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The Millionaire Malones #2
The CEO
CEO Callum Malone has it all: power, Italian suits, a house on one of Sydney’s stunning beaches and a new life without a woman in it. Just the way he likes it, ever since his nasty divorce.
Landscaper Ava Gibson is in no position to turn down a job, even if it is for her despised ex-brother-in-law. But when resentment gives way to underlying attraction, Ava is finally forced to confront her truth… she’s falling for him.
Will Ava be able to keep her growing desire in check? Because the irresistible Cal doesn’t want her to…
The Millionaire Malones series
Book 1: The Millionaire
Book 2: The CEO
Landscaper Ava Gibson is in no position to turn down a job, even if it is for her despised ex-brother-in-law. But when resentment gives way to underlying attraction, Ava is finally forced to confront her truth… she’s falling for him.
Will Ava be able to keep her growing desire in check? Because the irresistible Cal doesn’t want her to…
The Millionaire Malones series
Book 1: The Millionaire
Book 2: The CEO
157 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 2, 2015
457 people are currently reading
692 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Purman
32 books435 followersVictoria Purman is an Australian bestselling author.
If you want to know more about her and her books, visit www.victoriapurman.com or follow her on facebook at Victoria Purman Author or on twitter @VictoriaPurman.
If you want to know more about her and her books, visit www.victoriapurman.com or follow her on facebook at Victoria Purman Author or on twitter @VictoriaPurman.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
August 13, 2023
4.5 stars
Book #2 in the Millionaire Malone’s Series
Set in Sydney, Australia
Haha, the love-hate relationship between Callum and Ava sure as heck makes for a fascinating read.
Engaging, fun and FANTASTIC!
Book #2 in the Millionaire Malone’s Series
Set in Sydney, Australia
Haha, the love-hate relationship between Callum and Ava sure as heck makes for a fascinating read.
Engaging, fun and FANTASTIC!
July 3, 2015
I received a copy of this story through NetGalley from Tule Publishing for an honest review (thank you!). This is the 2nd book about 3 brothers. The first book was The Millionaire about Chris/Ellie (yet it was also the 4th book from the Hot Aussie Heroes series which left me scratching my head trying to figure out how everything tied together). Although I have not read that one, I felt like I wasn't missing too much by starting with this. I am going to go back and read that and look forward to the 3rd brother's story.
Ava fell in love with her sister's boyfriend (and later husband) the first time she met him. She took the old classic girl/boy likes boy/girl and acted like she hated him (no piggy tail pulling or bra snapping). They meet again at Callum's (great name!) father's funeral and he is immediately drawn to the challenge and mystery of why she's always "hated" him. He ends up hiring her as his landscaper and slowly realizes there's more to her than he ever knew.
His past with her sister (now ex-wife) was complicated and interesting. I have to admit I was seriously surprised she had the balls to show up at the funeral and since his father didn't like her. Considering why/how she left him, maybe don't bring her boyfriend with you? Either way, it's the catalyst to Ava and Callum starting over and ultimately having their own HEA.
Ava fell in love with her sister's boyfriend (and later husband) the first time she met him. She took the old classic girl/boy likes boy/girl and acted like she hated him (no piggy tail pulling or bra snapping). They meet again at Callum's (great name!) father's funeral and he is immediately drawn to the challenge and mystery of why she's always "hated" him. He ends up hiring her as his landscaper and slowly realizes there's more to her than he ever knew.
His past with her sister (now ex-wife) was complicated and interesting. I have to admit I was seriously surprised she had the balls to show up at the funeral and since his father didn't like her. Considering why/how she left him, maybe don't bring her boyfriend with you? Either way, it's the catalyst to Ava and Callum starting over and ultimately having their own HEA.
January 4, 2017
Callum's Redemption is an enjoyable romance about two people Ava Gibson and Callum. Ava was landscape garden and the sister of Callum's ex-wife Lulu, and Callum is the head of the Malone Enterprises. Callum's Redemption highlights that you can fall in love with the most unlikely person and it will be your soul mate. Also, I enjoyed the way Victorian Purman brought the Malone brothers together again by using that beautiful home "The Meadows". The readers of Callum's Redemption will become involve in the story and if they are single would hope someone like Callum will come into their lives. I recommend this book.
.
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July 3, 2015
Excellent story of forbidden love and what it takes to make it! Very well written and the characters of Callum and Ava work great together.
After secretly loving her ex brother-in-law for years, Ava Gibson finds herself thrust into his world after attending the funeral of his father. Callum always knew Ava didn't like him but he never really understood why. Now, working with her while she landscapes the grounds of his home he finds himself determined to prove to her he's more than she gives him credit for.
This is a quick light read that I highly recommend!
