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Friends with Benefits #1
The Billionaire Escape Plan
Most girls dream of marrying a billionaire.
Me? I’d rather make fun of one. Especially if the billionaire in question is Alexander Grant.
Excuse me—Xander Grant. That’s right—the mega-hot entrepreneur who seems to top every magazine's “Rich Eligible Bachelors” list these days.
To me, he’ll always be Alex—my childhood best friend. The guy who joined me on all sorts of wild teenage misadventures. The only person in our small town who understood me.
It’s been four years since I’ve seen Alex. But suddenly he’s back in our small town at the exact same time my life is imploding around me.
We’ve both changed so much—I mean, the guy used to live in ripped jeans, and now he wears nothing but designer suits—but when I need it most, he offers me exactly the escape I need. A chance to run away from my life, if only for a few days.
I only hope my heart is prepared.
Me? I’d rather make fun of one. Especially if the billionaire in question is Alexander Grant.
Excuse me—Xander Grant. That’s right—the mega-hot entrepreneur who seems to top every magazine's “Rich Eligible Bachelors” list these days.
To me, he’ll always be Alex—my childhood best friend. The guy who joined me on all sorts of wild teenage misadventures. The only person in our small town who understood me.
It’s been four years since I’ve seen Alex. But suddenly he’s back in our small town at the exact same time my life is imploding around me.
We’ve both changed so much—I mean, the guy used to live in ripped jeans, and now he wears nothing but designer suits—but when I need it most, he offers me exactly the escape I need. A chance to run away from my life, if only for a few days.
I only hope my heart is prepared.
ebook
First published June 17, 2016
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296 people want to read
About the author
Ember Casey
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Ember Casey is a USA Today bestselling writer who lives in Atlanta, Georgia in a den of iniquity (or so she likes to tell people). She write books about wicked billionaires, Hollywood bad boys, playboy princes, and sexy treasure hunters.
When she's not writing steamy romances, you can find her whipping up baked goods (usually of the chocolate variety), traveling (her bucket list is infinite), or generally causing trouble (because somebody has to do it).
Ember Casey is a USA Today bestselling writer who lives in Atlanta, Georgia in a den of iniquity (or so she likes to tell people). She write books about wicked billionaires, Hollywood bad boys, playboy princes, and sexy treasure hunters.
When she's not writing steamy romances, you can find her whipping up baked goods (usually of the chocolate variety), traveling (her bucket list is infinite), or generally causing trouble (because somebody has to do it).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 22, 2016
Sweet and funny friends to lovers story! Mae is at a crossroads in her life, actually her life is kinda falling down around her ears! But her best friend is about to come home and she is looking forward to seeing him after 4 long years. Only problem? When she sees him she starts to feel a little funny inside, when did he get so hot? Alex aka Xander is the boy she grew up with, now he is rich and successful and no longer the boy she knew. After a string of mishaps and misunderstandings, Alex offers to Mae a trip to New York to stay with him. Thank goodness, Mae needs to get out of Dodge stat! But, what is she going to do about these new feelings she has for Alex?
This is a funny story full of love, laughter, and hysterical misunderstandings. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Mae and Alex! Quick but satisfying read that left my heart full and put a big smile on my face!
***ARC given in exchange for an honest review***
This is a funny story full of love, laughter, and hysterical misunderstandings. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Mae and Alex! Quick but satisfying read that left my heart full and put a big smile on my face!
***ARC given in exchange for an honest review***
June 14, 2016
I love a good friends to lovers story and this one does not disappoint! Alex (Xander) and Mae have been best friends since they were children. They have slightly drifted apart since Alex left their small town and never looked back. He is now a hot shot billionaire and Mae is left feeling like she may not know him as well as she thought she did. The two get reacquainted when he finally comes home for his mother's birthday.
The minute they reconnect the chemistry between the two is off the charts. It is very enjoyable to watch Mae realize her feelings for Alex.
This was a very fun and light hearted read that is perfect for summer. I hope we get to read more about Alex and Mae in the future.
The minute they reconnect the chemistry between the two is off the charts. It is very enjoyable to watch Mae realize her feelings for Alex.
