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Love Comes Later #1
My Christmas Fiancé
A boss/secretary ‘marriage of convenience’ romance.
Meg
It’s not easy to reinvent yourself, but my thirteen-year-old son and I were ready for a new start. Old Maggie had been a magnet for disaster, but I decided that New Meg was going to be suave, sophisticated… and blonde. I landed a dream job at the other end of New Zealand as PA to three rich directors who spoil me rotten, I found a beautiful new apartment on the waterfront, and I felt reborn.
Then I wrote an email to a friend describing in vivid detail what I wanted to do to the sexiest of the directors—involving melted chocolate and/or whipped cream—and mistakenly sent it to All Staff. It turns out that New Meg is pretty much just Old Maggie with different packaging. Some things never change.
Stratton
I’ve wanted Meg since she first walked into my office with her soft lips and sexy curves, but she wears another man’s ring, so I’ve steered well clear… until now. My mind’s been occupied anyway since I found my girlfriend, Natalie, in bed with another man. She’s desperate to have me back and won’t take no for an answer—so I’ve come up with a brilliant plan, to hire a fake fiancée for Christmas to prove to her that we’re done.
After sending her hot-as-hell email, Meg confessed the truth about her past, and it’s given me an idea. She’ll make an ideal fiancée, and I can protect her from the guy she’s running from. Sounds like the perfect plan, right? Her teenage son’s no problem because we get on great. Sharing her room? That’s more of a challenge, but I’ve always had excellent self-control.
Yeah, I know. I keep forgetting about the melted chocolate. What an idiot.
*
Warning: In New Zealand, Christmas happens at the height of summer. It’s hot, in and out of the bedroom. Have a fan on standby.
Meg
It’s not easy to reinvent yourself, but my thirteen-year-old son and I were ready for a new start. Old Maggie had been a magnet for disaster, but I decided that New Meg was going to be suave, sophisticated… and blonde. I landed a dream job at the other end of New Zealand as PA to three rich directors who spoil me rotten, I found a beautiful new apartment on the waterfront, and I felt reborn.
Then I wrote an email to a friend describing in vivid detail what I wanted to do to the sexiest of the directors—involving melted chocolate and/or whipped cream—and mistakenly sent it to All Staff. It turns out that New Meg is pretty much just Old Maggie with different packaging. Some things never change.
Stratton
I’ve wanted Meg since she first walked into my office with her soft lips and sexy curves, but she wears another man’s ring, so I’ve steered well clear… until now. My mind’s been occupied anyway since I found my girlfriend, Natalie, in bed with another man. She’s desperate to have me back and won’t take no for an answer—so I’ve come up with a brilliant plan, to hire a fake fiancée for Christmas to prove to her that we’re done.
After sending her hot-as-hell email, Meg confessed the truth about her past, and it’s given me an idea. She’ll make an ideal fiancée, and I can protect her from the guy she’s running from. Sounds like the perfect plan, right? Her teenage son’s no problem because we get on great. Sharing her room? That’s more of a challenge, but I’ve always had excellent self-control.
Yeah, I know. I keep forgetting about the melted chocolate. What an idiot.
*
Warning: In New Zealand, Christmas happens at the height of summer. It’s hot, in and out of the bedroom. Have a fan on standby.
279 pages, ebook
First published September 1, 2016
914 people are currently reading
937 people want to read
About the author
Serenity Woods
171 books917 followersUSA Today bestselling author Serenity Woods writes feel-good romances full of friends, family, and falling in love. Most of her stories are set in Godzone, aka Aotearoa New Zealand, where she lives.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 167 reviews
December 25, 2016
Things change when your children become adults!
On Christmas morning, instead of rushing into our room & jumping on our bed, my two remained resolutely asleep. I was awake from 6am, listening hopefully for any sign of life. When it was clear nothing was going to happen for quite some time, I snuggled into bed & completed this book.
...was the very first line & that is unfortunate as it gave me a bad impression from the get go. Which is a shame because I didn't notice any other proofreading errors.
This book is styled like a steamy Harlequin Mills & Boon, but is longer. Much longer. A mistake as really not much happens,other than a lot of waffling before Meg & Stratton end up in the sack. (seriously not a spoiler.) The accidental email was hilarious though.
The malignant exs are more But I did enjoy the sex scenes & dirty talk (other than Meg's constant blushing) & while I would have liked more Kiwi touches (why I picked this particular Kindle freebie) I enjoyed the ones it had.
Not memorable, but not bad either.
On Christmas morning, instead of rushing into our room & jumping on our bed, my two remained resolutely asleep. I was awake from 6am, listening hopefully for any sign of life. When it was clear nothing was going to happen for quite some time, I snuggled into bed & completed this book.
on the tie Meg’s bought me for my birthday
...was the very first line & that is unfortunate as it gave me a bad impression from the get go. Which is a shame because I didn't notice any other proofreading errors.
This book is styled like a steamy Harlequin Mills & Boon, but is longer. Much longer. A mistake as really not much happens,other than a lot of waffling before Meg & Stratton end up in the sack. (seriously not a spoiler.) The accidental email was hilarious though.
The malignant exs are more But I did enjoy the sex scenes & dirty talk (other than Meg's constant blushing) & while I would have liked more Kiwi touches (why I picked this particular Kindle freebie) I enjoyed the ones it had.
Not memorable, but not bad either.
December 11, 2020
Sweet little Christmas romance. The fake fiance ploy to get rid of old relationships that still think there is hope. Boss and PA both have relationship past troubles. She has worked for him for a couple months, said she was married, and has a teenage son. He is a Billionaire with an unstable ex girlfriend. He asks her to find a fake fiance for him to take to some charity event to prove to his ex he's moved on. Well the candidates don't work out, she is threatened in her office lobby the boss sees saves her and then well the fake thing is on. He's sexy, generous, and great with her son. She's cautious, wary of his intent but things move on as a romance does. yes there is a HEA
I love his house and want one for Christmas
I didn't love this one for the following reasons.
I love his house and want one for Christmas
I didn't love this one for the following reasons.
December 23, 2016
I've been in the mood to read Christmas romances. Tiz the Season-huh?
