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Captured by Love #1
The Unwilling Executive
Jade’s heart pulls her towards Lucas, but falling for him means getting caught in the crossfire between Lucas and the one man he despises most: his estranged father... and Jade’s boss.
***
The Unwilling Executive can be enjoyed as a standalone or as Book 1 of the Captured by Love series.
The complete Captured by Love series:
Book 1: The Unwilling Executive
Book 2: The Unyielding Bachelor
Book 3: The Undercover Playboy
Book 4: The Unintended Fiance
Book 5: The Unforgettable Ex
Book 6: The Unknown Billionaire
Book 7: The Unmasked CEO
Book 8: The Unexpected Husband
Book 9: The Unreal Boyfriend
Lucas Renner thought he’d left the past behind—until his estranged father suddenly wanted to be a part of his life. He suspects ulterior motives from the man who has rejected him all his life. Just when he’s determined to ignore his father's message, it’s hand-delivered by Jade Tully, a stunning beauty who ignites a spark he never saw coming.
For Jade, landing a job as the personal assistant to a wealthy CEO is a dream come true—until she finds herself caught in a family feud that’s anything but glamorous. As she navigates the tension between her eccentric boss and his irresistibly charming son, her heart leans towards Lucas. But she fears that doing her job could jeopardize the trust she’s built with the man who makes her heart race.
With their passions igniting despite family drama, Lucas and Jade must decide if they want a future together. Or will the wounds of the past keep them apart before they’ve even begun?
***
The Unwilling Executive can be enjoyed as a standalone or as Book 1 of the Captured by Love series.
The complete Captured by Love series:
Book 1: The Unwilling Executive
Book 2: The Unyielding Bachelor
Book 3: The Undercover Playboy
Book 4: The Unintended Fiance
Book 5: The Unforgettable Ex
Book 6: The Unknown Billionaire
Book 7: The Unmasked CEO
Book 8: The Unexpected Husband
Book 9: The Unreal Boyfriend
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 17, 2015
609 people are currently reading
1439 people want to read
About the author
Miranda P. Charles
35 books433 followersMiranda P. Charles writes swoonworthy, stirring, and steamy contemporary romance novels with oh-so-sweet heroes and strong heroines.
She prefers to spend her time in front of her laptop, putting into words the love stories that play in her head. Don't get her started with reading a great book, though, because she tends to not put it down until she gets to the last page even if she loses sleep.
She does have a life outside of books. Mostly, that consists of bonding with family and friends or going on romantic trips with her awesome husband.
She lives in the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia.
She prefers to spend her time in front of her laptop, putting into words the love stories that play in her head. Don't get her started with reading a great book, though, because she tends to not put it down until she gets to the last page even if she loses sleep.
She does have a life outside of books. Mostly, that consists of bonding with family and friends or going on romantic trips with her awesome husband.
She lives in the beautiful city of Sydney, Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
March 3, 2015
If your a fan of Ms. Charles books, you already know Lucas Renner, but never fear this book can be read as a stand alone; and as usual it is a book that is just about imposssible to put down.
Lucas Renner has no inclination to find himself in the same situation as many of his freinds, In a relationship or worse yet married. Lucas much prefers no strings attached after all that is how he gained the title amongst his freinds as the
" F__k King", which he happily uses to help let women know , he is not looking or a relationship! Why bother with a relationship when your are. Formula one race car mechanic traveling the world their are plenty of opportunities with beautiful women , no need for a relationship.
That is all about to change when Lucas shows up for what he believes is a interview for a magazine .
Jade Tully, recently started a new job as a PA to the CEO of Bilton Machinery's, Thomas Bilton and has been sent o meet a Mr . Lucas Renner with instructions to have him read what is in the sealed envelope and get an answer and not to be surprised if he seems angry it will not be with her. Jane can not believe her luck when Mr Renner turns out to be the hot guy she was ogling through the coffee shop window, but she is floored when he starts yellingbt her asking what type of game Bilton thinks he us up to, Lucas is ready to get up and storm out ,until Jade begs, she at least needs him to read what's in the envelope her job is on the line and something inside of Lucas gives in to this beautiful women in front of him. So not characteristic of Lucas .
Two weeks later Jade stops in at her favorite florist to pick up flowers for her sister in law and runs smack into Lucas, who thinks she is their to harass his mother now, a confrontation, an agreement to keep their conversation from the other day a secret from his mother, Ruby, who is the owner of the flower shop and the plot thickens.
Which each vist to the flower shop Lucas and Jade take another step, coffee, then lunch, then a dinner invitation and before Lucas knows it , he is in a dating relationship .
Now I know you are thinking I have given away the story but seriously, I just brushed the top.
This book was a wonderful read, hot sexy scenes, spicy arguments and a group of fun characters, some old and some new.
And really did you see this cover OMG!!! Made for great imagery when thinking of Lucas while reading!
Arc graciously provided by Author for honest review!
