How to Bang a Billionaire

Arden St. Ives #1

by Alexis Hall

Rules are made to be broken . . .

If England had yearbooks, I'd probably be "Arden St. Ives: Man Least Likely to Set the World on Fire." So far, I haven't. I've no idea what I'm doing at Oxford, no idea what I'm going to do next and, until a week ago, I had no idea who Caspian Hart was. Turns out, he's brilliant, beautiful . . . oh yeah, and a billionaire.

It's impossible not to be captivated by someone like that. But Caspian Hart makes his own rules. And he has a lot of them. About when I can be with him. What I can do with him. And when he'll be through with me.

I'm good at doing what I'm told in the bedroom. The rest of the time, not so much. And now that Caspian's shown me glimpses of the man behind the billionaire I know it's him I want. Not his wealth, not his status. Him. Except that might be the one thing he doesn't have the power to give me.

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, Contemporary, BDSM, LGBT, Queer, Audiobook

384 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 16, 2017

About the author

One of those intricate British queers.

Please note: I don’t read / reply to DMs. If you would like to get in touch, the best way is via email which you can find in the contact section on my website <3

Reviews

[Rachel L · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars!

This book is the gay 50 Shades. Except I actually liked it. And I actually liked the characters. And there were no inner goddesses.

This was a book I requested on a whim, I love MM and am always curious to read more. I'm not one for billionaire romances, or BDSM but for some reason this book called to me.

How to Bang A Billionaire is about Arden, an Oxford student soon to graduate with a literature degree. He volunteers for an alumni fundraiser and ends up talking on the phone to billionaire and former student, Caspian Hart. On the phone they strike up a banter, and then Caspian comes to the fundraising dinner. There’s something there, but while Arden wants to pursue it, Caspian wants to resist.

Arden gives up hope of being with the attractive billionaire, when Caspian offers up a deal…..



“Everything was worth it for the power to give Caspian Hart just a little bit of joy.”

I really liked this book, like I said above I’m not huge on billionaires, not huge on BDSM, but this one worked! I thought Arden was such an interesting character, his outlook on life and his motivations. He’s playful and fun and up for anything. Caspian was more of a mystery, one we didn’t get to the middle of yet. I expect there will be more about him in the next book. But what we did get to know of him I liked, he just doesn’t know how to express very well.

This book wasn’t super steamy like I was expecting, and honestly I really liked that about it. It meant we could actually get some character development and get to know our players without constant sex. But there is sex! I promise. And you’ll like it. Hall just found a really great balance. And the BDSM element wasn’t as present as I thought, but I expect we will see more.

There’s no cliffhanger! I promise. I cannot wait for the next book though despite no cliffy, I want to know more about these two men. They were wonderful!

“I want to make you feel safe. And I’d make sure you never forget the extraordinary man that you are.”

ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review


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[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

I'm not ashamed to admit I liked the 50 Shades books....at the time. Would I like them now? Probably not. My tastes have changed considerably since my time with Anna and Christian.

But I like a good billionaire book as much as the next person....and that fact that it's an MM book, well even better.

I quite liked both Caspian and Arden. A lot. They had some great banter. I just wish we also got Caspian's POV. That little niggle aside, I can't complain much about this one at all.

Perhaps a little more steam would be nice, but I was certainly satisfied. Plus it's book 1 of 3 - so I have a feeling the steam levels will likely pick up. Not much BDSM in this one....but it's Alexis Hall so it's coming. Not sure how I feel about that. Hopefully it's on the lighter side.

This one wasn't near as long as some of Hall's books, most of Hall's books. Another plus for me.

Definitely a HFN ending - the only other real "complaint" I have. But I'm certainly eager for more. November can't get here fast enough!

Recommended read for sure!

[Lyn❤Loves❤Listening to Real Voices Only!!!!❤️&#x1f3a7;&#x1f4da; Addict ON HIATUS · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio - 3.5 Stars
Story - 3.5 Stars

I mostly enjoyed this story, but there wasn't much couple time. And I'm not just talking about sex. Arden and Caspian spend more time apart than together, but I think that's intentional since this is book 1.

I loved Arden. He is hilarious and so full of life. Caspian is the opposite. He is the broody, tortured soul. No idea why since we only get Arden's pov, but I'm guessing (hoping) that will be revealed in the next book.

[Alisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I think what the author did here was fantastic. I loved this. I think though that this book is going to be one of those that divides readers. You're either going to love this or you're going to hate it.

