**Not a Standalone Contemporary Romance. This is a four-part mini-series with cliffhangers!** Perfect for fans of Melody Anne and J.S. Scott.
Over one million readers have fallen in love with Ava’s bestselling Dare Valley and Dare River series…come join the family. USA Today Bestselling Author Ava Miles of the #1 National Bestseller NORA ROBERTS LAND presents a special fun, sweet, and sexy four-part mini-series partially set in Dare Valley and the City of Love herself: Paris.
After resisting Margie Lancaster for one month as part of the gamble he'd lost, Evan Michaels is now in the free and clear to romance her. And it's all the easier since Margie is taking French baking classes in Paris—where Evan lives year-round—in advance of her opening Hot Cross Buns, Dare Valley's new bakery. But there's one catch. Margie comes from money and was tragically disowned by her family, and she's not particularly fond of rich people, especially billionaire alpha playboys. So, Evan is romancing her in the City of Love with his secret hanging over his head, hoping to make her fall for him as much as he's falling for her before she discovers the truth that could destroy everything between them. (love story, contemporary romance, alpha males, heroes, billionaires, romance, family, falling in love, sweet romance)
Books in this mini-series include: THE BILLIONAIRE’S GAMBLE #1 THE BILLIONAIRE’S SECRET #2 THE BILLIONAIRE’S COURTSHIP #3 THE BILLIONAIRE’S RETURN #4
Author's Note: All books can easily be read as stand-alone stories. The Dare Valley series: NORA ROBERTS LAND FRENCH ROAST THE GRAND OPENING THE HOLIDAY SERENADE THE TOWN SQUARE THE PARK OF SUNSET DREAMS THE PERFECT INGREDIENT THE BRIDGE TO A BETTER LIFE DARING BRIDES (a collection of wedding stories) THE CALENDAR OF NEW BEGINNINGS ~ coming soon
The Dare River series (connected to Dare Valley): COUNTRY HEAVEN COUNTRY HEAVEN SONG BOOK COUNTRY HEAVEN COOKBOOK THE CHOCOLATE GARDEN THE CHOCOLATE GARDEN: A MAGICAL TALE (a children’s book companion) FIREFLIES AND MAGNOLIAS THE PROMISE OF RAINBOWS ~ coming Fall 2015
REVIEWS: “I am adding Ava Miles to my list of always reads like Susan Mallery, Jill Shalvis, Kristen Ashley, and NORA ROBERTS.” Marjay's Reading Blog
“…Finding love like in the pages of a Nora Roberts story.” Publishers Weekly WW Ladies Book Club
“On par with Nicholas Sparks’ love stories.” Jennifer’s Corner Blog
“Ava Miles just keeps turning out great stories…and these rank up there with the Fool’s Gold series by Susan Mallery, the Lucky Harbor series by Jill Shalvis, and the Cedar Cove series by Debbie Macomber.” Kay Pruett, Reader
“Ava Miles has written a series…I would compare with Robyn Carr's Virgin River books.” RLK, Reader
AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY: USA Today Bestselling Author Ava Miles burst onto the contemporary romance scene after receiving Nora Roberts’ blessing for her use of Ms. Roberts’ name in her debut novel, the #1 National Bestseller NORA ROBERTS LAND, chosen as Best Book of the Year by USA Today. Ava’s books have reached the #1 spot at Barnes & Noble and ranked in Amazon and iBooks’ Top 10 and are being translated into multiple languages.
Millions of readers have discovered International Bestselling Author Ava Miles and her powerful fiction and non-fiction books about love, happiness, and transformation. Her novels have received praise and accolades from USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly, and People Magazine in addition to being chosen as Best Books of the Year and Top Editor’s picks. Translated into multiple languages, Ava’s strongest praise comes directly from her readers, who call her books and characters unforgettable.
Ava is a former chef, worked as a long-time conflict expert rebuilding warzones to foster peaceful and prosperous communities, and has helped people live their best life as a life coach, energy healer, and self-help expert. She is never happier than when she’s formulating skin care and wellness products, gardening, or creating a new work of art. Hanging with her friends and loved ones is pretty great too.
After years of residing in the States, she decided to follow her dream of living in Europe. She recently finished a magical stint in Ireland where she was inspired to write her acclaimed Unexpected Prince Charming series. Now, she’s splitting her time between Paris and Provence, learning to speak French, immersing herself in cooking à la provençal, and planning more page-turning novels for readers to binge.
The Billionaire’s Secret is book two in a four part mini-series called Dare Valley Meets Paris.
In the first book, Evan had traveled to Dare Valley where he met the beautiful Margie and had become so smitten with. Now, the thirty day celibacy is over and Evan is back in Paris. Two weeks have passed and Margie is arriving for her ten-day apprenticeship with the French Baker, Andre. Both Evan and Margie are so excited to see each other and are both ready to take their relationship to a physical level.
Evan has never felt like this about anyone. He wants every minute of his time with Margie to be special and memorable. He meticulously plans their first kiss in a beautiful setting. And then he plans their first night together.
Margie couldn’t be more ecstatic. She is loving her time at the bakery with Andre. He is a wonderful teacher. She has so much to learn from him. I loved all the talk of baking bread. I could practically smell it and see the flour in the air.
“Making bread and baking it is a language all its own. It’s magical, no?” Andre asked. “We are going to make some beautiful magic together, ma petite, Margie, from Dare Valley.”
And her time with Evan was beyond anything she could have ever dreamed of. She has clearly fallen in love with him. She finally tells him her story of the betrayal of her own parents which led to her feelings involving wealth.
Evan has also fallen for Margie. He still hasn’t told her who he really is. His hope is that she will fall in love with him and then will be more understanding when she finds out his true identity. He knows he is taking a huge risk in keeping this secret from her. What will happen when she finds out? Evan is going to find about a little sooner than he might have anticipated.
Since this left off right at a crucial moment, I look forward to part three, The Billionaire’s Courtship, due out on August 19.
***BINGE SERIES WATCHERS AND READERS: wait until all 4 books have been released before reading!
This second installment in Ava Miles’ Paris billionaire mini series does not disappoint. Dare Valley baker and entrepreneur Margie goes to Paris to learn more about baking bread, only to discover that she’s very much in love with Evan—not the billionaire playboy that he’s portrayed to be in magazines and gossip columns—but the innovative, nerdy, sweet, considerate man he truly is. Evan finds himself caught up in a whirlwind where he has to decide whether or not to divulge to Margie just how wealthy he is. He’s hesitant because Margie’s family has money to burn and they showered her with material gifts instead of a true loving relationship everyone needs, and she’s voiced her opinions about people who value a flashy lifestyle over real connections with each other.
Will he, or won’t he?
Evan decides to pursue Margie while she’s in Paris—his home turf—as an apprentice baker. Their connection deepens, and Evan’s innovative mind develops an exquisite plan to show Margie his romantic side. For the first time ever, Evan feels like he’s accepted for exactly who he is. There’s one exception: Margie doesn’t know Evan’s true name, nor just how extremely wealthy he is due to years of creating defense systems for democratic governments. So, Evan experiences a lot of guilt, as does Margie who’s yet to completely lay all cards on the table. How can you really love without telling all? How do you know when to share something so important with someone who just might really “get” you?
As always, the truth will out. Margie discovers Evan’s secret by accident after one of the best written first kiss and first date scenes of all time.
Mmmm…Paris…
Will they remain open to each other, or won’t they?
Read the other two installments to find out!
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review; all conclusions are my own.
This serial keeps getting better and better! I think part of the reason, for me at least, is that I continue to feel more connected to the characters.
This installment picks up with Margie's arrival in Paris. While book 1 shows that Evan had previously lost his way and found himself in Dare Valley, I don't think I quite realized just how much of a change this was until he returned to Paris. He has found a happiness that he hadn't known before, and this seems to give him confidence and a sense of purpose (both for himself and his ideas) that had been missing. We also learn more of Margie's past in this book, and this puts the differences between them in a whole new light.
It was so lovely to watch Margie and Evan's relationship grow, especially since everything seems more romantic when set in Paris. Evan even planned out their first kiss, which was so sweet! This book left off at a critical point, and I can't wait for book 3!! I am seriously hooked!
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own
This second installment of the Dare Valley Meets Paris Mini-series is the biggest cliff hanger of them all. Evan Michaels has ended his month of celibacy and life as an average person in Dare Valley. He is headed home to Paris, but Margie will join him soon in his world. The woman he met during the month of lies is now coming to complete her internship with a baker in his city of Paris. Will Margie be able to accept all the new adventures and truths that Paris and Evan that it has to offer? It is definitely worth reading the next installment in the series, The Billionaire's Courtship, to find out.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
Book 2 in a mini-series: Evan returns to his home in Paris in time to meet up with Margie, who arrives in Paris to work as a baker's apprentice. The hard thing for Evan is how can he romance Margie without her discovering how wealthy he is. It works for a few days - until Margie's new boss, Master baker, Andre, recognizes Evan for the billionaire he is and asks Margie how she met him. She is shocked - and must work through some personal issues she has with wealthy people.
The ending of this section was upsetting, because I did not want it to end. So it did as it was supposed to--can not wait to start the next part of the story! Really finding this story interesting.
The passion and anticipation are an overwhelmingly great thing! This couple is so made for each other, but will dishonesty year them apart? This, 2nd in the series, will keep you reading and loving the plot!
Like the title of my review says, I am so hooked on this author. Disappointment is not what one experience s, when reading her books, this mini series so far, included.
This is volume two and I can’t wait to get into volume three. They are real people with feelings. Even with his money and secrets he is looking for love.
I can't believe I have read this book in one day and I can't wait to read the next installment. My mind is just buzzing with possibilities of what will happen.
The second part of this mini series left me on my seat. It was so amazingly written that I can hardly wait for the third part. This part is set in Paris and it was a really magical experience.
Previously, at the end of part one, when Margie sent Evan to the airport and encountered a rich and inconsiderate driver, she expressed her disdain for the rich. At the start of the second part, Evan was torn between revealing who he really was and keeping it a secret. In the end, he decided to keep it a secret.
As Margie begins to fall in love with Paris, and the art of baking baguette, she also starts to fall in love with Evan. I really loved how Ava Miles made their first kiss so special. After all the anticipation and build-up, I think it would have been really disappointing if they just fell into bed like that. The way Ava Miles created the whole special first kiss really made the story even more sweet and romantic.
The time Margie spent in the bakery baking baguettes with Andre was really magical. I could just envision myself in that bakery, smelling all the wonderful smells of freshly baked bread. I could just picture Andre talking animatedly in that French accent, sharing his knowledge and love for baking bread. I have not been to France but somehow, I feel that Ava Miles have managed to perfectly capture that essence of the French.
The second part ended with a huge cliff-hanger (of course). Margie had confessed her secret of why she hated the rich so much to Evan and Evan was really torn. He was really afraid that he would lose her once she knew the truth. As secrets always have a way of getting out, Margie found out who Evan really was and she was crushed!! Really looking forward to part three to see how the story progresses.
** I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.
The Billionaire’s Secret is book two in a four part mini-series called Dare Valley Meets Paris. Do NOT start if you haven’t read the first and you might want all 4 together before you start as they are cliffhangers.
This book picks up right where the first one left off, continuing on Evan and Margie’s relationship- now going to the next level with them in Paris and Evan’s celibacy over. I love how we learn Evan has planned all these special moments with Margie and at the same time trying to hide and play off the fact that he has more money than he let on when he was in Dare Valley. His meticulously plans their first kiss in a beautiful setting that is romantic and sweet at the same time. Watching Margie evolve and the excitement of her being in Paris for the apprenticeship with Andre a famous chef/baker and also her excitement over finally being with Evan is exciting to me. I feel like I am right along with them. All the talk of bread can make you really want bread especially fresh baked, just like it did in the first story with the cinnamon rolls.
I love watching Evan and Margie fall in love or continue falling in love and also keep wondering what will happen when their truths about the past come out and how they will change things. Margie coming from money and leaving it all, and Evan coming from nothing to money and how that makes them the same in so many ways and different. I love that their past issues with higher class people/money is always an undertone in the story but so much else still goes on. The descriptions of the places in Paris are amazing and allow you to follow whether you have been there or not. They are detailed, elegant and so nice. It allows you to feel like you are there and experience so much.
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own."
"What wants your attention will always find a way to capture it. This town has magic. I hope you will allow it to feed your soul."
Who knew that eating a baguette could be such a sensual experience? I've got to find a French bakery - pronto!
THE BILLIONAIRE'S SECRET is the second installment of a sexy new serial by Ava Miles. This one takes place in Paris. Romance is definitely in the air as Margie Lancaster arrives in Paris to begin her baking apprenticeship in the city of love. Finally she and Evan can be together with no boundaries between them. Margie is excited to get to know him on his home turf. With no vows of celibacy or landlord/tenant relationship to hold them back, they have time to really explore their feelings for each other. The chemistry between them seems preordained...a destiny neither of them imagined...but things aren't always what they seem...
It is obvious that the author has spent time in Paris, and this adds so much to the story. You feel like you have had a guided tour of the city - not the tourist attractions, but the heart and soul of it...the Paris that the people lucky enough to live there, enjoy and love.
Another cliff-hanger has me on the edge of my seat. I kept trying to turn more pages on my Kindle when I got to the end...more, more, MORE! Please? I cannot wait to see what happens next!
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review. All conclusions are my own.
The Billionaire's Secret is the second book in a four part series. This is not a stand alone read. There are some cliff hangers, so if you do not like them, then read all four books at one time.
Evan Michaels in a billionaire inventor. Evan is in love with Margie, a bakery owner in Dare Valley. Margie has issues with people that have too much money. She dislikes that people will do anything for money. This has caused Evan to not tell Margie who he really is when she drops him at the airport in Denver.
Now, Margie is flying into Paris to go to school and learn how to make breads from a well known french baker. Evan is excited as is Margie to pick up on their relationship, because he is no longer celibate. Evan is determined to court Margie in the best way possible, without spending too much money. He knows that this is a tension point for Margie, so he takes her on picnics and other dates that are not outrageous.
As Margie is learning how to make bread, she is also learning that she is loving and in love with Evan. They have their first kiss at the inlet. Margie is trying to share her love of the bread with Evan. That make love at the same time they are sharing the bread that she has made. Andre's wife Belle see's a book with Evan's picture and name - she share's the article with Margie.
Very quick and easy read. "I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.
***I received this ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinions. All opinions are my own and no compensation has been given.***
This one picks up where the other left off, Margie headed to Paris. Now we all know that Evan is a billionaire and we also all know that Margie doesn't know this fact. Now while I completely understand why he never told her and that he is afraid to tell her, he has to know this is going to end badly for him right? I loved Andre and Belle and how Margie is learning from the master baker. I felt that the church scene was very moving and touched my heart. I am starting to have my doubts about how much of a real friend this Chase person is for Evan though. I am just a paranoid person though lol, I just feel like something is off there.... I could be wrong though...only time will tell. Now Paris is the most beautiful place in the world..the most romantic and where else would you want to fall in love I ask you? Evan is doing just that but he may not realize it just yet.... I hope it doesn't scare him too much. Margie herself has already fallen for him but at the end of this book, she finds out his big secret and I'm wondering what all he is going to have to do to earn back her trust. I am rating this one in at four stars as it keeps us entertained.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own. This is part two of Evan Michael’s and Margie Lancaster’s story.
Evan’s bet with Jane Wilcox and Rhett Butler Blaylock is now over. He’s now returned to his home in Paris and he’s still working on his inventions. Margie is on her way to Paris to learn bread baking from a master.
As Evan and Margie reconnect, Evan tries to decide when is the best time to let Margie know the ‘real’ Evan. Meanwhile, Margie is loving Paris, growing closer to Evan, and having the time of her life learning new baking techniques.
A note to all readers, make sure you’re not reading this on an empty stomach. The description of the making and baking of the bread is excellent. You can almost smell the bread baking and taste the warm yeasty flavor that is to die for.
It’s delicious entertainment to read of Evan and Margie learning more about each other. The bittersweet question that arises is what happens when Margie learns that Evan has been keeping part of himself from her. Will they blend have the right ingredients to rise to the challenge? I’m anxiously waiting for part three.
The Billionaire’s Secret is book two in the Dare Valley Meets Paris series by Ava Miles. It is a great little book but I think the three of them could have been put together to make one book. Perhaps that could be just me as I like to savor a long book. I still loved the book. After meeting in Dare Valley while he was there on a bet between Jane Wilcox and himself, Evan Michaels did not tell Margie Lancaster who he really was in spite of the opportunities which presented themselves. Once he found out she hated the rich, he just couldn’t take the chance. Now he had another chance to woo her as she was coming to Paris. Margie Lancaster is thrilled to be in Paris. She has a small flat that another baker lent her and she is learning to bake bread from a renowned Paris baker, these with having the accompaniment of Evan Murray, she is delirious. Paris is indeed magical. Her major worry is can she meet the standards of the Boulangerie Ma Belle’s baker Andre. Her ten-day apprenticeship with him will help her make her bakery, Hot Cross Buns, in Dare Valley a success. What will happen when she discovers that Evan Murray is really Evan Michaels, a billionaire inventor?
In Part II of Dare Valley Meets Paris, Margie arrives in Paris to apprentice with Andre, an accomplished baker. Her days are packed with baking experiences, and her nights are full of romance with Evan. Of course, the inevitable happens: Margie is inadvertently confronted with Evan's true identity. This is especially bad for Evan since he now knows the full story about Margie's dislike of affluent people like her family. So the "fan" is turned on high and "it" is going to hit it in Part III. What a cliffhanger! This was a very enjoyable follow-up to Part I. Yes, there's romance, but so much more. Ava's descriptions of Paris, its history and Parisian baking technique embroider the text. I look forward to learning how Evan pulls himself out of this mess. I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.
In Paris for a baking apprenticeship with a Master Baker so she can learn to make authentic French bread for her new bakery, Maggie Lancaster is excited to also explore the city with her former tenant, Evan.
Back home in Paris after his month in Dare Valley, Even is looking forward to showing Maggie his city and exploring their connection to see where it leads. But he has not told her the truth of who he is and what he does...afraid she will walk away because of it.
This second part of the mini series takes us into the world of a French bakery, helmed by a humorous Master Baker and his wife. We get to see how baguettes are made, with a realism that makes you feel as if you are right there, watching (and smelling!).
Please note: I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own.
This is the second book of four in the mini-series, Dare Valley Meets Paris. This starts right where book one left off. Evan is now back in Paris where he lives and Margie is on her way to Paris for her baking apprenticeship. The two of them have anticipated meeting in Paris especially since Evan’s bet had been honored and that meant the celibacy would be over too. The problem is, Evan’s keeping a secret from Margie. A big one!
This book makes you feel as if you are right there strolling the streets of Paris right along with Evan and Margie. When Margie is at the bakery, you can smell the bread and feel the magic. I have never wanted to visit Paris, but after reading this book, I would like to now. It’s a wonderful story and definitely a cliff-hanger ending. Bring on the next book!! While I wait, I would like a baguette and a glass of wine.
This is the second installment of Dare Valley Meets Paris and I can't wait to see how it all comes together.
We see Margie in Paris going to learn bread making from a master. Love the humor that Andre introduces and gives Margie a lot to think on in her relationship with Evan. She and Evan pick up right where they left off in Dare Valley, and things get so much more in Paris. She sees and learns things about herself and her relationship with Evan. And finds herself falling hard and fast. When secrets are revealed can she trust in what they have together?
Evan has kept his secret. And knows he needs to tell Margie his identity but is afraid to lose her. His creativity is abounding and he knows it is because of Margie and his feelings for her. But when everything comes crashing down, what will become of hem? I can't wait for the next in line to see what happens with these two!!!
This is the second installment in the Dare Valley Meets Paris series and it's a great read! I also recommend that you start with the first one because they are linked to each other.
In this story, it's a month after the time that Evan Michaels lived in Dare Valley and fell for his landlady and boss, Margie Lancaster. Now, Margie has come to Paris (his hometown) for an apprenticeship at a French bakery and plans to learn to bake an authentic baguette for her new bakery back in Dare Valley. Evan is very reluctant to reveal his true identity to Margie in spite of the intense attraction between them.
The story is full of romance but it does end with a cliffhanger and I can hardly wait for the next story in the series!
"I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review. All conclusions are my own.
This is the second of four books in this miniseries with cliffhangers. Margie has come to Paris as an apprentice to learn to make baguettes and other things from a great Paris baker. She has told Evan that she grew up in a rich crowd and hated rich people, so he is still keeping his identity a secret from her, waiting for the right time to break the news to her. In this book they have fallen in love and end up sleeping together. The next morning Evan walks Margie to her job and meets her boss. As Margie is leaving from work for the day, her boss's wife congratulates her on landing such a wealthy and great looking catch, and shows Margie pictures in a magazine that was taken of Evan and another woman.. Now the cat is out of the bag...
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.
This is why I can't stand serials!!!! Only thing I have going for me is the fact that I already have the last two books bought and waiting. Actually helps me answer some questions authors have been asking. I don't believe I will ever enjoy this type of book like I do a standalone in a series. There is a huge difference. With a serial, unless you are the kind that can lay a book down for quite some time and then go back to it like it never happened, then I wouldn't think they were for most. If course, that is only my opinion and I want to stress that before I get all kinds of comments shredding me. As far as Evan and Margie, this was really just about her trip to Paris and learning the French way of baking. Evan is in here, but not that much, although the ending will bring him a blow.
I received an eBook copy from the publisher for the purpose of an honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own. And I think Ava Miles has outdone herself this time! It made me want to run out and by an airplane ticket to Paris (and hopefully meet a billionaire in the process! :) The romantic words she used were simply "sigh-worthy" (if there is such a word). Ava's mastery of the use of words to paint a picture in the readers' minds was extraordinary! "Heart beat in rapid bursts", "recipes are magical time capsules", "smile that made me think of rainbows", "a connection woven with steel thread" to name a few. This book is definitely worthy of this name of this site, a "good read"!