Lucas Renner has no inclination to find himself in the same situation as many of his freinds, In a relationship or worse yet married. Lucas much prefers no strings attached after all that is how he gained the title amongst his freinds as the
" F__k King", which he happily uses to help let women know , he is not looking or a relationship! Why bother with a relationship when your are. Formula one race car mechanic traveling the world their are plenty of opportunities with beautiful women , no need for a relationship.
That is all about to change when Lucas shows up for what he believes is a interview for a magazine .
Jade Tully, recently started a new job as a PA to the CEO of Bilton Machinery's, Thomas Bilton and has been sent o meet a Mr . Lucas Renner with instructions to have him read what is in the sealed envelope and get an answer and not to be surprised if he seems angry it will not be with her. Jane can not believe her luck when Mr Renner turns out to be the hot guy she was ogling through the coffee shop window, but she is floored when he starts yellingbt her asking what type of game Bilton thinks he us up to, Lucas is ready to get up and storm out ,until Jade begs, she at least needs him to read what's in the envelope her job is on the line and something inside of Lucas gives in to this beautiful women in front of him. So not characteristic of Lucas .
Two weeks later Jade stops in at her favorite florist to pick up flowers for her sister in law and runs smack into Lucas, who thinks she is their to harass his mother now, a confrontation, an agreement to keep their conversation from the other day a secret from his mother, Ruby, who is the owner of the flower shop and the plot thickens.
Which each vist to the flower shop Lucas and Jade take another step, coffee, then lunch, then a dinner invitation and before Lucas knows it , he is in a dating relationship .
Now I know you are thinking I have given away the story but seriously, I just brushed the top.
This book was a wonderful read, hot sexy scenes, spicy arguments and a group of fun characters, some old and some new.
And really did you see this cover OMG!!! Made for great imagery when thinking of Lucas while reading!
Arc graciously provided by Author for honest review!
August 12, 2015
The Unwilling Executive is a contemporary romance and book one of the series called Captured by Love.
Frankly, I thought the story lacked depth. I wasn't drawn into it at all. I understand the title of the book but we don't really know if Lucas became an executive. There was one conversation between Lucas and Thomas that mattered. One. There had to have been more that would have made a difference in the story. This could have been a great story about forgiveness and a father and son trying to get to know each other, mixed with some romance. Sadly, it missed the mark.
As for the characters, there were times when Jade irritated me so bad that I wanted to slap her just for the hell of it. She would be coy and then she'd be the worst flirt ever then she would be coy again. Her character lacked definition and not in a cute way.
I wasn't drawn to any of the characters and the reason for that was probably because there are no descriptions of anybody in the book. None. Call me superficial but when Jade is thinking she's sitting with two gorgeous hunks (Lucas and Rick), I want to see, too. Essentially, what we have going on here is a story about two faceless people who don't do anything more than go through the motions of a lame romance. There were no descriptions of anyone or anything.
Some people will enjoy this book and this series. I didn't. I wanted a lot more than what I got and am disappointed.
Honestly, I think if I could have gotten a mental picture of the characters, it would have made all the difference. I liked the story idea but it fizzled when I couldn't see who and what the author was seeing.
Frankly, I thought the story lacked depth. I wasn't drawn into it at all. I understand the title of the book but we don't really know if Lucas became an executive. There was one conversation between Lucas and Thomas that mattered. One. There had to have been more that would have made a difference in the story. This could have been a great story about forgiveness and a father and son trying to get to know each other, mixed with some romance. Sadly, it missed the mark.
As for the characters, there were times when Jade irritated me so bad that I wanted to slap her just for the hell of it. She would be coy and then she'd be the worst flirt ever then she would be coy again. Her character lacked definition and not in a cute way.
I wasn't drawn to any of the characters and the reason for that was probably because there are no descriptions of anybody in the book. None. Call me superficial but when Jade is thinking she's sitting with two gorgeous hunks (Lucas and Rick), I want to see, too. Essentially, what we have going on here is a story about two faceless people who don't do anything more than go through the motions of a lame romance. There were no descriptions of anyone or anything.
Some people will enjoy this book and this series. I didn't. I wanted a lot more than what I got and am disappointed.
Honestly, I think if I could have gotten a mental picture of the characters, it would have made all the difference. I liked the story idea but it fizzled when I couldn't see who and what the author was seeing.
kindle-freebies
April 14, 2016Kindle freebie 2/26/16
March 19, 2019
An OK story, but nothing to write home about.
It was a kindle freebie however and a quick read, so no real ground for complaints.
It was a kindle freebie however and a quick read, so no real ground for complaints.
March 23, 2015
**Arc received for honest review**
This is my first book by Miranda Charles and I was pleasantly surprised.
This story focuses on Jade Tully and Lucas Renner. Jade works for Lucas' father and helps Mr. Bilton connect with Lucas, who doesn't know the Bilton is his father. Jade works hard to be honest and open but Lucas doubts her intentions. The couple must build trust between each other before a relationship can build. That becomes the focus in the story. The relationship takes time to build, seemed to be too long to me but the end justified the means in my opinion.