This was a very fun and light hearted read that is perfect for summer. I hope we get to read more about Alex and Mae in the future.
June 22, 2016
I am a huge fan of Ember’s and have loved all of her books that I’ve read to date. Her writing style is superb and she really gets a person invested in the characters. This book is no different. From the beginning, Ember introduces you to the main characters and you immediately feel a connection to them. I have an affinity for books that make me feel something and this book did just that. There were times I laughed at the witty dialogue, cringed at the awkward parts, cried during the emotional scenes, and was enamored with the charming love story. I simply could not put down this book and finished it in one day. I am a stay-at-home mom of a 4-year-old, so this says a lot. ;) I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to a friend.
May 16, 2017
I had a hard time putting this book down! I loved the characters, and saw myself a lot in Mae. Alex was just perfect as a counterpoint for Mae. I loved how they interacted in the story and I really enjoyed reading Mae's internal dialogue. If you like reading about friends to lovers stories, I would recommend you pick this one up!
I received this book from the author as part of a newsletter giveaway.
I received this book from the author as part of a newsletter giveaway.
September 22, 2017
[1.5 stars] the book is not awful, it just feels "incomplete". like mae is the only pov so i cant get any "feelings" from alex. he is like a minor character in the book iso the hero. so in a way the book seems very one-sided because alex is "hiding behind the curtains" and mae is talkijg non-stop. not continuing this series nor any other books from this author.
January 6, 2018
SWEET LOVE STORY
To really be in love perhaps you do need to be friends first; but there must be that CHEMISTRY; that unexplainable CHEMISTRY with pheromones. There must be more than just lust for true love to last. Love this story! Love this author's writing.
To really be in love perhaps you do need to be friends first; but there must be that CHEMISTRY; that unexplainable CHEMISTRY with pheromones. There must be more than just lust for true love to last. Love this story! Love this author's writing.
May 19, 2018
Fun and sexy... Great summer book
I don't usually read this type of romance, but I'm glad I read this one. The characters are funny and so relatable that you can't help but cheer them on. Left me with a smile on my face.
I don't usually read this type of romance, but I'm glad I read this one. The characters are funny and so relatable that you can't help but cheer them on. Left me with a smile on my face.
June 13, 2022
Cute Story
Cute romantic tale of best friends to lovers. I would recommend this book to readers who like a simple romance with a clean storyline. Although not for me, it was well written.
Cute romantic tale of best friends to lovers. I would recommend this book to readers who like a simple romance with a clean storyline. Although not for me, it was well written.
September 7, 2017
Very enjoyable -Alex was great and showed true love-Great friends to lovers initial sex scene !
May 21, 2018
2.5 stars
May 22, 2018
A quick read, but pretty good.
Exactly what it purports to be, but with a lot of endearing human touches. I felt the chemistry for the most part, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Exactly what it purports to be, but with a lot of endearing human touches. I felt the chemistry for the most part, and thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 2, 2019
4.5 Stars
This is a pretty good friends to lovers story. Mae and Alex are really good together, they bring out the best in each other and for each other.
This is a pretty good friends to lovers story. Mae and Alex are really good together, they bring out the best in each other and for each other.
July 12, 2019
This was a fun, short read. The storyline was fun and kept my attention. I really enjoyed the characters.
April 15, 2019
This is a great friends to lovers story. Growing up with someone who has been your neighbor and best friend through all kinds of adventures builds a great basis for any relationship. Xander has moved to the big city and has built a successful career all on his own. Mae has stayed back in the hometown and has recently caught her finance cheating on her. Xander comes home for his moms party and instantly he knows that something is off with Mae.
I loved that he takes care of her and brings her back to his house in the city. She is beyond impressed and she sees how grown up he has become. That is when all her thoughts change to seeing him as more than just friends.
The characterizations and great story sold this for me.
I loved that he takes care of her and brings her back to his house in the city. She is beyond impressed and she sees how grown up he has become. That is when all her thoughts change to seeing him as more than just friends.
The characterizations and great story sold this for me.
