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Foreign Exchange #1
Speaking Greek
Tess Richardson is from a family that’s all about the law. She follows the rules, and works hard for everything she has. When she gets accepted to junior year abroad and an internship at an International shipping company, she knows that doing things the right way has paid off. Then she meets Nico Stephanos and all the rules fly out the window.
Nico has always been the golden boy. Handsome, smart, and the son of a Greek billionaire, he gets what he wants, when he wants it. With a father as rich and powerful as his, he’s got the world by the balls—until the day the woman he’s falling for becomes his family’s greatest enemy. Now Nico is faced with a choice—the life he knows, or the girl he thinks he loves.
Nico has always been the golden boy. Handsome, smart, and the son of a Greek billionaire, he gets what he wants, when he wants it. With a father as rich and powerful as his, he’s got the world by the balls—until the day the woman he’s falling for becomes his family’s greatest enemy. Now Nico is faced with a choice—the life he knows, or the girl he thinks he loves.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 12, 2016
147 people are currently reading
343 people want to read
About the author
Selena Laurence
51 books910 followersRomance Author | Coffee Drinker | Breaker of Tropes | Mother of Doodles
Selena Laurence is a USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of One of a Kind Romance. She has published books in Contemporary Romance, New Adult Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Paranormal Romance. She’s also a curated contributor in non-fiction on Medium as SE Reed.
Selena lives in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with her family, her Goldendoodle, and Demon Cat. Her favorite city is Edinburgh, her favorite color is purple, and her favorite shoes are Converse.
Selena Laurence is a USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author of One of a Kind Romance. She has published books in Contemporary Romance, New Adult Romance, Romantic Suspense, and Paranormal Romance. She’s also a curated contributor in non-fiction on Medium as SE Reed.
Selena lives in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado with her family, her Goldendoodle, and Demon Cat. Her favorite city is Edinburgh, her favorite color is purple, and her favorite shoes are Converse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 20, 2016
3.5 stars!
I was excited when the author approached me with an ARC for this book. I loved her Lush series (particularly Lush Betrayal) and from the sound of the blurb alone, this book is right up alley. So while I didn't loved this one outright, I enjoyed it very much and I thought the internal and external conflict was fleshed out and well written.
Tess Richardson is an American student spending her internship year in Greece at one of the biggest shipping companies in the world. The moment she arrives, she meet Nico Staphanos, the gorgeous heir to the company Tess will be working at. The conflict between Tess, who grew up following the rules and Nico, who appeared to be entitled was evident and it wasn't until they spent time together that their ideas about each other changed.
Speaking Greek started off slow for me. The romance between the two seemed like a foregone conclusion and I felt like there's really nothing major that's going to derail the romance between Nico and Tess. It wasn't until about 30% when clues start popping up and I realized that things aren't what they seem and the repercussions will have major impact on Nico and Tess' romance. It kept me glued to the story because it was written in a way that you know there's something bad going on but you don't know who's involved and most of all, you're waiting for that shoe to drop on Tess and Nico.
That said, the romance between Nico and Tess was just okay for me. Don't get me wrong. I liked their characters. Tess is definitely a strong female character and Nico showed how sensitive and willing he is to prove his feelings to Tess. But it never reached that epic level of swoon that I crave. But overall, I liked Speaking Greek. The suspense aspect is what saved the book for me because added a very needed edge to the plot.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I was excited when the author approached me with an ARC for this book. I loved her Lush series (particularly Lush Betrayal) and from the sound of the blurb alone, this book is right up alley. So while I didn't loved this one outright, I enjoyed it very much and I thought the internal and external conflict was fleshed out and well written.
Tess Richardson is an American student spending her internship year in Greece at one of the biggest shipping companies in the world. The moment she arrives, she meet Nico Staphanos, the gorgeous heir to the company Tess will be working at. The conflict between Tess, who grew up following the rules and Nico, who appeared to be entitled was evident and it wasn't until they spent time together that their ideas about each other changed.
Speaking Greek started off slow for me. The romance between the two seemed like a foregone conclusion and I felt like there's really nothing major that's going to derail the romance between Nico and Tess. It wasn't until about 30% when clues start popping up and I realized that things aren't what they seem and the repercussions will have major impact on Nico and Tess' romance. It kept me glued to the story because it was written in a way that you know there's something bad going on but you don't know who's involved and most of all, you're waiting for that shoe to drop on Tess and Nico.
That said, the romance between Nico and Tess was just okay for me. Don't get me wrong. I liked their characters. Tess is definitely a strong female character and Nico showed how sensitive and willing he is to prove his feelings to Tess. But it never reached that epic level of swoon that I crave. But overall, I liked Speaking Greek. The suspense aspect is what saved the book for me because added a very needed edge to the plot.
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 22, 2016
4 stars!!!
ARC kindly provided by Broad Universe via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Tess, an exchange student who loves to follow rules and laws and Niko, her boss.
