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Powerplay #2
The Kingmaker
Derek Ambrose is a Kingmaker, a man who helps others obtain the power they so desperately want. As manager of the most promising presidential candidate in a generation, he’s on the cusp of getting the biggest win of his career. Then she comes along.
London Sharpe is a man-eater, an escort to the fabulously rich and powerful. She’s paid well, only takes clients she likes, and lives on the fringes of D.C. society, hiding both her occupation and her past. Then he comes along.
When Derek’s prize candidate is caught in flagrante delicto with D.C.’s prize escort, damage control includes claiming London as his own. But when their fake relationship goes public, both must scramble to save reputations, protect secrets, and fight the attraction that’s all too real. With the presidency and their hearts hanging in the balance, this power play could cost them everything.
The Kingmaker is a fake relationship, hooker with a heart of gold, political romantic suspense with sizzling heat, twists and turns, and a happily ever after worthy of Pretty Woman.
London Sharpe is a man-eater, an escort to the fabulously rich and powerful. She’s paid well, only takes clients she likes, and lives on the fringes of D.C. society, hiding both her occupation and her past. Then he comes along.
When Derek’s prize candidate is caught in flagrante delicto with D.C.’s prize escort, damage control includes claiming London as his own. But when their fake relationship goes public, both must scramble to save reputations, protect secrets, and fight the attraction that’s all too real. With the presidency and their hearts hanging in the balance, this power play could cost them everything.
The Kingmaker is a fake relationship, hooker with a heart of gold, political romantic suspense with sizzling heat, twists and turns, and a happily ever after worthy of Pretty Woman.
279 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 26, 2016
400 people are currently reading
745 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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December 18, 2021In case it isn’t obvious by the ragingly eclectic reading, I’ve been using the pandemic to get through all the books I own but haven’t read yet. Sometimes I do wonder the heck past me was buying.
Anyway, I gave myself permission not to finish this. Because … it’s fun. It should be fun. I don’t think there’s anything particularly wrong with the book: she’s a feisty escort, he’s a cold-hearted campaign manager, they have to pretend to date to save a presidential candidate from scandal. That should be a recipe for sexy hijinks, right?
It’s just I don’t think I’m going to be ready for political stuff for a long, long time. The dynamics aren't controversial exactly? I mean, the party isn’t explicitly stated, but it’s clearly not … uh. The other one? And it’s not as if the democrats don’t have a history of horndog presidents and presidential candidates.
But the heroine makes a point of the fact she doesn’t vote. And that’s … that’s fine? I don’t get to judge heroines for their choices. Except all the issues in play over the last five years, no matter what side of the pond you’re on, have been so very very fundamental to, uh, everything? I don’t know. Just. Help.
Wrong book wrong time.
I did, however, have way, way less issues with the heroine being an escort than the hero did. I didn’t read enough to get much of a handle on what the book thought of it, though. Because while I definitely appreciated the fact the heroine was just genuinely a sex-worker, I couldn’t tell how nuanced an exploration of the subject it was going to be. I mean, by chapter 3 the hero is already punching a bag at the gym thinking about how the heroine is really meant for one man and what a shame it all was yadda yadda. (He’s met her, like, once at that point, by the way – so it’s a bit worrying he feels he know more about her needs than she does). And he punches a guy out for being rude about her profession but it felt more of a “my masculinity has been impinged upon because you once put your dick in my woman” type thing than an “I take serious issue with your disrespectful attitude to sex workers.” And the heroine *does* call him on him—and is constantly insisting she doesn’t need him to save her—except it was all feeling a bit hollow at the point I thought this book and I should probably be seeing other people.
Also the linked premise of this series is that there are five uber powerful, mostly white men in the heart of Washington who have formed an alliance to help each other into power. Is it me, or is that just fucking terrifying?
I mean, I know that’s how politics actually works. But it doesn’t make it better if the men in question are sexy.
Anyway, I gave myself permission not to finish this. Because … it’s fun. It should be fun. I don’t think there’s anything particularly wrong with the book: she’s a feisty escort, he’s a cold-hearted campaign manager, they have to pretend to date to save a presidential candidate from scandal. That should be a recipe for sexy hijinks, right?
It’s just I don’t think I’m going to be ready for political stuff for a long, long time. The dynamics aren't controversial exactly? I mean, the party isn’t explicitly stated, but it’s clearly not … uh. The other one? And it’s not as if the democrats don’t have a history of horndog presidents and presidential candidates.
But the heroine makes a point of the fact she doesn’t vote. And that’s … that’s fine? I don’t get to judge heroines for their choices. Except all the issues in play over the last five years, no matter what side of the pond you’re on, have been so very very fundamental to, uh, everything? I don’t know. Just. Help.
Wrong book wrong time.
I did, however, have way, way less issues with the heroine being an escort than the hero did. I didn’t read enough to get much of a handle on what the book thought of it, though. Because while I definitely appreciated the fact the heroine was just genuinely a sex-worker, I couldn’t tell how nuanced an exploration of the subject it was going to be. I mean, by chapter 3 the hero is already punching a bag at the gym thinking about how the heroine is really meant for one man and what a shame it all was yadda yadda. (He’s met her, like, once at that point, by the way – so it’s a bit worrying he feels he know more about her needs than she does). And he punches a guy out for being rude about her profession but it felt more of a “my masculinity has been impinged upon because you once put your dick in my woman” type thing than an “I take serious issue with your disrespectful attitude to sex workers.” And the heroine *does* call him on him—and is constantly insisting she doesn’t need him to save her—except it was all feeling a bit hollow at the point I thought this book and I should probably be seeing other people.