I mentioned trust before. Lucas doesn't trust anyone and yet something about Jade made him want to trust her. To read the letter she presented in their first meeting. I can say I honestly expected her character to do something on the opposite spectrum. I expected her to become something she doesn't. I'm pleased with the way the author wrote her story.
Lucas must make some big changes before he is ready for Jade to look at him seriously. He struggles with his own feelings and must decide if Jade is worth the effort. Can he change? His mother knows Jade since she buys flowers for her sister-in-law from Ruby's flower shop. The shop becomes a meeting place for Lucas to meet Jade, taking advantage of her flower buying days.
The characters are written well, very believable. The sex between them is beautiful and respectfully written. Sensual most times, you could tell Lucas respected her and wanted to make her happy. I just wish the two hadn't waited so long to "kiss and make up" per say. It seemed like forever for them to fix their problem, don't want to give anything away.
I liked the book, giving it four stars. I would recommend this to someone looking for a new erotic romance book.
This is my first book by Miranda Charles and I was pleasantly surprised.
This story focuses on Jade Tully and Lucas Renner. Jade works for Lucas' father and helps Mr. Bilton connect with Lucas, who doesn't know the Bilton is his father. Jade works hard to be honest and open but Lucas doubts her intentions. The couple must build trust between each other before a relationship can build. That becomes the focus in the story. The relationship takes time to build, seemed to be too long to me but the end justified the means in my opinion.
I mentioned trust before. Lucas doesn't trust anyone and yet something about Jade made him want to trust her. To read the letter she presented in their first meeting. I can say I honestly expected her character to do something on the opposite spectrum. I expected her to become something she doesn't. I'm pleased with the way the author wrote her story.
Lucas must make some big changes before he is ready for Jade to look at him seriously. He struggles with his own feelings and must decide if Jade is worth the effort. Can he change? His mother knows Jade since she buys flowers for her sister-in-law from Ruby's flower shop. The shop becomes a meeting place for Lucas to meet Jade, taking advantage of her flower buying days.
The characters are written well, very believable. The sex between them is beautiful and respectfully written. Sensual most times, you could tell Lucas respected her and wanted to make her happy. I just wish the two hadn't waited so long to "kiss and make up" per say. It seemed like forever for them to fix their problem, don't want to give anything away.
I liked the book, giving it four stars. I would recommend this to someone looking for a new erotic romance book.
December 10, 2016
Spoilers
I gave this book two stars because lets be honest here, the tittle alone is misleading. Lucas is not an Executive until the very end of the book. He is a mechanic on race cars. He might have gained that tittle at the end of the book but by that time he was already in love with Jade. From the beginning when they first met he had feelings for her and his whole "Mr. Fuck King" persona changed. This girl Jade is annoying as hell bouncing around playing head games with Lucas and then using the guy that works in her office who has a huge crush on her. The chick is shady, plays head games and strings guys along for the hell of it while she "hopes" the guy from her office understands that he will only ever be a friend to her and nothing more. While all this is going on and Jade is acting like this Lucas is trying to build a bond between him and the father he has never known and the father that never knew Lucas was his son.
What was the point of mentioning the car she is going to receive without even putting it in the book when she finally receives it. I still don't even know the time span of this book, I guess i just got a little lost because I don't know Australian weather but it seemed like they were swimming in what I call winter months.
This book was not for me. Go give it a try and let others know what you think. Just because I reviewed it and did not like it does not mean you will not like it as well.
I gave this book two stars because lets be honest here, the tittle alone is misleading. Lucas is not an Executive until the very end of the book. He is a mechanic on race cars. He might have gained that tittle at the end of the book but by that time he was already in love with Jade. From the beginning when they first met he had feelings for her and his whole "Mr. Fuck King" persona changed. This girl Jade is annoying as hell bouncing around playing head games with Lucas and then using the guy that works in her office who has a huge crush on her. The chick is shady, plays head games and strings guys along for the hell of it while she "hopes" the guy from her office understands that he will only ever be a friend to her and nothing more. While all this is going on and Jade is acting like this Lucas is trying to build a bond between him and the father he has never known and the father that never knew Lucas was his son.
What was the point of mentioning the car she is going to receive without even putting it in the book when she finally receives it. I still don't even know the time span of this book, I guess i just got a little lost because I don't know Australian weather but it seemed like they were swimming in what I call winter months.
This book was not for me. Go give it a try and let others know what you think. Just because I reviewed it and did not like it does not mean you will not like it as well.
August 5, 2016
Meh. This book was okay, for a self-published romance novel, but I tend to have higher standards for my romances and this didn't really live up to them.
For one, this novel lacked so much emotional depth between the characters. The climax of the story, when Jade and Lucas finally put their feelings on the line, was seriously half a page long. It was, "Hey, I'm sorry." "I'm sorry, too." "Let's have sex now." "Okay." LIKE WHAT!? No. There needs to be a discussion here, a meeting of minds.