I picked this one to read before Christmas. I love books about NZ.
I love the Boss/Employee romances.
This one was slow to get started. There was a rather long build up.
The background is Meg moved from Christchurch to Auckland to get away from her abusive ex.
They weren't married, but he was her baby daddy & they were together for a few years.
Meg's son Oscar is now 13 yrs old. He's a nice kid.
Stratton is her boss at his tech company that makes computer games.
Stratton has just come out of a 5 year relationship with a woman that apparently won't accept their break up. During the first 40% or so, I saw NO evidence of that. Hmm
Stratton thinks up an idea to kept their exes away. Fake fiance'.
I got impatient. This didn't quite work for me.
I liked Meg and Stratton. I just didn't get why Stratton wasn't more firm about moving on from his ex Natalie. She's mentioned in EVERY chapter. Stratton is usually the one that either says her name or thinks about her. Natalie's name is said almost as much as Meg's name!
I've read some books recently that had deceased love ones. For the most part, I don't have a problem with that-if it's done right. It's natural for the survivor to move on-if it happens-that's awesome.
What the heck with Natalie? Natalie? yikes!
I confessed to skimming. (I've done that only a handful of times).
This is 1st person POV, alternating H & h.
This is my first Serenity Woods book. I got this for free. I may try the next books in the series.
Book 2 is Rich- he's Stratton's business partner, Book 3 is Teddi- Stratton's (blind) sister.
I'll give 3.25 stars. I liked Meg a little more than Stratton. Meg was strong & made a difficult decision to get away from her abusive relationship. I read a review here on GR about Meg"kidnapping" her son. What?What?! Just no. What the heck. Abuse should not be minimized. There was some PTSD involved. Maybe counseling? Still, Meg IMO did the right thing & made a move to start their lives over.
Kudos to the author for the way that this was handled.
I picked this one to read before Christmas. I love books about NZ.
I love the Boss/Employee romances.
This one was slow to get started. There was a rather long build up.
The background is Meg moved from Christchurch to Auckland to get away from her abusive ex.
They weren't married, but he was her baby daddy & they were together for a few years.
Meg's son Oscar is now 13 yrs old. He's a nice kid.
Stratton is her boss at his tech company that makes computer games.
Stratton has just come out of a 5 year relationship with a woman that apparently won't accept their break up. During the first 40% or so, I saw NO evidence of that. Hmm
Stratton thinks up an idea to kept their exes away. Fake fiance'.
I got impatient. This didn't quite work for me.
I liked Meg and Stratton. I just didn't get why Stratton wasn't more firm about moving on from his ex Natalie. She's mentioned in EVERY chapter. Stratton is usually the one that either says her name or thinks about her. Natalie's name is said almost as much as Meg's name!
I've read some books recently that had deceased love ones. For the most part, I don't have a problem with that-if it's done right. It's natural for the survivor to move on-if it happens-that's awesome.
What the heck with Natalie? Natalie? yikes!
I confessed to skimming. (I've done that only a handful of times).
This is 1st person POV, alternating H & h.
This is my first Serenity Woods book. I got this for free. I may try the next books in the series.
Book 2 is Rich- he's Stratton's business partner, Book 3 is Teddi- Stratton's (blind) sister.
I'll give 3.25 stars. I liked Meg a little more than Stratton. Meg was strong & made a difficult decision to get away from her abusive relationship. I read a review here on GR about Meg"kidnapping" her son. What?What?! Just no. What the heck. Abuse should not be minimized. There was some PTSD involved. Maybe counseling? Still, Meg IMO did the right thing & made a move to start their lives over.
Kudos to the author for the way that this was handled.
Want to read
December 9, 2024🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/6/2019)! 🎁
December 14, 2016
I love Serenity Woods' books, well, all but this one, and it just didn't do it for me. This story is about Meg and Stratton and includes Meg's thirteen-year-old son, Oscar. Stratton is Meg's boss and he has been drawn to her since the day he met and hired her. She reciprocates but keeps it to herself. Stratton is coming off of a five-year relationship with the evil Natalie...and she will do anything to get him back but he is definite he no longer wants or trusts her. I questioned that throughout the entire book because he thinks about her what seems to be all the time and makes comparisons with the new woman in his life...yes even while they are doing the deed! Believe me, we hear about Natalie throughout the entire book.
In his head we hear him thinking about his past with her, their time together, the wild, crazy, kinky sex she was into and this goes through his mind at the oddest times. While he's working, dancing, driving, shopping and even when he finally beds the woman he has longed for who is pretending to be his fiancee to show Natalie he has moved on. It was so constant that I did a search and the exes name is mention 191 times (Yes, you read that correctly one-hundred and ninety-one times) and I wanted to pitch my kindle into the fireplace. It seemed there was more about his past relationship than the present one and it colored the story an ugly, dreary gray for me. I was disgusted by the exes actions involving Meg and how she talked explicitly about their kinky lifestyle, scaring Meg to death. It was very troubling for Meg and equally so for this reader. From that point on I was completely emotionally detached. I felt no bond with any of the characters and I began to regret her involvement with him.
I think it's nice for Ms Woods to show support for certain organizations but I thought this one was just too much. There was an undertow of sadness throughout and even with an HEA the sadness remained as it still does today. It overshadowed the story itself and that is not what I want when I read.
I'm sorry but I can't recommend this one. Try the 'Three Wise Men' series. Much better but still includes health problems and death.
In his head we hear him thinking about his past with her, their time together, the wild, crazy, kinky sex she was into and this goes through his mind at the oddest times. While he's working, dancing, driving, shopping and even when he finally beds the woman he has longed for who is pretending to be his fiancee to show Natalie he has moved on. It was so constant that I did a search and the exes name is mention 191 times (Yes, you read that correctly one-hundred and ninety-one times) and I wanted to pitch my kindle into the fireplace. It seemed there was more about his past relationship than the present one and it colored the story an ugly, dreary gray for me. I was disgusted by the exes actions involving Meg and how she talked explicitly about their kinky lifestyle, scaring Meg to death. It was very troubling for Meg and equally so for this reader. From that point on I was completely emotionally detached. I felt no bond with any of the characters and I began to regret her involvement with him.