Also the linked premise of this series is that there are five uber powerful, mostly white men in the heart of Washington who have formed an alliance to help each other into power. Is it me, or is that just fucking terrifying?
I mean, I know that’s how politics actually works. But it doesn’t make it better if the men in question are sexy.
May 21, 2016
3.5-4 Stars
Hmmmm, not sure how I am feeling about this one:( Did I like it yes, did I like it a lot, yes and no, did I love it, unfortunately, no. OK, so that sums up my feelings in a nutshell.
What I liked: I LOVED Derek......I mean really and truly loved him. Now, for me, his part, his character throughout, I loved, YET, I didn't get why he ended up falling so hard and fast for someone "like" London. Yeah, I am all over the place. I felt like he deserved "better" and I mean that in the sense, everything he was as a man, as a top notch man in his business, etc....I don't know, I just wished "more" for him in the girl lead character. I would have loved seeing him with someone who did NOT have her background and I mean her "profession" not her personal life storyline.... NOW, don't get me wrong because I do love a good escort/stripper romance BUT in this case, in this scenario, in this story, it just didn't work for me and it didn't work for Derek's character and that's how I feel.
What else I liked: Yes, believe it or not, I liked London a lot and yes, she grew on me throughout the book BUT I hate a stubborn woman and she frustrated me quite a bit. Don't get me wrong, I don't want a doormat but I want strong, confidant, sweet n sexy and I feel her character fell flat for me in this story. I loved the twist in her family backstory...that was done brilliantly! But the 8 years of her "profession" etc..... just didn't work for me in THIS particular story unfortunately and because of that I felt I couldn't fully engage and/or invest in their story. I DID however, love the Epilogue and it set up for a great next story...I am assuming, lol! Hope this all makes sense...I am just so darn conflicted on this one, lol.
I have been a fan of Author Selena Laurence and yes, I will still continue to be a fan of hers. This story was just a small hiccup...my own personal feelings but I certainly won't let it stop me from enjoying future work by her because she is truly a fabulous and gifted writer. Even the best of the best have a minor speed bump now and then and for me this was just a small blip and I wish her much success in the future, especially with this series. I am looking forward to reading ALL about the other secondary characters we have been introduced to in this series to date:)
Hmmmm, not sure how I am feeling about this one:( Did I like it yes, did I like it a lot, yes and no, did I love it, unfortunately, no. OK, so that sums up my feelings in a nutshell.
What I liked: I LOVED Derek......I mean really and truly loved him. Now, for me, his part, his character throughout, I loved, YET, I didn't get why he ended up falling so hard and fast for someone "like" London. Yeah, I am all over the place. I felt like he deserved "better" and I mean that in the sense, everything he was as a man, as a top notch man in his business, etc....I don't know, I just wished "more" for him in the girl lead character. I would have loved seeing him with someone who did NOT have her background and I mean her "profession" not her personal life storyline.... NOW, don't get me wrong because I do love a good escort/stripper romance BUT in this case, in this scenario, in this story, it just didn't work for me and it didn't work for Derek's character and that's how I feel.
What else I liked: Yes, believe it or not, I liked London a lot and yes, she grew on me throughout the book BUT I hate a stubborn woman and she frustrated me quite a bit. Don't get me wrong, I don't want a doormat but I want strong, confidant, sweet n sexy and I feel her character fell flat for me in this story. I loved the twist in her family backstory...that was done brilliantly! But the 8 years of her "profession" etc..... just didn't work for me in THIS particular story unfortunately and because of that I felt I couldn't fully engage and/or invest in their story. I DID however, love the Epilogue and it set up for a great next story...I am assuming, lol! Hope this all makes sense...I am just so darn conflicted on this one, lol.
I have been a fan of Author Selena Laurence and yes, I will still continue to be a fan of hers. This story was just a small hiccup...my own personal feelings but I certainly won't let it stop me from enjoying future work by her because she is truly a fabulous and gifted writer. Even the best of the best have a minor speed bump now and then and for me this was just a small blip and I wish her much success in the future, especially with this series. I am looking forward to reading ALL about the other secondary characters we have been introduced to in this series to date:)
September 7, 2018
That was delicious!
June 3, 2017
This is kind of like the story I imagined for Sam Seabourne and the high class call girl in The West Wing TV series.
So, when married potential presidential candidate Jason Melville is found in a hotel room with a high class Washington escort and leaked to the press, his political adviser Derek Ambrose can only see one way out of the mess, pretend the call girl is his secret girlfriend. And the fact that Derek finds her beautiful and fascinating is coincidental.
London Sharpe ran away from her mother's home when she was 17 years old. After living rough for a while she started exotic dancing and eventually became a high class escort. Now she earns $1,000 an hour and has a small, select group of clients.
While Derek desperately firefights to keep his candidate in the running someone is trying to sabotage the campaign, little does he know that London has a secret that could jeopardise everything.
This was such a great kindle freebie, politics, hot sex and intrigue. Loved it and bought all the other books in the Powerplay series as a result.
So, when married potential presidential candidate Jason Melville is found in a hotel room with a high class Washington escort and leaked to the press, his political adviser Derek Ambrose can only see one way out of the mess, pretend the call girl is his secret girlfriend. And the fact that Derek finds her beautiful and fascinating is coincidental.