This is a m/m reimaging of Fifty Shades of Gray. The overall plotline is the same. Twenty year old college student meets emotionally detached billionaire and they enter into a contract type of relationship. Arden is the narrator for the story and he's charming and funny and self-deprecating. He's not a naïve virgin and he thinks he's totally fine getting into this *thing* with Caspian (see what the author did with there with the names?) It doesn't take Arden long to realize that sex is not the issue. The emotional detachment though is and it begins to make him feel horrible about himself. As the story goes along Arden gets to see these brief glimpses of the guy Caspian is inside and he keeps going back for more despite his overall unhappiness.

Caspian is an ass. He goes back and forth emotionally. He's detached most of the time but then shows these little bits of himself & you get the feeling he might be a good guy underneath it all. I personally liked Caspian. Although he's detached he's totally honest with Arden about what he's willing to give. There are numerous hints at his back story but by the end of this book we still don't know what makes Caspian tick and neither does Arden. I'm super curious as to where the author is going with his character. It's my feeling that the author knows exactly what he's doing with his characterization of Caspian and it's meant to be subversive.

If you have read FSoG you are going to catch a bunch of similarities (ie Arden trips and falls when he meets Caspian). I guess you could perceive this as the author making fun of FSoG but that's not how I took it at all. I know this author a bit (in that abstract way you *know* people from the internet) and it's not at all in his nature to be mean or make fun of others. I took it in a positive way and those scenes made me smile and think "Oh, I remember that part". It is a bit cheeky but I think that's obvious from the title alone.

So....this is FSoG but better. I don't mean that in the mean, bitchy way it sounds though. I read FSoG when they very first came out and I really enjoyed them. I actually hate it when people bash FSoG. A lot of people enjoyed that series and it opened up a lot of people's eyes to the erotic side of books. (I have an entire tangent about the haters who feel the need to crap on other people's happiness but I'll spare you from that). This though, was, imo, better written. The author's prose is lovely as usual and I felt more attached to these characters. I thought this was both funny and full of feelz. (Not all of the feelz were good mind you but that's real life. Relationships are not always easy.)

While there are similarities this story is also very different. It's hard to explain but I think you'll see what I mean when you read this. This book ends in a hfn but they're barely there. I believe there are two more books in the series and I personally can't wait to read them.

[Adam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really didn't know what to expect when I started reading this book. I'd seen a few reviews comparing it to Fifty Shades of Grey, which made me nervous.

But I had no need to worry. Alexis Hall delivers once again - complex and interesting characters, some comedy, hot sex, and a sweet romance.

I immediately fell for Arden. He's the cute funny twink who has a habit of getting into trouble. He charmed the socks off me.

Caspian is, to put it bluntly, a dick. He's cold and aloof for the vast majority of the book. Yet in the second half, when he began letting his guard down a bit, it was obvious that there was something behind the facade. I'm still not entirely sold on him, but I'm pretty sure he can change for Arden.

The sex. It was hot. It wasn't particularly kinky, with just some domination here and there. But these two are clearly moving towards heavier stuff. I'm all for it.



The big stumbling block in Arden and Caspian's relationship is Caspian inability to let down his walls and let himself love and be loved by Arden. Things aren't completely resolved by the end of the book, but Caspian's definitely making an effort.

I think these two have quite a way to go before they get their HEA, but I have no doubt that they will. They fit together perfectly. I can't wait for book 2!

[Tamika♥RBF MOOD♥ · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @ 67%

ARGHHHHHHHHH

It's only so much you can take! Goodness, I really tried. I tried Alisa, oh pudding pop I tried. LOL.

I literally want to take a bat to ARDEN'S head and shut him the hell up. It was TOO MUCH internal monologuing. I liked the premise of the story and the reversal of the FSOG saga, but it was too much for me. Honestly, I read up to 67% and put up with alot. I couldn't deal with a few sentences of dialogue between Caspian & Arden, and then 5 long pages of internal yammering from Arden. It was this way the entire book so far. Then Arden would go on extended rants about things that were so left field. I really feel like he had ADHD. It is okay to admit it.


Don't get me wrong, I liked Arden a lot. I even liked Caspian, and certain parts of the story were good and funny. Both characters were likeable, but to many words and not enough execution left me bored and pissed off. I wish it was maybe dual pov's. Maybe it would have flowed more easily reading from Caspian's pov.