And a lot of the novel felt super unrealistic. For example, after 30 years of a man refusing to acknowledge his biological son, said son is not suddenly going to start calling him "Dad" after they realize everything was a huge misunderstanding. That's not going to happen.
I also laughed at the warning that "this book contains hot sexual scenes" because eh, they were pretty tame for a romance novel. Read a book by Jaci Burton or Victoria Dahl and then get back to me about "hot sexual scenes."
For one, this novel lacked so much emotional depth between the characters. The climax of the story, when Jade and Lucas finally put their feelings on the line, was seriously half a page long. It was, "Hey, I'm sorry." "I'm sorry, too." "Let's have sex now." "Okay." LIKE WHAT!? No. There needs to be a discussion here, a meeting of minds.
And a lot of the novel felt super unrealistic. For example, after 30 years of a man refusing to acknowledge his biological son, said son is not suddenly going to start calling him "Dad" after they realize everything was a huge misunderstanding. That's not going to happen.
I also laughed at the warning that "this book contains hot sexual scenes" because eh, they were pretty tame for a romance novel. Read a book by Jaci Burton or Victoria Dahl and then get back to me about "hot sexual scenes."
March 18, 2015
Most definitely 5 stars!
How is one supposed to feel when your father keeps using his PA's to try to get you to talk to him? To get you to learn the company so that you can take over......when all you know is that he never wanted anything to do with you essentially? How is one supposed to not feel used? What is even worse is falling in love with the PA that finally was able to get you to talk to him only to suspect that she was playing a a game and in the end break your own heart? Once you've realized that....how do you go about trying to fix it?
I absolutely feel in love with this and I cannot wait to read some more!
How is one supposed to feel when your father keeps using his PA's to try to get you to talk to him? To get you to learn the company so that you can take over......when all you know is that he never wanted anything to do with you essentially? How is one supposed to not feel used? What is even worse is falling in love with the PA that finally was able to get you to talk to him only to suspect that she was playing a a game and in the end break your own heart? Once you've realized that....how do you go about trying to fix it?
I absolutely feel in love with this and I cannot wait to read some more!
April 1, 2016
First of all I would love to say I really loved this book...I fell in with the characters...Lucas Renner(Racing Car Mechanic) and Jade Tully(Personal Assistant to a wealthy CEO). Loved the emotions in this book too...Especially with Lucas...the action in this book very SEXY...Would also love to give thanks to the Author for doing what you do for us readers you are appreciated :)...
June 20, 2018
This was a great read!
You have Lucas who is a business man who's father pretty much abandoned him, or so he thinks. Jade is Mr Biltons new PA and she has been given a special assignment, Get Lucas to read the letter. This is the first time anyone would actually be able to get through to Lucas and Mr Bilton is super grateful. Come to find out that Jade has some actual feelings for Lucas but his title as FK is not something that he was forth coming about.
I loved the dynamics of the couple and the fact that the misunderstanding didn't cause them to completely loose the love that they had for eachother. I wish there was more about there relationship after they finally get it together!
You have Lucas who is a business man who's father pretty much abandoned him, or so he thinks. Jade is Mr Biltons new PA and she has been given a special assignment, Get Lucas to read the letter. This is the first time anyone would actually be able to get through to Lucas and Mr Bilton is super grateful. Come to find out that Jade has some actual feelings for Lucas but his title as FK is not something that he was forth coming about.
I loved the dynamics of the couple and the fact that the misunderstanding didn't cause them to completely loose the love that they had for eachother. I wish there was more about there relationship after they finally get it together!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2017
photo my thoughts_zpsfejxs2wf.jpg Entertaining book. Goes by very quickly. There is just enough snark, angst and romance to keep you wanting to continue. I am left with one question who and what happened with Jade and her ex to have her so cynical and jaded. We get a brief look but nothing long which will have you wondering. Here in this delightful book we have Jade and Lucas. Jade is a PA just hoping to keep her job with some really awesome protective friends and family telling her she needs to start to date trying to help her boss with Lucas. Lucas works for Formula One and is being hardheaded. He is the consummate playboy. That is until Jade. For some reason he can’t understand the moment he sees Jade he no longer wishes to have the playboy lifestyle. He starts to consider relationships. Denies it but does consider it. Jade is attracted to him to but in a rock and hard place. She works for the man Lucas detests. Fortunately for us they can’t stay apart and a sizzling romance begins. The refreshing part is they are honest with each other. The only time one held back anything was Lucas and that was out of fear. It cost him dearly too and by the time Jade was set straight Lucas was really hurt and doing what Jade did to him. There is a HEA in this book and it is a wonderful one to boot. This is a delightful book on love, family and second chances. The story of Jade and Lucas and Lucas and Thomas has you smiling and laughing at some of the silly antics that occur. Each character draws you to them with their unique flair and has you hope for happy endings for everyone.
March 17, 2015
** Provided on behalf of the author for an honest review **
Jade started working at a very high-profile company as a PA to the boss Thomas.
Thomas sent Jade on her first task to meet with Lucas Renner and deliver him a letter and make sure Lucas read the letter. She also had to give her boss Lucas’s reply to the letter that he had read.
They meet at a coffee shop with Lucas being very late. He didn’t want to read the letter. He wanted nothing to do with Thomas.
Why?
Because Thomas had broken him and he hated him, he wanted to stay away from the man that he totally disliked. But Lucas had never met this man in person before, so why did he have this opinion towards him?
Lucas’s mum owned a florist just down the road from Jades work where Jade would stop by every fortnight to get her brother and his wife some flowers to help cheer them up after her baby nephew was very ill with a heart problem. Lucas bumps into Jade.
Their world’s collide again.
Will there sparks continue to fly?
We found this book to be pretty good, a sweet romantic read!!
A definite 4 star read.
Jade started working at a very high-profile company as a PA to the boss Thomas.
Thomas sent Jade on her first task to meet with Lucas Renner and deliver him a letter and make sure Lucas read the letter. She also had to give her boss Lucas’s reply to the letter that he had read.
They meet at a coffee shop with Lucas being very late. He didn’t want to read the letter. He wanted nothing to do with Thomas.
Why?
Because Thomas had broken him and he hated him, he wanted to stay away from the man that he totally disliked. But Lucas had never met this man in person before, so why did he have this opinion towards him?
Lucas’s mum owned a florist just down the road from Jades work where Jade would stop by every fortnight to get her brother and his wife some flowers to help cheer them up after her baby nephew was very ill with a heart problem. Lucas bumps into Jade.
Their world’s collide again.
Will there sparks continue to fly?
We found this book to be pretty good, a sweet romantic read!!
A definite 4 star read.
April 28, 2016
Well... Jade's boss is a little sneaky, not telling Jade she was basically being set up to ambush his son, Lucas, who wanted nothing to do with him. Still, Lucas is drawn to Jade, but he can't be sure of her motivations, so he tries to keep her at arm's length, which doesn't last long. Then he does something stupid and she finds out about his reputation and jumps to (reasonable, if I'm being honest) conclusions. Then he hears something and jumps to (reasonable, if I'm being honest) conclusions... a bit of angst and back and forth in this one... but everything works out into a sweet HEA by the end.
March 2, 2015
Lucas is not the guy you take home to your mother.
He isn't even the guy you typically see a second time around.
But for some reason, he gets stuck on Jade. But she is sent to him by his enemy. His father.
Jade has no idea what the issue is, or even who Lucas Renner is, she is just the messenger. But she finds Lucas very handsome and hot.
This tale is so well thought out and put together that you feel like you know the newer characters in the story and love the old ones as well.
You will not be disappointed and I can't wait to read about Rick, Lexie, and bigger brother, Brad.
He isn't even the guy you typically see a second time around.
But for some reason, he gets stuck on Jade. But she is sent to him by his enemy. His father.
Jade has no idea what the issue is, or even who Lucas Renner is, she is just the messenger. But she finds Lucas very handsome and hot.
This tale is so well thought out and put together that you feel like you know the newer characters in the story and love the old ones as well.
You will not be disappointed and I can't wait to read about Rick, Lexie, and bigger brother, Brad.
June 23, 2016
I was all with this book until the last 20%. She was being really strong and stood her ground for what he said to her and how he acted but then bam it switched it up and he was pissed at her.... Not only that but she became obsessed after the way he treated her.... Like I said good till the last 20%
May 17, 2015
very good, well written :) didnt like how long they were apart though an how she wouldnt listen to lucas though.. cant wait to read book 2
August 13, 2021
4-FK-King-stars! This book is HOT! I love Lucas!
April 17, 2015
It's all been done before.....
A light and fluffy read that unfortunately won't keep your attention glued or leave a memorable impression. It was just "meh".
A light and fluffy read that unfortunately won't keep your attention glued or leave a memorable impression. It was just "meh".
February 17, 2016
very entertaining. Will keep you reading.
no-dnf-zzz-avoid
April 29, 2016Not interested in reading about a H aka the 'F**k King'....jeez!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2018
The Unwilling Executive: Captured by Love Book 1 is by Miranda P. Charles. It is the first in the Captured by Love series which is about a group of billionaires who all begin to find love about the same time. The series is great and this book is just the start. The book is well written and the characters are very realistic.
Jade Tully has just gone to work for Thomas Bilton, owner of Bilton Machineries. She is on probation for the job of PA for Mr. Bilton. She was told he is a little eccentric but this errand seems to go beyond that. She is waiting for Lucas Renner to show up at this coffee shop to meet with her. She is to hand him an envelope and get him to read the letter and give her a verbal answer. She has no idea what is in the letter nor who Lucas is. When Lucas finally shows up, she gives him the envelope and gets him to read the letter by pleading with him. Her job depends on it. He gets very angry at the letter, gives his answer as No and leaves. When Jade returns to work and tells Mr. Bilton what happened, he is delighted. She has managed to get something done that no one else had. Lucas has read the letter. It was a first step in his plan. When Jade asks what is going on, he agrees to tell her; but not at that time. Jade has to accept his decision.