London Sharpe ran away from her mother's home when she was 17 years old. After living rough for a while she started exotic dancing and eventually became a high class escort. Now she earns $1,000 an hour and has a small, select group of clients.
While Derek desperately firefights to keep his candidate in the running someone is trying to sabotage the campaign, little does he know that London has a secret that could jeopardise everything.
This was such a great kindle freebie, politics, hot sex and intrigue. Loved it and bought all the other books in the Powerplay series as a result.
December 27, 2016
After reading Prince of the Press, a Powerplay Novella, there was a few chapters of this one at the end and wow, I was hooked and had to continue reading it. And I am so glad I finished it.
Derek Ambrose is the man you want if you are ever planning to run for any political office. He is a leader, not a follower and he will lead you to the top if you can stay out of trouble.
London Sharpe is a professional escort and she only has high profile clients. Keeping secrets is a big part of her life and her job. Not even her closest friend knows what she does.
When Derek catches London with his top candidate, he has to come up with a lie to cover all the hard work the his club, The Powerplay, has spent on getting him ready to be the next president.
Can Derek and London make the lie believable? Who is out to destroy him or his candidate? Will London trust Derek to tell him her secret? What will happen if he learns her secret before she has a chance to explain it to him?
Selena Laurence is one of my go to authors and I will read anything she writes. This one had me from the beginning and was hard to put down. I loved that is was a love story with a little suspense and mystery. With some heartache and pain but in the end you hope they can work things out. I hope there will be more from the other guys in the Powerplay Club, I have to know more about Kamal after that bit at the end.
Derek Ambrose is the man you want if you are ever planning to run for any political office. He is a leader, not a follower and he will lead you to the top if you can stay out of trouble.
London Sharpe is a professional escort and she only has high profile clients. Keeping secrets is a big part of her life and her job. Not even her closest friend knows what she does.
When Derek catches London with his top candidate, he has to come up with a lie to cover all the hard work the his club, The Powerplay, has spent on getting him ready to be the next president.
Can Derek and London make the lie believable? Who is out to destroy him or his candidate? Will London trust Derek to tell him her secret? What will happen if he learns her secret before she has a chance to explain it to him?
Selena Laurence is one of my go to authors and I will read anything she writes. This one had me from the beginning and was hard to put down. I loved that is was a love story with a little suspense and mystery. With some heartache and pain but in the end you hope they can work things out. I hope there will be more from the other guys in the Powerplay Club, I have to know more about Kamal after that bit at the end.
May 26, 2017
Like the title of this book, The Kingmaker is Washington politics in its true form. This book has it all, excitement, intrigue and a great romance all roled into one. Now, I do have to let you know this stories premise of Washington politics is not normally something I enjoy reading about but with that said, I was enthrolled from the beginning. I was riveted to my couch unable to put this book down!! The first description that came to mind as I was reading was this book reminds of a combination of the West Wing meets Pretty Woman. I recommend this book to everyone that enjoys a really good romantic suspense!! Can't wait for the next book!!
This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
May 1, 2016
Politics and romance do mix!
Serena Laurence has written a timely novel that is exciting and romantic. Anyone that likes politics and romance will love this book. Sexy Derek and beautiful Jordan are forced to spend time together under unlikely and unpleasant circumstances. What starts as a pretense turns into a swoonworthy romance despite Jordan's past. There are surprises, twists and turns that will leave you wondering what will happen next. There is forgiveness and reunions that result in a happily ever after ending. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Serena Laurence has written a timely novel that is exciting and romantic. Anyone that likes politics and romance will love this book. Sexy Derek and beautiful Jordan are forced to spend time together under unlikely and unpleasant circumstances. What starts as a pretense turns into a swoonworthy romance despite Jordan's past. There are surprises, twists and turns that will leave you wondering what will happen next. There is forgiveness and reunions that result in a happily ever after ending. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 2, 2016
This is like a cross between Scandal and House of Cards with a lot of romance and angst. It is so good that it draws you right into the book and keeps you on the hook until the end. And I love how the President is a WOMAN in this novel.
London is a professional escort at night but by day she is a socialist but all that came to an end when somebody blew her nighttime activities up and on blast and told everyone who she was. All because her activities at night were with a possible Senator in running and those out to cause damage didn’t care who got taken down.
Derek is a powerful man in Washington; he is known to fix scandals and make things go away. He is the one you see if you are trying to get your man into office or clean up a mess. He is powerful, very sexy and oh so ambitious. Another thing that he is known for is being cocky but that is something he has had to be in order to get his business up and off the ground. The way Derek sees it is in order to shut the scandal down is to pretend London is his girlfriend in order to protect the Senator and London from further scandal BUT London is hiding a bigger secret that could take out Derek for even being known in her presence.
London is so independent and she takes care of herself, she has always had to do this ; when Derek comes into her life and tries to make her see that she is able to be known for bigger and better things that prostitution- she sees it and thinks he just wants to sleep with her and then move her on down the road by making her his next pet project but something about it finally gets to London. But before she can confess her secret, it explodes and I have to say, it was so painful seeing how cut off London was from everyone, how she was treated and how Derek was treated. Do they get their HEA in the end? I do recommend this story if you love 2nd chance romances that come with a theme of political drama/romance. Derek is the ultimate alpha and London is the heroine who is emotionally battled scarred and just desires for love.