I think it's nice for Ms Woods to show support for certain organizations but I thought this one was just too much. There was an undertow of sadness throughout and even with an HEA the sadness remained as it still does today. It overshadowed the story itself and that is not what I want when I read.
I'm sorry but I can't recommend this one. Try the 'Three Wise Men' series. Much better but still includes health problems and death.
December 26, 2020
DNF less than a chapter in.
Hero seems like a mysogynistic asshole. Says he doesn't want to hire a woman because she has "thick ankles". Is it too much to ask to not include body shaming in your books? This is the second Serenity Woods book I've DNF'd for this reason. How am I supposed to want this guy to find love??
Hero seems like a mysogynistic asshole. Says he doesn't want to hire a woman because she has "thick ankles". Is it too much to ask to not include body shaming in your books? This is the second Serenity Woods book I've DNF'd for this reason. How am I supposed to want this guy to find love??
December 8, 2019
I saw a few friends add this to their TBR and since I've been wanting to read more Christmas books this year, I figured I might as well try it. Well, I'm wishing I hadn't.
I hated Stratton. Okay, that's not fair. He has some redeeming qualities and there was quite a lot that he did was good. He and Meg have good open communication and he tried not to overstep his boundaries with Oscar. He's an overall great guy, but the chapters in his POV were hard to read. For starters, he has a few horrible ideas or thoughts on things such as men shouldn't talk about their feelings with their friends, his greatest gifts to Meg (or all he can think to give her) his jewelry literally not even calling on any of her other interests, telling Natalie she wouldn't be single for long because she's so beautiful, and a few other things. Let's also not forget how often he thought about Natalie or compared her to Meg, which is SUPER NOT HEALTHY. I kept wanting to scream at him to just get over it. Yes, I understand they had a 5 year relationship, but they've been over for 7 months and he's the one who broke up with her!
Meg... Meg was actually a bit bland. She had so many avenues to show more personality, but... yeah. I don't understand why we don't see them game together, that would have been super sweet...
As for the fake engagement trope-- this is one I usually love. Here it felt more like an excuse and not really played with as much as it could have been. The reasoning was sound, but execution-- especially for Meg's benefit could have been better.
The middle of the book feels a bit confusing, like Meg and Stratton kept getting confused about if they were going to have sex or if they were trying to maintain boundaries or even about reasons why being in a relationship would be complicated. For a couple with as much open communication as them, you'd think there would have been less confusion.
So, I'm not a fan of this one. I'm not sure if I'll read the sequel, but some people have said it is better than this first one, soooo maybe?
I hated Stratton. Okay, that's not fair. He has some redeeming qualities and there was quite a lot that he did was good. He and Meg have good open communication and he tried not to overstep his boundaries with Oscar. He's an overall great guy, but the chapters in his POV were hard to read. For starters, he has a few horrible ideas or thoughts on things such as men shouldn't talk about their feelings with their friends, his greatest gifts to Meg (or all he can think to give her) his jewelry literally not even calling on any of her other interests, telling Natalie she wouldn't be single for long because she's so beautiful, and a few other things. Let's also not forget how often he thought about Natalie or compared her to Meg, which is SUPER NOT HEALTHY. I kept wanting to scream at him to just get over it. Yes, I understand they had a 5 year relationship, but they've been over for 7 months and he's the one who broke up with her!
Meg... Meg was actually a bit bland. She had so many avenues to show more personality, but... yeah. I don't understand why we don't see them game together, that would have been super sweet...
As for the fake engagement trope-- this is one I usually love. Here it felt more like an excuse and not really played with as much as it could have been. The reasoning was sound, but execution-- especially for Meg's benefit could have been better.
The middle of the book feels a bit confusing, like Meg and Stratton kept getting confused about if they were going to have sex or if they were trying to maintain boundaries or even about reasons why being in a relationship would be complicated. For a couple with as much open communication as them, you'd think there would have been less confusion.
So, I'm not a fan of this one. I'm not sure if I'll read the sequel, but some people have said it is better than this first one, soooo maybe?
November 28, 2017
I enjoyed the story of Meg and Stratton. I really liked it being set in New Zealand, where Christmas is in the summer, it was a nice change from the snow, cosy fires and mistletoe. (I live in Australia so I related more to the warm Christmas.) The characters are great and I look forward to reading more of the series to find out if Rich and Teddi get happy ever afters. There are some really funny moments in this book and some very touching moments. It was great to include Meg's son Oscar into the relationship and still have a very touching romance.
March 2, 2024
Sweet, easy read, perfect for somebody wanting a light-hearted love story with a bit of spice.
August 23, 2018
The instant Meg walks into the interview for PA, Stratton likes her. But she’s wearing a wedding ring and talks a lot about her teen son Oscar so he backs off. The gaming company that Stratton set up with his sister Teddi and best friend Rich is hugely successful and he’s got so many millions, he’s lost count. But he’s not happy. A recent ugly breakup with a long term girlfriend, Natalie, has left him wanting, but he’s not sure what for.
***
There’s some interesting things here. Stratton has heterochromia [ ‘it’s a very groovy mutation’ to quote Charles Xavier] and his sister Teddi was born with eye tumours and is blind. There’s a high chance that any child of his would have the same issue. Natalie was desperate for babies and he doesn’t want them because of that fear. His company works on making game interfaces for disabled gamers.
When Meg accidentally sends the whole office an email detailing how she wants to lick chocolate off his naked body, he knows she’s attracted to him. As she runs out of the office, she’s confronted by her the father of her son. She is so frightened of him that Stratton offers to let her and Oscar stay at his house. Stratton learns that her ex put her in hospital and she has re-invented herself to hide from him; changing her name from Maggie to Meg and bleaching her hair.
A fake engagement will work for them both. She can show her husband she’s not unprotected, and he can show Natalie he’s moved on and she should, too.
But… it gets complicated by real feelings.
***
There’s a few things here that make a record scratch noise for me… calling women bunny boilers, psycho, hysterical, crazy etc
He also spends a LOT of time comparing Meg to Natalie, his ex. Which is weird.