September 19, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this friends to lovers story. Alex Grant and Mae Breyer come from a very small town where the annual birthday party for Alex's mom is a major event drawing nearly the entire population of the town. They all dress up for the social event, with the women wearing hats, some rather outrageous that match their outfits. Everyone is a gossip and any news travels fast, accurate or not.
Mae stayed in small town Haverton, while her best friend Alex moved to NYC and became extraordinarily wealthy. It doesn't hurt that he filled out both in height and brawn and is makes the term good looking seem insipid. He is finally coming home for his mother's birthday party after 4 years away. Mae hopes that they haven't lost all the deep connection they once enjoyed.
Mae causes havoc at the party when she suddenly spots Alex. Spilling punch, dropping plates of food on a town gossip, and finally throwing up on another gossip. She runs into the house to get away from the mess she just made of their neighbor's party and to get away from Alex. Alex is no longer the lanky teen with ragged jeans and holes in his tee shirt. He arrives in a black Lamborghini and is wearing a bespoke suit. Alex catches up with her and there is no hiding from him. He knows her too well. Because she threw up, there is now wild speculation that she is pregnant, although she is not married. No stopping this rumor or others now circulating about her.
Alex offers to take her back to NYC with him for several days to let the gossip die down and some other 'scandal' take its place. She agrees as she cannot imagine staying in Haverton for a while. And, now the fun begins. Mae realizes that she thinks of Alex as more than just a friend, but he keeps putting her off. He kisses her madly, then suddenly stops. His behavior is driving her nuts.
I really enjoyed this story by Ember Casey. The first book of hers that I've read. It won't be the last. A light read with a HEA! Give it a try when you need a bit of a pick up.
Mae stayed in small town Haverton, while her best friend Alex moved to NYC and became extraordinarily wealthy. It doesn't hurt that he filled out both in height and brawn and is makes the term good looking seem insipid. He is finally coming home for his mother's birthday party after 4 years away. Mae hopes that they haven't lost all the deep connection they once enjoyed.
Mae causes havoc at the party when she suddenly spots Alex. Spilling punch, dropping plates of food on a town gossip, and finally throwing up on another gossip. She runs into the house to get away from the mess she just made of their neighbor's party and to get away from Alex. Alex is no longer the lanky teen with ragged jeans and holes in his tee shirt. He arrives in a black Lamborghini and is wearing a bespoke suit. Alex catches up with her and there is no hiding from him. He knows her too well. Because she threw up, there is now wild speculation that she is pregnant, although she is not married. No stopping this rumor or others now circulating about her.
Alex offers to take her back to NYC with him for several days to let the gossip die down and some other 'scandal' take its place. She agrees as she cannot imagine staying in Haverton for a while. And, now the fun begins. Mae realizes that she thinks of Alex as more than just a friend, but he keeps putting her off. He kisses her madly, then suddenly stops. His behavior is driving her nuts.
I really enjoyed this story by Ember Casey. The first book of hers that I've read. It won't be the last. A light read with a HEA! Give it a try when you need a bit of a pick up.
March 5, 2017
Sweet
What a cute, sweet love story. I loved every second of it. I really wasn't sure what direction it was going to go, but it is perfect!
What a cute, sweet love story. I loved every second of it. I really wasn't sure what direction it was going to go, but it is perfect!
June 18, 2016
5 Stars!!!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Childhood friends Alex and Mae haven’t seen each other in four years; when they meet at a party they both realise things seem different, yet together they are as strong and as funny as ever. Were they always just friends or did their feelings run deeper without either truly realising?
Ember Casey has written a billionaire romance with a twist and I absolutely loved it!
This story is a sweet, humorous, contemporary romance that has you laughing out loud one minute and totally in love the next.
Mae is witty and outspoken, never afraid to speak her mind and always manages to find herself in some kind of dilemma. I really liked her character, she wasn't whiney or annoying, although she was a little blind to what was staring her in the face; for me this added to her character.
Alex now a billionaire hadn't truly lost his boyhood roots, he still deep down liked adventure. He was strong, loyal and caring, a true gentleman and it was clear he felt so much more for Mae than he had ever revealed to anyone.