This is a bummer for me. I don't find myself reading this author that much but I do like a couple of his stories. I don't think I'll be recommending this persay, but people seem to read enjoy it. There reviews are a lot more positive in energy about the characters. It didn't work for me, but it might work for you. Try it.

 

 

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second time it was again... awesomeness !!
5++ I don't know how to express this...this awesomeness

From the first sentence I was totally in and addicted. These are the sentences I crave for....every one.... read: e.v.e.r.y.o.n.e was captivating as hell...every line I absorbed and consumed like it was the best chocolate on earth.
For me it was an instant memorable read....an experience. I'm not exaggerating, it really felt this way...it was written in the best way possible...
It was funny so fucking funny I laughed out loud, at the same time it was heartbreaking damn I cried (also loud....)
It was strong forwarding and it makes you think and wonder.
The self reflections of Arden are funny, witty and with so many layers it made my heart squeeze.
The appearance of Caspian was innovative....you could think you know what this is all about....but don't make the mistake....because it so much more. He is one big contradiction and endearing as hell.

Damn....the whole package was just perfect it was all I wanted of a story.
And what I'm gonna say will sound very strange.... is wasn't even the content that made this perfect, more the way it was put down, the way it was written. Of course the story was amazingly good and captivating but I think this author can make gold of every storyline.

So.....the storyline.....

The prologue is intriguing as hell....

Arden and Caspian...

Inferior was the feeling he had when he saw himself pertaining to Caspian....and Caspian....?....didn't had a clou....didn't understand Arden or his feelings...

They made a deal....Arden is there for Caspian at all times and Caspian will take care of Arden at all times.

Arden...... even when he felt at his worst....utterly wanted to give Caspian a way out...a chance to make it all good ...he saw the man....really saw him.
What Arden didn't realize, was the fact that he was the center of Caspian's world.
Their connection is strong, only not in the way Arden had in mind...Caspian is sort of alienated...
Arden has a breaking point and that point is close....very close

All my negative feelings about serial reading evaporated with this one.... I will patiently wait for #2 No cliff here.... *swipe forehead*

[h o l l i s · Rating 1 out of 5]

The most painful thing about Caspian Hart wasn't desiring him; it was liking him.

Which is basically what my experience with this book was. Except I neither desired nor liked it. But it was painful because I have just discovered this author and he has made me fall in love with his writing and his characters.. only to follow it up with this.

Part of me really hopes this whole series is like a big fuck you to FIFTY SHADES OF GREY in the sense that it's a polite but gently mocking homage done in a gay way. Or a parody. Please be a parody. Because if it's not.. I don't know. I just don't know. And if it is.. I still don't know.

"That's all ambition is. A fire that burns in empty places."

Spoiler alert : I did not like FIFTY SHADES OF GREY. I never read books two or three. It took me two weeks to read the first one and anyone who knows me, or has followed me for more than five seconds, knows it doesn't take me long to read a book. And that it took me, actually and literally, two weeks to finish that series opener says a lot I think. It was horrible. I did not like it. And, if you can imagine it, I like retellings of that plot even less. Because the concept hurts my brain. These characters hurt my brain. And if Hall has written this genuinely and sincerely as something he wanted to write.. well, I mean, good for him. I hope he makes a fortune off all the fans of the original. He's a brilliant writer when (in my opinion) he isn't writing this.

[..] and there was my audience : five of them, be-suited and exquisitely composed, regarding me with the careful nonreactiveness British people adopt when you've mortified yourself so severely that they're embarrassed on your behalf.

As a result, I'll probably be avoiding the rest of the series -- at least until some time has passed and I've forgotten how much I disliked this experience. At which point, when (if) my library gets the sequel, I'll keep it on the down-low (aka won't tell Melissa so she can talk me out of it) and be forced to rely on my diminished hopes to cheer me on in my desperate need for a less frustrating and redundant and cyclically painful experience.

"Sebastian's a crab."
"How can you remember that? Are you sure you're mostly straight."
"He was a comedy sidekick with a racist accent. You don't forget that shit unless you're too busy speculating about whether the male lead is any good in bed."
"You're right. That is pretty gay."