And I can’t work out why Oscar’s father doesn’t have legal access to his child. They weren’t married but still… is NZ law that different to Australian? And he’s an army vet, he’d get his legal bills paid, or subsidised at the least. It’s a story point that he doesn’t want his son, only Meg, but… *hand wobble* and she effectively kidnapped him and hid him rather than just get a court order and break up with the guy.
Oscar loves Stratton. He’s super cool, owns a games company, pays Oscar to play games as a tester, and clearly loves his mother. So Oscar is voting for Stratton.
And Meg? She just felt off to me and I’m not sure I can explain how. She was very sexually inexperienced, blushed all the time, freaked out about Stratton being so experienced… so it just felt odd for her to have sent that email in the first place.
But man… I don’t know. I’ve read a few Woods titles and she can do better than this.
2 stars
***
There’s some interesting things here. Stratton has heterochromia [ ‘it’s a very groovy mutation’ to quote Charles Xavier] and his sister Teddi was born with eye tumours and is blind. There’s a high chance that any child of his would have the same issue. Natalie was desperate for babies and he doesn’t want them because of that fear. His company works on making game interfaces for disabled gamers.
When Meg accidentally sends the whole office an email detailing how she wants to lick chocolate off his naked body, he knows she’s attracted to him. As she runs out of the office, she’s confronted by her the father of her son. She is so frightened of him that Stratton offers to let her and Oscar stay at his house. Stratton learns that her ex put her in hospital and she has re-invented herself to hide from him; changing her name from Maggie to Meg and bleaching her hair.
A fake engagement will work for them both. She can show her husband she’s not unprotected, and he can show Natalie he’s moved on and she should, too.
But… it gets complicated by real feelings.
***
There’s a few things here that make a record scratch noise for me… calling women bunny boilers, psycho, hysterical, crazy etc
He also spends a LOT of time comparing Meg to Natalie, his ex. Which is weird.
And I can’t work out why Oscar’s father doesn’t have legal access to his child. They weren’t married but still… is NZ law that different to Australian? And he’s an army vet, he’d get his legal bills paid, or subsidised at the least. It’s a story point that he doesn’t want his son, only Meg, but… *hand wobble* and she effectively kidnapped him and hid him rather than just get a court order and break up with the guy.
Oscar loves Stratton. He’s super cool, owns a games company, pays Oscar to play games as a tester, and clearly loves his mother. So Oscar is voting for Stratton.
And Meg? She just felt off to me and I’m not sure I can explain how. She was very sexually inexperienced, blushed all the time, freaked out about Stratton being so experienced… so it just felt odd for her to have sent that email in the first place.
But man… I don’t know. I’ve read a few Woods titles and she can do better than this.
2 stars
January 2, 2017
Reviewed by Gemini
My Christmas Fiancé is the first book in Serenity Woods’ new Love Comes Later series. After reading her Four Seasons Series, I thought that I would know what to expect but I have to admit that I was wrong, but in a good way. As if the previous series wasn’t hot enough, this one is hotter. Plus, it’s told from the point of view of the hero and the heroine. More importantly, it’s actually a lot of fun.
Stratton Parker is the successful co-owner of a company that makes video games and controllers for the physically and visually impaired. Meg Brown has been his personal assistant for the past five months. It’s been seven months since Stratton ended his five year relationship with Natalie because she was pressuring him to have children although he told her from the beginning that kids were not an option because he did not want to pass on a gene that may render his children blind just like his sister Teddi. That same gene gave Stratton two different color eyes just like David Bowie. It’s no secret that Stratton and Natalie spent a considerable amount of time between the sheets but that’s the only place where they were really compatible. On the other hand Stratton and Meg share a mutual attraction but Meg is married with a thirteen-year-old son. That doesn’t stop Stratton from making naughty remarks though.
When it becomes clear that Natalie isn’t going to move on from Stratton, he decides that he needs to hire someone to be his fake fianceé for Christmas so that Natalie gets the message that it’s truly over. With Meg in charge of hiring this fake fianceé, Stratton soon finds that unless he wants to hire a hooker, the position won’t be so easy to fill. Eventually, circumstances regarding Meg’s marriage and a sexy email that inadvertently gets sent to the whole office, provide an opportunity for Meg to take on the task of fake fianceé. As expected, that situation forces Stratton and Meg to explore their true feelings about each other, marriage, and family. Their relationship is too hot for words. They do things between the sheets that burn up the pages. In addition, they find that they are really good for each other. Of course, a relationship borne out of a lie comes with other complications.
I really enjoyed My Christmas Fiancé. I expected it to be predictable but it wasn’t. It was very honest and filled with passion just like their relationship. Serenity Woods has the makings of another great series that I look forward to reading.
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed the book.**
My Christmas Fiancé is the first book in Serenity Woods’ new Love Comes Later series. After reading her Four Seasons Series, I thought that I would know what to expect but I have to admit that I was wrong, but in a good way. As if the previous series wasn’t hot enough, this one is hotter. Plus, it’s told from the point of view of the hero and the heroine. More importantly, it’s actually a lot of fun.
Stratton Parker is the successful co-owner of a company that makes video games and controllers for the physically and visually impaired. Meg Brown has been his personal assistant for the past five months. It’s been seven months since Stratton ended his five year relationship with Natalie because she was pressuring him to have children although he told her from the beginning that kids were not an option because he did not want to pass on a gene that may render his children blind just like his sister Teddi. That same gene gave Stratton two different color eyes just like David Bowie. It’s no secret that Stratton and Natalie spent a considerable amount of time between the sheets but that’s the only place where they were really compatible. On the other hand Stratton and Meg share a mutual attraction but Meg is married with a thirteen-year-old son. That doesn’t stop Stratton from making naughty remarks though.