Jade wonders what the letter said and why Lucas reacted so violently to it. She certainly hopes it is nothing that would get her into trouble. Can she continue to be a go-between for Mr. Bilton and Lucas? Why is Lucas so anti-Mr. Bilton? Is Jade in deeper than she realizes?
The book just gets better and better from here. It is easy to read and quick to read.
Jade Tully has just gone to work for Thomas Bilton, owner of Bilton Machineries. She is on probation for the job of PA for Mr. Bilton. She was told he is a little eccentric but this errand seems to go beyond that. She is waiting for Lucas Renner to show up at this coffee shop to meet with her. She is to hand him an envelope and get him to read the letter and give her a verbal answer. She has no idea what is in the letter nor who Lucas is. When Lucas finally shows up, she gives him the envelope and gets him to read the letter by pleading with him. Her job depends on it. He gets very angry at the letter, gives his answer as No and leaves. When Jade returns to work and tells Mr. Bilton what happened, he is delighted. She has managed to get something done that no one else had. Lucas has read the letter. It was a first step in his plan. When Jade asks what is going on, he agrees to tell her; but not at that time. Jade has to accept his decision.
Jade wonders what the letter said and why Lucas reacted so violently to it. She certainly hopes it is nothing that would get her into trouble. Can she continue to be a go-between for Mr. Bilton and Lucas? Why is Lucas so anti-Mr. Bilton? Is Jade in deeper than she realizes?
The book just gets better and better from here. It is easy to read and quick to read.
June 6, 2017
A tale of a life-time of hurt and fear, as well as the struggles of single parenthood and the joy that comes from a special bond between a mother and her son as they combat those struggles together. And lets not forget the joys and hurts from falling in love, especially when there appears to be more misunderstandings than not.
Jade has just started a new job as PA to Mr. Bilton, a job that she desperately needs if she wants to continue to help her brother and his family cope with their extensive medical bills as their infant son, her nephew, requires a heart operation and special care. He’s sent her on what he’s deemed, an extremely important errand…to deliver a letter to one Lucas Renner. If she only knew just how much her life was about to change. Lucas is late for what he thinks is an interview. When the lovely Jade clarifies the meeting’s purpose, he feels betrayed. But there’s something about Jade that won’t let him be rude, nor, it would appear, can he say no to her, so when she has him read a letter, of which she claims to know nothing about, and give her his response, he feels like he has no choice. And when he later finds himself bumping into her at different times, he begins to question his motives. Will he be willing to open his heart and let her in? Will his heart even give him a choice?
A wonderful tale of love and how it will conquer all if we let it. Well written with a flow that is easy to follow and fall into, you won’t want to put it down once you begin.
Jade has just started a new job as PA to Mr. Bilton, a job that she desperately needs if she wants to continue to help her brother and his family cope with their extensive medical bills as their infant son, her nephew, requires a heart operation and special care. He’s sent her on what he’s deemed, an extremely important errand…to deliver a letter to one Lucas Renner. If she only knew just how much her life was about to change. Lucas is late for what he thinks is an interview. When the lovely Jade clarifies the meeting’s purpose, he feels betrayed. But there’s something about Jade that won’t let him be rude, nor, it would appear, can he say no to her, so when she has him read a letter, of which she claims to know nothing about, and give her his response, he feels like he has no choice. And when he later finds himself bumping into her at different times, he begins to question his motives. Will he be willing to open his heart and let her in? Will his heart even give him a choice?
A wonderful tale of love and how it will conquer all if we let it. Well written with a flow that is easy to follow and fall into, you won’t want to put it down once you begin.
August 20, 2019
I read about five books a week and try to have one of them be from an author I haven’t read before. Miranda P. Charles offered a set of three books in her "Captured by Love" series, and I just finished The Unwilling Executive, a full-length first in series with no cliffhanger, I was glad I took the chance because I really enjoyed it.
Lucas Renner, our hero, was a racing car mechanic, who meets the heroine, Jade Tully, in a very unusual way. Her new boss asked her for a personal favor to deliver a letter to Lucas and just have him read it. They are immediately drawn to one another and what I really like about this book is that they are just regular people! She’s not sleeping with her boss, or her best friend, or some other trope that is so overdone.
I loved getting to know these two and how even though he was skeptical of her intentions, he trusted her and they really enjoyed their time together. Jade as so sweet and honest, and didn’t have a mean bone in her body. She was loyal to her family and totally smitten with Lucas. I loved the slow burn of their romance and how they took a chance and threw caution to the wind.
There are secrets about this long lost son and his father reconnecting, and his very close relationship with his mom, and it was really beautiful to read. Jade stood by him the entire time, while giving him space to sort his feelings. He was also very supportive of her and her career.