Arden in general was not my favourite character (and as I observed to my aforementioned friend, the only reason Caspian was marginally more likeable is because initially we know nothing about him, until we are given bits and pieces of things, at which point the things we do know are mostly terribly vague reasons for him being terrible and vague and I just couldn't) but I did like him best when he was bantering and whatever with his friend Nik. Which happens like twice. But as a result the opening chapters of HOW TO BANG A BILLIONAIRE were probably the ones I enjoyed most. I thought the not-actually-meeting meet-cute of the cold call charity collection scenario was cute. But Arden is basically a Bella (I know, obviously, hello) and he's weepy and clumsy and clingy and ridiculous; all of which could be cute or endearing but it's to an extreme where it no longer inspires sympathy. Just ridicule and long-suffering sighs. Also bitchy whinging via fbook messenger to people who understand my pain.

He was the human equivalent of an offer from Oxford : difficult to get, impossible to turn down, and guaranteed to make you feel as if you'd only been chosen because of an administrative error.

And the conversations with Caspian just.. went around and around and around and words were being said but nothing made sense and what I hate most in the romance genre is how this kind of behaviour is now widely acceptable. That this non-communicative relationship is sexy and mysterious. No, it's not. It's a pain in the ass and awful. Stop it. But we're always given just enough, aren't we, to tolerate it. Case in point : the final chapter. It was sweet but of course it's all going to go to shit in book two (because reasons) and yet we'll be reminded of these moments, in addition to all the glimpses of real emotion and little non-smiles and choked back laughter, to make whatever clusterfuck is coming "easier to bear" on Arden and/or something he uses to validate it all and convince himself that Caspian is "worth the investment". As a reader, however, it was hard to get invested in this glimpse of a real person because glimpses do not a whole person make.

It's hard to be invested in a couple when one half is a caricature and the other is a vague hazy outline of a concept.

But I guess we'll see.

1.5 "and what was up with those non-sexy sex scenes, anyway?" stars

[Kevin (Irish Reader) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Full spoiler filled review on this book over on my YouTube Channel. You can watch here: https://youtu.be/TvNldGSuZL0

[Jan · Rating 3 out of 5]

**** 3.5 ****

See this pic??



I'm the one in the middle.
Got mixed feelings here. I liked Arden in the same proportions as I disliked Caspian Hart.

Arden(20) is a down-to-earth person. He's happy, passionate and sassy. A free spirit, honest, generous and possesses a trait that I love: he has no filter.
The "no filter" makes him a really singular and special character because you never know what will come out of his mouth next.



Capian Hart is complicated. I'll give you him at his best:

"I like to avoid personal conversations."
"We shouldn't."
"I don't do relationships."
"We can't do this."
"You ask too much of me."
"You have no idea what you're asking."
"I would ruin you."
"It's not that simple."



For God's sake! Somebody help and take off the chip from his shoulder!

I have to say, Arden and Caspian are a weird combination
They are so different!
The relationship is so unbalanced. Scratch that! There is no relationship.

So, here's to hoping that book 2 brings me some answers and give me more info about Caspian, because so far, I feel frustrated and annoyed by him.

[♡ cal ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

”... but he looked ridiculously good. The epitome of modern masculine power. A predator in pinstripes. And still, in spite of everything, I wanted to be on my knees for him. Unburdening him, my most ungentle knight, until we were nothing but skin and surrender.”

so good! got doubts at first but everything worked out in the end. the flavour of rich unattainable men with commitment issues will always be wickedly delicious. in books! also, henry cavill is my caspian hart! the ship has sailed for arden and caspian but i just know the rough seas will wreck them. excited for the next books!

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 4 out of 5]

*4,5 stars*

Read for the third time August 2019

I enjoyed this as much as on my second reread. I got a much stronger sense of Caspian’s struggles, his inability to commit emotionally to pretty much everything and my heart ached for him.
It equally went out to Arden who couldn’t try harder for Caspian to be happy. Making him smile and lose control just a little bit increasingly become minor triumphs when they are together.

I still marvel at Arden’s decision to go back to London with Caspian, even though the man throws yet another massive hurdle at him before the end Not wanting to be touched is going to cause some serious trouble in the long run, I think. Arden is such a touchy-feely guy!

Reread in December 2017.
And I loved it more than the first time. I upped my rating to 4,5 although it is pretty close to 5. I needed a dose of Alexis Hall and this was just the perfect fix.
Now that I have read book 2 I realized where all this is heading and some of my niggles went straight out of the window.

Here is what I originally wrote:

This was a tricky one to rate for various reasons, but let’s start at the beginning.