After secretly loving her ex brother-in-law for years, Ava Gibson finds herself thrust into his world after attending the funeral of his father. Callum always knew Ava didn't like him but he never really understood why. Now, working with her while she landscapes the grounds of his home he finds himself determined to prove to her he's more than she gives him credit for.
This is a quick light read that I highly recommend!
July 26, 2015
This is a sweet and romantic read. I loved the way this developed. The storyline was quite interesting and I liked that they knew each other - even when they thought to know each other and nearly everything was wrong.
Callum is a great and honorable guy and I felt for him as he was wronged in many ways. Although I believe that he is not really an easy guy sometimes
Ava is reall sweet, but can be tough as nails. I can imagine her situation is not really easy.
The secondary characters made it also read-worthy and I really want to have Coopers story.
all in all, a sweet read - perfect for an evening at home when you want to dream
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Callum is a great and honorable guy and I felt for him as he was wronged in many ways. Although I believe that he is not really an easy guy sometimes
Ava is reall sweet, but can be tough as nails. I can imagine her situation is not really easy.
The secondary characters made it also read-worthy and I really want to have Coopers story.
all in all, a sweet read - perfect for an evening at home when you want to dream
Disclaimer: an ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
June 27, 2015
I really enjoyed reading "The CEO." It was a warm, feel-good romance which takes place in Sydney. The characters are very well developed and the story kept me interested throughout. I intend to go back and read the previous books by this author. From what I've read, this is the most recent book in a series. It was great as a stand alone. I didn't feel like I missed anything.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this fun romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tule Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this fun romance!
July 7, 2015
The CEO is all about forbidden romance and hidden desires...
Ava has been in love with Cal since she met him, but he belonged to another woman. She hides her attraction underneath a believable cloak of dislike and contempt. I found Ava a difficult character to like, because she was just not nice to Cal and made a lot of assumptions about him. Even as a relationship between them cautiously builds I had a hard time connecting with her. This is partly due to her character and partly the forbidden romance part of the plot which in this scenario for me was just a little too much of a turn off. I liked Cal, how he wanted to prove himself, but didn't talk poorly about anyone, instead letting Ava find things out on her own. Although a novella, the growth of their relationship didn't feel rushed. It was interesting watching the relationship between them grow and wondering if they could make anything between them work.
I liked the secondary characters in this book, I saw just enough of them to keep me curious, and I liked the relationship they all had.
If you like this kind of forbidden romance and well hidden lust, I would recommend The CEO.
Ava has been in love with Cal since she met him, but he belonged to another woman. She hides her attraction underneath a believable cloak of dislike and contempt. I found Ava a difficult character to like, because she was just not nice to Cal and made a lot of assumptions about him. Even as a relationship between them cautiously builds I had a hard time connecting with her. This is partly due to her character and partly the forbidden romance part of the plot which in this scenario for me was just a little too much of a turn off. I liked Cal, how he wanted to prove himself, but didn't talk poorly about anyone, instead letting Ava find things out on her own. Although a novella, the growth of their relationship didn't feel rushed. It was interesting watching the relationship between them grow and wondering if they could make anything between them work.
I liked the secondary characters in this book, I saw just enough of them to keep me curious, and I liked the relationship they all had.
If you like this kind of forbidden romance and well hidden lust, I would recommend The CEO.
April 2, 2017
Was a nice, light, feel-good CR novella. I like novellas where the characters knew each other prior, because it makes it far more believable, so this story had that going for it ... one would think. Except for although he's been her brother-in-law for years (now ex-), the truth is they didn't know each other at all, so it's also unclear why she was in love with him. I understand if she was instantly into him (reminded me of
I Wish You Were Mine
by Lauren Layne), but she pretended to hate him in order to avoid her feelings, they interacted so little that he didn't even know what she really did for a living, and then she's spent the last year or two hating him because she thinks he cheated on her sister. ... So again, why this deep love for him? I would get sexual attraction, but more than that just didn't make any sense to me.
There were also comments like this that made no sense:
Is my first book by this author, but I'll definitely try her again; might check out the other books in the series, since the brothers are a cute trio and I'm interested in reading the other stories. Plus, she is a good author—there were several funny lines and passages, and she does a good job with chemistry and tension:
(Also: the ending was waaaaaaaay too corny! Not the epilogue, the part before that. My eyes almost rolled out of my head multiple times).
There were also comments like this that made no sense:
If she’d been able to talk with Callum like this when he was her brother-in-law, she may have liked him a whole lot better and been in love with him a whole lot less.So had she know him better, she would have loved him less ... but known he wasn't a bad guy, so liked him more ... so she loved him when she thought he was an asshole ... but wouldn't have loved him if she hadn't known he was an asshole ...?!?!