When it becomes clear that Natalie isn’t going to move on from Stratton, he decides that he needs to hire someone to be his fake fianceé for Christmas so that Natalie gets the message that it’s truly over. With Meg in charge of hiring this fake fianceé, Stratton soon finds that unless he wants to hire a hooker, the position won’t be so easy to fill. Eventually, circumstances regarding Meg’s marriage and a sexy email that inadvertently gets sent to the whole office, provide an opportunity for Meg to take on the task of fake fianceé. As expected, that situation forces Stratton and Meg to explore their true feelings about each other, marriage, and family. Their relationship is too hot for words. They do things between the sheets that burn up the pages. In addition, they find that they are really good for each other. Of course, a relationship borne out of a lie comes with other complications.
I really enjoyed My Christmas Fiancé. I expected it to be predictable but it wasn’t. It was very honest and filled with passion just like their relationship. Serenity Woods has the makings of another great series that I look forward to reading.
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed the book.**
September 26, 2016
Nice, but not my favorite Serenity Woods book
I like the cute plot and the characters. Meg has been through a lot, but she is mentally tough and admirable. She works as a PA and is the single mother of a 13-year-old boy, Oscar. Oscar is adorable in how he wants to protect his mother but approves of Starting dating her. Stratton is Meg's boss and happens to be a billionaire. However, he is a regular-type, respectful, good guy. He is also sexy and charming.
I admire Serenity Woods for trying something new with this book. However, for me I didn't like it very much. In all of her previous books that I have read, she always uses past tense third person alternating perspective. In this book, she tries out using present tense first person alternating perspective. For the first 6.5 chapters, for me, the flow of words seems choppy and a little awkward and did not convey Serenity's usual wonderful prose in which I can immediately get inside the character's head from the very first page. Only in the 6th chapter when Meg sent her embarrassing accidental email did I get immersed in the story. It seems like the author got more comfortable with this new type of perspective by that chapter. I liked the rest of the story, but I hope that the next book in this series is better. One thing that I especially liked was the reference the "Pretty Woman", the movie, when Meg bought her dress for the ball. Oh, and I can never resist reading about a fancy ball with all gowns! The spicy love scenes are very good, too.
Overall, people who are accustomed to the present tense first person perspective might really like this book and might totally disagree with my complaint.
I like the cute plot and the characters. Meg has been through a lot, but she is mentally tough and admirable. She works as a PA and is the single mother of a 13-year-old boy, Oscar. Oscar is adorable in how he wants to protect his mother but approves of Starting dating her. Stratton is Meg's boss and happens to be a billionaire. However, he is a regular-type, respectful, good guy. He is also sexy and charming.
I admire Serenity Woods for trying something new with this book. However, for me I didn't like it very much. In all of her previous books that I have read, she always uses past tense third person alternating perspective. In this book, she tries out using present tense first person alternating perspective. For the first 6.5 chapters, for me, the flow of words seems choppy and a little awkward and did not convey Serenity's usual wonderful prose in which I can immediately get inside the character's head from the very first page. Only in the 6th chapter when Meg sent her embarrassing accidental email did I get immersed in the story. It seems like the author got more comfortable with this new type of perspective by that chapter. I liked the rest of the story, but I hope that the next book in this series is better. One thing that I especially liked was the reference the "Pretty Woman", the movie, when Meg bought her dress for the ball. Oh, and I can never resist reading about a fancy ball with all gowns! The spicy love scenes are very good, too.
Overall, people who are accustomed to the present tense first person perspective might really like this book and might totally disagree with my complaint.
September 12, 2016
Eager to read this new series by Serenity Woods I was thankful to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Katoa, a flourishing tech company, is making big money and has an emphasis on creating devices for the visually impaired. One of the owners is blind and this has created impetus for their focus. The story mentions medical issues such as retinoblastoma, heterochromia and pulmonary embolism - all three have impacted people in the story.
In this, the first book of the series, we meet Stratton Parker and Meg Brown. Meg has a 13 year old son, has been working for Katoa as a PA for 4 months and has a crush on Stratton – and he has one on her. One fateful day an e-mail is sent out that changes their status and begins the journey to a potentially HEA ending.
There are two exes to deal with, bonding to be done between Oscar (the son) and Strat, warm suggestive chats in the evening, a gala to attend and some getting to know one another to be done before their instant attraction – delayed four months – can come to fruition.
Stratton was a wonderful book boyfriend. Meg was a woman with the strength to make a move that needed to be made. The two of them together were interesting enough to make me smile and care about them and their story made for a wonderful day of reading. I look forward to continuing the series with book two about Rich and book three about Teddi – the other co-owners of Katoa – hopefully they will be released soon.
4.5 Stars
Katoa, a flourishing tech company, is making big money and has an emphasis on creating devices for the visually impaired. One of the owners is blind and this has created impetus for their focus. The story mentions medical issues such as retinoblastoma, heterochromia and pulmonary embolism - all three have impacted people in the story.
In this, the first book of the series, we meet Stratton Parker and Meg Brown. Meg has a 13 year old son, has been working for Katoa as a PA for 4 months and has a crush on Stratton – and he has one on her. One fateful day an e-mail is sent out that changes their status and begins the journey to a potentially HEA ending.
There are two exes to deal with, bonding to be done between Oscar (the son) and Strat, warm suggestive chats in the evening, a gala to attend and some getting to know one another to be done before their instant attraction – delayed four months – can come to fruition.
Stratton was a wonderful book boyfriend. Meg was a woman with the strength to make a move that needed to be made. The two of them together were interesting enough to make me smile and care about them and their story made for a wonderful day of reading. I look forward to continuing the series with book two about Rich and book three about Teddi – the other co-owners of Katoa – hopefully they will be released soon.
4.5 Stars
December 9, 2016
Repetative
There is a wonderful storyline and the characters are well developed but... The story was very long winded, and repetitive. Stratton stresses over his ex more than a few times and it got really boring after the first two or three. It felt like the author was using his situation over and over and over again just to get her word count up. Not sure I will continue to read this author.
There is a wonderful storyline and the characters are well developed but... The story was very long winded, and repetitive. Stratton stresses over his ex more than a few times and it got really boring after the first two or three. It felt like the author was using his situation over and over and over again just to get her word count up. Not sure I will continue to read this author.
December 23, 2016
Downloaded this as it was a freebie and I fancied a festive read. Very surprised with how much I enjoyed the storyline. Would read other books by this author.