This is a fun story to read! There was seduction, romance, love, secrets, suspense and rules! The writing is uncomplicated and the plot is moving in a good tempo. The book is written from a dual POV changing in each chapter and it is nicely done.
Tess is an American student who has worked hard to achieve her goals. She has a clear view on what her future should be and she loves to follow rules and laws. I like Tess. She is making sense to me and she is honest and hard-working.
Niko is a Greek rich boy who becomes a man during this book. I like him too. He knows he has everything is life but he tries to work for them. He doesn't take anything for granted.
The end of the story was also really nice! There was suspense and trouble and action! Actually it was the best possible end of this story and I liked it!
ARC kindly provided by Broad Universe via Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
This is the story of Tess, an exchange student who loves to follow rules and laws and Niko, her boss.
This is a fun story to read! There was seduction, romance, love, secrets, suspense and rules! The writing is uncomplicated and the plot is moving in a good tempo. The book is written from a dual POV changing in each chapter and it is nicely done.
Tess is an American student who has worked hard to achieve her goals. She has a clear view on what her future should be and she loves to follow rules and laws. I like Tess. She is making sense to me and she is honest and hard-working.
Niko is a Greek rich boy who becomes a man during this book. I like him too. He knows he has everything is life but he tries to work for them. He doesn't take anything for granted.
The end of the story was also really nice! There was suspense and trouble and action! Actually it was the best possible end of this story and I liked it!
February 6, 2016
Speaking Greek is the first book I've read by Selena Laurence and it will most definitely not be my last! I was pleasantly surprised with the twists and turns that this book went down. It held surprises at almost every turn. From start to finish, it quickly held my attention and pulled me deeper into its grasp.
I REALLY enjoyed the juxtaposition of the two main characters, Tess and Nico. They were absolute polar opposites and it was interesting to see how (and if) they would meet somewhere in the middle. Tess is this staunch rule-follower and Nico most definitely is not. Nico would rather make and break some rules than even learn what rules were already set in place. This constant good/evil battle made the novel quite interesting and most definitely aided in the fact that I couldn't put Speaking Greek down.
The novel itself was ... interesting ... you're thrown into the lives of this prominent Greek family and I found myself almost as floored as Tess was at the way that Nico behaves. Tess had a lot of spunk and sass and man, did she stick to her guns. She's that immovable rock ... the one whose convictions are so strong that you're not sure if you should envy them or feel sorry for them. I really enjoyed her as a character. Nico, I didn't have as strong of feelings towards. He's a cool character and I liked him but there wasn't that magnetic draw that brought me to love him.
Like I said, lots of twists and turns and characters that you'll enjoy. There was only one thing that I just didn't like about the book. It's a small thing but I just didn't get the significance of it to the story. At the beginning of each chapter, you see notes either from Tess or other foreign exchange students that they post in a chat room. I'll be honest, if that is totally taken out of the book, it wouldn't hurt it in the least. I found that it sometimes detracted from the story because what was going on in the actual chapter most of the time had nothing to do with what was written at the beginning in the little chat message and it was a little confusing. I was never sure if the message would be something that pertained to the chapter I was getting ready to read or not but most of the time, it didn't. Personally, I could have just done with out it.
I've already put some more books by Selena Laurence on my To Read list and I hope that I'm able to get to them soon. She creates some interesting characters and the story was pretty entertaining.
* I received this novel in exchange for an honest review *
Check out more of my reviews at Little Miss Bookmark!
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March 5, 2017Okay, I'll make this short.
The story was executed well, but you really have to step outside of reality to buy into the conflict resolution. I know this is fiction so it's okay to wrap things up all nice and neat but sometimes, the wrapping shouldn't be so neat ... if you feel me. I'd give you details but then why would you read the book :)
Loved the romance. It was a sweet build-up from insta-attraction that allows you to believe in their love and root for their journey.
Overall, well done :)
The story was executed well, but you really have to step outside of reality to buy into the conflict resolution. I know this is fiction so it's okay to wrap things up all nice and neat but sometimes, the wrapping shouldn't be so neat ... if you feel me. I'd give you details but then why would you read the book :)
Loved the romance. It was a sweet build-up from insta-attraction that allows you to believe in their love and root for their journey.
Overall, well done :)
January 12, 2016
Selena once again writes such beautiful and captivating story! From page one she pulls you into to the life of her characters and makes so that you never want to leave.
Tess is a plays by the rules kind of gal. The way she's sees it, rules were made for a reason, so it's only right that you follow them. However when she lands in the little town of Georgios, Greece, her beliefs are tested to their limits. See there's this drop dead gorgeous Greek man who, though he irritates the crap out of her, also makes her want to break all the rules.
Niko....... If I have to go to a foreign land to find a man like him, I'm going to hurry and run to my computer and book my flight! Seriously, this man is every woman's wet dream come to life. Then the things that come out of his mouth! Talk about swoon worthy! What I love most about Niko is that he truly is a genuine person, and tries to make everyone around him happy.
“I’m falling for you so hard it feels like I’m drowning some days. And I’m ready to give up and let the water take me.”