There were also lots of funny moments as well as sexy times, and I really loved how this story unfolded and ended with a HEA. I also enjoyed getting to know their friends, who were secondary characters, and are featured in books of their own.
Lucas Renner, our hero, was a racing car mechanic, who meets the heroine, Jade Tully, in a very unusual way. Her new boss asked her for a personal favor to deliver a letter to Lucas and just have him read it. They are immediately drawn to one another and what I really like about this book is that they are just regular people! She’s not sleeping with her boss, or her best friend, or some other trope that is so overdone.
I loved getting to know these two and how even though he was skeptical of her intentions, he trusted her and they really enjoyed their time together. Jade as so sweet and honest, and didn’t have a mean bone in her body. She was loyal to her family and totally smitten with Lucas. I loved the slow burn of their romance and how they took a chance and threw caution to the wind.
There are secrets about this long lost son and his father reconnecting, and his very close relationship with his mom, and it was really beautiful to read. Jade stood by him the entire time, while giving him space to sort his feelings. He was also very supportive of her and her career.
There were also lots of funny moments as well as sexy times, and I really loved how this story unfolded and ended with a HEA. I also enjoyed getting to know their friends, who were secondary characters, and are featured in books of their own.
December 25, 2017
Good start the went downhill fast
The story started off well then it descended rapidly. What I liked:
- I loved that the characters met in the first scene
- The story was original and interesting. Girl (unknowingly) acts as intercessor between boy and his father
What I disliked:
- Both characters were totally unlikable. He jumped to silly conclusions and treated the girl badly. He’s the kind of guy you would never bring home to mother or around any of your girlfriends. She is a ditzy doormat that is desperate to get a man and will do anything to get him. Desperation is THE most unattractive trait in a woman. If this couple lasts more than a month, then we’ll have to classify the book as a fantasy.
- The car thing was unrealistic on many levels. What boss buys his assistant a top of the line car after knowing her for only 4 months? She’s nothing but an errand girl. A dog can go fetch but we don’t reward them with expensive electronics
There were more problems with this book but I can’t remember the rest. But trust me, 2 stars is extremely generous. The guy probably has numerous std’s since he will forgo using a condom if a girl says she’s on the pill. Yet he hasn’t met the p***y that he would pass on.
- Also, I can picture this guy becoming physically abusive in the near future. His anger issues and react-first nature are neon warning signs
The story started off well then it descended rapidly. What I liked:
- I loved that the characters met in the first scene
- The story was original and interesting. Girl (unknowingly) acts as intercessor between boy and his father
What I disliked:
- Both characters were totally unlikable. He jumped to silly conclusions and treated the girl badly. He’s the kind of guy you would never bring home to mother or around any of your girlfriends. She is a ditzy doormat that is desperate to get a man and will do anything to get him. Desperation is THE most unattractive trait in a woman. If this couple lasts more than a month, then we’ll have to classify the book as a fantasy.
- The car thing was unrealistic on many levels. What boss buys his assistant a top of the line car after knowing her for only 4 months? She’s nothing but an errand girl. A dog can go fetch but we don’t reward them with expensive electronics
There were more problems with this book but I can’t remember the rest. But trust me, 2 stars is extremely generous. The guy probably has numerous std’s since he will forgo using a condom if a girl says she’s on the pill. Yet he hasn’t met the p***y that he would pass on.
- Also, I can picture this guy becoming physically abusive in the near future. His anger issues and react-first nature are neon warning signs
May 19, 2021
When I came across this book I thought this titled and those abs look promising for a good read...but unfortunately, I was wrong this book was so predictable.
As I went from word to word and sentence to sentence I was able to figure out what would happened next, their was no mystery, no intrigue, no connections to the characters. Even the sex scenes was expected and unimaginative...as I finally got to the end of this book I already knew that their was a book 2 and it would be all about Rick and Lexie fallen in love and can I tell you their will be some drama but by the time the drama unfold you would have already figured out who started the mess and how it would end - and can I be a spoiler I am guessing Lexie and Rick will get engaged (No I did not read book 2)
This series is not worth the long hours of staying up as the thoughts of...I must finish and find out what happened next, run through the avid reader brain, don't let this book consume you as you could put this book down - read a good and enjoyable book and then when you have nothing else left to read maybe come back and finish this series, however, if you just think about it you can play the words out in a movie format in your head and let the scenes unfold as you imagine how this series end - instead of reading this simple book
As I went from word to word and sentence to sentence I was able to figure out what would happened next, their was no mystery, no intrigue, no connections to the characters. Even the sex scenes was expected and unimaginative...as I finally got to the end of this book I already knew that their was a book 2 and it would be all about Rick and Lexie fallen in love and can I tell you their will be some drama but by the time the drama unfold you would have already figured out who started the mess and how it would end - and can I be a spoiler I am guessing Lexie and Rick will get engaged (No I did not read book 2)
This series is not worth the long hours of staying up as the thoughts of...I must finish and find out what happened next, run through the avid reader brain, don't let this book consume you as you could put this book down - read a good and enjoyable book and then when you have nothing else left to read maybe come back and finish this series, however, if you just think about it you can play the words out in a movie format in your head and let the scenes unfold as you imagine how this series end - instead of reading this simple book
July 26, 2019
#1 in the Captured by Love romance series
I wanted to like this series--all the books starting with "U," set in Australia, office romance--but something about it just didn't click with me. The characters were OK, but didn't particularly appeal to me. Jade is an office assistant just starting at a new job and trying to succeed. One of her first tasks is to contact a man on behalf of her boss, giving him a message he obviously doesn't want. Turns out Lucas has a connection to her boss, not to mention he's known as Mr. F*** King, and proud of it. Really tacky, I thought, although it certainly describes the type of player he is. Despite all that, they are attracted to each other. Unfortunately the chemistry between them didn't appear to be as hot as the author probably intended, even though their romance went from 0 to HOT in just a few pages. And when they are thwarted, at separate times, they both childishly refuse to have contact with the other, which further compounded their problems, when a simple phone call and/or discussion would have solved all their misunderstandings. All that being said, I'll probably give this another try to see if the series improves. I didn't hate it, but it took longer to read than it should have.
