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Cami's Billionaire Bride Pact #1
The Resilient One
A world-renowned photographer on the run, an ex-superstar avoiding the media. When love hits them, will they fight for each other or run for safety? Sweet romance by bestselling inspirational author, Cami Checketts. Alyssa Armsworth, a world-renowned photographer, has no intention of honoring the Billionaire Bride Pact she made at girl's camp to avoid getting whipped cream smeared on her face while she slept. Marriage is the last thing on her to-do list and when her father forces his wealthy friends on her, she runs to Maui. Her plan to jog on the beach, take some great pictures, and avoid men works--until Beckham Taylor arrives. Spending days on the ocean with the handsome ex-NHL star is ideal, but Alyssa's guilt for past transgressions begins to consume her. She doesn't think Beckham could ever forgive what she's done to him and his family. Before she can confess, her misdeeds are thrust onto the front cover of the tabloids. Now, Alyssa must face her past or lose her future. Don't miss one of Cami's Billionaire Bride Pact 1. The Resilient One 2. The Feisty One 3. The Independent One 4. The Protective One 5. The Faithful One 6. The Daring One
191 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 11, 2016
501 people are currently reading
740 people want to read
About the author
Cami Checketts
290 books1,104 followersCami Checketts is a USA Today Bestselling author of over a hundred clean romance novels. Her journey began on an Idaho dairy farm daydreaming book ideas on her bike or tractor and landing herself in the hospital numerous times for head wounds. She settled down after college (retired the bike at least) to raise four crazy boys and write down all those fabulous ideas. Cami's life is busy but she thoroughly enjoys rarely living in reality.
Cami loves the Savior, her husband, her boys, her daughter-in-law, her grandson, traveling, chocolate, and exercise.
Get a free book when you sign up for Cami's VAP (Very Awesome People) list - www.camichecketts.com
Cami loves the Savior, her husband, her boys, her daughter-in-law, her grandson, traveling, chocolate, and exercise.
Get a free book when you sign up for Cami's VAP (Very Awesome People) list - www.camichecketts.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
September 15, 2016
Last night I decided to start reading Jorge Luis Borges' Ficciones for my 2016 Classics Bingo Challenge. It's very intricately written and I think true enjoyment of it requires more in-depth knowledge of philosophy than I have at my fingertips. On about page 25, the trumpet sounded in my brain and I retreated in confusion. While regrouping, I hopped over to the other end of the literary spectrum and spent an hour with this fluffy romance (just resting my brain before attacking Ficciones again. Yup. That's it.).
Alyssa is a well-known photographer, living in Hawaii, with a painful past due to a sleazy father. The gimmick here is that when she was a teenager, Alyssa and her girlfriends wrote down a pact to marry billionaires and live happily ever after. But really Alyssa hates rich guys and thinks they're all users like her dad (she's had some really bad experiences). Can retired hockey player/wealthy and (of course) handsome businessman Beckham change her mind? And what if Beck finds out that when Alyssa was a starving young photographer years ago, she took some pictures of him coming out of his dad's funeral for a sleazy tabloid?
This is what it is: a Kindle freebie fluffy romance, sprinkled with punctuation and grammar errors (e.g., "Who's [instead of "whose"] granddaughter are you?"), that stays pretty superficial throughout, despite Alyssa dealing with some PTSD-type issues from her father's awful treatment of her when she was younger. It had its moments (Alyssa's Granny was a great character), and non-critical romance readers will probably love it, but I can't recommend it to anyone else. Even for free.
2.5 stars.
Alyssa is a well-known photographer, living in Hawaii, with a painful past due to a sleazy father. The gimmick here is that when she was a teenager, Alyssa and her girlfriends wrote down a pact to marry billionaires and live happily ever after. But really Alyssa hates rich guys and thinks they're all users like her dad (she's had some really bad experiences). Can retired hockey player/wealthy and (of course) handsome businessman Beckham change her mind? And what if Beck finds out that when Alyssa was a starving young photographer years ago, she took some pictures of him coming out of his dad's funeral for a sleazy tabloid?
This is what it is: a Kindle freebie fluffy romance, sprinkled with punctuation and grammar errors (e.g., "Who's [instead of "whose"] granddaughter are you?"), that stays pretty superficial throughout, despite Alyssa dealing with some PTSD-type issues from her father's awful treatment of her when she was younger. It had its moments (Alyssa's Granny was a great character), and non-critical romance readers will probably love it, but I can't recommend it to anyone else. Even for free.
2.5 stars.
March 26, 2019
A cute romance. Although it is called a clean romance, there are some disturbing scenes of attempted rape. So if that is a trigger for you, be careful.
Our heroine has had a rough upbringing. Her father and his friends are rich assholes. Daddy dearest decides to get something from her on the marriage mart and starts the bidding for her with his equally horrible and rich friends. When one of his buddies tries to get a sample, she flees to Hawaii where her grandmother can protect her.
Fast forward years later and we find her as an accomplished photographer. Enter our handsome and kind billionaire who is looking for a photographer to travel to remote areas and help him in is humanitarian endeavors.
A sweet romance with all the necessary elements including the meet-cute, the strong characters and the nice settings. We also have a spunky granny to round out the mix.
Our heroine has had a rough upbringing. Her father and his friends are rich assholes. Daddy dearest decides to get something from her on the marriage mart and starts the bidding for her with his equally horrible and rich friends. When one of his buddies tries to get a sample, she flees to Hawaii where her grandmother can protect her.
Fast forward years later and we find her as an accomplished photographer. Enter our handsome and kind billionaire who is looking for a photographer to travel to remote areas and help him in is humanitarian endeavors.
A sweet romance with all the necessary elements including the meet-cute, the strong characters and the nice settings. We also have a spunky granny to round out the mix.
February 10, 2017
Alyssa is a famous photographer and has zero plans of ever getting married. She is known by the other girls from camp as the dark side of the Billionaire Bride Pact. She has had a very troubled upbringing and does not trust men at all. When her controlling, sleazy father tries to marry her off to the highest bidder, she runs away to Maui.
Beck is an ex-NHL star that took over the family business after his parents passed away. When he hears that the famous but elusive A.A. is meeting with fans in Maui, he heads out there to try and convince him to work with Beck's charity, Jordan's Buds. He knows that A.A. is just what he needs to bring more awareness to his charity and the needs of others all over the world.
When Beck runs into Alyssa for the first time they are both swept off their feet... literally. But she takes off before he can even introduce himself. Fate is on his side when he checks into the same bed and breakfast that she is staying at. When it comes to getting to know Beck and spending more time with him, Alyssa is a little apprehensive at first. But slowly she starts feeling more comfortable around him. Now if she can just find the courage to confess what she did years ago and hope that he doesn't end up hating her.
I absolutely loved Beck and Alyssa! Both are scarred physically and emotionally and both have some trust issues. But these are two of the things that bring them together. They can lean on each other and help the other in a way that no one has ever been able to do before. These two are seriously perfect for each other! And let's not forget their chemistry... *swoon* Holy Hannah! These two! *dreamy sigh* I really did not want the book to end!
And I just have to give a shout out to Granny! I absolutely loved her as well! She was such an amazing addition to this awesome book! I loved her spunk and spirit! She had me busting out laughing more times than I could count! She almost stole the show... almost... ;) Hehe. I would love to be that kind of granny some day!
I am really enjoying this series and I can't wait for the next book to be released! This series is already a definite must buy for me! :)
And can we just take a moment to enjoy this casting?! I don't know what it is but I am seriously in love with these two! *dreamy sigh*
Beck is an ex-NHL star that took over the family business after his parents passed away. When he hears that the famous but elusive A.A. is meeting with fans in Maui, he heads out there to try and convince him to work with Beck's charity, Jordan's Buds. He knows that A.A. is just what he needs to bring more awareness to his charity and the needs of others all over the world.
When Beck runs into Alyssa for the first time they are both swept off their feet... literally. But she takes off before he can even introduce himself. Fate is on his side when he checks into the same bed and breakfast that she is staying at. When it comes to getting to know Beck and spending more time with him, Alyssa is a little apprehensive at first. But slowly she starts feeling more comfortable around him. Now if she can just find the courage to confess what she did years ago and hope that he doesn't end up hating her.
I absolutely loved Beck and Alyssa! Both are scarred physically and emotionally and both have some trust issues. But these are two of the things that bring them together. They can lean on each other and help the other in a way that no one has ever been able to do before. These two are seriously perfect for each other! And let's not forget their chemistry... *swoon* Holy Hannah! These two! *dreamy sigh* I really did not want the book to end!
And I just have to give a shout out to Granny! I absolutely loved her as well! She was such an amazing addition to this awesome book! I loved her spunk and spirit! She had me busting out laughing more times than I could count! She almost stole the show... almost... ;) Hehe. I would love to be that kind of granny some day!
I am really enjoying this series and I can't wait for the next book to be released! This series is already a definite must buy for me! :)
And can we just take a moment to enjoy this casting?! I don't know what it is but I am seriously in love with these two! *dreamy sigh*
May 24, 2017
Very silly. I think I am in a reading slump because I am hating everything I am reading lately and unfortunately there was a lot that bugged me about this book. The whole idea was cute and sweet but then they threw in the overly creeptastic father who is trying to prostitute this poor girl out, a couple attempted rapes, an almost drowning, a car going over a cliff, A SHArk Attach! Motorcycle accident, cancer and a couple of deaths in the family and everyone trying to get these two together and then keep them apart. I just found myself rolling my eyes over and over! But I did finish it and it was an entertaining mess:}
February 7, 2016
I actually enjoyed this story. Granny made me laugh. I adored her personality and humor. There is a lot of drama in this story (accidents, attacks, blackmail, misunderstandings) which takes away from its believability. So if you can suspend your disbelief and just want a fun read full of drama this is for you.
Cover - While beautifully done there is no way this cover fits this story. Alyssa could never have worn those shoes.
Content: Clean
Cover - While beautifully done there is no way this cover fits this story. Alyssa could never have worn those shoes.
Content: Clean
October 5, 2016
*Full Review*
Such a fun new to me series! I need to start with the first book and read about all of these friends who made their billionaire bride pact. But it was written well enough as a stand alone in case you want to read them out of order like I did. When I can sit down at my computer I have multiple reviews to catch up on and I'll get my rambling thoughts posted about this book too!
-----------------------------------------------
Rambling thoughts time by Julie...Can I just say that I love the premise of this series? 12 friends make a pact to marry a billionaire while at girl's camp. If they don't fulfill the pact then they have to sing some corny camp song at their wedding. So not too dire of a consequence if they fail to marry someone super wealthy but I think it's a song that definitely gives them enough motivation to try to fulfill the pact. *.* I said earlier that I didn't start with book one, which was fine, but I almost wish that I had. That being said I really want to go back and read through all the stories of these twelve friends. I really like the titles too, The Resilient One, The Feisty One, etc. It makes me laugh thinking of the twelve friends and their different personalities. I think the title fit perfect for this story.
Without giving away too much of the storyline other than the synopsis blurb you've read, Alyssa is our female MC and Beckham, or Beck, is our male MC. There is a little history connected to these two that isn't the happiest or what it appears to be. Of course there is always a story behind an event and we need this event to create our angst for the story, or at least part of the angst. Alyssa brings the majority of the angst to our story due to her background. Ok, as far as family members for both MCs go, Beck's sisters/brother in laws are awesome, Alyssa's dad is major scumbag/slime ball and Alyssa's grandma is just the best ever(I think you'll get a chuckle from her antics and phrases)! There are plenty of secondary characters but the only one who really makes a strong appearance is Grandma Ellie, the other characters just pipe in more as memories than anything.
Both Alyssa and Beck have had some ups and downs in their lives. Beck more due to the loss of his parents. Alyssa all due to her father's scheming and power plays. So what does Alyssa do? She disappears, hones a talent and creates a new life for herself. She is hiding out on Maui and enjoying her freedom, but her freedom hasn't helped her heal from her scars and trust issues.
Beck was a former NHL player who now runs the family business as well as a major non-profit organization helping kids. He is headed to Maui to track down the amazing photographer A.A. to convince him to join his team for helping these kids all over the world. What Beck doesn't expect is to run into the beautiful Alyssa. Beck is well built and was an NHL player so yeah he's got himself some muscles and a very toned body that all women want right? Wrong...Alyssa won't even look at him and continues to avoid it. Beck can't figure out why.
There are many factors playing into why Alyssa is avoiding Beck. Can he figure out a way to break down her walls and show her that he can be trusted? Or does Grandma Ellie need to step in and save the day? Or will Alyssa see Beck's goodness, or will she find a flaw that he is hiding just to get close to her?
These two characters will have to break down the walls of mistrust if they want to stand a chance at possibly making a go of their relationship. There is chemistry and a lot of sparks flying with these two but sometimes the past won't allow someone to trust easy. Will Alyssa keep her pact or will she be singing the awfully embarrassing song? You'll have to read to find out.
As far as content in this story, there are several kisses. There is a flashback for attempted rape and some talk about her father trying to sell her off but none of it is graphic. A few fights and an almost shark attack. Overall I would say it is a clean read and would recommend for more mature readers due to her father's antics.
I downloaded a copy from Amazon.
Happy Reading!!!
Such a fun new to me series! I need to start with the first book and read about all of these friends who made their billionaire bride pact. But it was written well enough as a stand alone in case you want to read them out of order like I did. When I can sit down at my computer I have multiple reviews to catch up on and I'll get my rambling thoughts posted about this book too!
-----------------------------------------------
Rambling thoughts time by Julie...Can I just say that I love the premise of this series? 12 friends make a pact to marry a billionaire while at girl's camp. If they don't fulfill the pact then they have to sing some corny camp song at their wedding. So not too dire of a consequence if they fail to marry someone super wealthy but I think it's a song that definitely gives them enough motivation to try to fulfill the pact. *.* I said earlier that I didn't start with book one, which was fine, but I almost wish that I had. That being said I really want to go back and read through all the stories of these twelve friends. I really like the titles too, The Resilient One, The Feisty One, etc. It makes me laugh thinking of the twelve friends and their different personalities. I think the title fit perfect for this story.
Without giving away too much of the storyline other than the synopsis blurb you've read, Alyssa is our female MC and Beckham, or Beck, is our male MC. There is a little history connected to these two that isn't the happiest or what it appears to be. Of course there is always a story behind an event and we need this event to create our angst for the story, or at least part of the angst. Alyssa brings the majority of the angst to our story due to her background. Ok, as far as family members for both MCs go, Beck's sisters/brother in laws are awesome, Alyssa's dad is major scumbag/slime ball and Alyssa's grandma is just the best ever(I think you'll get a chuckle from her antics and phrases)! There are plenty of secondary characters but the only one who really makes a strong appearance is Grandma Ellie, the other characters just pipe in more as memories than anything.
Both Alyssa and Beck have had some ups and downs in their lives. Beck more due to the loss of his parents. Alyssa all due to her father's scheming and power plays. So what does Alyssa do? She disappears, hones a talent and creates a new life for herself. She is hiding out on Maui and enjoying her freedom, but her freedom hasn't helped her heal from her scars and trust issues.