My rating: 4.6 stars ****
**I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review***
London is a professional escort at night but by day she is a socialist but all that came to an end when somebody blew her nighttime activities up and on blast and told everyone who she was. All because her activities at night were with a possible Senator in running and those out to cause damage didn’t care who got taken down.
Derek is a powerful man in Washington; he is known to fix scandals and make things go away. He is the one you see if you are trying to get your man into office or clean up a mess. He is powerful, very sexy and oh so ambitious. Another thing that he is known for is being cocky but that is something he has had to be in order to get his business up and off the ground. The way Derek sees it is in order to shut the scandal down is to pretend London is his girlfriend in order to protect the Senator and London from further scandal BUT London is hiding a bigger secret that could take out Derek for even being known in her presence.
London is so independent and she takes care of herself, she has always had to do this ; when Derek comes into her life and tries to make her see that she is able to be known for bigger and better things that prostitution- she sees it and thinks he just wants to sleep with her and then move her on down the road by making her his next pet project but something about it finally gets to London. But before she can confess her secret, it explodes and I have to say, it was so painful seeing how cut off London was from everyone, how she was treated and how Derek was treated. Do they get their HEA in the end? I do recommend this story if you love 2nd chance romances that come with a theme of political drama/romance. Derek is the ultimate alpha and London is the heroine who is emotionally battled scarred and just desires for love.
My rating: 4.6 stars ****
**I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review***
October 12, 2017
I had my doubts about a romance heroine who’s a prostitute, but somehow Laurence pulls it off.
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September 14, 2017
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
Characterisation: 3/5
Prose: 3/5
How much I enjoyed it: 3/5
June 7, 2018
Loved!!!
July 8, 2017
A good fast paced read. Nice mix of story line, relationships & sex. Perfect for the beach. Could've been longer. Really enjoyed it.
June 26, 2017
I liked it! The last 3 chapters kind of zipped through the ending at a lightening pace, but it was a nice HEA - somehow taking some of the cynicism out of Washington politics!
This was a sweet, "hooker with a heart of gold"- meets - political stragetist/idealist/saviour/hero/alpha. Somehow they both come across as wholesome in their own ways. There were some good steamy scenes and no too much angst.
I just found out there was a novella prequel involving Marcus! I like the main Power Players enough that I will read on in the series. They are well done, written with some intelligence, not too heavy and not too angsty. And they're kinda fun!
This was a sweet, "hooker with a heart of gold"- meets - political stragetist/idealist/saviour/hero/alpha. Somehow they both come across as wholesome in their own ways. There were some good steamy scenes and no too much angst.
I just found out there was a novella prequel involving Marcus! I like the main Power Players enough that I will read on in the series. They are well done, written with some intelligence, not too heavy and not too angsty. And they're kinda fun!
July 1, 2017
I loved the story! Very well written and kept me entertained for hours!
June 29, 2017
The Kingmaker: A Powerplay Novel
This is a new author for me and I'm glad that I found her. I enjoyed reading this novel and can't wait to read the rest of them.
This is a new author for me and I'm glad that I found her. I enjoyed reading this novel and can't wait to read the rest of them.
April 13, 2016
3.75 'political drama' stars
House of Cards, anyone? I didn't actually watch that show, so I don't know the similarities. But this one is a good political drama book that have me looking forward to what is up the hero's sleeves especially during all the presidential crisis. And the Madam President who is making out with one of the secondary characters? Yowza! Wish I could read a future Kamal's book and get a glimpse into what is happening behind close doors.
London is a professional escort, a high end prostitute that cater to the elite. She is living a comfortable double life, a socialist by day and an escort by night. Everything is dandy until her identity was blown when someone is out to jeopardize a senator's running for the White House.
Derek is ambitious, powerful, resourceful and the puppet master behind the Senator. His ambition is to put his candidate into the White House. The last thing he needs is a sex scandal to handle and a gorgeous woman that keep infiltrating his mind.
I find the story is rather heavy on the politics and light on the romance although from the get go we knew that Derek was smitten with London. He came up with a ruse to claim that London is her girlfriend to protect her and the Senator. But what he didn't know is that London is hiding another secret identity, far worst than being an escort that will totally ruin a man like Derek.
London is a tough nut to crack, proven by Derek repeatedly trying to get in her pants. She is an independent woman, who manage to held her head up high despite her profession. She don't mind selling her body, but when it comes to being intimate with a man who actually care for her, she couldn't stomach it. I find it rather hard to believe that she had such a hang up about being with Derek. I want her to submit to him much earlier rather than drag it out so long.
Derek is an admirable hero. The main draw is his confidence and capability in his field, his persistence in pursuing London despite her rebuke and his honorable trait as a man himself. I'm totally a mush when it comes to him sacrificing everything to be with the woman he loves, but there is one minor problem. I feel that his relationship development with London is not that deep yet before he is going all out because during the first half, London was constantly giving him cold shoulder and he was already half in love with the woman.
I'm glad despite the major deal breaker, they manage to workaround the problem and came out stronger than before. I'm looking forward to read about the other characters in Derek's Powerplay Club.
House of Cards, anyone? I didn't actually watch that show, so I don't know the similarities. But this one is a good political drama book that have me looking forward to what is up the hero's sleeves especially during all the presidential crisis. And the Madam President who is making out with one of the secondary characters? Yowza! Wish I could read a future Kamal's book and get a glimpse into what is happening behind close doors.