I wanted to like this series--all the books starting with "U," set in Australia, office romance--but something about it just didn't click with me. The characters were OK, but didn't particularly appeal to me. Jade is an office assistant just starting at a new job and trying to succeed. One of her first tasks is to contact a man on behalf of her boss, giving him a message he obviously doesn't want. Turns out Lucas has a connection to her boss, not to mention he's known as Mr. F*** King, and proud of it. Really tacky, I thought, although it certainly describes the type of player he is. Despite all that, they are attracted to each other. Unfortunately the chemistry between them didn't appear to be as hot as the author probably intended, even though their romance went from 0 to HOT in just a few pages. And when they are thwarted, at separate times, they both childishly refuse to have contact with the other, which further compounded their problems, when a simple phone call and/or discussion would have solved all their misunderstandings. All that being said, I'll probably give this another try to see if the series improves. I didn't hate it, but it took longer to read than it should have.
Read
July 31, 2019I'm starting to notice a trend with the free romance books Google Play Books offers. They tend to be written by authors I've never heard of and the authors are not particularly strong writers, at least for the books that I've attempted to read. Perhaps these samples are not representative of the writer's true skill, never the less there is a trend developing where I download an interesting book only to lose interest almost immediately because of one group of flaws or another. This book unfortunately falls into that group. There was something about the flow and way it was written that led me to care nothing for the characters. Maybe because they seedmed one-dimensional with little no personality for me to like or dislike before the plot progressed to the juciy bits. Not sure, but me and this book didn't click.
April 24, 2022
It started off okay and went downhill really quickly. So many things annoyed me. First of all I hated that Lucas was a manwhore and he treated all the other women like trash and was proud of it and he was also a jerk. I hated that Jade was in the middle of the stuff between him and his dad and they refused to tell her what was going on until much later. Jade acted like a pushover and was super naive at times which was annoying. I liked that Jade didn’t take Lucas back immediately but the back and forth after the break up went on for too long and her using the guy at the office went on for too long. By the end of the book I didn’t like or care for either of them or their relationship. Oh and Lucas’ friends were trash too. The blurb had potential but the book failed in so many aspects.
September 1, 2017
This was a good premise, with Jade being honest about being caught in the middle of Lucas and his father's conflict about the past.
Ruby, Lucas' mother, seems sweet, and the mystery of who keeps trying to keep her quiet about Lucas is interesting.
At some points, the writing is a bit stilted, but the flow is only minimally impacted. It was also a bit much having Lucas chase Jade, who wouldn't tally to him, then having her chase him, and having him not talk to her.
Overall, fun, quick read.
Ruby, Lucas' mother, seems sweet, and the mystery of who keeps trying to keep her quiet about Lucas is interesting.
At some points, the writing is a bit stilted, but the flow is only minimally impacted. It was also a bit much having Lucas chase Jade, who wouldn't tally to him, then having her chase him, and having him not talk to her.
Overall, fun, quick read.
November 22, 2017
Free on Google Books.
I really enjoyed this book!! It's a bit on the short side but I felt it was a complete story and I will definitely be reading the next book in the series (Rick & Lexie). Maybe the fact that it was based in Sydney made me like it even better (I'm living overseas now), as I tried to imagine where the scenes were taking place. Other reviews said that there wasn't enough description, but I never felt that. The language and story flowed and the characters worked really well together.
Lucas - mechanic on Formula One team
Jade - PA to CEO
I really enjoyed this book!! It's a bit on the short side but I felt it was a complete story and I will definitely be reading the next book in the series (Rick & Lexie). Maybe the fact that it was based in Sydney made me like it even better (I'm living overseas now), as I tried to imagine where the scenes were taking place. Other reviews said that there wasn't enough description, but I never felt that. The language and story flowed and the characters worked really well together.
Lucas - mechanic on Formula One team
Jade - PA to CEO
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