Is my first book by this author, but I'll definitely try her again; might check out the other books in the series, since the brothers are a cute trio and I'm interested in reading the other stories. Plus, she is a good author—there were several funny lines and passages, and she does a good job with chemistry and tension:
"Shit, Ava. I’ve had a hell of a week." He sounded wrecked, his voice ragged. He was hurting and it hurt her, too.Recommendation. If you want a really good contemporary romance where the heroine and her ex-brother-in-law fall in love though, read I Wish You Were Mine, because that novel is fantastic!!
"What’s happened, Callum?"
"What’s happened to me?" He swore under his breath. "You happened to me, Ava."
"Callum ..." she sighed.
"You know what I mean. I want you. Fuck, it’s more than that. I need you."
(Also: the ending was waaaaaaaay too corny! Not the epilogue, the part before that. My eyes almost rolled out of my head multiple times).
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Blurb:
CEO Callum Malone has it all: power, Italian suits, a house on one of Sydney’s stunning beaches and a new life without a woman in it. Just the way he likes it, ever since his nasty divorce.
Landscaper Ava Gibson is in no position to turn down a job, even if it is for her despised ex-brother-in-law. But when resentment gives way to underlying attraction, Ava is finally forced to confront her truth… she’s falling for him.
Will Ava be able to keep her growing desire in check? Because the irresistible Cal doesn’t want her to…
Blurb:
CEO Callum Malone has it all: power, Italian suits, a house on one of Sydney’s stunning beaches and a new life without a woman in it. Just the way he likes it, ever since his nasty divorce.
Landscaper Ava Gibson is in no position to turn down a job, even if it is for her despised ex-brother-in-law. But when resentment gives way to underlying attraction, Ava is finally forced to confront her truth… she’s falling for him.
Will Ava be able to keep her growing desire in check? Because the irresistible Cal doesn’t want her to…
March 25, 2017
Good, nice, short, with some love-hate relations and hot as hell moments.
March 23, 2017
A lovely romance set in Sydney.
January 2, 2017
Lovely
A lovely romance set in Sydney, Australia.
Purman's tale is compelling and her writing isn't steamy, it's boiling!
A gorgeous, uplifting tale
A lovely romance set in Sydney, Australia.
Purman's tale is compelling and her writing isn't steamy, it's boiling!
A gorgeous, uplifting tale
March 10, 2017
As with the first book in this series I really liked this book, there was a good mix of drama and love in it, only "bad" thing is that I wish it was longer :P
June 30, 2015
Book #34 for #aww2015
The CEO is the second in the Millionaire Malones series and takes us back into the world of the super sexy Malone brothers at a time of great sadness, and great change for all of them.
We pick up at the funeral of William James Malone, father of the Malone brothers. It is the first time they have all come together in a while and they haven't always seen eye to eye. The relationships are still strained but they come together to farewell their larger-than-life father and finalise his affairs.
My only real issue with this book, apart from the fact that it's a novella and way too short, is I found it really hard to get my head around the fact that Callum's ex-wife came to the funeral, and dragged her sister with her. I understand that even after couples separate you sometimes get the ex coming to pay their respects, usually after they have been together for a long time and shared a bond with the deceased and that just didn't seem to be the case here. We soon discover that there is a lot more than meets the eye here; and besides they needed to attend for the rest of the story to play out.
Callum is the CEO of the family's multi-national business, and recent owner of a gorgeous beachside house. But not any old beach, the views from his balcony are of a secluded beach with limited access. Being at the helm of Malone Enterprises has meant he hasn't spent a lot of time in the new house and he hasn't made it homey. Discovering that Ava Gibson, his ex-sister-in-law, is a talented landscape designer prompts him to hire her for his multi-level garden; as a distraction but not the way you might think.
Callum is scarred by the failure of his marriage and a little bitter about being the brother shouldering the responsibility for Malone Enterprises, and his life revolves around his work. He seems to be one of the good guys, trying to live a quiet laid-back life in spite of his wealth.
There is more to this story than meets the eye and it isn't until near the end that the pieces come together.
The chemistry between Callum and Ava is palpable but one of them runs as soon as things start to look a little real. Ava couldn't possibly allow anything to happen, he's her sister's ex-husband and that is totally wrong; and Callum isn't going to risk giving his heart to another woman after the devastation he felt in the wake of his divorce.
We, of course, see more of Chris and Cooper, the other two Malone brothers and spend a little time catching up on their lives. Chris and Ellie have married and are expecting their first child and are ecstatically living their happily ever after. Cooper is still an enigma but from the beginning I just knew that all would be revealed in a third Millionaire Malones story.
The remainder of the review will be live at Beauty and Lace.
The CEO is the second in the Millionaire Malones series and takes us back into the world of the super sexy Malone brothers at a time of great sadness, and great change for all of them.
We pick up at the funeral of William James Malone, father of the Malone brothers. It is the first time they have all come together in a while and they haven't always seen eye to eye. The relationships are still strained but they come together to farewell their larger-than-life father and finalise his affairs.