London is a professional escort, a high end prostitute that cater to the elite. She is living a comfortable double life, a socialist by day and an escort by night. Everything is dandy until her identity was blown when someone is out to jeopardize a senator's running for the White House.
Derek is ambitious, powerful, resourceful and the puppet master behind the Senator. His ambition is to put his candidate into the White House. The last thing he needs is a sex scandal to handle and a gorgeous woman that keep infiltrating his mind.
I find the story is rather heavy on the politics and light on the romance although from the get go we knew that Derek was smitten with London. He came up with a ruse to claim that London is her girlfriend to protect her and the Senator. But what he didn't know is that London is hiding another secret identity, far worst than being an escort that will totally ruin a man like Derek.
London is a tough nut to crack, proven by Derek repeatedly trying to get in her pants. She is an independent woman, who manage to held her head up high despite her profession. She don't mind selling her body, but when it comes to being intimate with a man who actually care for her, she couldn't stomach it. I find it rather hard to believe that she had such a hang up about being with Derek. I want her to submit to him much earlier rather than drag it out so long.
Derek is an admirable hero. The main draw is his confidence and capability in his field, his persistence in pursuing London despite her rebuke and his honorable trait as a man himself. I'm totally a mush when it comes to him sacrificing everything to be with the woman he loves, but there is one minor problem. I feel that his relationship development with London is not that deep yet before he is going all out because during the first half, London was constantly giving him cold shoulder and he was already half in love with the woman.
I'm glad despite the major deal breaker, they manage to workaround the problem and came out stronger than before. I'm looking forward to read about the other characters in Derek's Powerplay Club.
April 13, 2016
3.75 'political drama' stars
House of Cards, anyone? I didn't actually watch that show, so I don't know the similarities. But this one is a good political drama book that have me looking forward to what is up the hero's sleeves especially during all the presidential crisis. And the Madam President who is making out with one of the secondary characters? Yowza! Wish I could read a future Kamal's book and get a glimpse into what is happening behind close doors.
London is a professional escort, a high end prostitute that cater to the elite. She is living a comfortable double life, a socialist by day and an escort by night. Everything is dandy until her identity was blown when someone is out to jeopardize a senator's running for the White House.
Derek is ambitious, powerful, resourceful and the puppet master behind the Senator. His ambition is to put his candidate into the White House. The last thing he needs is a sex scandal to handle and a gorgeous woman that keep infiltrating his mind.
I find the story is rather heavy on the politics and light on the romance although from the get go we knew that Derek was smitten with London. He came up with a ruse to claim that London is her girlfriend to protect her and the Senator. But what he didn't know is that London is hiding another secret identity, far worst than being an escort that will totally ruin a man like Derek.
London is a tough nut to crack, proven by Derek repeatedly trying to get in her pants. She is an independent woman, who manage to held her head up high despite her profession. She don't mind selling her body, but when it comes to being intimate with a man who actually care for her, she couldn't stomach it. I find it rather hard to believe that she had such a hang up about being with Derek. I want her to submit to him much earlier rather than drag it out so long.
Derek is an admirable hero. The main draw is his confidence and capability in his field, his persistence in pursuing London despite her rebuke and his honorable trait as a man himself. I'm totally a mush when it comes to him sacrificing everything to be with the woman he loves, but there is one minor problem. I feel that his relationship development with London is not that deep yet before he is going all out because during the first half, London was constantly giving him cold shoulder and he was already half in love with the woman.
I'm glad despite the major deal breaker, they manage to workaround the problem and came out stronger than before. I'm looking forward to read about the other characters in Derek's Powerplay Club.
House of Cards, anyone? I didn't actually watch that show, so I don't know the similarities. But this one is a good political drama book that have me looking forward to what is up the hero's sleeves especially during all the presidential crisis. And the Madam President who is making out with one of the secondary characters? Yowza! Wish I could read a future Kamal's book and get a glimpse into what is happening behind close doors.
London is a professional escort, a high end prostitute that cater to the elite. She is living a comfortable double life, a socialist by day and an escort by night. Everything is dandy until her identity was blown when someone is out to jeopardize a senator's running for the White House.
Derek is ambitious, powerful, resourceful and the puppet master behind the Senator. His ambition is to put his candidate into the White House. The last thing he needs is a sex scandal to handle and a gorgeous woman that keep infiltrating his mind.
I find the story is rather heavy on the politics and light on the romance although from the get go we knew that Derek was smitten with London. He came up with a ruse to claim that London is her girlfriend to protect her and the Senator. But what he didn't know is that London is hiding another secret identity, far worst than being an escort that will totally ruin a man like Derek.
London is a tough nut to crack, proven by Derek repeatedly trying to get in her pants. She is an independent woman, who manage to held her head up high despite her profession. She don't mind selling her body, but when it comes to being intimate with a man who actually care for her, she couldn't stomach it. I find it rather hard to believe that she had such a hang up about being with Derek. I want her to submit to him much earlier rather than drag it out so long.
Derek is an admirable hero. The main draw is his confidence and capability in his field, his persistence in pursuing London despite her rebuke and his honorable trait as a man himself. I'm totally a mush when it comes to him sacrificing everything to be with the woman he loves, but there is one minor problem. I feel that his relationship development with London is not that deep yet before he is going all out because during the first half, London was constantly giving him cold shoulder and he was already half in love with the woman.
I'm glad despite the major deal breaker, they manage to workaround the problem and came out stronger than before. I'm looking forward to read about the other characters in Derek's Powerplay Club.
June 15, 2017
Well worth the read!
Politics, sex scandals and some intrigue made me get this book but I was hooked on the characters almost immediately and couldn't put it down. A great story! Going to buy another of the series!
Politics, sex scandals and some intrigue made me get this book but I was hooked on the characters almost immediately and couldn't put it down. A great story! Going to buy another of the series!
June 12, 2017
Wow
Wow just about sums it up.I don't usually read books about politics so I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book.Derek and London was a very unique couple and it worked for me.I can't say enough about this book,and how I will be reading more of this author's work.Great job Selena
Wow just about sums it up.I don't usually read books about politics so I was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this book.Derek and London was a very unique couple and it worked for me.I can't say enough about this book,and how I will be reading more of this author's work.Great job Selena
July 15, 2017
If strong language and graphic sex don't deter you, then read this unconventional contemporary romance. Set in Washington DC's powerful political arena, we met the main characters in chapter 1, London Sharpe and Derek Ambrose.
Derek was a wealthy, successful campaign consultant who skillfully managed rising stars in the political arena. He sought power but liked being in the background. He enjoyed shaping his political candidates with his own agenda. London was a professional escort; (a high-class call girl). Her rate was $1,000/per hour. She led a double life since her closest friends thought she had inherited money. They had no idea that her 'job" provided the prestigious address, designer clothing and time to volunteer at charitable foundations.
They met in chapter one when Derek entered a hotel suite for the political candidate he had groomed to run for president. In order to cover for his candidate, Derek convinced London to act as his girlfriend to cover for the senator's sexual activities. Remember the movie Pretty Woman? Well, this was a similar story line. Totally implausible but great fun like reading tabloid headlines while standing in line at the grocery store.
Derek was a wealthy, successful campaign consultant who skillfully managed rising stars in the political arena. He sought power but liked being in the background. He enjoyed shaping his political candidates with his own agenda. London was a professional escort; (a high-class call girl). Her rate was $1,000/per hour. She led a double life since her closest friends thought she had inherited money. They had no idea that her 'job" provided the prestigious address, designer clothing and time to volunteer at charitable foundations.
They met in chapter one when Derek entered a hotel suite for the political candidate he had groomed to run for president. In order to cover for his candidate, Derek convinced London to act as his girlfriend to cover for the senator's sexual activities. Remember the movie Pretty Woman? Well, this was a similar story line. Totally implausible but great fun like reading tabloid headlines while standing in line at the grocery store.
June 2, 2017
Extremely original
This story was really good. I had to finish it! I loved how well written this was. And have a dirty seedy, yet somehow wholesome Washington. This was a really great read.
This story was really good. I had to finish it! I loved how well written this was. And have a dirty seedy, yet somehow wholesome Washington. This was a really great read.
May 31, 2017
A great read.
Loved all the twist and turns to this story. It is definitely a keep you guessing type of plot and trying to figure out who done. And on top of a fantastic love story.
Loved all the twist and turns to this story. It is definitely a keep you guessing type of plot and trying to figure out who done. And on top of a fantastic love story.
March 21, 2017
Really enjoyed it very hard to put down! I read it in a day and a half. Loved Derek a confident, cocky powerful man. Alpha without exceeding in over protection. I agree with some of the comments that he could deserve another type of woman, someone more close to his circle. But regardless of that it was a a very enjoyable read with nice twists and turns and nothing overly exaggerated in the plot. The sex scenes are tastefully written especially with the issues she has, the way he handles her is beautiful.
March 10, 2017
Another of Selena's Powerplay series.. This is Derek's story.. As his professional life falls apart he also deals with serious personal issues including trying to protect London who seems to be at the center of his professional turmoil. Each book in this series leaves you wanting to read more of the groups stories as you can see how each man's story interacts with the others.. Well worth getting the whole series !!!
May 26, 2017
Really enjoyable read! Great chemistry between Derek and London.
July 13, 2017
3.5-4 Stars
Hmmmm, not sure how I am feeling about this one:( Did I like it yes, did I like it a lot, yes and no, did I love it, unfortunately, no. OK, so that sums up my feelings in a nutshell.
What I liked: I LOVED Derek......I mean really and truly loved him. Now, for me, his part, his character throughout, I loved, YET, I didn't get why he ended up falling so hard and fast for someone "like" London. Yeah, I am all over the place. I felt like he deserved "better" and I mean that in the sense, everything he was as a man, as a top notch man in his business, etc....I don't know, I just wished "more" for him in the girl lead character. I would have loved seeing him with someone who did NOT have her background and I mean her "profession" not her personal life storyline.... NOW, don't get me wrong because I do love a good escort/stripper romance BUT in this case, in this scenario, in this story, it just didn't work for me and it didn't work for Derek's character and that's how I feel.
What else I liked: Yes, believe it or not, I liked London a lot and yes, she grew on me throughout the book BUT I hate a stubborn woman and she frustrated me quite a bit. Don't get me wrong, I don't want a doormat but I want strong, confidant, sweet n sexy and I feel her character fell flat for me in this story. I loved the twist in her family backstory...that was done brilliantly! But the 8 years of her "profession" etc..... just didn't work for me in THIS particular story unfortunately and because of that I felt I couldn't fully engage and/or invest in their story. I DID however, love the Epilogue and it set up for a great next story...I am assuming, lol! Hope this all makes sense...I am just so darn conflicted on this one, lol.
I have been a fan of Author Selena Laurence and yes, I will still continue to be a fan of hers. This story was just a small hiccup...my own personal feelings but I certainly won't let it stop me from enjoying future work by her because she is truly a fabulous and gifted writer. Even the best of the best have a minor speed bump now and then and for me this was just a small blip and I wish her much success in the future, especially with this series. I am looking forward to reading ALL about the other secondary characters we have been introduced to in this series to date:)
Hmmmm, not sure how I am feeling about this one:( Did I like it yes, did I like it a lot, yes and no, did I love it, unfortunately, no. OK, so that sums up my feelings in a nutshell.
What I liked: I LOVED Derek......I mean really and truly loved him. Now, for me, his part, his character throughout, I loved, YET, I didn't get why he ended up falling so hard and fast for someone "like" London. Yeah, I am all over the place. I felt like he deserved "better" and I mean that in the sense, everything he was as a man, as a top notch man in his business, etc....I don't know, I just wished "more" for him in the girl lead character. I would have loved seeing him with someone who did NOT have her background and I mean her "profession" not her personal life storyline.... NOW, don't get me wrong because I do love a good escort/stripper romance BUT in this case, in this scenario, in this story, it just didn't work for me and it didn't work for Derek's character and that's how I feel.
What else I liked: Yes, believe it or not, I liked London a lot and yes, she grew on me throughout the book BUT I hate a stubborn woman and she frustrated me quite a bit. Don't get me wrong, I don't want a doormat but I want strong, confidant, sweet n sexy and I feel her character fell flat for me in this story. I loved the twist in her family backstory...that was done brilliantly! But the 8 years of her "profession" etc..... just didn't work for me in THIS particular story unfortunately and because of that I felt I couldn't fully engage and/or invest in their story. I DID however, love the Epilogue and it set up for a great next story...I am assuming, lol! Hope this all makes sense...I am just so darn conflicted on this one, lol.
I have been a fan of Author Selena Laurence and yes, I will still continue to be a fan of hers. This story was just a small hiccup...my own personal feelings but I certainly won't let it stop me from enjoying future work by her because she is truly a fabulous and gifted writer. Even the best of the best have a minor speed bump now and then and for me this was just a small blip and I wish her much success in the future, especially with this series. I am looking forward to reading ALL about the other secondary characters we have been introduced to in this series to date:)
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October 9, 2021DNF.
LOVED THE CONCEPT, JUST DIDN'T LIKE THE CHARACTERS.
This one sounded promising and I loved what the male lead represented. The author's got his part down to a T but my problem was the heroine. I'm very critical when it comes to the heroine, and for the first time I've met an escort/prostitute/hooker heroine that I didn't hesitate to dislike. Usually I'm raving over them. Some reviewers pointed out how unrealistic the male lead was to be salivating over the heroine just in one unflattering meeting, and I have to say YES, THAT'S KIND OF TRUE. And while I enjoy a good sexual tension...this one happened so easily and fast (kind of felt one-sided on the male lead's end), it didn't feel natural. Like I found myself skipping the sexual tension parts because I can't seem to stomach it.
The problem? Probably because I didn't like the heroine. And the way their main leads' roles just kept being justified...just rubbed me the wrong way. Ironically, it's like trying to fit two pieces of puzzle you think would fit, but no matter how they just won't.
While I liked that London's miss independent and not a pushover, her stubbornness and I don't need a man to save me attitude really puts me off. It's not so much the fact that she's content to be alone and honestly didn't need to be supported by a man but, she's the kind of woman who is REALLY TOUCHY about her past and constantly defends her job as an escort. From the beginning, London just kept justifying herself that she's content to be who she is bla bla bla....OMG YAWNSSS...that only means she's secretly ashamed of her job (HELLO, she even hid it from her close "friend") and she's like a prickly porcupine who enjoys her power over men in the bedroom because it's SAFE.
Nah, sorry this wasn't my cup of heroine. I like a good balance of willfull but also docile when needed to be...
I know the author does put a lot of effort into her stories. I'm not into politics so I know jack shit but, it certainly was legit - at least to a non U.S citizen's perspective. So, even if I didn't like the story, it doesn't mean it was entirely bad. It's merely a personal preference.
LOVED THE CONCEPT, JUST DIDN'T LIKE THE CHARACTERS.
This one sounded promising and I loved what the male lead represented. The author's got his part down to a T but my problem was the heroine. I'm very critical when it comes to the heroine, and for the first time I've met an escort/prostitute/hooker heroine that I didn't hesitate to dislike. Usually I'm raving over them. Some reviewers pointed out how unrealistic the male lead was to be salivating over the heroine just in one unflattering meeting, and I have to say YES, THAT'S KIND OF TRUE. And while I enjoy a good sexual tension...this one happened so easily and fast (kind of felt one-sided on the male lead's end), it didn't feel natural. Like I found myself skipping the sexual tension parts because I can't seem to stomach it.
The problem? Probably because I didn't like the heroine. And the way their main leads' roles just kept being justified...just rubbed me the wrong way. Ironically, it's like trying to fit two pieces of puzzle you think would fit, but no matter how they just won't.
While I liked that London's miss independent and not a pushover, her stubbornness and I don't need a man to save me attitude really puts me off. It's not so much the fact that she's content to be alone and honestly didn't need to be supported by a man but, she's the kind of woman who is REALLY TOUCHY about her past and constantly defends her job as an escort. From the beginning, London just kept justifying herself that she's content to be who she is bla bla bla....OMG YAWNSSS...that only means she's secretly ashamed of her job (HELLO, she even hid it from her close "friend") and she's like a prickly porcupine who enjoys her power over men in the bedroom because it's SAFE.
Nah, sorry this wasn't my cup of heroine. I like a good balance of willfull but also docile when needed to be...
I know the author does put a lot of effort into her stories. I'm not into politics so I know jack shit but, it certainly was legit - at least to a non U.S citizen's perspective. So, even if I didn't like the story, it doesn't mean it was entirely bad. It's merely a personal preference.
May 30, 2017
I am at a point where if I am going to read a romance novel, I want one with a little grit and a more substantial plot. "The Kingmaker" nicely fits the bit since it is about the background people whose job it is to get candidates elected to political office. So, what would the world be like if we have a conglomerate of people i.e. lawyers, political strategists, private investigator etc who operate with a true moral compass? They find a candidate that they feel represent their core values and then launch an eighteen month campaign grooming them to announce their candidacy for the White House. Then, one fateful day the candidate is caught with an "escort." Well, that is the premise for this story.
London Sharpe is an Iranian immigrant who ran away from home at age seventeen and began working in the sex trade. Oh, don't pity her. She is highly paid, owns a vacation home, condo, and spends her free time working on various charities for women and children. However, when she is discovered by Derek Ambrose, political strategist hired to get Senator Melville nominated for president, she has just changed her life forever. Rather that throw in the towel when the Senator's indiscretion is uncovered, Derek decides to spin the tale that he London was not seeing Melville but in actuality is his girlfriend. Yes, she use to be part of the sex trade but she has changed her ways.
At first it works but when the world discovers the greatest secret London possesses, more than just her life if about to crumble because she has done the one thing she never thought she would do and that is fall in love. This was a pretty good read but like most romances that promote the idea of insta-love, it was a bit unbelievable. Additionally, some of the plot was pretty unlikely as well. However, the characterizations were good, the suspense was a nice touch but the big secret was a little less dramatic than what I was expecting. I was impressed with Ms. Laurence's writing style and will definitely check out other books by her.
London Sharpe is an Iranian immigrant who ran away from home at age seventeen and began working in the sex trade. Oh, don't pity her. She is highly paid, owns a vacation home, condo, and spends her free time working on various charities for women and children. However, when she is discovered by Derek Ambrose, political strategist hired to get Senator Melville nominated for president, she has just changed her life forever. Rather that throw in the towel when the Senator's indiscretion is uncovered, Derek decides to spin the tale that he London was not seeing Melville but in actuality is his girlfriend. Yes, she use to be part of the sex trade but she has changed her ways.
At first it works but when the world discovers the greatest secret London possesses, more than just her life if about to crumble because she has done the one thing she never thought she would do and that is fall in love. This was a pretty good read but like most romances that promote the idea of insta-love, it was a bit unbelievable. Additionally, some of the plot was pretty unlikely as well. However, the characterizations were good, the suspense was a nice touch but the big secret was a little less dramatic than what I was expecting. I was impressed with Ms. Laurence's writing style and will definitely check out other books by her.
October 3, 2017
While this isn't the first Selena Laurence book I've read, it is the first I've read in this series. I picked it up for free on Amazon and having loved her other series, I thought I'd give it a go while I have a break in my ARC pile.
For the most part, I enjoyed The Kingmaker. I liked the political element, but also the fact that Derek was the campaign strategist, not the candidate. It made this story a bit different from the usual political romances I read where the leading male is running for the presidency or a seat in congress.
With regard to the characters, I liked them. Their stories held my interest and I grew to like them as individuals, and as a couple. I did believe in the chemistry between them, and I thought the book and relationship developed at a good pace. I didn't feel my attention drifting, I didn't skim, and I wanted to know more.
The only reason this read wasn't a five star for me is because of how everything with Melvine played out. I felt the suspense element fizzled out a little and the resolve wasn't very satisfying with the plot thread. I felt it was only given a smidgen of attention and brushed to one side to get it out of the way. I also figured out who was responsible, but that's probably because I read too many books like this so I know most formulas for a plot by now.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. I thought the suspense element could have been developed more to make it a great read, but it held my attention and I enjoyed watching the characters come together.
For the most part, I enjoyed The Kingmaker. I liked the political element, but also the fact that Derek was the campaign strategist, not the candidate. It made this story a bit different from the usual political romances I read where the leading male is running for the presidency or a seat in congress.
With regard to the characters, I liked them. Their stories held my interest and I grew to like them as individuals, and as a couple. I did believe in the chemistry between them, and I thought the book and relationship developed at a good pace. I didn't feel my attention drifting, I didn't skim, and I wanted to know more.
The only reason this read wasn't a five star for me is because of how everything with Melvine played out. I felt the suspense element fizzled out a little and the resolve wasn't very satisfying with the plot thread. I felt it was only given a smidgen of attention and brushed to one side to get it out of the way. I also figured out who was responsible, but that's probably because I read too many books like this so I know most formulas for a plot by now.
Overall, I did enjoy this book. I thought the suspense element could have been developed more to make it a great read, but it held my attention and I enjoyed watching the characters come together.
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