Although in their time apart they had changed, in many ways they hadn't; it was clear how right and how perfect they were together and they simply brought out the best in each other. Mae grounded Alex and reminded him of the joys the world around him had to enjoy and Alex gave Mae the encouragement to explore her true self and the things she truly wanted out of life.
If you love humorous contemporary romance this book is for you!
I was given this book in turn for an honest review.
Childhood friends Alex and Mae haven’t seen each other in four years; when they meet at a party they both realise things seem different, yet together they are as strong and as funny as ever. Were they always just friends or did their feelings run deeper without either truly realising?
Ember Casey has written a billionaire romance with a twist and I absolutely loved it!
This story is a sweet, humorous, contemporary romance that has you laughing out loud one minute and totally in love the next.
Mae is witty and outspoken, never afraid to speak her mind and always manages to find herself in some kind of dilemma. I really liked her character, she wasn't whiney or annoying, although she was a little blind to what was staring her in the face; for me this added to her character.
Alex now a billionaire hadn't truly lost his boyhood roots, he still deep down liked adventure. He was strong, loyal and caring, a true gentleman and it was clear he felt so much more for Mae than he had ever revealed to anyone.
Although in their time apart they had changed, in many ways they hadn't; it was clear how right and how perfect they were together and they simply brought out the best in each other. Mae grounded Alex and reminded him of the joys the world around him had to enjoy and Alex gave Mae the encouragement to explore her true self and the things she truly wanted out of life.
If you love humorous contemporary romance this book is for you!
June 18, 2016
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
This was a great love story! This book was richer and more real to me than many of the other billionaire books I have read. It also had a realistic storyline and plot that interlace with suspense, romance, and keeps you enthralled with the characters. When reading the story, it may make you feel sad, confused, appalled, and even euphoric. I loved the characters of Alexander (Alex or Xander) Grant and Mabel (Mae) Breyer. Mae and Alex were childhood best friends. Not visiting his hometown for four years, Alex was returning to celebrate his mother’s birthday. Mae was nervous to see her best friend since he became a billionaire who was the hottest eligible bachelor. Or, was there another reason why Mae was nervous to see Alex? Mae has a secret that she is hiding from everyone—even her mother. What could be so devastating that Mae has to hide a secret from everyone? Alex invited Mae to New York to escape from Haverton. Why does Mae want to escape her hometown of Haverton? Will Mae accept Alex’s offer and what will happen while she is in New York? Ember Casey is a very good writer, and this story is well written. There are some twists and turns within the story that makes it interesting. The book will pique your interest and draw you in from the beginning to the very end.
This was a great love story! This book was richer and more real to me than many of the other billionaire books I have read. It also had a realistic storyline and plot that interlace with suspense, romance, and keeps you enthralled with the characters. When reading the story, it may make you feel sad, confused, appalled, and even euphoric. I loved the characters of Alexander (Alex or Xander) Grant and Mabel (Mae) Breyer. Mae and Alex were childhood best friends. Not visiting his hometown for four years, Alex was returning to celebrate his mother’s birthday. Mae was nervous to see her best friend since he became a billionaire who was the hottest eligible bachelor. Or, was there another reason why Mae was nervous to see Alex? Mae has a secret that she is hiding from everyone—even her mother. What could be so devastating that Mae has to hide a secret from everyone? Alex invited Mae to New York to escape from Haverton. Why does Mae want to escape her hometown of Haverton? Will Mae accept Alex’s offer and what will happen while she is in New York? Ember Casey is a very good writer, and this story is well written. There are some twists and turns within the story that makes it interesting. The book will pique your interest and draw you in from the beginning to the very end.
August 26, 2016
A light fun read
This is an impulse buy. I ran out of books to read (lies, I have 100 on my tbr) and I must read something. From the blurb, I already got the idea that it's a romance book with a happy ending like those Hallmark shows.
Mae and Alex are childhood friends from a small town of Haverton. After college, they went their separate ways but kept in contact through emails or phone.