Beck was a former NHL player who now runs the family business as well as a major non-profit organization helping kids. He is headed to Maui to track down the amazing photographer A.A. to convince him to join his team for helping these kids all over the world. What Beck doesn't expect is to run into the beautiful Alyssa. Beck is well built and was an NHL player so yeah he's got himself some muscles and a very toned body that all women want right? Wrong...Alyssa won't even look at him and continues to avoid it. Beck can't figure out why.
There are many factors playing into why Alyssa is avoiding Beck. Can he figure out a way to break down her walls and show her that he can be trusted? Or does Grandma Ellie need to step in and save the day? Or will Alyssa see Beck's goodness, or will she find a flaw that he is hiding just to get close to her?
These two characters will have to break down the walls of mistrust if they want to stand a chance at possibly making a go of their relationship. There is chemistry and a lot of sparks flying with these two but sometimes the past won't allow someone to trust easy. Will Alyssa keep her pact or will she be singing the awfully embarrassing song? You'll have to read to find out.
As far as content in this story, there are several kisses. There is a flashback for attempted rape and some talk about her father trying to sell her off but none of it is graphic. A few fights and an almost shark attack. Overall I would say it is a clean read and would recommend for more mature readers due to her father's antics.
I downloaded a copy from Amazon.
Happy Reading!!!
January 16, 2016
Alyssa doesn't trust men, and with good reason. She isn't perfect. It seems like life would be handed to her with a golden spoon, yet she's determined to pave the path for herself. Yes, she's gorgeous, but she's down to earth and has a birth defect. I couldn't help but to like her from the start. She's a very skilled photographer and is spending some time in Maui when her good friend, and tabloid magazine writer, challenges her to get a date with wealthy and famous, Beckham Taylor.
Beck is a nice guy and is determined to prove himself different from all the other men Alyssa knows. He is charming, handsome, rich, kind, and generous. He does a lot of good with his money and I love that he's not a selfish and greedy man. The way he steps in as protector and friend to both Alyssa and her feisty, adorable Granny, is so sweet. Who could resist him?
Granny is quite the character and so spunky. I can only hope to be like her when I'm 80+. She just says things like they are and has a way of wrapping herself around hearts very quickly.
The setting is exquisite and I could visualize it so well. In fact, I'm dreaming of going back to Maui now! I loved the flirtations and banter! The excitement, passion, and attraction are all there, but this relationship is also about trust and feeling safe. Alyssa and Beck both have scars--both physical and emotional--but what they do for each other is amazing. The romance in this one had me swooning right and left. I love that, while it plays a big part of the story, there's more to it than just romance. There are some major plot twists that had me reeling and that just added to the story.
Content: mild romance (kissing, implied attack, mention of previous rape attempt); no language or religious elements; mild violence (accidents and moments of peril). Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
Beck is a nice guy and is determined to prove himself different from all the other men Alyssa knows. He is charming, handsome, rich, kind, and generous. He does a lot of good with his money and I love that he's not a selfish and greedy man. The way he steps in as protector and friend to both Alyssa and her feisty, adorable Granny, is so sweet. Who could resist him?
Granny is quite the character and so spunky. I can only hope to be like her when I'm 80+. She just says things like they are and has a way of wrapping herself around hearts very quickly.
The setting is exquisite and I could visualize it so well. In fact, I'm dreaming of going back to Maui now! I loved the flirtations and banter! The excitement, passion, and attraction are all there, but this relationship is also about trust and feeling safe. Alyssa and Beck both have scars--both physical and emotional--but what they do for each other is amazing. The romance in this one had me swooning right and left. I love that, while it plays a big part of the story, there's more to it than just romance. There are some major plot twists that had me reeling and that just added to the story.
Content: mild romance (kissing, implied attack, mention of previous rape attempt); no language or religious elements; mild violence (accidents and moments of peril). Clean!
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
January 20, 2016
I'm so excited to be a part of reviewing this awesome new series! Old friends make a pact at summer camp when they are young. This series follows them as they each find love.
Cami Checketts is one of my favorites so any day I get to read one of her books is a good day for me. Cami, to me, is know for bringing just a bit of suspense to her books. It's what sets her apart in the romance genre. The suspense isn't overwhelming or the focus, but it is there enough to keep you wondering and anxious.
Alyssa is hiding. Hawaii is her escape and her refuge. Or, at least it is supposed to be. Beckham rolls in and disrupts her sanctuary, setting off a chain of events that come crashing in. This book kept me reading, pushing forward because I just had to know. I loved it. The characters, the setting, the story- it was all fantastic. LOVE!
Content: Clean! some references to unwanted sexual advances, attempted rape
Cami Checketts is one of my favorites so any day I get to read one of her books is a good day for me. Cami, to me, is know for bringing just a bit of suspense to her books. It's what sets her apart in the romance genre. The suspense isn't overwhelming or the focus, but it is there enough to keep you wondering and anxious.
Alyssa is hiding. Hawaii is her escape and her refuge. Or, at least it is supposed to be. Beckham rolls in and disrupts her sanctuary, setting off a chain of events that come crashing in. This book kept me reading, pushing forward because I just had to know. I loved it. The characters, the setting, the story- it was all fantastic. LOVE!
Content: Clean! some references to unwanted sexual advances, attempted rape
January 28, 2016
While it had a good premise, I think this book tended to bite off more than it can chew. With some seriously dark pasts and topics, they layered on top of one another and didn't let the characters be realistic or involved with any of the many trials and awful events of their lives. Choppy scenes lead you from one action intense scene to another without ever letting you or the characters catch their breath - not that they really seemed to need it apparently. Overall, I never felt like I got to know the real characters, see an arc in their adventures, or really enjoy their romance. It was a cute idea, but took on too much and didn't let the characters come out and shine.
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www.cleanromancereviews.com
May 17, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I listened to the audio, and the narration was fantastic. The Resilient One is full of difficult situations and redemption. I loved the growth of the characters, and Granny was a fantastic side character. She added so much to the story. I always enjoy Cami Checketts' books, and this was another great one.
February 16, 2016
This is part of a cute series that follow a group of friends who make a pact at camp to marry a rich man. Of course, they were girls and didn't understand how shallow that pact really is.
Alyssa had not intention of fulfilling the pact, even when she made it as a youth. She comes from a wealthy home and knows that not all wealthy men are honorable. She has issues with trust and doesn't feel the need to be in a relationship.
Beckham is wealthy. He tries to hide the fact because he knows that many women who seek a wealthy husband are shallow. That is why he finds Alyssa intriguing. She is a genuine person.
The two have misunderstandings, miscommunication, trust problems, threats, etc that they have to overcome. The book has several issues that it deals with. It makes for a very interesting story to read.
I look forward to reading more from this series. I didn't feel that I needed to read the books in any specific order.
Alyssa had not intention of fulfilling the pact, even when she made it as a youth. She comes from a wealthy home and knows that not all wealthy men are honorable. She has issues with trust and doesn't feel the need to be in a relationship.
Beckham is wealthy. He tries to hide the fact because he knows that many women who seek a wealthy husband are shallow. That is why he finds Alyssa intriguing. She is a genuine person.
The two have misunderstandings, miscommunication, trust problems, threats, etc that they have to overcome. The book has several issues that it deals with. It makes for a very interesting story to read.
I look forward to reading more from this series. I didn't feel that I needed to read the books in any specific order.
February 5, 2021
Very clean, and romantic. Sweet story, and great characters. Love clean romances!
Feb 4, 2021 I just read this again, and it was great!
Feb 4, 2021 I just read this again, and it was great!
October 18, 2021
Super fun, light and fluffy. Although Alyssa had a “damsel in distress” complex, since Beckham had to rescue her at least twice a day, I really enjoyed this story. I especially liked Granny, she was so feisty and I loved that she always spoke her mind.
Content: Squeaky Clean, Some Kissing
Content: Squeaky Clean, Some Kissing
December 5, 2022
3.5⭐️
Enjoyable but quite repetitive. A sweet romance - Alyssa terrified of men due to her experience in the past and Beck an all round nice guy trying to win her over.
Love Grannie Ellie she is the best character, meddling into everything!
Enjoyable but quite repetitive. A sweet romance - Alyssa terrified of men due to her experience in the past and Beck an all round nice guy trying to win her over.
Love Grannie Ellie she is the best character, meddling into everything!
April 5, 2019
I hate Maryn. F*** her, she doesn't deserve anything, and she's a horrible friend and the story could've been so much better without her.
December 8, 2016
Here's another great story from Cami Checketts. I think I'm reading these billionaire bride pacts all out of order, but it doesn't really matter. :) This story might be my favorite one so far. The blurb doesn't really do justice to the depth of the story. It's about so much more than falling in love.
Alyssa has some pretty heavy baggage, making it more than understandable why she doesn't trust men. Especially rich men. With her no count father and his even worse friends, who can blame her. Beck seems way too good to be true. But then again, she's got secrets of her own. Years earlier, she took a photo of him at his parent's funeral and sold it to a magazine that twisted the story into something ugly. She know's he would never understand why.
I really enjoyed the fact that Alyssa has real concerns based on her past experiences. Beck really is a great guy, and he's determined to show Alyssa she's safe with him. This makes it all the more heartbreaking when he doesn't believe her innocence when it comes to the magazine article. Luckily, Alyssa has her grandma Ellie to back her up.
I give The Resilient one a 4.5 for the sweet moments and the sad. It's a story that moves smoothly and carries you with it every moment of the way.
1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
Alyssa has some pretty heavy baggage, making it more than understandable why she doesn't trust men. Especially rich men. With her no count father and his even worse friends, who can blame her. Beck seems way too good to be true. But then again, she's got secrets of her own. Years earlier, she took a photo of him at his parent's funeral and sold it to a magazine that twisted the story into something ugly. She know's he would never understand why.
I really enjoyed the fact that Alyssa has real concerns based on her past experiences. Beck really is a great guy, and he's determined to show Alyssa she's safe with him. This makes it all the more heartbreaking when he doesn't believe her innocence when it comes to the magazine article. Luckily, Alyssa has her grandma Ellie to back her up.