That right there, this one line made my heart just melt! How can you not fall in love with a man that says such amazing things like that to you? I tell you, it's impossible!
This story has all the feels that you love to have in a book! You laugh and cry with these characters, and you're on the edge of your seat when their future is unknown. If you're looking for an amazing book to get sucked into, THIS is the book for you! Seriously, you did it again Selena! I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next!
**ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review**
Tess is a plays by the rules kind of gal. The way she's sees it, rules were made for a reason, so it's only right that you follow them. However when she lands in the little town of Georgios, Greece, her beliefs are tested to their limits. See there's this drop dead gorgeous Greek man who, though he irritates the crap out of her, also makes her want to break all the rules.
Niko....... If I have to go to a foreign land to find a man like him, I'm going to hurry and run to my computer and book my flight! Seriously, this man is every woman's wet dream come to life. Then the things that come out of his mouth! Talk about swoon worthy! What I love most about Niko is that he truly is a genuine person, and tries to make everyone around him happy.
“I’m falling for you so hard it feels like I’m drowning some days. And I’m ready to give up and let the water take me.”
That right there, this one line made my heart just melt! How can you not fall in love with a man that says such amazing things like that to you? I tell you, it's impossible!
This story has all the feels that you love to have in a book! You laugh and cry with these characters, and you're on the edge of your seat when their future is unknown. If you're looking for an amazing book to get sucked into, THIS is the book for you! Seriously, you did it again Selena! I can't wait to see what you have in store for us next!
**ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review**
August 9, 2019
This book is a reprint and was also titled Speaking Greek. This book starts off with Tessa heading over to the Greek islands to do an internship with a major Greek shipping company and working in the financial department. Tess is all about the rules which come from her family that consist of a DA, Police and FBI agents. Rules are very important to her and following the law. When she arrives, she bumps into Nico on the pier and they have a brief interaction. Days later, Nico can't get Tess out of his head and then imagine his surprise when she turns up to his empire that he is currently CEO of. Despite her turning him down, he continues to try his luck and eventually wears down Tess and she agrees to go on a date with him. During this time, Nico will also get Tess to help him act "normal" and not just another rich trust fund kid who has everything handed to him on a platter. During this time, Tess discovers some financial discrepancies and brings them to Nico's cousin Christos who acts very suspicious. From then on, The Heir turns into a bit of romantic suspense as of course, the company has been doing some shady business on the side which Christos has been taking care of and shielding it from Nico as he has always been the "good one", the one "above the line". When Christos ends up half-dead and Tess finds out, it is up to Nico to do the one thing he knows is right to save not only his family but also his relationship with the girl he loves - Tess. The Heir was a good mix of romance and suspense.
February 10, 2016
Tess was ready for an adventure but she wouldn't be going overly crazy... After all, she's a rule follower due to her upbringing. But, little did she realize, one man would help he unwind and live life out loud!
Oh, my greekness, Niko! Not only was he Tess's new boss but the man for the job in helping her live life fully! He's being groomed to take over the family company yet Niko doesn't realize someone within the family might cost him the business...
As Tess works with Niko, she's coming across issues that seem to be pushed under the rug and then "disappear". I thought at that moment, Oh, I know who did it!, but little did I know I was far off from the real culprit!
Now, as for the chemistry between Tess and Niko, it was HOT and so deliciously naughty! Niko isn't ready for anything serious or is he? Can he truly see himself with Tess, a rule follower, especially when his family is getting to be on the wrong side of the law?
I have to say, Tess and Niko's love story had me laughing, sighing and wanting to smack some sense into both of them many times! But the ending... Oh. My. Goodness! ~ Kara, 4.5 stars
Oh, my greekness, Niko! Not only was he Tess's new boss but the man for the job in helping her live life fully! He's being groomed to take over the family company yet Niko doesn't realize someone within the family might cost him the business...
As Tess works with Niko, she's coming across issues that seem to be pushed under the rug and then "disappear". I thought at that moment, Oh, I know who did it!, but little did I know I was far off from the real culprit!
Now, as for the chemistry between Tess and Niko, it was HOT and so deliciously naughty! Niko isn't ready for anything serious or is he? Can he truly see himself with Tess, a rule follower, especially when his family is getting to be on the wrong side of the law?
I have to say, Tess and Niko's love story had me laughing, sighing and wanting to smack some sense into both of them many times! But the ending... Oh. My. Goodness! ~ Kara, 4.5 stars
January 8, 2016
I absolutely LOVED this book. No, let me correct that--I DEVOURED this book. It is definitely my favorite of Laurence's (so far). Niko is my favorite kind of hero--strong and sexy but also sensitive, caring, and loyal, and Tess is the perfect person to being out all the best qualities in him. I enjoyed "spending time" in Greece and I thought the message board conversations at the beginning of each chapter were a nice touch. What I love about reading Laurence's books is that you always know you're in good hands. The story is always clean, there is never a dull moment, and I laugh with every turn of the page (that is, if I'm not crying).