I wasn't able to connect with Mae at the start of the book. Her struggles in keeping a secret - why would she be ashamed -and the need to escape town. Every town has a gaggle of busybodies and gossip always runs so if people talk, it's normal. I can't understand why she just can't ignore it and go on with her life. Anyway, she has to and that's where the story started rolling.
It is a Hallmark show type. I don't know but I really didn't feel the chemistry between Mae and Alex. I know there's one but only because it was stated in words not through actions. And it felt forced, like I should accept that Mae and Alex are together just like that with a brief romance. I don't know but it didn't allow me to feel instead it told me what I should feel.
But if you're looking for a quick read, something to pass the time or waiting for a book to be published then read this book!
This is an impulse buy. I ran out of books to read (lies, I have 100 on my tbr) and I must read something. From the blurb, I already got the idea that it's a romance book with a happy ending like those Hallmark shows.
Mae and Alex are childhood friends from a small town of Haverton. After college, they went their separate ways but kept in contact through emails or phone.
I wasn't able to connect with Mae at the start of the book. Her struggles in keeping a secret - why would she be ashamed -and the need to escape town. Every town has a gaggle of busybodies and gossip always runs so if people talk, it's normal. I can't understand why she just can't ignore it and go on with her life. Anyway, she has to and that's where the story started rolling.
It is a Hallmark show type. I don't know but I really didn't feel the chemistry between Mae and Alex. I know there's one but only because it was stated in words not through actions. And it felt forced, like I should accept that Mae and Alex are together just like that with a brief romance. I don't know but it didn't allow me to feel instead it told me what I should feel.
But if you're looking for a quick read, something to pass the time or waiting for a book to be published then read this book!
June 22, 2016
See more of my reviews on my blog Thoughts At One In The Morning.
My Thoughts:
I'm a sucker for friends to lovers stories and right now Alex and Mae are my current romantic ship. Ember Casey's The Billionaire Escape Plan was just the book I needed this last week. I've been battling a somewhat slump off and on and I swear, this book was my ticket to loving romance all over again.
Mae is in the middle of some major personal issues, and having Alex back in her life is sort of throwing things even more off course. After a handful of (hilarious) disasters, Mae finds herself in Alex's company as she stays with him until everything blows over. Curiosity and attraction cause the two of them to go back and forth in a will they won't they that'll keep you on edge of your seat like nothing else.
If you're in the mood for a good old fashioned romance, I strongly recommend The Billionaire Escape Plan. There's so much swooning and blushing and laughing throughout that you'll want to stay in Mae and Alex's world much longer. Another winner from Ember Casey!
My Rating: Very Good
My Thoughts:
I'm a sucker for friends to lovers stories and right now Alex and Mae are my current romantic ship. Ember Casey's The Billionaire Escape Plan was just the book I needed this last week. I've been battling a somewhat slump off and on and I swear, this book was my ticket to loving romance all over again.
Mae is in the middle of some major personal issues, and having Alex back in her life is sort of throwing things even more off course. After a handful of (hilarious) disasters, Mae finds herself in Alex's company as she stays with him until everything blows over. Curiosity and attraction cause the two of them to go back and forth in a will they won't they that'll keep you on edge of your seat like nothing else.
If you're in the mood for a good old fashioned romance, I strongly recommend The Billionaire Escape Plan. There's so much swooning and blushing and laughing throughout that you'll want to stay in Mae and Alex's world much longer. Another winner from Ember Casey!
My Rating: Very Good
February 12, 2017
great read
a funny and charming read. a great friends to lovers romance. Casey makes it easy to fall in love with the characters.
a funny and charming read. a great friends to lovers romance. Casey makes it easy to fall in love with the characters.
June 20, 2016
I received this for my honest review, it is a great story of friendship that turned into love. The story of Alex (Xander) and Mae showed how long-time best friends can find that they are in love with one another and have been for many years. It is a fast paced story that will keep you wanting to read just one more page before you have to go to bed. Mae a small town girl with big dreams but they never quite worked out, Alex was her best friend who left their small town leaving her behind and never looked back. When they are together the chemistry is undeniable, once they no longer deny their true feelings it's like fireworks go off. When they connect Mae and Alex had me laughing and crying in a great way. Their story feels so real you can relate to every emotion right along with them . You won't want to stop reading until you reach the end . This is a must have book for everyone that believes true love does exist .