August 22, 2019
Loved this! Well written, fantastic hero and heroine. My first read by Serenity Woods but it won’t be my last!
December 22, 2016
3.5 stars.
I enjoyed this book, although I was looking for a nice holiday read and I did not get what I wanted due to my residing in the Northern Hemisphere. This book takes place in New Zealand and their summertime Christmas was not my cup of eggnog! None of the traditional Christmas magic I was hoping for were present. Just take a look at this description of their Christmas eve party, Northerners:
"Christmas songs and carols echo across the lawn, mingling with the yells and shrieks of kids splashing in the swimming pool, and those playing ball games on the grass. The air is filled with the scent of the lavender and jasmine growing around the deck, as well as the mouthwatering smells from the barbecue... There's a small Christmas tree in the center of the lawn and another by the poolside, and there's tinsel all around the deck..." Location 4055 kindle edition.
Later, they light citronella candles all over the deck to keep the insects away and we learn the mouthwatering smell from the BBQ was kingfish and prawn kebabs. Then our hero asks our heroine if she's put on bug spray while they walk along the shoreline late at night.
WHAT KIND OF CHRISTMAS MADNESS IS THIS!?! Where are your mittens? Where is the fire in the fireplace? I guess asking for an abundance of snowmen and icicles is too much to dream of? Look, I realize that the majority of the world isn't ice skating on a frozen pond during Christmastime, but that's why I was reading a Christmas book! I wanted to live that traditional holiday good stuff vicariously through the characters.
Anyway, my # of stars in the review has nothing to do with this not fueling my Christmas spirit. It's a pretty good story. It's about the hero and heroine pretending they're engaged so their respective exes will finally realize they've moved on and go off and lead their own lives. As one can imagine, they end up falling for each other. It seemed like it'd come off as really phony and ridiculous, but it was written well and it felt plausible.
This didn't have me running to cook chestnuts by a fire, but it did entertain. I may check out more Serenity Woods books in the future. Just not at Christmastime...
I enjoyed this book, although I was looking for a nice holiday read and I did not get what I wanted due to my residing in the Northern Hemisphere. This book takes place in New Zealand and their summertime Christmas was not my cup of eggnog! None of the traditional Christmas magic I was hoping for were present. Just take a look at this description of their Christmas eve party, Northerners:
"Christmas songs and carols echo across the lawn, mingling with the yells and shrieks of kids splashing in the swimming pool, and those playing ball games on the grass. The air is filled with the scent of the lavender and jasmine growing around the deck, as well as the mouthwatering smells from the barbecue... There's a small Christmas tree in the center of the lawn and another by the poolside, and there's tinsel all around the deck..." Location 4055 kindle edition.
Later, they light citronella candles all over the deck to keep the insects away and we learn the mouthwatering smell from the BBQ was kingfish and prawn kebabs. Then our hero asks our heroine if she's put on bug spray while they walk along the shoreline late at night.
WHAT KIND OF CHRISTMAS MADNESS IS THIS!?! Where are your mittens? Where is the fire in the fireplace? I guess asking for an abundance of snowmen and icicles is too much to dream of? Look, I realize that the majority of the world isn't ice skating on a frozen pond during Christmastime, but that's why I was reading a Christmas book! I wanted to live that traditional holiday good stuff vicariously through the characters.
Anyway, my # of stars in the review has nothing to do with this not fueling my Christmas spirit. It's a pretty good story. It's about the hero and heroine pretending they're engaged so their respective exes will finally realize they've moved on and go off and lead their own lives. As one can imagine, they end up falling for each other. It seemed like it'd come off as really phony and ridiculous, but it was written well and it felt plausible.
This didn't have me running to cook chestnuts by a fire, but it did entertain. I may check out more Serenity Woods books in the future. Just not at Christmastime...
December 30, 2017
This totally caught me by surprise and roped me in from the very beginning with a story that I found to be fun and sexy with just a hint of malice. The story is told from the point of view of each of the main characters by each getting a chapter one after the other that keeps the narrative flowing. The characters are all very nicely realized as far as their individuality with personalities that define each of them. That goes for both the main and peripheral characters so that you can see what their motivations are for the most part.
Meg
Maggie Brown had to reinvent herself after her relationship became violent. She and her 13 year old son move to Auckland where she can become a new and improved version of herself without all the mistakes of her past to hold her back. When she lands her dream job as PA to three rich gaming executives she feels reborn with the change. Then when I think I am sending an email to a friend telling her about the wickedly sexy things I want to do to one of my bosses I accidentally send it to All Staff. I am so embarrassed I want to run and hide, but Stratton catches me before I can get away and makes a proposal I want to accept.
Stratton
He has wanted Meg from the first day she walked into the office, but she is wearing a wedding ring and so he stays clear. But since I recently broke up with my ex, Natalie I have been preoccupied. Natalie wants him back and won't take no for an answer, so I had to come up with a plan, hire a fake fiancé for Christmas to prove its over. After reading the hot email Meg sent out, she finally confesses the truth about her past. She can pretend to be my fiancé and I can protect her from the guy she's running from.
I loved the buildup with this couple because it was just the right pace for who they were. There was a lot of talk that gave visuals that could make you melt, with no touching involved which made it that much hotter. They also drank some really good whisky. Recommended highly!
Meg
Maggie Brown had to reinvent herself after her relationship became violent. She and her 13 year old son move to Auckland where she can become a new and improved version of herself without all the mistakes of her past to hold her back. When she lands her dream job as PA to three rich gaming executives she feels reborn with the change. Then when I think I am sending an email to a friend telling her about the wickedly sexy things I want to do to one of my bosses I accidentally send it to All Staff. I am so embarrassed I want to run and hide, but Stratton catches me before I can get away and makes a proposal I want to accept.
Stratton
He has wanted Meg from the first day she walked into the office, but she is wearing a wedding ring and so he stays clear. But since I recently broke up with my ex, Natalie I have been preoccupied. Natalie wants him back and won't take no for an answer, so I had to come up with a plan, hire a fake fiancé for Christmas to prove its over. After reading the hot email Meg sent out, she finally confesses the truth about her past. She can pretend to be my fiancé and I can protect her from the guy she's running from.