I give The Resilient one a 4.5 for the sweet moments and the sad. It's a story that moves smoothly and carries you with it every moment of the way.
1-5 scale and what it means:
1: I couldn’t even finish it / just plain bad
2: I hope I didn’t pay for this / disappointing
3: I didn’t hate it, but it was still missing something / forgettable but inoffensive
3.5: On the line between good and ok / like, not love
4: Solid mind candy / worth reading
4.5: So very close to perfection! / must read
5: I could not put it down and I’m still thinking about it! / a true treasure
July 13, 2016
What a great start to what will be an awesome series, I can tell! I love love loved this book. I could not put it down (believe me - you should see my house lol). The instant bond that Lyssa and Beck shared is what makes this book so great. Even with them both having insecurities and imperfections they were able to trust each other and build a relationship quickly. We all need someone like that in life. I also like the lesson this book taught, that even though someone we love might do something horrible we should be able to work through it and forgive them. Cami had me hooked from the start and 'bonding' with all the characters. Her books just keep getting better and better! I can't wait to read more from her and the next one in this series!
Note: I was given this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review!
Note: I was given this book by the Author in exchange for an honest review!
January 5, 2017
Flirty, fun and romantic. Granny was a super fun character and loved her antics of getting Beck & Alyssa together. Alyssa's father was a complete evil horrible person, too bad father's really exist like that in the world. Fun series.
Moral Note: This wasn't squeaky clean at all... There were some innuendos, some talk of some unwanted sexual advances, multiple attempted rape situations, a few language issues, romance was pretty clean other than the listed above.
Moral Note: This wasn't squeaky clean at all... There were some innuendos, some talk of some unwanted sexual advances, multiple attempted rape situations, a few language issues, romance was pretty clean other than the listed above.
January 24, 2019
Honestly I don’t know how you can even create such a ridiculous story. So many crazy unbelievable things kept happening and I could not stop rolling my eyes. While I love a cheesy romance I also expect it to be good and entertaining and this one left a lot to be desired. I’d probably rate it 1 star but I feel like that’s harsh and while it was incredibly annoying I didn’t hate it. Unless I’m completely desperate and dying for something to read I will not continue with the series.
May 29, 2024
I had a hard time rating this one. I loved the hero and heroine and Alyssa's adorable feisty grandmother....but the creepy father was a little much. Ok, a lot too much. He. Was. AWFUL. Just a little too much drama and "sad" terrible things had happened to both the main characters to make it a completely enjoyable read for me...but I did love to see them get their happily ever after.
May 7, 2016
A great read
April 10, 2019
I don't normally read Billionaire romance novels. And, usually go right past them when I receive the newsletters of various authors that I receive newsletters from. I prefer novels where the characters that are more like every day folks. But there are some authors whose writing I really enjoy that I will read them anyway. One such Author is Cami Checketts. This is a clean read. That is the only kind of book that this Author writes.
This particular book is about Alyssa Armsworth who has a worthless Father, Gary Armsworth. Her Father tries to sell his daughter to a number of unsavory men that he knows. However she is able to escape his clutches and lives on her own.
She has developed into a very successful photographer known for her amazing photographs. Most of the men her Father tried to sell her to were rich men themselves. Her Father is wealthy too. Because of her experience with men especially rich men; she doesn't trust them.
But she is encouraged by her friend Maryn to meet up and date Beckham Taylor and ex-NHL star and of course Billionaire in order to get pictures and write a story. She gets the attention of Beckham Taylor and as she spends time with him she falls in love with him and he falls in love with her.
However her skumbag of a Father locates them and attempts to blackmail Beckham and at the same time hires a druggie to terrorize his daughter. Beckham protects Alyssa.
The book was well written and very enjoyable to read. As the story progressed it became harder and harder to put down. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
This particular book is about Alyssa Armsworth who has a worthless Father, Gary Armsworth. Her Father tries to sell his daughter to a number of unsavory men that he knows. However she is able to escape his clutches and lives on her own.
She has developed into a very successful photographer known for her amazing photographs. Most of the men her Father tried to sell her to were rich men themselves. Her Father is wealthy too. Because of her experience with men especially rich men; she doesn't trust them.
But she is encouraged by her friend Maryn to meet up and date Beckham Taylor and ex-NHL star and of course Billionaire in order to get pictures and write a story. She gets the attention of Beckham Taylor and as she spends time with him she falls in love with him and he falls in love with her.
However her skumbag of a Father locates them and attempts to blackmail Beckham and at the same time hires a druggie to terrorize his daughter. Beckham protects Alyssa.
The book was well written and very enjoyable to read. As the story progressed it became harder and harder to put down. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
May 14, 2019
The Resilient One is the first book of the Billionaire Bride Pact boxed set. The Billionaire Bride pact was made by a group of friends at a sleepover in middle school that they would all marry a billionaire one day or have to complete a dare.
Alyssa, being one of the girls to make this pact, was considered the long shot. Of all of the girls Alyssa had no intention of marrying a billionaire. Raised by a super wealthy father herself Alyssa learned of the darker sides of wealth and those willing to do anything to keep it. Her own father was willing to sell her to the highest bidder even at a very young age.
Beckham was a great character. He was plagued by his own guilt from the past. Add to that he trusted few people to let in to his life. Being wealthy he knew all about those that wanted to use a person for their money or prestige.
This couple was super sweet and so damaged. Alyssa was holding back on telling Beckham everything and I just knew it would come back to bite her in the butt and boy did it. Her father was the scum of the earth and truly one of the creepiest characters I've read. Granny made the book and that's saying something considering I really enjoyed Alyssa and Beckham. She was an outrageous hoot willing to do and say just about anything.
I'm really interested in reading on in this set. Each book has a different author, so it should be fun to read the different styles of writing and how each author deals with the women of this pact.
Alyssa, being one of the girls to make this pact, was considered the long shot. Of all of the girls Alyssa had no intention of marrying a billionaire. Raised by a super wealthy father herself Alyssa learned of the darker sides of wealth and those willing to do anything to keep it. Her own father was willing to sell her to the highest bidder even at a very young age.
Beckham was a great character. He was plagued by his own guilt from the past. Add to that he trusted few people to let in to his life. Being wealthy he knew all about those that wanted to use a person for their money or prestige.
This couple was super sweet and so damaged. Alyssa was holding back on telling Beckham everything and I just knew it would come back to bite her in the butt and boy did it. Her father was the scum of the earth and truly one of the creepiest characters I've read. Granny made the book and that's saying something considering I really enjoyed Alyssa and Beckham. She was an outrageous hoot willing to do and say just about anything.
I'm really interested in reading on in this set. Each book has a different author, so it should be fun to read the different styles of writing and how each author deals with the women of this pact.
April 8, 2025
Mostly clean, contemporary romance.
I almost filed this one in my DNF or quit after giving it a 100 page effort, but I kept hoping that the high rating on here meant things would turn around.
The female main character needed extensive therapy, not a man. Severely traumatized, living in denial and unable to be honest with herself or others, she’s a ball of shame and anxiety.
The male main character is “nice” to the point where he seems to have few boundaries and unrealistic expectations, but he’s rich so it’s all fine (not).
Bring on the repetition of both characters issues with some insta-lust and serious communication problems and you arrive at an ending where I wanted to cringe and turn away.
Violence. No sex scenes but brief scenes of assault and mentions of abuse and harassment. Mild language. Child abuse, sexism, bullying, attempted rape, ugly family drama, loss, grief, PTSD, dialogue that I think was supposed to be for comic relief but felt inappropriate, etc
I almost filed this one in my DNF or quit after giving it a 100 page effort, but I kept hoping that the high rating on here meant things would turn around.
The female main character needed extensive therapy, not a man. Severely traumatized, living in denial and unable to be honest with herself or others, she’s a ball of shame and anxiety.
The male main character is “nice” to the point where he seems to have few boundaries and unrealistic expectations, but he’s rich so it’s all fine (not).
Bring on the repetition of both characters issues with some insta-lust and serious communication problems and you arrive at an ending where I wanted to cringe and turn away.
Violence. No sex scenes but brief scenes of assault and mentions of abuse and harassment. Mild language. Child abuse, sexism, bullying, attempted rape, ugly family drama, loss, grief, PTSD, dialogue that I think was supposed to be for comic relief but felt inappropriate, etc
August 25, 2021
Alyssa and Beck
Alyssa is unsure why her best friend Maryn wants her to go on a date with someone named Beck, however, she will once. Only when she realizes that he is the same person she took photos of years ago after his parents funeral, and sold them to put food on the table, then the magazine put a completely untruthful slant on the innocent pictures, she isn't sure she can help her friend! Then the unthinkable happens, he is staying at the same Bed and Breakfast as her! Why would a Billionaire stay here? Plus he's not driving a big flashy car! Is this guy for real? Then her granny Ellie shows up and he treats her with the utmost respect! Not at all what Alyssa expected. Aren't rich guys all like her father, Gary and his friends? Only one way to find out what happens is to read this great story by Cami Checketts! So much happens you won't want it to end!
Alyssa is unsure why her best friend Maryn wants her to go on a date with someone named Beck, however, she will once. Only when she realizes that he is the same person she took photos of years ago after his parents funeral, and sold them to put food on the table, then the magazine put a completely untruthful slant on the innocent pictures, she isn't sure she can help her friend! Then the unthinkable happens, he is staying at the same Bed and Breakfast as her! Why would a Billionaire stay here? Plus he's not driving a big flashy car! Is this guy for real? Then her granny Ellie shows up and he treats her with the utmost respect! Not at all what Alyssa expected. Aren't rich guys all like her father, Gary and his friends? Only one way to find out what happens is to read this great story by Cami Checketts! So much happens you won't want it to end!
October 16, 2022
Heart-warming tale of love after abuse
This tale took me a few pages to get into, but Cami’s books are always beautiful, so I hung on.
I am so glad I did.
This tale hits all the feels. Not joking. It is filled with humor but set apart by heart. Ellie, sigh, she was a perfect addition to this book and will always be held near to my heart. And Beck... swoon. He is the perfect human to ease Alyssa into love again after being hurt again and again.
