facade that she was used to showing everyone else who she was using and was using her in return. I loved Zack because he wasn't described like this GQ-esque, alpha male. He was simply Zack--a good man with a good heart and kinda looked good in his own way. Hooker Heels is a highly recommended 2015 favorite read. Five stars! ♥

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hooker Heels
Ryan Ringbloom
4.5 stars

Kenna Winston you are going to hate her and want to be her at points. Confusing .. you bet. She knows money and she knows men but the biggest thing she plays one for the other. Kenna is on her last romp that doesn’t go as planned when her “brother” Tariq calls her with a proposition. Tariq works for a billionaire who owns hotels and fancy restaurants. Kenna has nothing to lose so … why not. You wont believe what his proposition is …

Zack Knight doesn’t always agree with his father. In fact he rarely agrees. He is low key his father is not, he wanted simple his father does not. Zack has tats, is a mans man, tall, sexy as heaven and swoon worthy plus ten; plus he is a giver. He doesn’t play games and shoots straight. He just wishes his father was more down to earth.

Im not going to dig into much more as I want you to click this up for sure. Zack is not a player like you might think from his description but Kenna has some deep underlying issues. There is also a message woven into the pages of this story; its one of acceptance and embracing who you are. Insecurities are something to be conquered and not used against you. Those you surround yourself with should love you for who you are and you should never try to be who you aren’t in order to feel important. No the story isn’t that deep but the message is loud and clear.

There are some truly great moments in Hooker Heels. I love the title alone. This is my first read by Ryan and it certainly wont be my last. Loved the book and the characters.; love the storyline and looking forward to another page turner from her.

I received an ARC for an honest review. Review to post on Ramblings From Beneath The Sheets. Thank you Ryan!

[Lea's *~*Book Nook*~* · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 beautifully sparkling stars!
***ARC provided through NetGalley for honest review***










This book was wonderfully written. The character build was just perfect. Story line was very believable and well thought out. Kenna and Zack meet in the most unconventional ways, and could end in total disaster. The author put such a spin on it that was so heart felt, and a perfect way to salvage the relationship. Kenna is introduced as pretty much a gold digging escort in denial. She gets through life jumping from men to men who can benefit her. She is then ask a "favor" by her step-brother that lands her on Zachery Knights door step. She tries to using her gold digging ways to get him to fall for her. She doesn't expect his uninterested attitude, and begins to fall for the down to earth man. When she realizes the mistakes she has made, and wishes she had made different choices so they can truly be together life throws her a curve ball. They both come out on top in the end, and get really the best happily ever after..... truly a sweet heart warming story

[Stephanie Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to start off saying I got this book as an arc for a honest review. I was deeply interested in this book after I read the description. Kenna is a girl who is used to wrapping men around her finger. She was taught at a young age that her worth revolved around her looks. Zachary was the son of a greedy billionaire who was tired of his father trying to mold him in his image. Zachary wanted to feed the whole world... For free. You would think that these two would not work. I will admit that in the beginning I extremely disliked Kenna. However as the story progresses and you began to see that she's never know her own value until Zach she becomes someone u feel very sad for. They get together because Zach fathers offers her a contract for six months to keep Zach distracted because his father wanted him to be the chef in a new fancy restaurant not in a soup kitchen. What follows is a wonderful story about Kenna finding herself and her worth and Zach finding that one person that's meant for him. Beautiful story. Five stars. Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Amy

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ryan Ringbloom strikes again with another amazing story. I had the pleasure of reading this while on holidays sitting by the pool and it had everything I needed to pass away the hours. With just the right amount of angst, sexual tension, drama, hot hot sex, and of course a hot guy to fall in love with this book had everything.
I even Loved the ott bitchy female that everyone likes to hate.
Even though Kenna is the biggest bitch at the start you cant help but want her and Zack to find their happy ever after.
The title and cover drew me in but it was the characters and the story that stole my heart and drew me in until I devoured it.
If you have not read this book or a Ryan Ringbloom novel in general then you really don't know what you are missing out on. She hits the nail on the head every time.

[DJ Sakata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Favorite Quotes:

“‘I know that isn’t exactly the thing a guy wants to hear but I just need you to know, you’re not getting an untouched flower or anything.’ He wasn’t getting a flower at all, more like a weed.”

My Review:

I love Ryan Ringbloom’s work, but I struggled with this one, the heroine was hard for me to like. I had to trust that Ms. Ringbloom would get me there, and thankfully, she did. As always, the writing was well done, emotive, and insightful. Of course the problem I am having now is that I want a Zachary of my own.

[booksanatomy · Rating 4 out of 5]

this review originally appeared on my blog

I've only read a handful NA, but this is my most liked among all. Yes, I do like this more than Ugly Love and Fallen Too Far.