My only real issue with this book, apart from the fact that it's a novella and way too short, is I found it really hard to get my head around the fact that Callum's ex-wife came to the funeral, and dragged her sister with her. I understand that even after couples separate you sometimes get the ex coming to pay their respects, usually after they have been together for a long time and shared a bond with the deceased and that just didn't seem to be the case here. We soon discover that there is a lot more than meets the eye here; and besides they needed to attend for the rest of the story to play out.
Callum is the CEO of the family's multi-national business, and recent owner of a gorgeous beachside house. But not any old beach, the views from his balcony are of a secluded beach with limited access. Being at the helm of Malone Enterprises has meant he hasn't spent a lot of time in the new house and he hasn't made it homey. Discovering that Ava Gibson, his ex-sister-in-law, is a talented landscape designer prompts him to hire her for his multi-level garden; as a distraction but not the way you might think.
Callum is scarred by the failure of his marriage and a little bitter about being the brother shouldering the responsibility for Malone Enterprises, and his life revolves around his work. He seems to be one of the good guys, trying to live a quiet laid-back life in spite of his wealth.
There is more to this story than meets the eye and it isn't until near the end that the pieces come together.
The chemistry between Callum and Ava is palpable but one of them runs as soon as things start to look a little real. Ava couldn't possibly allow anything to happen, he's her sister's ex-husband and that is totally wrong; and Callum isn't going to risk giving his heart to another woman after the devastation he felt in the wake of his divorce.
We, of course, see more of Chris and Cooper, the other two Malone brothers and spend a little time catching up on their lives. Chris and Ellie have married and are expecting their first child and are ecstatically living their happily ever after. Cooper is still an enigma but from the beginning I just knew that all would be revealed in a third Millionaire Malones story.
The remainder of the review will be live at Beauty and Lace.
July 2, 2015
3.5 stars. This quick, feel good read is a great slice of summer escapism dealing as it does with a wealthy Australian businessman, his beautiful house and garden, and the woman who has been in love with him for the last five years – three of which he was married to her sister. But Callum isn’t married anymore and Ava’s carefully constructed act of disdain towards him is failing fast. Especially when Callum starts to realise there’s more to Ava the Terrible than he ever imagined.
I first became intrigued by the Malone brothers in The Millionaire, as part of the Hot Aussie Heroes series. In that book older brother Chris found the love of his life, but it also included a bit about his twin brothers, one of whom is a champion surfer, while the other is the responsible brother who stayed home to take care of the family business. Callum is the latter one, and I loved that he isn’t bitter about it. His other brothers might have been free to run off and roam the world, but Callum is sensible and down-to-earth, despite all the money.
Something which Ava has been trying to deny for years. She’s a smart woman who runs her own business, but falling in love at first sight with her sister’s man was never in her plans. It doesn’t help that even after the divorce she believes Callum to be a callous heartbreaker because she still loves him – no matter how much she doesn’t want to.
Okay, if I’m honest, the whole love-at-first-sight, persisting utterly against her will isn’t my favourite type of romance, and I think Callum’s sudden tumble was also a bit too quick to be true. Ava knows nothing about Callum until she starts working on his garden and he’s only ever known her nasty side, so the swift rush into love didn’t really do much for me. However, if you like that sort of thing this book is full of cuteness and friendly fun.
Short but kind of sweet, I enjoyed this return to the Malone brothers. It was a little swifter in places and lighter on details than I’d like, but overall it’s a nice, relaxing read. I look forward to reading Cooper’s tale some time soon.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
I first became intrigued by the Malone brothers in The Millionaire, as part of the Hot Aussie Heroes series. In that book older brother Chris found the love of his life, but it also included a bit about his twin brothers, one of whom is a champion surfer, while the other is the responsible brother who stayed home to take care of the family business. Callum is the latter one, and I loved that he isn’t bitter about it. His other brothers might have been free to run off and roam the world, but Callum is sensible and down-to-earth, despite all the money.
Something which Ava has been trying to deny for years. She’s a smart woman who runs her own business, but falling in love at first sight with her sister’s man was never in her plans. It doesn’t help that even after the divorce she believes Callum to be a callous heartbreaker because she still loves him – no matter how much she doesn’t want to.
Okay, if I’m honest, the whole love-at-first-sight, persisting utterly against her will isn’t my favourite type of romance, and I think Callum’s sudden tumble was also a bit too quick to be true. Ava knows nothing about Callum until she starts working on his garden and he’s only ever known her nasty side, so the swift rush into love didn’t really do much for me. However, if you like that sort of thing this book is full of cuteness and friendly fun.
Short but kind of sweet, I enjoyed this return to the Malone brothers. It was a little swifter in places and lighter on details than I’d like, but overall it’s a nice, relaxing read. I look forward to reading Cooper’s tale some time soon.
(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Ava has been in love with Callum since the day her sister introduced his to the family as her new boyfriend. Ava wasn’t sure she truly believed in love at first sight – yet her feelings for Callum haven’t changed in five years. Through being Lulu’s boyfriend, fiance, husband and then ex-husband — Ava has hidden her feelings of love for Callum as intense hatred. She shows disdain and disinterest in him from that first day onward. She has insulted his family, his wealth, his business, his person until everyone around her, including Callum and Lulu truly believe that she cannot stand the sight of him.
The Malone family was gathered in the cemetery in the pouring rain. The three Malone brothers had just put their father to his final rest. Surprisingly, Lulu, her new boyfriend and Ava were also there to pay their respects. Somehow everyone ended up at Callum’s home after the funeral – and Ava was brought into his circle once again. She tried her best to continue with her hatred act, but it was slipping.
The CEO is such a touching, loving story. We watch two people change their attitudes towards each other and let emotions grow naturally between them, in spite of their past. Ava grows so much, grows past such a barrier wall that she had built over the years to find the happiness that she and the man she’s always loved truly deserve.
I would highly recommend The CEO as a wonderful, touching romance that anyone would enjoy. Looking forward to the next novel in this series, even as I head over to Amazon to pick up the first one.. now I need to get to know all the Malone men and their lovely ladies.
*I received an e-ARC of The CEO from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Ava has been in love with Callum since the day her sister introduced his to the family as her new boyfriend. Ava wasn’t sure she truly believed in love at first sight – yet her feelings for Callum haven’t changed in five years. Through being Lulu’s boyfriend, fiance, husband and then ex-husband — Ava has hidden her feelings of love for Callum as intense hatred. She shows disdain and disinterest in him from that first day onward. She has insulted his family, his wealth, his business, his person until everyone around her, including Callum and Lulu truly believe that she cannot stand the sight of him.
The Malone family was gathered in the cemetery in the pouring rain. The three Malone brothers had just put their father to his final rest. Surprisingly, Lulu, her new boyfriend and Ava were also there to pay their respects. Somehow everyone ended up at Callum’s home after the funeral – and Ava was brought into his circle once again. She tried her best to continue with her hatred act, but it was slipping.
The CEO is such a touching, loving story. We watch two people change their attitudes towards each other and let emotions grow naturally between them, in spite of their past. Ava grows so much, grows past such a barrier wall that she had built over the years to find the happiness that she and the man she’s always loved truly deserve.
I would highly recommend The CEO as a wonderful, touching romance that anyone would enjoy. Looking forward to the next novel in this series, even as I head over to Amazon to pick up the first one.. now I need to get to know all the Malone men and their lovely ladies.
*I received an e-ARC of The CEO from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
July 25, 2015
I feel so bad for Ava. She not only has feelings for another woman’s man, but it is her own sister so she has to see them together all of the time. She copes the only way she knows how and hides it behind a façade of dislike. I just can’t imagine how she handled it for as long as she did.
When Cal makes Ava a job offer that she can’t pass up, the two spend time together and get to know one another better. And the more Ava sees of Cal, the more her long-held feelings grow. It also allows Cal to see the woman behind the mask she’s worn around him for so many years, showing him a woman that he finds very attractive. But there are so many hurdles for the two, considering their history. Are their feelings enough?
Purman deftly delivers detailed characters with a unique problem. I found it very difficult to put the book down, speeding thru the pages, hurrying to get to that HEA ending. And while I was a little curious how it would feel to be with your sister’s ex (as an only child I would think that Christmas dinner would be a little uncomfortable :) ), I think that it was handled very tastefully here. Ava and Lulu have a chance to finally discuss what happened (on all sides) and for Ava to come to terms with her feelings for Cal. It helped make that HEA even more complete.
**This is the second in this series about three brothers, but (of course) I haven’t read the first. I don’t think that it really impacted anything so you are probably pretty safe starting here.**
(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)
When Cal makes Ava a job offer that she can’t pass up, the two spend time together and get to know one another better. And the more Ava sees of Cal, the more her long-held feelings grow. It also allows Cal to see the woman behind the mask she’s worn around him for so many years, showing him a woman that he finds very attractive. But there are so many hurdles for the two, considering their history. Are their feelings enough?
Purman deftly delivers detailed characters with a unique problem. I found it very difficult to put the book down, speeding thru the pages, hurrying to get to that HEA ending. And while I was a little curious how it would feel to be with your sister’s ex (as an only child I would think that Christmas dinner would be a little uncomfortable :) ), I think that it was handled very tastefully here. Ava and Lulu have a chance to finally discuss what happened (on all sides) and for Ava to come to terms with her feelings for Cal. It helped make that HEA even more complete.