And now I shall commence the book hangover.
And now I shall commence the book hangover.
November 7, 2017
I love how this turned out even though I got annoyed at Niko who’s your typical spoilt brat rich boy. Surprisingly, it has a good story line and I feel like some billonaires and their secretaries or interns or whatever stories are starting to be overrated for me, but this one had me realising that I love do love those Greek hot guys lol and Tess was actually a good MC.
February 6, 2016
ARC kindly provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
3,5^^^^ stars from me
A fun and suspense romance story!! I think that sentence can perfectly describe this book, it was very enjoyable reading those two characters which i was very fond of but the story didn't reach the level i was expecting to read.
Tessa's life is build based on laws and when she gets accepted to junior year abroad and an internship at an International shipping company and meets Nico the sexy Alpha and the son of a Greek billionaire laws will be "violated"....
I have to say it's a different and unique story and i'm very glad about it because at the beginning i thought that "Ok a billionaire and a foreign girl as an employee..." but it's a totally different situation that is the reason why i had much higher hopes about it. Furthermore i loved the characters and the suspense was really one of the highlights in the book.
"Rules need to be followed, but they need to be understood too."
January 4, 2016
I was so fortunate to win an ARC of Speaking Greek from Selena Laurence. Tess is an American student who is chosen to study and intern on the beautiful Greek island of Georgios. Tess lives by the rules and is very disciplined. Niko is a gorgeous, undisciplined, billionaire heir to a Greek shipping dynasty. Neither one is prepared for the attraction and sparks that explode on impact when they first meet! When Tess discovers that Niko is her boss, she tries to do the "right thing" and fight her attraction to Niko, Niko discovers ways to win Tess. Unfortunately for Tess and Niko forces unknown to them threaten any chances for a future together.
Speaking Greek is a wonderfully written story that held my interest from start to finish. I felt every emotion from laughing to swooning! I highly recommend Speaking Greek!
Speaking Greek is a wonderfully written story that held my interest from start to finish. I felt every emotion from laughing to swooning! I highly recommend Speaking Greek!
January 13, 2016
There are so many billionaire meets regular girl stories out there, it's hard to find an original story.
Author Selena Laurence nailed it.
With the beautiful backdrop of Greece and an international shipping company, this flawlessly written story unfolds about a young man who wants something more than entitlement and a girl who can't compromise her ethics even when a prince steals her heart.
One thing I love about this authors characters is even though they are young, their integrity is as important as their passion. I loved Niko and his deliberate lack of arrogance and Tess's love of normalcy had me from the beginning. This sweet, sexy, love story also takes a serious look at the fragile dynamics that can keep some families together and rip others apart.
I can't wait for more in this series, highly recommend.
Author Selena Laurence nailed it.
With the beautiful backdrop of Greece and an international shipping company, this flawlessly written story unfolds about a young man who wants something more than entitlement and a girl who can't compromise her ethics even when a prince steals her heart.
One thing I love about this authors characters is even though they are young, their integrity is as important as their passion. I loved Niko and his deliberate lack of arrogance and Tess's love of normalcy had me from the beginning. This sweet, sexy, love story also takes a serious look at the fragile dynamics that can keep some families together and rip others apart.
I can't wait for more in this series, highly recommend.
February 15, 2016
3.5 Stars Review to follow
*An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review.
*An ARC was provided by the author for an honest review.
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March 30, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/30/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Tess Richardson is from a family that’s all about the law. She follows the rules, and works hard for everything she has. When she gets accepted to junior year abroad and an internship at an International shipping company, she knows that doing things the right way has paid off. Then she meets Nico Stephanos and all the rules fly out the window.
Nico has always been the golden boy. Handsome, smart, and the son of a Greek billionaire, he gets what he wants, when he wants it. With a father as rich and powerful as his, he’s got the world by the balls—until the day the woman he’s falling for becomes his family’s greatest enemy. Now Nico is faced with a choice—the life he knows, or the girl he thinks he loves.
Blurb:
Tess Richardson is from a family that’s all about the law. She follows the rules, and works hard for everything she has. When she gets accepted to junior year abroad and an internship at an International shipping company, she knows that doing things the right way has paid off. Then she meets Nico Stephanos and all the rules fly out the window.
Nico has always been the golden boy. Handsome, smart, and the son of a Greek billionaire, he gets what he wants, when he wants it. With a father as rich and powerful as his, he’s got the world by the balls—until the day the woman he’s falling for becomes his family’s greatest enemy. Now Nico is faced with a choice—the life he knows, or the girl he thinks he loves.
January 6, 2016
Review by Lisa Kane
Tess Richardson is about to start her internship on the island of Georgios, Greece. She's earning her degree for forensic accounting. Her whole family is in law enforcement-her dad is a district attorney and her brother is an FBI agent. If Tess is anything, she's a follower of the rules. Greece and it's relaxed view of living life will be a culture shock to her. While debarking from the ferry, she's knocked off balance and almost ends up kissing the concrete. A gorgeous guy comes to her rescue but sparks fly and they have a little altercation. Her new roommate Cass is there to meet her and lets her know her rescuer is Nikos Stephanos, the heir to the Stephanos shipping empire. Great, just great. That's who she is going to be interning for-things are about to get interesting!