The story opens from little bit from the leading man, Zachary Knight. How he is the typical kind and rich guy who denies his wealth. A genuine modesty he has. Then a few pages in, we have our leading lady, Kenna WInston, the girl who sells her body to live in the world. The author made sure how we know our characters before everything, I really liked that. I just find it weird, all chapters contain a small thought from one character and then comes the POV of the other who will have the majority of the chapter. I just think it some putting it there seems spoon feeding the readers. Not good for readers who like puzzles and between the line games. It doesn't make it less good though.

While I like the need to glimpse the lives of the Zach and Kenna, I find the beginning kinda slow, which lessened my enthusiasm a bit, but it picks up once they get to know each other.

And so fast forward, Kenna becomes Zach's personal whore without him knowing. It's cute, knowing the basic personality of the two, it's a wonder how Kenna's job will work out. She's a professional whore to men, she knows the sterotypical needs and wants of the male species. But her job experience hauls back to square one on Zach's case. The stupid, sex crazed bimbo personality doesn't work on him. He doesn't want the scripted and rehearsed flirting. Smart and real are his desires. Something Kenna should not and cannot give.

I really like this book a lot because I not only love the story from start till the end but I like both of the characters as well. There are still the minor characters, I don't like them a lot but they did their part in the story. You would think Zach has a catch on his pure benevolent personality but even at the time he's mad at Kenna, you know he still loves her kindly, just angry. In a way, he's kind of the classic perfect guy - genuine, sweet, kind, rich, and big (yes, I have to add it, Kenna says so.) - any girl can ask for. As for her, she has been on tough times, who would want to sell her body for any matter? But I hate her mother who was never her mother and caused all her troubles. Heck, the woman knew her daughter was being used by her husband but she didn't do anything, which her daughter hoped she did. I feel this is an extreme lack of responsibility for a parent and I hope it only exists in this novel. Nevertheless, Kenna may have been whoring to get her way around but she still has an awesome personality of being independent and smart, and when she meets him her fun side comes out.

I read this with an anticipation of lots of explicit sex due to the title but look at that, I think the mature content on this book happened twice or thrice? And the rest is story development. Funny, our author's a guy, not even a girl. Scratch this part, I thought she was a guy!

I find everything on this novel enjoyable and agreeable on every aspect, which makes me want to read another from the author. I haven't read from her before.

I got this as an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!

[J.M. Winchester · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Hooker Heels
Author: Ryan Ringbloom
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Series or Standalone: Standalone
Rating: 5 Stars

Review



I’m a Ryan Ringbloom fan dude. There I said it.
She writes books for peeps like me, with characters that I can get into. She’s been doing it for a year but I’m pretty sure this is my favorite one.
I dig Kenna. She’s not ur typical main character. She’s not even the typical female romantic lead in a book. She’s blunt, abrasive, determined and even though u see she clearly gives a crap the more u read, she comes across like she doesn’t at first.
Fell in love with that character. Female me except I don’t think I’ve ever been a hooker. Might need to double check that one though, so lemme get back to u. lol
There’s also something different in this book that wasn’t in any of her others. She wrote a dude that was damn near perfect. Zackary wasn’t the dude I was expecting when I read this. I mean I kinda figured he’d be decent cus she never writes a bad dude, but this guy was better than her others. I was gonna say he was a softie but uh, when u get into their love scenes he’s not lol
U writers and writing love scenes I gotta read on breaks at work and have issues with after. Meanie’s lol
Okay I know I’m joking around a lot in this review but I suck at these things.
If what Ryan writes is considered new adult romance than this is the new adult romance I like. It moves easily, keeps my attention and the characters and their connection seems pretty damn legit to me. I can believe in them. And I did that here.
I dug the way Kenna was affected by Zackary and how it went both ways. I hated the drama once the truth comes out. The way it all went down kinda made me sad considering how close they’d gotten but it made sense an in the end I think it made them stronger.
Don’t really know what else to say that u can’t get ur self from reading but Ryan, this is ur best one yet.
Thanks for letting me be a part of reading it.

[Bobbi · Rating 3 out of 5]

She was hired to make sure he stayed on track with the new restaurant about to open. She needed to do whatever it takes without falling in love. Because when time is up, she has to walk away at a moments notice. He just wanted to get away from his father. Do something more meaningful with his life and be with someone who didn't want him for his money. He despised the limelight.

This was an ok book. Honestly, in my opinion, it's a topic that has been used too much. The prostitute that's hired to either distract or keep on track the millionaire's son who's looking to break away from daddy's iron fist. But daddy will have none of that because he's so entitled and arrogant that he can't see past his own wants. One thing I liked about this was that Zachary wanted to use his money for a soup kitchen rather than to start his own multi million dollar thriving business to surpass his father with a big ole "Up Yours". Which is a change that was very welcome with this type of storyline.

However, I would've liked to have seen more assertiveness from Zachary. There was the one time he stood up to his dad. One time. Then there wasn't another chance to do so. Even though I didn't like the dad, it seemed like a cheap shot. I mean, I was happy that things were hopefully gonna work out for Kenna and Zachary, but it was too good to be true.

In the beginning, Kenna played the "Poor me" hooker who had no money and no place to go. She tortures herself by returning home to her mother's to get, what exactly? Doesn't seem like she even needed whatever she was there for. Did she just need someone to call her a whore so she can ride the pity train a bit longer?

And then there's the my-mother's-ex-lover's-son, Tariq. I'm still confused as to what his role was in this story. Other than he was the go between for Kenna and daddy. The author had Tariq referring to Zachary as a friend in the book. It didn't seem to me that they hardly ever spoke to each other to be friends. Acquaintances, maybe.

I didn't hate the book because I'm a sucker for a HEA, but I didn't love it either.

*ARC kindly provided from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Paula Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

After her life growing up it's not uncommon that she turned to waitressing in a bar where the more body parts you showed the more tips you got . Then on her way home from her best friend Tori's wedding, Kenna gets familiar with a man and who mistakes her after a wonderful night of sex as a hooker. This leaves her wondering about herself when she gets a call from her old step-sibling Tariq who has a job offer for her as his boss needs a companion for his son Zackary Knight. With nowhere but her mum's to head too, she reluctantly agrees but it does come with stipulations and a big pay packet and the contract is for six months. The only stipulation really is that she can't fall in love with him and that after the six months, she has to up and leave and never get back in contact. All goes well until Kenna realises that Zackary is in fact one of the good guys and that though in comes from ALOT of Money, he never acts like it and plays Robin Hood to the food kitchen at the local shelter. As the months go pass, Kenna starts to realise she is falling head over heels in love with Zack. What happens though when the moment she is about to tell him the truth, news comes in that Corbin Knight is dead ? Now that he is dead, the contract is void ,right ? Unfortunately though Zack does some digging and finds out the truth and breaks it off with Kenna - refusing to see her as he feels betrayed. What will it take for Zack to realise that he changed Kenna into someone whom finally believed that love is real ? Can Kenna prove to Zack that he changed her into someone good and deserving, someone worthy of true love ?

Find out today in "Hooker Heels" another fabulous book by Ryan Ringbloom and for those who have read her other books - Tori aka Victoria Albert is the star in her book "Fake Boobs".

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this novel from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

First off, although this is labelled as YA/NA I would hesitate to put it in that category and would say it was more contemporary romance.

This book really surprised me (in a good way), there were several avenues I thought it would go in but it went in totally different ways.

Kenna is a good time girl, her entire adult life she has used men to get what she wants, presents, holidays, drinks - you name it. Sadly, at the age of 24 she has been sacked from her 'waitress' job at a quasi strip club for being too old. After a one-night stand with an older guy in a hotel leads to her being escorted out of the hotel in the morning with an envelope of cash Kenna realises that her 'lifestyle' is really just being a hooker who doesn't get to set her own rates.

Homeless, jobless, penniless and practically friendless she is about to slink back to her mother's when her former step-brother Tariq calls out of the blue. He has an odd proposition - cosy up to Zakary, the son of a billionaire for six months. At the father's request!

Kenna takes the job and tries her usual wiles - but Zack isn't biting. Can she keep to the terms of the contract she signed, keep Zack interested and walk away?

So I'm leaving the plot there. Things happen that I didn't expect and things I half-expected didn't happen. Zack and Kenna have their own childhood issues to deal with and Zack and his father have issues of another kind.

What I particularly liked was that Kenna was a totally unlikeable character at the beginning, even discovering that she was practically a prostitute didn't faze her for long.

I thought this was refreshing and a new take on a (very old) theme.

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was totally not what I was expecting! A totally crazy Cinderella story that just took so many crazy twists, and turns that really thrwos the reader for a loop when they least expect it. I absolutely loved the passion between Kenna and Zachary. LOVED. IT. I wasn't really sure what to think of this book going in; it sounded interesting, and it captured my interest enough that I devoured it in a day. Anyways, onwards with this really, really well-written story that captured my heart!


Ryan Bloomring did a wonderful job bringing a classic Cinderella story to the pages. Taking Keena, a girl who didn't want to go down the path that ended up on, and turning her completely around to a happily ever after was phenomenal. Zachary Knight, later known as her White Knight was seriously the SWEETEST book boyfriend I have read about in a LONG time. I loved that the characters were set up. This was such an unconvential way of them getting to their happily ever after that this was a difficult book to set down. Anyways, the trials, and tribulations that they endure really set them apart as far as book couples go as well.


I was overall really pleased with this book. However, there were a few times that I felt a bit lost. I feel like there could have been more added to the book as far as the story line went because it felt like it went by way too fast. There were also a few slight errors that could be overlooked as far as grammar, and spelling go. This did NOT in any way impact the story line, or the overall message of the story. It is a must read, and I sincerely hope that we see more of Kenna, and Zachary in some future writings!

[Donna Porter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenna Winston knew two things well, money and men. She used her good looks from the time she was a teenager to get things she wanted from men. Her mother taught her that. Her life was going no where fast when her step brother, Tariq called her and ask her to come see him about a good proposition he had for her. He did work for a billionaire who owned hotels and fancy eating establishments . Zachery Knight was a well known chef and his father was opening him his own place. It was very fancy but that isn't what Zach liked. He was a simple man with a big heart. Tariq had a contract from Mr. Knight for six months work for Kenna keeping Zach busy so he wouldn't change his mind about the new place. She signed the contract with the rules attached to it. She could only spend two to four hours a day, no more. If he wanted something she was to give it to him. Sex, etc. Kenna thought this was easy but nothing prepared her for Zach. He wasn't like other men she had known and the things that usually worked didn't for him. He liked simple and slow and old fashioned. He had a big heart and he always worked at a soup kitchen as chef. As Kenna got to know Zach she started working at the soup kitchen. She really started to enjoy her time with Zach and she found it hard not to spend more time with him. What happens next is the story. I really enjoyed this one. It does contain some profanity and sex. It is a good read

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kenna is desperate. Living for her next meal, she will do whatever it takes to have some semblance of a life and if that means hooking up with a rich guy for a night or two for money she'll do it. When her step-brother of sorts offers her an amazing opportunity she can hardly refuse. All she has to do is keep Zachary Knight happy and if that means sleeping with him then she'll do it - the money is that good. But there are rules. She can only spend 4 hours a day with him, she can't fall for him and he can never know she's being paid to spend time with him.

She thought it would be easy, just like every other job she's done, but she hadn't counted on Zach. Even though he thinks she's there of her own free will he doesn't want to take the small bit of herself she's offering - he wants all of her, including her heart. Kenna has never felt truly cherished and has never felt worth much. But Zach is kind to her, cherishes her and makes her wish she was good enough for him. Will Kenna be able to resist him? And what if Zach finds out the truth about her?

I really enjoyed this book! The dynamic between these two was fab and I really liked the storyline. And Zach - ugh he's so yummy ;) Go and get Hooker Heels now!

[Nicki ⍣ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've never read anything by Ryan Ringbloom before so I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I was given an arc in exchange for an honest review. I will say that Kenna and Zackary were an adorable couple and I enjoyed the book.. for the most part. Of course there were a few things that didn't bode well with me, but overall it was satisfactory.

Things I liked:
- I liked the relationship and how slow the build-up was.
- I liked the intimate moments because it was hot especially the first time.
- I liked that Kenna's character had her issues to work out, but she held her own. I think the depiction of her issues were handled mostly well given the situation as well as it's depiction.
- I love that Zack was just a fucking dork because he really was. He was cute and easily likable. He wasn't over masculinized.

Things I didn't like:
- The conflict was just a big "how dumb can you get?" for me.
- All the issues that Kenna dealt with should have at least been tagged with a trigger warning about social abuse because there are a lot of people who will be taken by surprised like I did.

Overall, thoroughly cliched. Nothing really memorable, but a delightful snack. It's kinda like getting chicken fingers at a restaurant. Always reliable.

[Michelle Quintana · Rating 3 out of 5]

The layout of this story is different from her previous books but I really liked it this way. This is Kenna's story (from Tori's story) and how she became the person she did. With Zach, I can understand why he doesn't like for people to know who his dad is. It must be hard to know if people really like him for himself or for the money. Kenna's mom was something else and I could see why Kenna had the low self-esteem. She slowly comes to to realize she is a hooked and she feels that is all she is good for. She ends up falling for Zach for who he is, not for what he has. When her contract is shortened, she is devastated because she doesn't want to leave him. An unexpected twist happens, she feels safe with her secret. Zach finds out and feels devastated and used. He kicks her out but another twist happens and he realizes he still loves her. Kenna manages to turn her life around because Zach had made her feel worthy. The only thing I couldn't understand was why Tariq delivered the contract to Zach. That mystery was never solved since he disappeared. The next book should be about him