I loved the buildup with this couple because it was just the right pace for who they were. There was a lot of talk that gave visuals that could make you melt, with no touching involved which made it that much hotter. They also drank some really good whisky. Recommended highly!
October 14, 2017
This was not entirely to my liking. First of all, each chapter was told by one of the two main protagonists, which, apart from the fact that I do not generally like stories narrated in the 1st person singular, interrupted the flow of the narration. You had Meg and her telling of what was happening, and her thoughts, then new chapter, and Stratton going on with a completely different angle. It always took me a couple of lines to catch on, although I saw it was the other person narrating now, so it did take quite a chunk out of my reading pleasure. As for first person singular: what difference would it have made to have an unseen narrator tell the story, from the viewpoint of either Meg or Stratton? I personally think it would have been a bonus to this book.
Then: the protagists and side characters - all of the with quite a burden from the past, but all of them, to me at least, seemed a bit artificial, in lack of a better word. It's as if the author took a pinch of this character type, a grain of that, and a drop of something else, and stirred to have Mr or Mrs Perfect - despite the characters themselves denying they were perfect. They did not have personalities, if that makes sense.
The story itself, like a fairytale, Cinderella in this case, but again, even parts of the plot seemed to be superfluous (what did Stratton's differently coloured eyes have to do with anything, and why point them out ever so often? Why on earth was this email Meg sent mentioned so often, as I do not think it had such a great influence on the story, really.)
The narration as such was good (with the exception of the aforementioned chapter breaks in narrator), very fluent, good choice of words; pity the author ruined this for me by choosing the style she did.
All in all, it was okay to read, I would even tend to "likeable", but nothing that would entice me to get more of this author, or in this series.
Then: the protagists and side characters - all of the with quite a burden from the past, but all of them, to me at least, seemed a bit artificial, in lack of a better word. It's as if the author took a pinch of this character type, a grain of that, and a drop of something else, and stirred to have Mr or Mrs Perfect - despite the characters themselves denying they were perfect. They did not have personalities, if that makes sense.
The story itself, like a fairytale, Cinderella in this case, but again, even parts of the plot seemed to be superfluous (what did Stratton's differently coloured eyes have to do with anything, and why point them out ever so often? Why on earth was this email Meg sent mentioned so often, as I do not think it had such a great influence on the story, really.)
The narration as such was good (with the exception of the aforementioned chapter breaks in narrator), very fluent, good choice of words; pity the author ruined this for me by choosing the style she did.
All in all, it was okay to read, I would even tend to "likeable", but nothing that would entice me to get more of this author, or in this series.
March 7, 2018
To be honest, I started this book, and just couldn't get into it, so I skipped to the 2nd book in the Series. Well, after I finished Book 2 & 3, I had to read Stratton and Maggie story. These two are employer-employee who agree to a "fake engagement", which is really not a good idea to do with someone you work with, no less an employee. So that made this plot weaker than the following books in the "Love Comes Later" Series, which all revolve around a Holiday, this book being Christmas. Of course, their chemistry heats up and soon they are in love. I thought Oscar was a solid character that certainly brought the best out in Stratton, but I had a hard time believing he was only 13. The story would have been better served if his age was 16 or 17 instead of only 13. (Maybe boys mature faster in New Zealand). My favorite scenes were the ones with Stratton and his family and friends. All the books revolve around a Holiday, and this first story is over Christmas. Over-all 3.5
December 4, 2020
Stratton thinks he has the perfect solution to the problems with his ex. He's getting married, at least that's how he announces it to his sister Teddi, his best friend Rich and his PA Meg at their morning meeting. This leads to an interesting discussion of his ex Natalie and how she's harassing him. He get's Meg to set up appointments with prospective 'fiancés' only instead of a modeling agency she calls an escort service. The results are hilarious.
As Meg is preparing to leave for the day she sends an email to her best friend, only it goes to the entire company.
From having to face Stratton to her ex showing up thinking all would just be forgiven leads Meg to agree to be Stratton's fake fiancé. With concern for her and her son's safety, Stratton suggests they stay the weekend at his home. This is just the beginning of a very interesting relationship, that simmers before it sizzles.
I look forward to reading Rich and Teddi's stories, one is New Year's the other is Valentines.
As Meg is preparing to leave for the day she sends an email to her best friend, only it goes to the entire company.
From having to face Stratton to her ex showing up thinking all would just be forgiven leads Meg to agree to be Stratton's fake fiancé. With concern for her and her son's safety, Stratton suggests they stay the weekend at his home. This is just the beginning of a very interesting relationship, that simmers before it sizzles.
I look forward to reading Rich and Teddi's stories, one is New Year's the other is Valentines.
January 1, 2018
For my last Christmas book kick I thought this was pretty good. Both and Meg and Stratton were likable in their own way, if not a little naive. I have to admit that while I liked it it moved incredibly slow. It felt less like 200 pages and more like 400 pages of looks and longing and construed thoughts. Stratton meets Meg when she first moves across the country with her 13 year old son to get away from her abusive ex. She gets hired as a PA for the tech company his sister and best friend runs. Apparently its love at first sight for the both of them although they never do anything about it. It isn't until the holiday season rolls around that Stratton concocts a plan to hire a fake fiance. While they are faking it in front of everyone, they begin to really fall for each other.
January 3, 2021
Not my usual genre....
I liked the dual POV.
The dialogue was snarky, when it wasn't flirty. Both were fun to read. There were even a few serious moments.
The characters were all well done... and the situations the main characters were coming out of made their need of the fake relationship not seem outlandish. Their exes were annoying during the story, not dangerous. (Some other reviewer said her husband was abusive, but also said she only skimmed the story...)
The main characters were definitely friends as well as being boss/employee. They liked each other as friends, and they fancied each other. They wouldn't cross the line into being lovers because she said she was married. When he finds out she's not.... weeellll that's different...
I liked the dual POV.
The dialogue was snarky, when it wasn't flirty. Both were fun to read. There were even a few serious moments.
The characters were all well done... and the situations the main characters were coming out of made their need of the fake relationship not seem outlandish. Their exes were annoying during the story, not dangerous. (Some other reviewer said her husband was abusive, but also said she only skimmed the story...)
The main characters were definitely friends as well as being boss/employee. They liked each other as friends, and they fancied each other. They wouldn't cross the line into being lovers because she said she was married. When he finds out she's not.... weeellll that's different...
January 10, 2017
This is the first book I have read by Serenity Woods. I will def read more.
Meg (Maggie) and Stattons story is a must read. The way they fight their attraction but still flirt with each other is adorable and they get to know each other along the way.
When Stratton comes up with a plan and gets Meg to be a part of it the plan comes together but def does not go as planned. Life does what life usually does it throws them quit a few curves. And when Megs email gets send to the wrong person/ppl. And trouble from her past arrives it def makes things alot more interesting and complicated. A wonderful, quick and enjoyable read.
I love chocolate syrup but even more so now.
Meg (Maggie) and Stattons story is a must read. The way they fight their attraction but still flirt with each other is adorable and they get to know each other along the way.
When Stratton comes up with a plan and gets Meg to be a part of it the plan comes together but def does not go as planned. Life does what life usually does it throws them quit a few curves. And when Megs email gets send to the wrong person/ppl. And trouble from her past arrives it def makes things alot more interesting and complicated. A wonderful, quick and enjoyable read.
I love chocolate syrup but even more so now.
December 8, 2020
Well it is December so I thought I should read a Christmas story and I wasn't disappointed. Meg is trying to escape her past with her 13year old son and has a great job with a boss, Stratton who she fancies but he thinks she is married. He fancies her too and is getting over an ex that he didn't really love.
Meg accidentally declares to the whole office what she wants to do to Stratton and in her fear and devastation runs. Only she runs straight into her past. Stratton offers to protect Meg if she pretends to be his fiancee and eventually she agrees but who is pretending?
I loved this book and seeing how they both are perfect for each other. I would love to know about Stratton and Meg in their future.
Fabulous book
Meg accidentally declares to the whole office what she wants to do to Stratton and in her fear and devastation runs. Only she runs straight into her past. Stratton offers to protect Meg if she pretends to be his fiancee and eventually she agrees but who is pretending?
I loved this book and seeing how they both are perfect for each other. I would love to know about Stratton and Meg in their future.
Fabulous book
January 9, 2021
Well worth the read
Christmas in new Zealand, is in the summer, now i never read the bio of this story, i saw christmas and thought oooh fireplaces and snow, so that confused me, not because i am thick i know they are opposite to the UK, but because when the title is my Christmas fiance, the first thing i think about at Christmas is snow, not hot summer walks or fish on the barby, regardless i thoroughly enjoyed this story, Stratton and Meg what can i say, so cute together, Oscar played a pivotal role in their relationship, the sex was hot, the romance was sweet, totally recommend.
Christmas in new Zealand, is in the summer, now i never read the bio of this story, i saw christmas and thought oooh fireplaces and snow, so that confused me, not because i am thick i know they are opposite to the UK, but because when the title is my Christmas fiance, the first thing i think about at Christmas is snow, not hot summer walks or fish on the barby, regardless i thoroughly enjoyed this story, Stratton and Meg what can i say, so cute together, Oscar played a pivotal role in their relationship, the sex was hot, the romance was sweet, totally recommend.
July 27, 2023
I didn’t like this. I got a bit bored in the middle but that’s not why I didn’t like it.
Let’s talk about our MMC Stratton. He’s a dickhead and not the good kind. How many times do you have to compare someone to an ex? How many times do you need to think/bring up sex? Are you 12? The amount of times he compared our FMC (Meg) to his ex gf was ridiculous. Yes Meg is thick and curvy compared to Natalie. Yes Natalie was more put together. Yes you and Natalie went at it like bunnies while Meg has no experience. I got the first time bud.
Now Meg, you’re turn. How many times do you also have to bring up the ex? Stop comparing yourself and get on with it.
Didn’t like it.
Let’s talk about our MMC Stratton. He’s a dickhead and not the good kind. How many times do you have to compare someone to an ex? How many times do you need to think/bring up sex? Are you 12? The amount of times he compared our FMC (Meg) to his ex gf was ridiculous. Yes Meg is thick and curvy compared to Natalie. Yes Natalie was more put together. Yes you and Natalie went at it like bunnies while Meg has no experience. I got the first time bud.
Now Meg, you’re turn. How many times do you also have to bring up the ex? Stop comparing yourself and get on with it.
Didn’t like it.
December 7, 2016
Amazing book Meg has a troubled past but finds herself at a new crossroad in her life with a new job and the hots for her boss. But doesn't want her past to find her. Stratton , Meg's hot boss falls hard for his new employee but she's married. He just called it quits with his long time girlfriend for a number of reasons. Will their pasts collide and will they come to face their true feelings for each other. Great book can't wait to read more.
December 28, 2016
It's really super cool that this book revolves around Meg and Stratton and Oscar. It's kind of rare for me to read about a romance story that involves the child as well. Oscar represent maturity and also acts as Meg's anchor. It's really touching to see his protectiveness of his Mother and his openness towards her mother's happiness.
With the main characters all do insidiously unique, I find that this 'billionaire' love story is much more realistic :)
With the main characters all do insidiously unique, I find that this 'billionaire' love story is much more realistic :)
May 4, 2017
Once again Serenity Woods has written for us a beautiful love story.
Meg has had to relocate with her son, she is PA to Stratton and the rest of the team at Kaota, a firm which designs computer games and tech for blind people. Stratton finds her highly attractive and good to look at. It's a pity she is already taken and wears someone's wedding ring already. Read for a charming Christmas time story, that will make you feel all gooey inside.
Meg has had to relocate with her son, she is PA to Stratton and the rest of the team at Kaota, a firm which designs computer games and tech for blind people. Stratton finds her highly attractive and good to look at. It's a pity she is already taken and wears someone's wedding ring already. Read for a charming Christmas time story, that will make you feel all gooey inside.
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