Nikos Stephanos is bored with his life. He knows he should be grateful for his wealth and all it brings with it-money, cars, a great job and women. But he is restless and wants to break out from the company. His meeting with the feisty Tess stirred a longing in him to be confidant and sure in what he wants.
I'm destined to take over. My entire life has been mapped out for me since the day I was born, but I'm not sure it's the life I actually want.
So for now, he and his cousin, Christos are at the helm of the company.
Working so closely together just makes it that much harder to deny the attraction between them. Once they give in to feelings, they are forced to hide what is going on between them. For some reason, Christos and Ari Stephanos, Nikos' father are not fans of Tess. Nikos doesn't care-he wants her despite their objections. He makes that plain and simple to her.
"Let me make it simple for you," he says. "I don't want anyone else, and I don't want you with anyone else either."
Nikos feels overwhelmed. He is beginning to pick up vibes from his father and Christos. Things he can't put his finger on, but are nagging at him. This is the worst time for this to be happening. He's finally found the girl who he thinks might be "it" for him, and he doesn't want anything ruining it for them.
Because I've waited my whole life for this-for her. For something that I chose. Something that I will have to work for, every day. Something that is all mine.
Along with the complications of them being involved, there are some strange things going on. Invoices that Tess is auditing just aren't adding up. Christos is attacked but his story about what happened is a little off. Tess can't help but notice that there's something going on at the company. When she finds out what it is she is caught between doing what she knows is right versus going against all she believes in, and turning a blind eye. What happens when you have no other choice but to hurt the ones you love?
"I would do anything for you, break any rule. Please don't lead me into something that ruins me."
Nikos and Tess are both in an impossible situation. The things they hold sacred are going to tear them apart and what is worst-they will be the ones to break the other's heart. Life is throwing them so many obstacles, roadblocks that few couple could ever overcome.
"I think the way you know that you've found your one is when you realize that you are the best version of yourself when you're with him."
Tess Richardson is about to start her internship on the island of Georgios, Greece. She's earning her degree for forensic accounting. Her whole family is in law enforcement-her dad is a district attorney and her brother is an FBI agent. If Tess is anything, she's a follower of the rules. Greece and it's relaxed view of living life will be a culture shock to her. While debarking from the ferry, she's knocked off balance and almost ends up kissing the concrete. A gorgeous guy comes to her rescue but sparks fly and they have a little altercation. Her new roommate Cass is there to meet her and lets her know her rescuer is Nikos Stephanos, the heir to the Stephanos shipping empire. Great, just great. That's who she is going to be interning for-things are about to get interesting!
Nikos Stephanos is bored with his life. He knows he should be grateful for his wealth and all it brings with it-money, cars, a great job and women. But he is restless and wants to break out from the company. His meeting with the feisty Tess stirred a longing in him to be confidant and sure in what he wants.
I'm destined to take over. My entire life has been mapped out for me since the day I was born, but I'm not sure it's the life I actually want.
So for now, he and his cousin, Christos are at the helm of the company.
Working so closely together just makes it that much harder to deny the attraction between them. Once they give in to feelings, they are forced to hide what is going on between them. For some reason, Christos and Ari Stephanos, Nikos' father are not fans of Tess. Nikos doesn't care-he wants her despite their objections. He makes that plain and simple to her.
"Let me make it simple for you," he says. "I don't want anyone else, and I don't want you with anyone else either."
Nikos feels overwhelmed. He is beginning to pick up vibes from his father and Christos. Things he can't put his finger on, but are nagging at him. This is the worst time for this to be happening. He's finally found the girl who he thinks might be "it" for him, and he doesn't want anything ruining it for them.
Because I've waited my whole life for this-for her. For something that I chose. Something that I will have to work for, every day. Something that is all mine.
Along with the complications of them being involved, there are some strange things going on. Invoices that Tess is auditing just aren't adding up. Christos is attacked but his story about what happened is a little off. Tess can't help but notice that there's something going on at the company. When she finds out what it is she is caught between doing what she knows is right versus going against all she believes in, and turning a blind eye. What happens when you have no other choice but to hurt the ones you love?
"I would do anything for you, break any rule. Please don't lead me into something that ruins me."
Nikos and Tess are both in an impossible situation. The things they hold sacred are going to tear them apart and what is worst-they will be the ones to break the other's heart. Life is throwing them so many obstacles, roadblocks that few couple could ever overcome.
"I think the way you know that you've found your one is when you realize that you are the best version of yourself when you're with him."
March 22, 2016
***4.5 Stars
Speaking Greek is the first book in the Foreign Exchange Series, it's also the first book I have read by Selena and it most certainly won't be my last.
Tess is a 21-year Forensic accounting major and was accepted into the foreign exchange program for her junior year in college. She is heading to Greece for a year and interning for Stephanos Shipping in the accounting department. She is excited for the adventure but also nervous since she doesn't know a soul or the language. Before she even steps off the dock in Georgios she is saved from pain and embarrassment by a sexy stranger. She doesn't even get his name but she will soon see him again...as her new boss that happens to be a twenty-four year old billionaire heir. Niko Stephanos. A prince in this part of the world. One that doesn't follow the rules. Can he make her break hers as well?
Tess follows the rules. All of them. She comes from a law-enforcement family. The rules are different in Greece, in business and otherwise. The first rule of her own that she wants to break is to be with Niko. She felt their connection instantly but the way he lives is very different than the way she lives. Lately, he has been thinking about his life, he has everything he could ever want but he is bored. He is missing something, and soon he will discover that it was Tess all along. She shows him how "normal people" live, he wants her to help him become a better man in business and in his personal life. To do this he needs to understand first that her internship means too much to her to give up if they become more than friends. That is why her rule is in place but then again rules are made to be broken...
Family means everything to the Stephanos family so when Niko's best friend/cousin Christos starts to show Niko his darker side, he is confused and hurt. There is something going on with him that Niko can't figure out. Christos is not acting like the man he has grown up with for the last twenty-four years and when Tess enters the equation, it gets even worse. He is hiding something and both Niko and Tess will not stop until they find out what it is. Will it tear the family apart? Will Niko have to choose between his family and Tess in the end?
I was intrigued with Niko and Tess from the start. They didn't start out on the right foot but deep down she knew there was more to Niko then she original thought. And Niko never cared that Tess was different than the girls he was usually with. That is why he wanted her so bad. She was different. She didn't treat him like a prince. She treated him like a regular guy and he loved every minute of it. Their relationship was sexy, sweet, and had its challenges. I am excited to see what happens with them next!
Quotes:
“I’m going to teach you how to break the rules, princess.”
He makes everything seem more—more colorful, more intense, more fun. Like I’ve been living a life in pastels, and he’s suddenly come and thrown a rainbow of vibrant colors over everything.
“That wasn’t the rich boy talking, that was the jealous one,” he rasps, watching my every movement like a hawk with its prey.
Speaking Greek is the first book in the Foreign Exchange Series, it's also the first book I have read by Selena and it most certainly won't be my last.
Tess is a 21-year Forensic accounting major and was accepted into the foreign exchange program for her junior year in college. She is heading to Greece for a year and interning for Stephanos Shipping in the accounting department. She is excited for the adventure but also nervous since she doesn't know a soul or the language. Before she even steps off the dock in Georgios she is saved from pain and embarrassment by a sexy stranger. She doesn't even get his name but she will soon see him again...as her new boss that happens to be a twenty-four year old billionaire heir. Niko Stephanos. A prince in this part of the world. One that doesn't follow the rules. Can he make her break hers as well?
Tess follows the rules. All of them. She comes from a law-enforcement family. The rules are different in Greece, in business and otherwise. The first rule of her own that she wants to break is to be with Niko. She felt their connection instantly but the way he lives is very different than the way she lives. Lately, he has been thinking about his life, he has everything he could ever want but he is bored. He is missing something, and soon he will discover that it was Tess all along. She shows him how "normal people" live, he wants her to help him become a better man in business and in his personal life. To do this he needs to understand first that her internship means too much to her to give up if they become more than friends. That is why her rule is in place but then again rules are made to be broken...
Family means everything to the Stephanos family so when Niko's best friend/cousin Christos starts to show Niko his darker side, he is confused and hurt. There is something going on with him that Niko can't figure out. Christos is not acting like the man he has grown up with for the last twenty-four years and when Tess enters the equation, it gets even worse. He is hiding something and both Niko and Tess will not stop until they find out what it is. Will it tear the family apart? Will Niko have to choose between his family and Tess in the end?
I was intrigued with Niko and Tess from the start. They didn't start out on the right foot but deep down she knew there was more to Niko then she original thought. And Niko never cared that Tess was different than the girls he was usually with. That is why he wanted her so bad. She was different. She didn't treat him like a prince. She treated him like a regular guy and he loved every minute of it. Their relationship was sexy, sweet, and had its challenges. I am excited to see what happens with them next!
Quotes:
“I’m going to teach you how to break the rules, princess.”
He makes everything seem more—more colorful, more intense, more fun. Like I’ve been living a life in pastels, and he’s suddenly come and thrown a rainbow of vibrant colors over everything.
“That wasn’t the rich boy talking, that was the jealous one,” he rasps, watching my every movement like a hawk with its prey.
February 3, 2016
*ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
By the books Tess takes an internship in Greece as part of her college's study abroad program. Right off the boat she's falling for the smokin' hot rich men. Until she finds out he's her boss. She's determined to play by the rules because what she's about. Rules. There's only person in this universe that she would break the rules for.
Niko's family has been very successful over the years. The people on the island of Georgios treat his family like royalty. He is the next heir to the family shipping company. Tess could jeopardize all of that and more if the get involved with each other. The red flags are everywhere, Niko just has to open his eyes.