June 24, 2016
So, I really liked the subtle way this story started out with Mae trying to play down what had recently happened with her ex. I was excited to be reading about a strong, pragmatic heroine. Unfortunately, she stayed so pragmatic that it got boring. And to add another layer to the boring, Alex was so 'restrained' that I found him pathetic. And the slap-stick comedy was taken so far into farce territory that it became dumb.
However, having said that, I think this author has real talent. There were moments when's Mae's vulnerability was palpable and I would really start to feel something for these characters. But then that would be bull-dozed over by either the 'comedy', or the directing of the plot away from any drama.
However, having said that, I think this author has real talent. There were moments when's Mae's vulnerability was palpable and I would really start to feel something for these characters. But then that would be bull-dozed over by either the 'comedy', or the directing of the plot away from any drama.
June 17, 2016
Mae and Alex had been best friends forever. Half the town thought there was more than friendship between them. When Mae discovered Wes, her fiancée, was cheating on her Mae found herself questioning her feelings. Xander Grant, billionaire and Mae’s unconditional and lifelong friend was there to help and support her but, was there something more? An interesting, refreshing and amusing story that made me laugh with the situations Mae, the protagonist, was embroiled in. Mae was running around oblivious to what was in front of her. The story was easy to read, funny, the plot kept me entertained and there was hot sex, although it seemed it was not going to happen.
June 7, 2016
Ohhhh I heart a good friend turned to lovers story. This is a fast paced story that will keep you wanting to read just one more page before you have to go to bed. Mae a small town girl with big dreams, but never quite worked out. Alex was her BFF who left small town living behind and never looked back. When they reconnect.....the chemistry is undeniable. Once they can not deny their true feeling anymore it's like fireworks go off when they connect. I wish there was more of them to read about....hint hint
June 7, 2016
This was such a great read that I read in one sitting! The chemistry between Mae and Alex was palpable. The story line between the two moved quickly and kept me reading from start to finish. The storyline of friends to more was not far fetched and I enjoyed watching Mae realize her true feelings for Alex and the progression of their relationship. I have enjoyed everything that I have read from Ms. Casey and look forward to more in the future.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 15, 2016
5 star Review
I loved this book and it was read in one sitting but then again I'm a real sucker for friends to lovers romance stories. Alex "Xander" and Mae were best friends growing up but they have grown apart since Alex left town to start his IT business. When he comes back for his mothers birthday sparks fly and they finally connect on a lovers level.
Great story, great sex, and a HEA what more could you want. Looking forward to more from the Friends with Benefits series.
This book was given to me for an honest review
I loved this book and it was read in one sitting but then again I'm a real sucker for friends to lovers romance stories. Alex "Xander" and Mae were best friends growing up but they have grown apart since Alex left town to start his IT business. When he comes back for his mothers birthday sparks fly and they finally connect on a lovers level.
Great story, great sex, and a HEA what more could you want. Looking forward to more from the Friends with Benefits series.
This book was given to me for an honest review
June 17, 2016
***I was given this ARC for an honest review***Mae and Alex have been friends since forever. This friends to lovers book is short and funny. They keep you thinking that it's going to happen and then there is a cog thrown in to change the dynamic. Alex is rich and one of the "hottest entrepreneurs" in the country. He dates models and actresses. Mae was engaged to Wes and due to be married in a few weeks.
Mae and Alex still talked to each other after they left for separate colleges, but it's been four year since they've seen each other. A great fast read.
Mae and Alex still talked to each other after they left for separate colleges, but it's been four year since they've seen each other. A great fast read.
June 29, 2016
Xander and Mae have been friends since they were kids. When Alexander aka Xander finally comes home. He's just in time to catch Mae as she falls apart. What are friends for? This book pulls at your heart strings who hasn't been cheated on? Then you add in that your rooting for Xander and Mae to form some type of relationship other than just friends. Definitely worth the money and the time to read!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews