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Bayou Billionaires #2
His Secretary's Surprise Fiancé
Her boss wants her in his office—and as his bride! Adelaide Thibodeaux grew up with Dempsey Reynaud, and she's worked for him for years. But when the billionaire football coach springs a surprise engagement to keep her from resigning, it's a low blow. Just as she's ready to strike out on her own, she's stuck in a fake relationship with her boss, biding her time… But soon Adelaide faces a second she's actually falling for the man! Can a relationship founded on a lie become the real deal? Or will they fumble before the end zone—and stay in the friend zone?
192 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 1, 2016
29 people are currently reading
799 people want to read
About the author
Joanne Rock
570 books1,455 followersJoanne Rock is a USA Today bestselling author of over one hundred works of popular fiction, including domestic suspense and romantic suspense. A frequent speaker at regional and national writing conferences she enjoys giving back to the writing community that nurtured and inspired her early career. She has a Masters degree in Literature from the University of Louisville and has taught fiction, film, and writing at the college level. When she's not writing, Joanne enjoys travel to gather new ideas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 19, 2015
This story has uniqueness and a story that seemed pretty interesting but overall it was just okay for me. Apparently there are some books before this one that help with this story that I didn't read but you get a recap on the brothers.
This story is about Dempsey who is a half brother to 3 other siblings. He didn't grown up with money until he was 13 and his father bought off his mom. Since then he became a billionaire football coach and employees his childhood best friend Adelaide who has been his assistant and followed him from job to job.
Now Addy wants to start her own company and has given her notice but Dempsey wants her to stay on another year and to make that happen he announces to the press there engagement which is totally fake. One kiss leads to another and soon neither is sure what is real and what is fake.
I liked the idea of the characters but that while fake engagement story is getting old to me. They have been friends since 13 I mean you could see that thought of each other in other terms at some point during the years but it takes a fake engagement for them to start seeing what they both want?
The characters were fine but not a lot to make me say omg I'll remember them forever. I thought Dempsey was a little over the top with gifts and gestures when she only really wanted the boy she fell for all those years ago.
I did enjoy the falling for the best friend story but yet these two are still kind of strangers since they weren't as close as they use to be. They sex scenes were okay but the two characters had a connection so that was important.
I have enjoyed some of Rocks other books that I loved so am I giving up on this series? No but maybe I didn't get the full effect from reading about the other brothers.
This story is about Dempsey who is a half brother to 3 other siblings. He didn't grown up with money until he was 13 and his father bought off his mom. Since then he became a billionaire football coach and employees his childhood best friend Adelaide who has been his assistant and followed him from job to job.
Now Addy wants to start her own company and has given her notice but Dempsey wants her to stay on another year and to make that happen he announces to the press there engagement which is totally fake. One kiss leads to another and soon neither is sure what is real and what is fake.
I liked the idea of the characters but that while fake engagement story is getting old to me. They have been friends since 13 I mean you could see that thought of each other in other terms at some point during the years but it takes a fake engagement for them to start seeing what they both want?
The characters were fine but not a lot to make me say omg I'll remember them forever. I thought Dempsey was a little over the top with gifts and gestures when she only really wanted the boy she fell for all those years ago.
I did enjoy the falling for the best friend story but yet these two are still kind of strangers since they weren't as close as they use to be. They sex scenes were okay but the two characters had a connection so that was important.
I have enjoyed some of Rocks other books that I loved so am I giving up on this series? No but maybe I didn't get the full effect from reading about the other brothers.
March 26, 2016
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review
At first I was a bit hesitant about this series as it resolves around football, but as I've really enjoyed Joanne Rock and Catherine Mann their books so far I decided to give this series a try. And I am so glad I did! I really enjoyed this book and I also liked how the football aspect was handled. It's a friend to lovers type of romance combined with a fake fiancé plot. I really enjoyed this book and while it works well as a standalone I want to pick up the other three books as soon as possible to get the other brother's their story as well.
Adelaide and Dempsey have been friends since they were kids and Adelaide always has had a crush in Dempsey. Dempsey eventually got picked up by his real dad and taken away from the bad neighborhood they grew up in and is now a successful football coach with Adelaide as his secretary. Until Adelaide decides to start her own business and Dempsey does the only thing he can think of to keep her close, announce a fake engagement. The fake engagement forces the two together and acknowledged there is a possibility of more between them.
I really liked these two characters, both were headstrong and knew what they wanted and didn't settle for less. I liked how Adelaide fought for her own business and her dreams and also for her own happy ending and she wouldn't settle for anything less than someone who loved her too. She has been put by a difficult situation by Dempsey, but I think she handled it very well. Dempsey is a successful football coach who might be a bit too passionate about his career and doesn't see what doesn't resolve around it. He has neglected his friendship with Adelaide for years and now that he realizes it, he does his best to make it up to her and show her he cares. He has had a though youth and then once he got into this family he always felt like the black sheep, he isn't as good with social relationships, but he does his best.
These two were great together and I liked how their friendship formed a solid basis for their relationship. I enjoyed seeing their relationship bloom into something more and I really felt the connection between these two. there is a bit of drama, but it all felt very realistic, not drama for the sake of drama. And I understood why the characters acted that way, although I wanted to shake some sense into Dempsey when he worded things in a way Adelaide misunderstood him, but it's part of his struggle and character. There are some hot scenes, some sweet ones and a few scenes where we learn more about their past. We also meet the other brothers who each have their own book and I can't wait to pick up the rest of this series soon!
To summarize: I really enjoyed this book! It has an interesting plot and the set-up really worked well. I am normally not a fan of the fake engagement type of stories, but it worked here. I liked how Adelaide and Dempsey had been friends for a long time and I think it added some depth to their relationship. I liked seeing them develop their friendship into a romance in this book. They were both great characters and the drama felt realistic, not added for the sake of it. It also was fun to meet the other characters and I am looking forward to read the rest of the books in this series.
At first I was a bit hesitant about this series as it resolves around football, but as I've really enjoyed Joanne Rock and Catherine Mann their books so far I decided to give this series a try. And I am so glad I did! I really enjoyed this book and I also liked how the football aspect was handled. It's a friend to lovers type of romance combined with a fake fiancé plot. I really enjoyed this book and while it works well as a standalone I want to pick up the other three books as soon as possible to get the other brother's their story as well.
Adelaide and Dempsey have been friends since they were kids and Adelaide always has had a crush in Dempsey. Dempsey eventually got picked up by his real dad and taken away from the bad neighborhood they grew up in and is now a successful football coach with Adelaide as his secretary. Until Adelaide decides to start her own business and Dempsey does the only thing he can think of to keep her close, announce a fake engagement. The fake engagement forces the two together and acknowledged there is a possibility of more between them.
I really liked these two characters, both were headstrong and knew what they wanted and didn't settle for less. I liked how Adelaide fought for her own business and her dreams and also for her own happy ending and she wouldn't settle for anything less than someone who loved her too. She has been put by a difficult situation by Dempsey, but I think she handled it very well. Dempsey is a successful football coach who might be a bit too passionate about his career and doesn't see what doesn't resolve around it. He has neglected his friendship with Adelaide for years and now that he realizes it, he does his best to make it up to her and show her he cares. He has had a though youth and then once he got into this family he always felt like the black sheep, he isn't as good with social relationships, but he does his best.
These two were great together and I liked how their friendship formed a solid basis for their relationship. I enjoyed seeing their relationship bloom into something more and I really felt the connection between these two. there is a bit of drama, but it all felt very realistic, not drama for the sake of drama. And I understood why the characters acted that way, although I wanted to shake some sense into Dempsey when he worded things in a way Adelaide misunderstood him, but it's part of his struggle and character. There are some hot scenes, some sweet ones and a few scenes where we learn more about their past. We also meet the other brothers who each have their own book and I can't wait to pick up the rest of this series soon!
To summarize: I really enjoyed this book! It has an interesting plot and the set-up really worked well. I am normally not a fan of the fake engagement type of stories, but it worked here. I liked how Adelaide and Dempsey had been friends for a long time and I think it added some depth to their relationship. I liked seeing them develop their friendship into a romance in this book. They were both great characters and the drama felt realistic, not added for the sake of it. It also was fun to meet the other characters and I am looking forward to read the rest of the books in this series.
January 18, 2016
ARC received from: Publisher
Rating: 4*
Trope: Friends-to-lovers / Fake Relationship / Sport
Chemistry: Simmering
One-Sentence Summary: A rich billionaire invents an engagement to get his friend and employee to stay with him
Review: When I heard that there was going to be a book which combined all my favourite tropes (Friends-to-lovers / Fake Relationship / Sport) in one hot Harlequin package, I knew I just had to read it, and I am pleased to say Joanne Rock did not disappoint.
In this book she gives us two strong, likeable characters in Dempsey and Adelaide. Dempsey is the illegitimate son of the billionaire Reynaud family who has a chip on his shoulder and feels like he has to prove himself by being the best head coach he can and get his team to win the championship. In order to do this, he needs the assistance of his childhood friend Adelaide who, after being his assistant for many years and his friend for even longer, wants to leave him to start her own business. The only way Dempsey can get her to stay? By announcing his engagement to her to the press and thus begins a fake-relationship.
I liked Adelaide a lot. She is someone who made a life for herself without the help of a rich father and has a clear business plan for how to breakout and start her company. This story doesn't fall into the two major pitfalls with friends-to-lovers or fake relationship tropes either: whilst Adelaide clearly has a soft spot for Dempsey and used to harbour a serious crush on him, when the book starts it is not a case where one half of the friendship is madly in love whilst the other is completely clueless. Also, whilst there is kissing, Adelaide purposefully does not give into the attraction at the first opportunity, which is what so often happens in Harlequin romances.
Whilst I usually have to read a series in order, I hadn't read the first book in this series as the trope didn't appeal to me, but I was no worse off for having missed it. Rock introduces the other siblings and their background nicely and I will be turning in for the next two books in the series.
Originally posted @ Love's A State Of Mind
March 15, 2023
Wow. The first chapter made me so angry I had to put the book down and walk away. Manipulative men are not attractive. However, the heroine made it through with grace and a boatload more patience than I would've had. Hot sex scenes and an interesting plot made this a decent read. I might look into the rest of this series.
March 2, 2016
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé is the first book I have read from Joanne Rock. This is technically the 2nd book in the series but it’s ok if you don’t read the first one because this book will recap it for you. Adelaide and Dempsey have been friends since they were children. He grew up poor and played football until his father came (who is wealthy) and took him and his mother to live with him. He then was able to grow up to be an outstanding businessman as well as a football coach.
Throughout Dempsey’s childhood, growing up away from Adelaide, he still thought about her constantly and missed her. So as they grew up and he found her as a struggling artist living in some of the worst parts of New Orleans, he decided to help her out and give her a job as his assistant until she has her feet on the ground. As the years pass, Adelaide is finally able to become the artist she wants. She’s no longer struggling and is ready to leave her job as Dempsey’s assistant as her art business is flourishing. Dempsey is not happy with this and he does something outrageous to corner her so he can keep her by his side because he isn’t ready to let her go.
As the story goes on, Dempsey doesn’t really see or understand the problems he’s causing but they’re both coming to terms with their feelings and trying to figure out if there is a future with them being a couple or not.
I’m a big fan of the lifelong friends turning into lover’s stories. Adelaide and Dempsey were perfect for each other. It felt sometimes that these characters were still strangers because they missed years together when growing up. Overall it was a good read. The story definitely had unique parts to it that doesn’t compare to other books which definitely makes you want to read on. This won’t be the last book I read from miss Rock. I’m intrigued at what the other Bayou Billionaire books entail.
Throughout Dempsey’s childhood, growing up away from Adelaide, he still thought about her constantly and missed her. So as they grew up and he found her as a struggling artist living in some of the worst parts of New Orleans, he decided to help her out and give her a job as his assistant until she has her feet on the ground. As the years pass, Adelaide is finally able to become the artist she wants. She’s no longer struggling and is ready to leave her job as Dempsey’s assistant as her art business is flourishing. Dempsey is not happy with this and he does something outrageous to corner her so he can keep her by his side because he isn’t ready to let her go.
As the story goes on, Dempsey doesn’t really see or understand the problems he’s causing but they’re both coming to terms with their feelings and trying to figure out if there is a future with them being a couple or not.
I’m a big fan of the lifelong friends turning into lover’s stories. Adelaide and Dempsey were perfect for each other. It felt sometimes that these characters were still strangers because they missed years together when growing up. Overall it was a good read. The story definitely had unique parts to it that doesn’t compare to other books which definitely makes you want to read on. This won’t be the last book I read from miss Rock. I’m intrigued at what the other Bayou Billionaire books entail.
January 31, 2016
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé by Joanne Rock may be a bit of a clichéd title, but the story inside the covers is anything but. This second of the Bayou Billionaires series is all original and filled with the heart that I always associated with Rock’s writing. Dempsey has always considered himself the black sheep of the Reynaud family. His best friend and personal assistant Adelaide knows better. When her efforts to leave force him to declare them engaged things get very interesting. Dempsey and Addy are fun to watch. Their long standing friendship provides a solid foundation for their story. At the same time, that friendship also gives Rock the room to show that long-term friends are often taken for granted. This story is as much about them finding their way back to their childhood friendship as it is them finding their way to forever.
Copy received in exchange for an honest review.
Copy received in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2016
I find it fitting that the central backdrop chosen for the Bayou Billionaires series was New Orleans. The rich history, dramatic charm and the option of new discoveries make it the perfect location for Dempsey and Adelaide to fall in love. I received an ARC of His Secretary's Surprise Fiance' by Joanne Rock in exchange for an honest review. Dempsey thought their friendship was solid but Adelaide had been seeing the cracks for a while. A resignation, a spur of the moment engagement of convenience and a reevaluation of what type of relationship they have is just the antidote to heal this fractured union. Joanne Rock has created a drool worthy hero that maybe a little clueless but is loyal to a fault. Adelaide is the perfect blend of brains, emotion and uncertainty. They meshed well together. I enjoy a good romance.
January 6, 2016
I received, this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review.
I have to say I am not good with words, but this book was so good, it hooked you from the first page till the last. It is a must read. Get it today, you will be happy you did.
IF you love a good book, then this is for you.....
I have to say I am not good with words, but this book was so good, it hooked you from the first page till the last. It is a must read. Get it today, you will be happy you did.
IF you love a good book, then this is for you.....
March 31, 2025
I buon vecchi harmony , banali ma perfetti . Storia scritta nella trama . Però funziona se ne vuoi uno cuscinetto
March 6, 2016
*ARC provided by Tour Host in exchange for a fair and honest review*
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé is the second book in the Bayou Billionaires series by Joanne Rock and Catherine Mann. In the story, Adelaide Thibodeaux and Dempsey Reynaud are not only childhood friends but also boss and employee, the second being what Adelaide hopes to change and Dempsey will do anything to keep as status quo.
Dempsey is a man used to getting what he wants, and right now, what he wants most is Adelaide to stay with him, and to stay with the team. The last thing he needs is to lose her just as he’s about to amp his team up to have a championship year, but she’s determined to leave and instead of supporting her in her quest to build something of her own, Dempsey works around her by announcing to the media that she’s his fiancé.
I have to admit, I liked Dempsey a lot. He’s a real man, with real flaws and complications, and there is a lot of depth to his character, which I absolutely freaking loved. Dempsey isn’t a cardboard cutout hero but an honestly screwed up man in need of some self-evaluation. I liked his protectiveness toward Adelaide, and I understood it the more I learned about him and his background, and hers as well.
I personally admired Adelaide's strength and devotion to her friend and boss. She’s seen the worst parts of him and yet, she’s stayed by his side and been someone he could always count on, and for a man like Dempsey, that’s means a lot.
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé is a fast-paced, compelling romance story filled with glorious amounts of sexual tension, sexy love scenes, and lots of sweet, beautiful conflict between the characters. I absolutely adored the setup, the characters, and the emotional journey Adelaide and Dempsey took to reach their happily ever after.
If you’re like me and you love a well-written, deeply satisfying friends-to-lovers, boss-employee romance story, you won’t go wrong with His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé by Joanne Rock. It’s an amazing read with two fantastically flawed but deeply connected lead characters.
Love, love, loved it!
Rating: 5 Stars
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé is the second book in the Bayou Billionaires series by Joanne Rock and Catherine Mann. In the story, Adelaide Thibodeaux and Dempsey Reynaud are not only childhood friends but also boss and employee, the second being what Adelaide hopes to change and Dempsey will do anything to keep as status quo.
Dempsey is a man used to getting what he wants, and right now, what he wants most is Adelaide to stay with him, and to stay with the team. The last thing he needs is to lose her just as he’s about to amp his team up to have a championship year, but she’s determined to leave and instead of supporting her in her quest to build something of her own, Dempsey works around her by announcing to the media that she’s his fiancé.
I have to admit, I liked Dempsey a lot. He’s a real man, with real flaws and complications, and there is a lot of depth to his character, which I absolutely freaking loved. Dempsey isn’t a cardboard cutout hero but an honestly screwed up man in need of some self-evaluation. I liked his protectiveness toward Adelaide, and I understood it the more I learned about him and his background, and hers as well.
I personally admired Adelaide's strength and devotion to her friend and boss. She’s seen the worst parts of him and yet, she’s stayed by his side and been someone he could always count on, and for a man like Dempsey, that’s means a lot.
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé is a fast-paced, compelling romance story filled with glorious amounts of sexual tension, sexy love scenes, and lots of sweet, beautiful conflict between the characters. I absolutely adored the setup, the characters, and the emotional journey Adelaide and Dempsey took to reach their happily ever after.
If you’re like me and you love a well-written, deeply satisfying friends-to-lovers, boss-employee romance story, you won’t go wrong with His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé by Joanne Rock. It’s an amazing read with two fantastically flawed but deeply connected lead characters.
Love, love, loved it!
Rating: 5 Stars
December 25, 2015
His Secretary's Surprise Fiance is a good story for anyone who enjoys reading books based in New Orleans. I received a copy in exchange for review from NetGalley. It gives a small glimpse into parts of New Orleans and the food. Adelaide is Dempsey's assistant for the football franchise where he is the head coach for the New Orleans football team. They have been best friends since they were children despite having a period of time when they rarely talked or saw each other because Dempsey's father came and took him away from the poor life he was living with his "mother" and I use that term loosely. Dempsey's father was the son of a very wealthy man who also had three other sons with his wife. He brought Demsey to live with them and Dempsey's life changed. When he grew up he became a great football coach as well as an astounding businessman within their family business. He never forgot Adelaide and when he saw her struggling to be an artist in one of the poorest and roughest parts of New Orleans he offered her the job as his assistant. After many years as his assistant, she finally made a way to become an artist and have her own business but when she tries to leave Dempsey he does something crazy that boxes her into a corner. He disrupts her plans in order to keep her near him because he sees them as a package deal. He appears to be quite oblivious to the problems he is causing Adelaide and the story does a good job of taking the reader through all the growing pains they both experience as they try to move forward their own individual goals, with or without each other.
October 21, 2016
I gave myself a few days to mull this one over, only to come up with the same thoughts. So, here goes.
I know it's rude to think athletes are not scholarly, but I had a hard time connecting the leading man's dots. Dempsey grew up poor (until teens), played football (until injury cut his career), and speaks with an eloquence that seems, well, elevated. I know he's been in this lifestyle for nearly 20 years, but it was still difficult for me.
Adelaide was a whole 'nother deal. I'm stuck between thinking she is the kindest, most forgiving, un-selfish leading lady I've ever read... or... she's a humongous wimp. Like, to the fifth power. I would have liked to have seen her assert herself a little more, but hey, I didn't write it so I really don't get a say. It did, however, keep me from being emotionally invested in the story.
Okay, enough of the less than loved stuff.
I did like the premise. Dempsey had no clue, no clue how much he cared for Adelaide. That's obvious in his lack of attention towards her. His taking her for granted was threaded well throughout the entire story. Don't we all take someone for granted? I really appreciated the lengths Adelaide was willing to go to feel seen, important, and accomplished. And the lengths to which Dempsey would go to keep her close were, well, the entire point LOL!
Adelaide did finally grow a pair by the end of the story, but they were small.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for review.
I know it's rude to think athletes are not scholarly, but I had a hard time connecting the leading man's dots. Dempsey grew up poor (until teens), played football (until injury cut his career), and speaks with an eloquence that seems, well, elevated. I know he's been in this lifestyle for nearly 20 years, but it was still difficult for me.
Adelaide was a whole 'nother deal. I'm stuck between thinking she is the kindest, most forgiving, un-selfish leading lady I've ever read... or... she's a humongous wimp. Like, to the fifth power. I would have liked to have seen her assert herself a little more, but hey, I didn't write it so I really don't get a say. It did, however, keep me from being emotionally invested in the story.
Okay, enough of the less than loved stuff.
I did like the premise. Dempsey had no clue, no clue how much he cared for Adelaide. That's obvious in his lack of attention towards her. His taking her for granted was threaded well throughout the entire story. Don't we all take someone for granted? I really appreciated the lengths Adelaide was willing to go to feel seen, important, and accomplished. And the lengths to which Dempsey would go to keep her close were, well, the entire point LOL!
Adelaide did finally grow a pair by the end of the story, but they were small.
I received an ARC via NetGalley for review.
March 2, 2016
"His Secretary's Secret Fiance" by Joanne Rock. This tale tells the story of Adelaide and Dempsey. I really liked both of these characters. Dempsey, of course is hot and sexy, but he's also a very determined man, set to prove his worth to all. Because of that drive, he has driven away the one person that really should mean the most to him, his dearest friend, Adelaide. She is a strong, independent woman that has worked hard to support herself and build a foundation for her dream. She also does what she does out of love for Dempsey, be it buried deep. I found this story to be a bit predictable but it still was a light and easy read that was very enjoyable. This series, The Bayou Billionaires, is proving to be a fun series that I am truly liking. Although I don't believe it necessary to read the previous books in the series (which I have), I wold recommend them as they, too, are easy and light reads that tell good stories of love and romance. (received copy for honest review)
January 12, 2016
2nd book in the Bayou Billionaire series, I did not read the first. I had no problems with Dempsey Reynaud and his brothers as the main characters . Adelaide Thibodeaux is Dempsey's secretary as he runs the professional football team in New Orleans for his family. They grew up together in a poor neighborhood until Dempsey's father found him and took him away when he was 13. Now many years later he decides they should marry and announces to the world they are engaged without asking her. Sort of predictable but a nice read.
January 17, 2016
I've read some of Joanne Rock's books before, so I thought I would check this one out. I think I would have liked to read the other books in the series first, so that I had some background information to go on. This was more of a friends to lovers story than a boss/secretary story, but it was a unique twist on both tropes. Dempsey & Addy had great chemistry, but the book seemed like it should be longer in order to fully conclude the issues that were brought forth. I'll read more of the series if I get the chance.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
ARC provided by NetGalley.
December 25, 2015
I loved when Addy was playful and let her hair down, "she ignored his efforts at restraint, sidling over to him and slipping a slender thigh between his. “I’ll sleep better knowing you left the house happy.” Her whispered words were like a drug, finding their way into his bloodstream and sending a fresh wave of heat through him." I really enjoyed this book.
February 28, 2016
I received this book as a free giveaway. I must say... wow! Thank you for allowing me to read this book. Although it is part of a series, it can be read as a stand alone novel. I read it as a stand alone novel, and it was excellent. I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to get the rest of the books in this series. Keep up the great work, Ms. Rock!
January 10, 2016
review to come soon
June 11, 2017
I loved this story. The storyline was interesting as were the characters. Dempsey and Adelaide “Addy” grew up together but Dempsey knew what it was to go hungry. His mother more often than not at times forget she had a son. He would go hungry until the day that his mother found his father again. Then a terrifying event happened to Addy when she was living alone but Dempsey is there to her rescue. He offers her a job as his assistant but it seems that she has been invisible for very long so she is ready to leave him. She has her own dreams and she is about to make it a reality. But Dempsey has another thing planned and in the end his feelings change he forgot who Addy was and took advantage of her. They have a wonderful 2-3 weeks living with each other but in the end you know that someone will end up getting hurt.
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé was a great read. Ms. Rock’s writing style was clear and focused. The chemistry between Dempsey and Addy was sensual and passionate. They were meant to be together. He was romantic when he wanted and he could surprise her and make her speechless. I can’t wait to read the first book in this series and the next book.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
His Secretary’s Surprise Fiancé was a great read. Ms. Rock’s writing style was clear and focused. The chemistry between Dempsey and Addy was sensual and passionate. They were meant to be together. He was romantic when he wanted and he could surprise her and make her speechless. I can’t wait to read the first book in this series and the next book.
Received ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an Honest Review
May 21, 2020
Di sorprese questo libro non ne presenta nessuna in quanto non succede proprio nulla se non quello che già si immagina dopo aver letto la trama.
Del tutto inutile, se ne può fare tranquillante a meno.
Del tutto inutile, se ne può fare tranquillante a meno.
June 1, 2017
Great series
This series is amazing. I fell for the four brothers. & I can't wait to read all of their stories!
This series is amazing. I fell for the four brothers. & I can't wait to read all of their stories!
May 14, 2023
no longer taking book recs from tik tok. i had no service and this was the only book downloaded. meh
February 14, 2017
HD #2436
March 20, 2017
3.5, but I'm rounding down because I'm slightly tired of male protags who simply make sweeping decisions, and the female protags who let them with only nominal protestations.
That being said, I did like Addy and Dempsey. Perhaps if the book had been a little bit longer their broken backstories could have been explored a bit more in depth.
That being said, I did like Addy and Dempsey. Perhaps if the book had been a little bit longer their broken backstories could have been explored a bit more in depth.
March 2, 2016
Despite the doozy of a moniker, the second book in the Bayou Billionaires series was a fantastic read, one I couldn't put down until the very last page.
I am a huge fan of this dynamic writing pair. This combination is just about unbeatable — matched only by the J.K. Rock duo, Joanne and Karen Rock. How many people not only have BFFs and SILs that awesome and talented, but ones who share their abilities with you and to bring stories to the world? Not many I'd be willing to bet.
I think I'd read the phone book (they do still print them believe it or not) or even a 20-page tech manual for working a coffee pot if Joanne or her writing partners composed them. They are just that good! Joanne Rock does not disappoint in "His Secretary's Surprise Fiancé."
I'm not unduly impress or drawn to billionaire stories the way some are, but this pair really makes you like these foot crazy brothers. I haven't had the pleasure to read Mann's "Pregnant Princess Bride" yet, but after being introduced to the two main character in "Surprise Fiancé," I'm going to have to track down a copy and catch up.
This book really makes you feel, and experience the growth, frustration, happiness, sizzle and heartache the characters experience. Dempsey is the illegitimate brother, who lived in the tough part of New Orleans until his father learned of his existence when he entered his teens and immediately removed him from his troubled, addicted mother.
Adelaide has been his constant and only true friend since he rescued her from bullies when they were in grade school. She's been devoted to him, loyal. She even saved part of her food for him at lunch because she knew it was all he'd have to eat until school the next morning. Things weren't great for him, but they had each other.
When she got out of college, he recruited her to be his secretary, helping him out in his duties as a professional football coach. They hadn't really been much in contact since the year after he moved into his father's mansion.
The job offer was made because he was worried about her because her place had been broken into and she narrowly avoided being physically assaulted. She was heartbroken because they ruined her painting when they figured out she didn't have anything valuable in the place. She wanted a job in her field, but he wanted her near him and to help. So he paid her salary and she did.
The story starts in present day, with Adelaide announcing to Dempsey immediately following their last pre-season game, just before a press conference, that she's quitting immediately.
She's tried to broach the subject with him before, that she wants to start her own business, a sports line for women. He's basically blown her off, thinking if he just ignores it he can keep her on a secretary for the entire season — she's his right hand and he can't be without her.
So, to forestall her departure from the team, he announces during the press conference that they are engaged. She's livid and tries to leave the stadium only to find out he's contacted his driver and intercepts her. He devises a scheme that will hopefully get his most recent ex off his back — all of his relationships have had a time limit and the women are required to sign a nondisclosure agreement. The ex did too. He says that the month will give them time to go over her business plan and figure out what do do with her loss to the business. He insists she live with him at his big house, built in the style of his family mansion, just down from it.
Things develop, the chemistry between them sizzles and she finally decides she'll work on her business on her time during this month and spend the rest of the time enjoying being with him in every way possible. But, things happen as they often and she knows she's in love with him. Too bad he's about predictable, reliable fluff heads, with time limits on everything.
He does everything he can to keep her from quitting, but he begins to wonder what he'll do without her, at work, at home and in his life.
Can't wait for the next book in the series!
I am a huge fan of this dynamic writing pair. This combination is just about unbeatable — matched only by the J.K. Rock duo, Joanne and Karen Rock. How many people not only have BFFs and SILs that awesome and talented, but ones who share their abilities with you and to bring stories to the world? Not many I'd be willing to bet.
I think I'd read the phone book (they do still print them believe it or not) or even a 20-page tech manual for working a coffee pot if Joanne or her writing partners composed them. They are just that good! Joanne Rock does not disappoint in "His Secretary's Surprise Fiancé."
I'm not unduly impress or drawn to billionaire stories the way some are, but this pair really makes you like these foot crazy brothers. I haven't had the pleasure to read Mann's "Pregnant Princess Bride" yet, but after being introduced to the two main character in "Surprise Fiancé," I'm going to have to track down a copy and catch up.
This book really makes you feel, and experience the growth, frustration, happiness, sizzle and heartache the characters experience. Dempsey is the illegitimate brother, who lived in the tough part of New Orleans until his father learned of his existence when he entered his teens and immediately removed him from his troubled, addicted mother.
Adelaide has been his constant and only true friend since he rescued her from bullies when they were in grade school. She's been devoted to him, loyal. She even saved part of her food for him at lunch because she knew it was all he'd have to eat until school the next morning. Things weren't great for him, but they had each other.
When she got out of college, he recruited her to be his secretary, helping him out in his duties as a professional football coach. They hadn't really been much in contact since the year after he moved into his father's mansion.
The job offer was made because he was worried about her because her place had been broken into and she narrowly avoided being physically assaulted. She was heartbroken because they ruined her painting when they figured out she didn't have anything valuable in the place. She wanted a job in her field, but he wanted her near him and to help. So he paid her salary and she did.
The story starts in present day, with Adelaide announcing to Dempsey immediately following their last pre-season game, just before a press conference, that she's quitting immediately.
She's tried to broach the subject with him before, that she wants to start her own business, a sports line for women. He's basically blown her off, thinking if he just ignores it he can keep her on a secretary for the entire season — she's his right hand and he can't be without her.
So, to forestall her departure from the team, he announces during the press conference that they are engaged. She's livid and tries to leave the stadium only to find out he's contacted his driver and intercepts her. He devises a scheme that will hopefully get his most recent ex off his back — all of his relationships have had a time limit and the women are required to sign a nondisclosure agreement. The ex did too. He says that the month will give them time to go over her business plan and figure out what do do with her loss to the business. He insists she live with him at his big house, built in the style of his family mansion, just down from it.
Things develop, the chemistry between them sizzles and she finally decides she'll work on her business on her time during this month and spend the rest of the time enjoying being with him in every way possible. But, things happen as they often and she knows she's in love with him. Too bad he's about predictable, reliable fluff heads, with time limits on everything.
He does everything he can to keep her from quitting, but he begins to wonder what he'll do without her, at work, at home and in his life.
Can't wait for the next book in the series!
March 29, 2016
Good friends to lovers story. Dempsey and Addy have known each other since they were kids growing up in a poor part of New Orleans. Dempsey protected Addy from bullies and she helped him deal with the results of an addicted mother. Then when he was thirteen, his billionaire biological father found him and took him to live with his family. Though Dempsey tried to keep in touch with Addy, it was difficult, until he became an adult. Then he offered her a job as his assistant until she was ready to branch out on her own.
As the illegitimate brother, Dempsey has always felt that he had to work extra hard to earn his place in the family. After years working his way up, he is now the head coach of his family's pro football team. A big part of his success he attributes to the work Addy has done for him. So when she announces that she is quitting and finally going on to pursue her own dreams, he panics. He can't convince her to stay until the end of the season, so he announces their "engagement" during a press conference - without her consent. Unless she wants to create a scandal, she's stuck for the near future.
Addy has long had a dream of using her art degree and ability to create a line of sports accessories for women. She has been working on her business plan and is ready to go for it. She has been telling Dempsey her plans for weeks, but he has been completely ignoring her. She stunned when he once again ignores her and instead uses a fake engagement to keep her tied to him. Because she has spent her life trying to make him happy, she agrees to go along for a short time, but insists that she will end it in one month.
Addy has always had feelings for Dempsey, but knows nothing will come of them. Dempsey, on the other hand is pretty clueless. He dates empty headed women for short periods, with definite requirements of what he will and will not allow. While they had a great friendship when they were younger, after separating he became driven to succeed. Even after he hired Addy, his focus was on business and he didn't really treat her as the friend she was. Her plans to leave make him realize how much he depends on her, but he doesn't see how much deeper his feelings really are.
The development of the romance was interesting. Dempsey's reasons for his actions were totally selfish. It was fun to see him suddenly realize that Addy is a beautiful woman and that he is attracted to her. Still in his "all about me" mode, he decides that his next step is to get her into his bed. I thought that Addy had a lot more going for her. She has worked hard to get where she is, refusing to even consider letting Dempsey give her what she needs to start her business. She's always wanted him, but seeing the way he treats his women, prefers to keep their friendship intact. I loved seeing her call him out on his selfishness and how he slowly begins to see things from her point of view. The attraction between them is strong, and Addy has to decide if she wants to take what she can get from their fake relationship, knowing that she's likely to have her heart broken in the end. Meanwhile, Dempsey discovers that Addy is far different than the women that he's usually with, and he doesn't quite know how to deal with the way that makes him feel. By the time he figures it out, he's nearly destroyed their friendship. It was pretty sweet to see him find and embrace his inner romantic, as he tries to convince her to stay with him. I loved the ending and seeing him finally open his heart to her.
I liked seeing more of the other brothers also. They have a good, respectful relationship with each other, even if it isn't the touchy-feely sort. I liked seeing the changes in the oldest brother, Gervaise, since he fell in love in the first book, His Pregnant Princess Bride. Thanks to those changes, he is able to give Dempsey some much needed advice, though not without some good brotherly ridicule. I also liked their concern for their grandfather and his increasing memory problems.
As the illegitimate brother, Dempsey has always felt that he had to work extra hard to earn his place in the family. After years working his way up, he is now the head coach of his family's pro football team. A big part of his success he attributes to the work Addy has done for him. So when she announces that she is quitting and finally going on to pursue her own dreams, he panics. He can't convince her to stay until the end of the season, so he announces their "engagement" during a press conference - without her consent. Unless she wants to create a scandal, she's stuck for the near future.
Addy has long had a dream of using her art degree and ability to create a line of sports accessories for women. She has been working on her business plan and is ready to go for it. She has been telling Dempsey her plans for weeks, but he has been completely ignoring her. She stunned when he once again ignores her and instead uses a fake engagement to keep her tied to him. Because she has spent her life trying to make him happy, she agrees to go along for a short time, but insists that she will end it in one month.
Addy has always had feelings for Dempsey, but knows nothing will come of them. Dempsey, on the other hand is pretty clueless. He dates empty headed women for short periods, with definite requirements of what he will and will not allow. While they had a great friendship when they were younger, after separating he became driven to succeed. Even after he hired Addy, his focus was on business and he didn't really treat her as the friend she was. Her plans to leave make him realize how much he depends on her, but he doesn't see how much deeper his feelings really are.
The development of the romance was interesting. Dempsey's reasons for his actions were totally selfish. It was fun to see him suddenly realize that Addy is a beautiful woman and that he is attracted to her. Still in his "all about me" mode, he decides that his next step is to get her into his bed. I thought that Addy had a lot more going for her. She has worked hard to get where she is, refusing to even consider letting Dempsey give her what she needs to start her business. She's always wanted him, but seeing the way he treats his women, prefers to keep their friendship intact. I loved seeing her call him out on his selfishness and how he slowly begins to see things from her point of view. The attraction between them is strong, and Addy has to decide if she wants to take what she can get from their fake relationship, knowing that she's likely to have her heart broken in the end. Meanwhile, Dempsey discovers that Addy is far different than the women that he's usually with, and he doesn't quite know how to deal with the way that makes him feel. By the time he figures it out, he's nearly destroyed their friendship. It was pretty sweet to see him find and embrace his inner romantic, as he tries to convince her to stay with him. I loved the ending and seeing him finally open his heart to her.
I liked seeing more of the other brothers also. They have a good, respectful relationship with each other, even if it isn't the touchy-feely sort. I liked seeing the changes in the oldest brother, Gervaise, since he fell in love in the first book, His Pregnant Princess Bride. Thanks to those changes, he is able to give Dempsey some much needed advice, though not without some good brotherly ridicule. I also liked their concern for their grandfather and his increasing memory problems.
July 27, 2016
Posted on Les Romantiques - Le forum du site
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
His secretary’s surprise fiancé by Joanne Rock is the second volume in the Bayou Billionaires series which includes 4 volumes written by Joanne Rock and Catherine Mann. The other volumes are: 1- His pregnant princess bride by C. Mann, 3- Reunited with the rebel billionaire by C. Mann and 4 – Secret baby scandal by J. Rock.
The series features the Reynaud brothers, who all are part of the football world, but with different activities for each main character.
Joanne Rock is translated in French in several lines at Harlequin: Les historiques, Passions and Audace. This series isn’t translated.
His secretary’s surprise fiancé features Dempsey Reynaud and Adelaide Thibodeaux. They’ve known each other since they were young, when the hero didn’t know his origins. In fact, Dempsey is part of a rich family, and when his father came to take him back, Dempsey and Adelaide stayed in contact, but the link was different, each being in his/her world. For some time Adelaide has been working for our hero, who’s a coach, while waiting to be able to pursue her own goal.
She had feelings for him when she was younger but put them aside. And seeing the hero’s behavior, these feelings were reciprocal but he hid them from the start, preferring favoring their friendship.
Our hero has a behavior that didn’t often please me: he takes decisions concerning our heroine, without consulting her (the engagement announcement), but also for his own personal gains (she wanted to begin her own career and he didn’t want to see her go). On the other side, I understand that unconsciously he wishes to keep her near him, but he doesn’t do a lot to support her.
To explain my rather high rating of the book, I really liked the heroine. She’s determined in her projects, all the while being loyal to her friend, which explains why she accepts to go along with this false engagement. She’s always been more or less in love with him, but she didn’t wait for him either, and when the story begins, the attraction is there but not the love feelings. It’s as the novel goes that our heroes realize their real feelings. That’s also what will make Dempsey evolve.
The love scenes are well described and intense.
The football world is very important in the novel, and the secondary characters are quite present. I really liked them. However, I don’t know if I want to read the other volumes, which still seem interesting, but not to the point where I pounce on them. In any case, the next volume features Henri and we know the plot of his story in His secretary’s surprise fiancé.
In any case, I had a good reading time with this novel.
Reviewed by Fabiola
Review Copy from the Publisher
His secretary’s surprise fiancé by Joanne Rock is the second volume in the Bayou Billionaires series which includes 4 volumes written by Joanne Rock and Catherine Mann. The other volumes are: 1- His pregnant princess bride by C. Mann, 3- Reunited with the rebel billionaire by C. Mann and 4 – Secret baby scandal by J. Rock.
The series features the Reynaud brothers, who all are part of the football world, but with different activities for each main character.
Joanne Rock is translated in French in several lines at Harlequin: Les historiques, Passions and Audace. This series isn’t translated.
His secretary’s surprise fiancé features Dempsey Reynaud and Adelaide Thibodeaux. They’ve known each other since they were young, when the hero didn’t know his origins. In fact, Dempsey is part of a rich family, and when his father came to take him back, Dempsey and Adelaide stayed in contact, but the link was different, each being in his/her world. For some time Adelaide has been working for our hero, who’s a coach, while waiting to be able to pursue her own goal.
She had feelings for him when she was younger but put them aside. And seeing the hero’s behavior, these feelings were reciprocal but he hid them from the start, preferring favoring their friendship.
Our hero has a behavior that didn’t often please me: he takes decisions concerning our heroine, without consulting her (the engagement announcement), but also for his own personal gains (she wanted to begin her own career and he didn’t want to see her go). On the other side, I understand that unconsciously he wishes to keep her near him, but he doesn’t do a lot to support her.
To explain my rather high rating of the book, I really liked the heroine. She’s determined in her projects, all the while being loyal to her friend, which explains why she accepts to go along with this false engagement. She’s always been more or less in love with him, but she didn’t wait for him either, and when the story begins, the attraction is there but not the love feelings. It’s as the novel goes that our heroes realize their real feelings. That’s also what will make Dempsey evolve.
The love scenes are well described and intense.
The football world is very important in the novel, and the secondary characters are quite present. I really liked them. However, I don’t know if I want to read the other volumes, which still seem interesting, but not to the point where I pounce on them. In any case, the next volume features Henri and we know the plot of his story in His secretary’s surprise fiancé.
In any case, I had a good reading time with this novel.
August 18, 2017
When I first heard about this series that Mrs. Rock and Mrs. Mann were working on together I got super excited and couldn't wait to read about these four brothers. Than after reading His Pregnant Princess Bride which followed Gervais and Erika, I got even more excited for this series and couldn't wait to dive into Dempsey's book. But unfortunately that's about where my excitement ends.
I'm going to try and be negative or upset anyone. But I was just frustrated and dissapointed in both Dempsey's and Adelaide's characters throughout the whole book.
I have to say I feel in love with Dempsey's character in the first book. I even really felt for him since he felt like the black sheep of the family. I couldn't wait to get to know him better. In a way we did get to know him better. But in another way we really didn't. It was obvious throughout the whole book how much he wanted to prove himself in this book. Prove to the world even though he was the illegeniment child, that he was a Reynaud. Prove to his brothers that he was family. You could tell how much he cared about his brothers and grandfather.
I had a really hard time with Adelaide's character. She frustrated me to no end. I just didn't connect with her character at all. And at times found her to be whiney and a bit self absorbed.
I thought this book was a good read. I did find that it seemed the characters became a bit repetitive. There also wasn't as much family interaction until the very last couple of chapters when the book seemed to finally pick up.
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars out of 5. Now on to the next one!!!
***I received an arc of this book from tasty book tours for my honest review***
I'm going to try and be negative or upset anyone. But I was just frustrated and dissapointed in both Dempsey's and Adelaide's characters throughout the whole book.
I have to say I feel in love with Dempsey's character in the first book. I even really felt for him since he felt like the black sheep of the family. I couldn't wait to get to know him better. In a way we did get to know him better. But in another way we really didn't. It was obvious throughout the whole book how much he wanted to prove himself in this book. Prove to the world even though he was the illegeniment child, that he was a Reynaud. Prove to his brothers that he was family. You could tell how much he cared about his brothers and grandfather.
I had a really hard time with Adelaide's character. She frustrated me to no end. I just didn't connect with her character at all. And at times found her to be whiney and a bit self absorbed.
I thought this book was a good read. I did find that it seemed the characters became a bit repetitive. There also wasn't as much family interaction until the very last couple of chapters when the book seemed to finally pick up.
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars out of 5. Now on to the next one!!!
***I received an arc of this book from tasty book tours for my honest review***
March 2, 2016
I really, really wanted to read Dempsey and Addy's story after reading book one in the series,
His Pregnant Princess Bride
, so I was very excited to get my hands on this one. I won't go as far as to say I was disappointed, but while I did like it, I didn't love it.
On the one hand, it was a sweet best-childhood-friends-to-romance story. Addy and Dempsey have know each other since they were both in the single digits, and Addy's been starry-eyed over him for nearly that long. They had some considerable chemistry going on, and clearly felt things for each other that they were reluctant to admit and/or give voice to. And ho boy, can Dempsey bring on the woo once he puts his mind to it.
On the other hand, it was hard to get a handle on Dempsey's character. Even though we saw roughly half the book from his POV, I just never felt like I really knew him. I guess that's probably my biggest issue with the story--a lack of connection with the hero. He had all kinds of things going for him, but something was missing.
Addy made things easier. Who can't identify with the longtime crush who just never seems to really "see" you? I felt for her when she could no longer enjoy chocolate (for Dempsey-related reasons, gosh darn that man!) and cheered for her when she finally got her man in the end.
Two more brothers to go--bring them on!
Rating: 3.5 stars / B-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
On the one hand, it was a sweet best-childhood-friends-to-romance story. Addy and Dempsey have know each other since they were both in the single digits, and Addy's been starry-eyed over him for nearly that long. They had some considerable chemistry going on, and clearly felt things for each other that they were reluctant to admit and/or give voice to. And ho boy, can Dempsey bring on the woo once he puts his mind to it.
On the other hand, it was hard to get a handle on Dempsey's character. Even though we saw roughly half the book from his POV, I just never felt like I really knew him. I guess that's probably my biggest issue with the story--a lack of connection with the hero. He had all kinds of things going for him, but something was missing.
Addy made things easier. Who can't identify with the longtime crush who just never seems to really "see" you? I felt for her when she could no longer enjoy chocolate (for Dempsey-related reasons, gosh darn that man!) and cheered for her when she finally got her man in the end.
Two more brothers to go--bring them on!
Rating: 3.5 stars / B-
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2016
My rating: DNF 30%
Why I couldn't keep going...
I received this arcon Netgalley in exchange for an honest review so I'll be quite frank when I tell you that this plot is just far too unbelievable. It lacks realism. It's filled with idiotic stubborn characters and I just had to skim the last 100 pages or so because I kept rolling my eyes too hard. Let's start with the one factor in the story that pissed me off so much that I had to take a moment and just process what I just read. Adelaide, a hardworking and ambitious individual, wants to start her own business up but her boss, Dempsey, freaks out that she's leaving her position. Hearing the news right before a very public announcement to the press, Dempsey tells the whole world that Adelaide is his fiance. Therefore, Adelaide can't leave Dempsey.
I'M SORRY BUT JUST NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Dempsey is selfish and cocky and just plain NO. It's not hot or sexy to have someone ruin your plans at creating a business you've dreamed of. And I know that because I didn't finish this book, there could have been a chance for Dempsey to redeem himself as a human being but the idea is just lame. I don't want to read about two people who have to put on a charade when Adelaide should straight up tell everyone the truth that Dempsey is a freaking psychopathic liar.
I highly suggest to skip but if you do read this, let me know if it gets better.
Check out my blog on wordpress for more reviews: https://remarkablylisa.wordpress.com
Why I couldn't keep going...
I received this arcon Netgalley in exchange for an honest review so I'll be quite frank when I tell you that this plot is just far too unbelievable. It lacks realism. It's filled with idiotic stubborn characters and I just had to skim the last 100 pages or so because I kept rolling my eyes too hard. Let's start with the one factor in the story that pissed me off so much that I had to take a moment and just process what I just read. Adelaide, a hardworking and ambitious individual, wants to start her own business up but her boss, Dempsey, freaks out that she's leaving her position. Hearing the news right before a very public announcement to the press, Dempsey tells the whole world that Adelaide is his fiance. Therefore, Adelaide can't leave Dempsey.
I'M SORRY BUT JUST NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO. Dempsey is selfish and cocky and just plain NO. It's not hot or sexy to have someone ruin your plans at creating a business you've dreamed of. And I know that because I didn't finish this book, there could have been a chance for Dempsey to redeem himself as a human being but the idea is just lame. I don't want to read about two people who have to put on a charade when Adelaide should straight up tell everyone the truth that Dempsey is a freaking psychopathic liar.
I highly suggest to skip but if you do read this, let me know if it gets better.
Check out my blog on wordpress for more reviews: https://remarkablylisa.wordpress.com
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