**This is the second in this series about three brothers, but (of course) I haven’t read the first. I don’t think that it really impacted anything so you are probably pretty safe starting here.**
(Complimentary copy provided in exchange for an honest review)
September 9, 2016
Reading Victoria Purman is like snuggling into a warm and familiar blanket ... so comfortable that you feel right at home from the first page. Well, that's how it is for me at any rate, and that was certainly the case when I started reading The CEO.
Callum Malone is the middle of the Malone boys, the businessman and dutiful son who took over the reigns of his family business empire when his father let things slip. He's also a lonely man who feels the burden of his responsibilities.
Ava has been in love with Callum for five years, ever since her sister Lulu introduced him to her family as the man she was going to marry. Ava is a loyal sister, so she goes out of her way to disguise her feelings by being just plain snarky around Callum. When Lulu's marriage to Callum ends, Ava assumes Callum is to blame, yet she still can't get over her feelings for him. When he asks her to landscape his garden she is tempted to refuse but it's an offer that's too good to overlook. Despite asking Ava to do the landscaping just to make her squirm, it doesn't take Callum long to discover there's another side to Ava The Terrible, one he'd like to know better.
This book flows really well from beginning to end. The plot is well developed. The setting in some of Sydney's nicer suburbs works well, and you can just smell the ocean in some places. The characters are realistic and easy to like, and all of this makes for great weekend reading. I can't wait to meet the next Malone brother!
Callum Malone is the middle of the Malone boys, the businessman and dutiful son who took over the reigns of his family business empire when his father let things slip. He's also a lonely man who feels the burden of his responsibilities.
Ava has been in love with Callum for five years, ever since her sister Lulu introduced him to her family as the man she was going to marry. Ava is a loyal sister, so she goes out of her way to disguise her feelings by being just plain snarky around Callum. When Lulu's marriage to Callum ends, Ava assumes Callum is to blame, yet she still can't get over her feelings for him. When he asks her to landscape his garden she is tempted to refuse but it's an offer that's too good to overlook. Despite asking Ava to do the landscaping just to make her squirm, it doesn't take Callum long to discover there's another side to Ava The Terrible, one he'd like to know better.
This book flows really well from beginning to end. The plot is well developed. The setting in some of Sydney's nicer suburbs works well, and you can just smell the ocean in some places. The characters are realistic and easy to like, and all of this makes for great weekend reading. I can't wait to meet the next Malone brother!
June 29, 2015
The three Malone brothers are attending their father’s funeral when Callum’s ex-wife, Lulu, together with her boyfriend and sister, Ava, also attend to pay their condolences. Callum is the CEO of the family business, whilst his other two brothers have nothing to do with it on a day to day basis - one is a world renowned photographer and the other an international surfing champion. Ava is a landscape architect who has always been so awful to Callum that he nicknamed her Ava the Terrible. Little did he - or his ex-wife - know, that was to hide her love for him. Now he’s been divorced for a year, he wants her to landscape his gardens and attractions run riot! Can they get over their past to move on to a future together? Will his marriage to Lulu and subsequent divorce mean there’s no HEA for him and Ava?
This is the second book I’ve read with the Malone brothers in it and I’ve enjoyed them both. (The first was 'The Millionaire). I particularly like how the author portrays her characters, bringing them to life, warts and all. A great plot with plenty of twists to keep the reader entertained and surprises, too, as the story progresses. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this as a great feel-good romance to escape into.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley too, for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book I’ve read with the Malone brothers in it and I’ve enjoyed them both. (The first was 'The Millionaire). I particularly like how the author portrays her characters, bringing them to life, warts and all. A great plot with plenty of twists to keep the reader entertained and surprises, too, as the story progresses. I have no hesitation in highly recommending this as a great feel-good romance to escape into.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley too, for letting me read an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2015
Callum has is all figured out and he is ready to take on the world. Now that his dad past away he is starting to question and wonder whats really head and how much more he can face before everything crashes in. When at the funeral he runs in to the last person he expect and starts to wonder what could have been. Ava has "hate" him for five years or at least thats what she has told her sister. But she's not the only one hiding a secret and she seems surprised when her sister finally comes clean but she realizes this opens the door for her to come clean to not just her sister but to all involved.
This was a really fun and short read. The sexual chemistry was really built up. The book really didn't seem to far fetched but all has you wondering what is going to happen next also. If you have read the first book you will definitely want to read this one to catch up with the characters from the first one and find out whats happening now. I love the quirkiness of the brothers and the bond they seem to share the author did a good job not portraying them as rich jerks. If you are looking for a quick and fun read you want to check out this fun book for sure.
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
This was a really fun and short read. The sexual chemistry was really built up. The book really didn't seem to far fetched but all has you wondering what is going to happen next also. If you have read the first book you will definitely want to read this one to catch up with the characters from the first one and find out whats happening now. I love the quirkiness of the brothers and the bond they seem to share the author did a good job not portraying them as rich jerks. If you are looking for a quick and fun read you want to check out this fun book for sure.