This was quick read. Quick only because it kept me interested in what was going to happen next. I knew at the first sign that something shady was going on and I so wanted Niko to open his eyes more to what was happening in front him. It had been happening for months. He couldn't see it, but he could feel it in his relationship with Christos. I just wanted to say "hey, wake the flip up and look!" That's what kept me reading and flipping pages so fast. Oh and the fact the I was intrigued at how he was going to keep his relationship with Tess in the friend zone.
This was a great book. The dual POV was written perfectly. The only thing I thought was missing was the fact that so much happened after Tess left Greece that it would have been nice to have a chapter from Niko during some of the proceedings and what was going through his head at the time. I think towards the end of this book, it would have been ok to sneak in a chapter or two from Christos, Ari or Nate's POVs as well. Just to get a better feel for what exactly Tess stumbled upon. This book was still great without those POVs.
By the books Tess takes an internship in Greece as part of her college's study abroad program. Right off the boat she's falling for the smokin' hot rich men. Until she finds out he's her boss. She's determined to play by the rules because what she's about. Rules. There's only person in this universe that she would break the rules for.
Niko's family has been very successful over the years. The people on the island of Georgios treat his family like royalty. He is the next heir to the family shipping company. Tess could jeopardize all of that and more if the get involved with each other. The red flags are everywhere, Niko just has to open his eyes.
This was quick read. Quick only because it kept me interested in what was going to happen next. I knew at the first sign that something shady was going on and I so wanted Niko to open his eyes more to what was happening in front him. It had been happening for months. He couldn't see it, but he could feel it in his relationship with Christos. I just wanted to say "hey, wake the flip up and look!" That's what kept me reading and flipping pages so fast. Oh and the fact the I was intrigued at how he was going to keep his relationship with Tess in the friend zone.
This was a great book. The dual POV was written perfectly. The only thing I thought was missing was the fact that so much happened after Tess left Greece that it would have been nice to have a chapter from Niko during some of the proceedings and what was going through his head at the time. I think towards the end of this book, it would have been ok to sneak in a chapter or two from Christos, Ari or Nate's POVs as well. Just to get a better feel for what exactly Tess stumbled upon. This book was still great without those POVs.
February 1, 2016
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
Speaking Greek was a fun and quick read for me. This story is told from dual points of view and follows the story of Nico and Tess. Tess finds herself in Greece to not only study abroad, but is also an intern at an international shipping company. Being in a country where you don't speak the language would be challenging to anyone, but Tess is up for the challenge. What Tess didn't plan on was Nico. You see, Tess is a very straight forward, by the book, doesn't break any rules type. But, Nico makes her question everything that she knows and makes her want to just live her life for once and break some rules! Nico has always been viewed as perfection. He is the golden child. He gets whatever he wants, when he wants it. And his new intern Tess, may prove to be his greatest challenge yet....
Overall, I really enjoyed Speaking Greek. It was a quick and easy read for me. I enjoyed the idea of the story and I LOVED the setting. It had me wishing that I could escape to a foreign country. I thought the characters were fun and intriguing.I loved the way that Tess challenged Nico. She showed him the beauty in being ordinary. And I loved the way that Nico made Tess see how fun life could be by breaking some of the rules. I did like the element of mystery and danger that surrounded parts of the story. I did however, have a pretty good idea as to what was going on with the story and the direction it was going. That being said, it still was entertaining; seeing how everything worked itself out. So, overall this was an ok read. This is my first read by this author and I would definitely be into checking out more of her books in the future.
* I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Speaking Greek was a fun and quick read for me. This story is told from dual points of view and follows the story of Nico and Tess. Tess finds herself in Greece to not only study abroad, but is also an intern at an international shipping company. Being in a country where you don't speak the language would be challenging to anyone, but Tess is up for the challenge. What Tess didn't plan on was Nico. You see, Tess is a very straight forward, by the book, doesn't break any rules type. But, Nico makes her question everything that she knows and makes her want to just live her life for once and break some rules! Nico has always been viewed as perfection. He is the golden child. He gets whatever he wants, when he wants it. And his new intern Tess, may prove to be his greatest challenge yet....
Overall, I really enjoyed Speaking Greek. It was a quick and easy read for me. I enjoyed the idea of the story and I LOVED the setting. It had me wishing that I could escape to a foreign country. I thought the characters were fun and intriguing.I loved the way that Tess challenged Nico. She showed him the beauty in being ordinary. And I loved the way that Nico made Tess see how fun life could be by breaking some of the rules. I did like the element of mystery and danger that surrounded parts of the story. I did however, have a pretty good idea as to what was going on with the story and the direction it was going. That being said, it still was entertaining; seeing how everything worked itself out. So, overall this was an ok read. This is my first read by this author and I would definitely be into checking out more of her books in the future.