Trigger warning: there are a few instances of remembered almost assault and instances in book of being cornered and almost raped, but nothing more than that. Nothing went beyond kissing, with mmc or otherwise, so it is clean but real.
I laughed and cried, felt sorrow and joy as I followed the lives of these characters I so often wanted to hug. I recommend 100%.
This tale took me a few pages to get into, but Cami’s books are always beautiful, so I hung on.
I am so glad I did.
This tale hits all the feels. Not joking. It is filled with humor but set apart by heart. Ellie, sigh, she was a perfect addition to this book and will always be held near to my heart. And Beck... swoon. He is the perfect human to ease Alyssa into love again after being hurt again and again.
Trigger warning: there are a few instances of remembered almost assault and instances in book of being cornered and almost raped, but nothing more than that. Nothing went beyond kissing, with mmc or otherwise, so it is clean but real.
I laughed and cried, felt sorrow and joy as I followed the lives of these characters I so often wanted to hug. I recommend 100%.
January 13, 2020
Goodreads has this listed as the first in the series but definitely shouldn't be read first - no details on the pact & Alyssa shows up single in the "second" book; they should fix the order.
As for this story - if Granny wasn't part of it I'd have given it one star. Alyssa has no backbone at all and puts up with a completely unbelievable father (who attempts to prostitute her & when she won't go along with it pays men to scare her by attempting to rape her - or let them rape her if they could succeed). She never stands up for herself and instead just hides and relies on others to fight for her. It's ridiculous and makes her unlikable. I can't see why Beck would be interested in her at all except she's supposed to be beautiful. Ugh.
As for this story - if Granny wasn't part of it I'd have given it one star. Alyssa has no backbone at all and puts up with a completely unbelievable father (who attempts to prostitute her & when she won't go along with it pays men to scare her by attempting to rape her - or let them rape her if they could succeed). She never stands up for herself and instead just hides and relies on others to fight for her. It's ridiculous and makes her unlikable. I can't see why Beck would be interested in her at all except she's supposed to be beautiful. Ugh.
June 30, 2022
2.5
This was an interesting story. The main characters are strong, smart, caring, and ambitious – in good ways. Their sparks are felt from their first meeting. Alyssa’s grandmother is quirky and added spice to the story. The romance was interesting.
My issue with this story is the two resolutions in the story – how they dealt with Alyssa’s father and how Alyssa and Beck dealt with the obstacles in their relationship. For Alyssa’s father, I would have liked it to have been different – it didn’t feel like he paid for everything he had done to Alyssa throughout her life. The resolution in the romance was a little to simple for me. It was good, I just wanted more.
This book is a fun, easy summer read.
I listened to this book on audio and the narrators were easy to listen to.
This was an interesting story. The main characters are strong, smart, caring, and ambitious – in good ways. Their sparks are felt from their first meeting. Alyssa’s grandmother is quirky and added spice to the story. The romance was interesting.
My issue with this story is the two resolutions in the story – how they dealt with Alyssa’s father and how Alyssa and Beck dealt with the obstacles in their relationship. For Alyssa’s father, I would have liked it to have been different – it didn’t feel like he paid for everything he had done to Alyssa throughout her life. The resolution in the romance was a little to simple for me. It was good, I just wanted more.
This book is a fun, easy summer read.
I listened to this book on audio and the narrators were easy to listen to.
April 26, 2023
3.5 stars.
As another reader stated, the author simply tried to cram too much into a short book (kindle won’t tell me pages, but it does say the actual book- not the preview is under a 2 hour read time). It’s almost like the editor told her to cut the book down 100 pages and she did, but didn’t leave out any plot lines.
Although I loved going back to Hawaii through the book, including many specifics, I do have to remind my fellow readers that there are not predators at every public bathroom, sharks on every boat tour, or (unfortunately) attractive millionaires at every b&b breakfast table if you do go to Hawaii. (See, too much happening in the book!)
I will echo that the Granny is the best character and great comic relief… most of the time.
As another reader stated, the author simply tried to cram too much into a short book (kindle won’t tell me pages, but it does say the actual book- not the preview is under a 2 hour read time). It’s almost like the editor told her to cut the book down 100 pages and she did, but didn’t leave out any plot lines.
Although I loved going back to Hawaii through the book, including many specifics, I do have to remind my fellow readers that there are not predators at every public bathroom, sharks on every boat tour, or (unfortunately) attractive millionaires at every b&b breakfast table if you do go to Hawaii. (See, too much happening in the book!)
I will echo that the Granny is the best character and great comic relief… most of the time.
September 5, 2017
I am having fun with this series as a relaxing way to unwind. I have read a few others that come after this book and wanted to come back and read Alyssa and Beck's story. Like the others this one stands alone. The series can be read in any order. Alyssa is terrified of men in general due to the way she was treated by her dad. Beck begins to break down her barriers. They are both haunted by their past and must overcome those things in order to grow together. Grandma Ellie is a fabulous secondary character that keeps everyone is stitches. I like how the characters have flaws but find ways to overcome those things. Looking forward to reading more of the Billionaire Bride Pact!
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