Disclosure: I received this book free of charge from the publisher, but this review consists of my honest opinions, not influenced in any way by the author or publisher
July 2, 2015
The day Ava Gibson's sister Lulu brought her new boyfriend home to meet her family, Ava had been completely, utterly and infuriatingly in love with Callum Malone. Since he belonged to her sister, he was off limits. When Callum broke up with Lulu, Ava was extremely angry with Callum. But she still couldn't get him out of her mind.
Now Ava has the opportunity of a lifetime to do the landscaping at Callum's house. How will she be able handle working with him? He makes her crazy with a mix of emotions.
The day Callum met Ava, he dubbed her Ava The Terrible because Ava had never been backward about revealing the disdain in which she held him and his entire family. What has happened? He can't stop thinking about how Ava will look naked.
Working on the landscaping project together might be just what Ava and Callum need to make them see what has been in front of each other's eyes all along; love.
This beautiful story was written with such detail that I could picture the beautiful gardens at The Meadows, the Malone family home and every other detail in the book. I really enjoy reading about the Malone boys and how they find love.
July 6, 2015
This story is just lovely, it left me smiling and feeling all warm inside, there wasn't an element in the story that I didn't enjoy.
The brothers mourning and sorrow at the loss of their father were real, the conflicted feelings they were having, mixed with tender childhood memories, authentic and touching.
The look into Chris and Ellie's life, from the previous book, was a joy, to see them so happy together, starting a family.
The connection between Callum and Ava before hadn't been the best, but as they now get to know each other as individuals, their feelings grow. Callum is charming, solid, loyal, and trustworthy. I loved how, despite the divorce, he was showing respect towards his ex, Lulu. Ava's loyalty to her sister was admirable.
I liked how the development of the relationship played out, it was natural, beautiful, and passionate. The epilogue was absolutely perfect, giving the book a wonderful ending. This really was a perfect summer read, feel good, cheerful, tender, and touching story, that flows well, has enough depth to be moving, the conflict wasn't too overwhelming, and the lovers were adorable
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
The brothers mourning and sorrow at the loss of their father were real, the conflicted feelings they were having, mixed with tender childhood memories, authentic and touching.
The look into Chris and Ellie's life, from the previous book, was a joy, to see them so happy together, starting a family.
The connection between Callum and Ava before hadn't been the best, but as they now get to know each other as individuals, their feelings grow. Callum is charming, solid, loyal, and trustworthy. I loved how, despite the divorce, he was showing respect towards his ex, Lulu. Ava's loyalty to her sister was admirable.
I liked how the development of the relationship played out, it was natural, beautiful, and passionate. The epilogue was absolutely perfect, giving the book a wonderful ending. This really was a perfect summer read, feel good, cheerful, tender, and touching story, that flows well, has enough depth to be moving, the conflict wasn't too overwhelming, and the lovers were adorable
~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
August 23, 2015
Ava Gibson knew it was wrong to lust after her sister’s ex-husband, but it had to be better than lusting after him when they had been married, right? At least he didn’t have a clue, at least he though she hated him. That would keep her safe. Callum Malone knew he didn’t have a clue about women. His disaster of a marriage proved that much to him. He did know that he was having fun teasing his ex sister in law though and that meant he needed to keep her around a bit longer. So when Callum hired Ava to complete his landscape would everything come up roses? Or would the mudslides begin?
The second in the Malone Millionaire’s series, Ms. Purman has done an outstanding job on this novella. She has made it strong enough to stand on it’s own while further expanding some of the great roles from the first story. This novella really focuses on the characters and how they internally think, there are a lot of internal byplays that go on. This is a great quick and happy read that will make you smile and of course wait for the third story.
The second in the Malone Millionaire’s series, Ms. Purman has done an outstanding job on this novella. She has made it strong enough to stand on it’s own while further expanding some of the great roles from the first story. This novella really focuses on the characters and how they internally think, there are a lot of internal byplays that go on. This is a great quick and happy read that will make you smile and of course wait for the third story.
July 3, 2015
This is a lovely and loving romance, one of Tule Publishing's Holiday Books series, and book number two in the Millionaire Malones, about the three Malone brothers. The first Millionaire Malone was one of the Hot Aussie Nights series. This one is definitely worth of the Hot Aussie Nights title as well.
The oldest Malone brother, Callum, is divorced from our heroine's sister. Our heroine has been in love with Callum since before her sister had married him. She has treated him with disdain, he mentally dubbed her Ava the Terrible. But when they meet again, a year after the divorce, major sparks fly. He decides to see if he can get to her, and he does, but not in the way he expected. And the ick factor of the hero being her sister's ex is handled really well.
I loved the first novella in the Millionaire Malones and I look forward to reading the next, about the third Malone brother. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The oldest Malone brother, Callum, is divorced from our heroine's sister. Our heroine has been in love with Callum since before her sister had married him. She has treated him with disdain, he mentally dubbed her Ava the Terrible. But when they meet again, a year after the divorce, major sparks fly. He decides to see if he can get to her, and he does, but not in the way he expected. And the ick factor of the hero being her sister's ex is handled really well.
I loved the first novella in the Millionaire Malones and I look forward to reading the next, about the third Malone brother. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 8, 2015
This was an enjoyable story with a few crying times. Victoria came up with a story line with quite a few twists along the way. All is not what it seems to be. Her people are very strong and believe what they see is true. Callum married Lulu but they soon had a divorce. A a is Lulu's older sister and loved Callum since before he married Lulu. Spoiler. Ava is a landscaper and Callum hired her to get closer. She hides her feelings. Spoiler. Callum is to sell the family mansion but not before he shows A a their Special Gardens. She wants Callum but she knows he broke Lulu's heart so she can't trust him. Major Spoiler! This was a busy story. Meet her assistant Adam. You must see the date that she had Adam set up a blind date with. Please pick this book to read. Don't let this story get away! I have this book for an honest review for NetGalley.
July 17, 2015
Ava (AKA Ava the Terrible) had always said that she hated Callum Malone. After all he was a cold, cruel man who had cheated on her sister and then divorced her. The truth was worse. She secretly loved him and had for five years. Now she's working for him as a landscape architect at his beach house. Callum is intrigued by her and wants her to be his. Do they have a chance? Ava is a strong, feisty woman who hides what's in her heart. I liked her. Callum is sexy, rich and has integrity. He's so easy to love. The interaction between these two made for a compelling story. I liked their charming and humorous dialogue and the setting was the perfect backdrop for romance. Ava's blind date had me smiling. It caught me completely by surprise. Victoria Purman did an excellent job. I loved the CEO. What a sweet and tender romance.
August 4, 2015
The CEO by Victoria Purman is the second Malone Brother book I have read. It is just as good as the first brother’s, Chris, story. I loved catching up with Chris and Ellie at the beginning of Callum’s story. However, I want to point out that this novella can be read without having read The Millionaire.
One of the things I like best about this author is how well developed the characters are even in this novella series. I snickered a little at Callum’s nickname for Ava, as Ava the Terrible. I think that thought of his is insightful for both of the characters. As true feelings are revealed, that nickname no longer holds true. I liked also how the ex-wife is not a terrible person, just the wrong one for Callum. Most of all I like how these stories feel complete and satisfying even though they are novellas.
4.5 Stars
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
One of the things I like best about this author is how well developed the characters are even in this novella series. I snickered a little at Callum’s nickname for Ava, as Ava the Terrible. I think that thought of his is insightful for both of the characters. As true feelings are revealed, that nickname no longer holds true. I liked also how the ex-wife is not a terrible person, just the wrong one for Callum. Most of all I like how these stories feel complete and satisfying even though they are novellas.
4.5 Stars
The publisher through Net Galley provided a copy.
October 19, 2015
OH YEAH (lol)....Who doesn't want to read a short romance story about a landscaper and her CEO ex brother-in-law?!?! Cue ... #FANTASTIC! And Victoria Purman delivered! This story had spunk and energy and sexy and it was just FUN!
ARC provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review
ARC provided by Tule Publishing via NetGalley for an honest review
September 28, 2015
These two were emitting enough fire I'm surprised no one called for a hose. The CEO is centered around Ava and Callum. Ava was a person who would put the feelings of others before and her own. She was fine with being in the background and not drawing attention to herself. Callum has it all. His flashy lifestyle and wealth make him the center of attention. Wonderful idea to have the two main characters wishing they could swap places. Ava the center of attention and Callum have more of a normal life. Maybe that is what drew them to each other originally. Dealing with feelings of guilt, misplacement and love had them questioning it all. The CEO is about making important decisions and listening to the heart.
July 5, 2015
* I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
Callum is the CEO of the family company since his father semi-retired. His father died shortly before the beginning of the book and the story starts with the funeral. Ava is his ex's sister and is at the funeral as moral support for her sister who's doing the polite thing. Ava has being in love with Callum for the last five years, pretending to hate him as a front to protect herself. The divorce was finalized a year ago and Callum and Ava didn't see each others since. They're in for a surprise when sparks fly.
The ebook was a nice summer read. I absolutely recommand this book to the romance lovers out there!
Callum is the CEO of the family company since his father semi-retired. His father died shortly before the beginning of the book and the story starts with the funeral. Ava is his ex's sister and is at the funeral as moral support for her sister who's doing the polite thing. Ava has being in love with Callum for the last five years, pretending to hate him as a front to protect herself. The divorce was finalized a year ago and Callum and Ava didn't see each others since. They're in for a surprise when sparks fly.
The ebook was a nice summer read. I absolutely recommand this book to the romance lovers out there!
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