* I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
April 11, 2016
This book went up and down for me. The first 40% was full of cheesy dialogue and unintentionally awkward moments that were a bit painful to read. Then it improved when the plot started moving along, but then it degenerated once again at the end. There was a lot of potential in this story that unfortunately just never came together. There were moments when the author's writing shined, they were just too few and far between to rate this any higher.
October 3, 2017
Devoured this one!
I just have to start off by saying I freaking love Niko! He is absolutely the perfect male specimen! Seriously. He is so perfect and i don't know if any other book boyfriend can top him... Like ever. So i love the friendship that Tess and Niko form to try to hide their growing attraction to each other. From their witty banter to their all out totally scorching hot moments there are just no words. The true love and absolute devotion to oneself and family and those their cherish most this story isn't just about romance but about one's best self even through all the ruin. I loved this story so much. I didnt want it to ever end!
I just have to start off by saying I freaking love Niko! He is absolutely the perfect male specimen! Seriously. He is so perfect and i don't know if any other book boyfriend can top him... Like ever. So i love the friendship that Tess and Niko form to try to hide their growing attraction to each other. From their witty banter to their all out totally scorching hot moments there are just no words. The true love and absolute devotion to oneself and family and those their cherish most this story isn't just about romance but about one's best self even through all the ruin. I loved this story so much. I didnt want it to ever end!
October 31, 2017
Really enjoyed this book. The characters are real and fun. The trajectory of the character development is well done as both Tess and Niko learn to adapt and change from their existing views of the world and their place in it. The storyline proceeds at a good pace. The crisis moment is well done as is the resolution, more proof of the changes in both main characters. There is just one part of the story that didn’t work for me and I felt was not fully developed but to avoid spoilers I can’t expand on that.
I’ve read other books by this author (the Lush series) and have enjoyed them all. Strongly recommend this book and this author.
I’ve read other books by this author (the Lush series) and have enjoyed them all. Strongly recommend this book and this author.
January 12, 2018
I'm a huge Selena Laurence fan (particularly her PowerPlay series) so I've been working through her back-catalog and I found this. It's a stand-alone novel about a very rich but sheltered man who meets a woman who's worked hard for all that she has and along the way learned about right and wrong.
It was a great plot as well as a great romance and I'm a little surprised at the low overall rating. I thought it was just the right combination of love, action, character development and plot. So I would highly recommend it.
It was a great plot as well as a great romance and I'm a little surprised at the low overall rating. I thought it was just the right combination of love, action, character development and plot. So I would highly recommend it.
January 11, 2019
I absolutely loved this book. Loved how quickly Nico seems to fall for his intern Tess. She’s a rule abiding girl, can he get her to loosen up and break some rules? Wow, from their first kiss, the are so HOT together. There’s some mystery, what’s going on with his family? They both have a difficult decision to make. No worries, there’s an awesome ending. I highly recommend this book. Loved being emotionally involved in this book.
April 27, 2019
Loved it!!!
I loved this book! Selena Laurence did a fabulous job of writing this love story. I loved Niko, from the start, who doesn't love a Greek gorgeous man? His personality and chemistry between he and Tess was perfect. The bit of suspense kept me from putting the book down. I've read several of this authors books, I have to say this one of my favorites :)
I loved this book! Selena Laurence did a fabulous job of writing this love story. I loved Niko, from the start, who doesn't love a Greek gorgeous man? His personality and chemistry between he and Tess was perfect. The bit of suspense kept me from putting the book down. I've read several of this authors books, I have to say this one of my favorites :)
May 8, 2017
I really enjoyed this read. Quick sweet read. If you're looking for something light to read, with some heart breaking moments, do pick this book up. I liked everything about it, the characters, the descriptions, the story. Looking forward to reading more of Selena Laurence's books. :)
July 10, 2017
Love Billionaire romances Selena did a great job
Tess, college student working abroad in Greece no more than gets off the boat and meets Niko. Through a series of ups and downs they stay strong and it was love at first sight.
Tess, college student working abroad in Greece no more than gets off the boat and meets Niko. Through a series of ups and downs they stay strong and it was love at first sight.
September 19, 2017
Good romantic read. Heir to Greek shipping company meets his new assistant on the dock where she is nearly knocked into the water. What happens when you find your fathers's "kingdom" is based on illegality/
October 24, 2019
Omg so good
This book was the bomb! I downloaded it before a road trip and couldn’t put it down!!!! Had romance and a ton of “mystery” that really made the book! Very different from others I’ve read! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
This book was the bomb! I downloaded it before a road trip and couldn’t put it down!!!! Had romance and a ton of “mystery” that really made the book! Very different from others I’ve read! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
February 11, 2017
Thought this book was going to be the usual young travelling girl meets rich guy blah blah blah. But it turned out to be quite a good read and I really enjoyed it.
November 19, 2018
Tantalizing
Everyone's wet dream, to be abroad and meet a meet a foreigner. But this tale has more drama and intrigue than anyone bargained for.
Everyone's wet dream, to be abroad and meet a meet a foreigner. But this tale has more drama and intrigue than anyone bargained for.
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