As always Alexis Hall’s writing style, his sharp wit and sarcasm are reasons for whoops of delight and joy.
The title itself made me chuckle – I get the impression it was chosen with the aim to tease and provoke. The themes of the book are reminiscent of ‘50 Shades of Grey’ and ‘Pretty Woman’ after all:

Arden, a young, slightly immature and “lackadaisical” graduate meets Caspian, the gorgeous billionaire who seems to have it all. Their attraction is immediate, and eventually leads to a ‘prenegotiated short- term sexual ‘business deal’. But this is where most similarities end.

Arden is a highly sympathetic and loveable character. I found his socially awkward moments like being sick all over Caspian’s ‘bespoke’ shoes endearing and funny at the same time. His choice of clothes is often hilarious I mean the guy has a ‘I’m fabulous and I know it’ Little Pony T-shirt! and his self-deprecating humour had my lips twitching again and again.

However, Arden clearly needs direction. He has very little idea what he wants to do with his life and how to achieve it. He lacks in confidence and drive and continuously berates himself for it (and lots of other things)

And then Caspian “sculpted in silver and steel, a man so coldly perfect he was barely real at all” appears on the scene and completely knocks him off his feet. Because that incredibly beautiful, successful man seems to think he is “extra-ordinary, sincere, kind”, with a huge “capacity for happiness”.

Something that Caspian’s clearly not. To put it mildly! He is all “ice and strength and darkness” and so intense, sad and broken you’re sometimes not sure if he is capable of any form of relationship. He remains distant not only to Arden (the story is told from his POV in the first person), but also to the reader. We find out precious little about this enigmatic man, but can guess that the key to his issues lie in his past.

Alexis Hall leaves a few hints here and there, just enough to figure out that there is a lot more behind Caspian’s stoic, cool façade. (And isn’t that just what makes him ultimately mysterious and challenging). Arden wants to look behind that, find the real man he’s seen glimpses of, the man who’s stern and sweet and rough and gentle, invincible and vulnerable, wickedly sexy and unexpectedly kind.

But getting there is more difficult than climbing the Mount Everest. Accepting Caspian’s ‘proposal’ seems to offer an opening to get to know the man better, to peek at the man behind the ‘steel curtain’ and maybe put a crack into that insurmountable wall he has erected around himself.

It was a bit heart breaking to find Arden failing again and again, to see him putting himself out there in every possible way with not much to show for it. To be honest, their lovemaking, although efficient, is almost depressing at times because Caspian will simply not let go, not lose control and not get emotionally involved.
Arden rebels against it:

I definitely didn’t want to be serviced by a beautiful bonk robot as if I was stuck in Westworld.

And hence problems ensue, on various fronts. Arden hoping, offering and trying to convince Caspian that he is ready to explore his submissive side he's just acknowledged.

I loved being unbalanced by him, controlled by him. It was its own power – its own freedom – and it made me feel so good, So good, so safe, and so marvelously claimed.

Although it is clearly something Caspian desires, too, he seems too afraid to ‘hurt’ Arden. Darn, I ached for Arden when he virtually offers himself on a plate and gets rejected. Something huge is keeping Caspian back, something that scares him, something that won’t let him trust. And how can you enjoy any form of BDSM without that?

At the end of the day Arden sums it up like this:

The most painful thing about Caspian Hart wasn't desiring him, it was liking him.

This book is quite low on sex and certainly low on BDSM. Something I hope will change dramatically in book 2. It feels very much like book 1 not getting past ‘setting the scene’. I admit, I had expected more Arden and Caspian during their time at the flat and a stronger presence of the BDSM element. I guess Alexis Hall just wanted to whet our appetite and keep ‘the best bits’ for the other two books in the series.

My main niggle is that there was too much monologue. Some of it I could have done without. Not that I didn’t enjoy being in Arden’s head, but at times he went so off-tangent I ’lost the plot’. I’m also not quite sure whether I understood Caspian’s behaviour towards the end.

Still, I really liked the whole scenario. I want to find out what’s going on with Caspian, I want to see Arden grow into a confident young man and both men fulfilling their sexual and emotional needs. But I can tell it���s going to be a long journey.

Awaiting book 2 with a lot of anticipation!

[Kelly (and the Book Boar) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Valentine’s. What better day to read a little man on man porn. AmIRightOrAmIRight?????



If Fifty Shades started off as a Twilight fanfic, I’m assuming How To Bang A Billionaire started as a Fifty Shades fanfic. I’ve had this book for about a billion and a half years, but it never got moved up the TBR due to that fact. But then it was time for the Superb Owl celebration and I had just finished reading a real clinker that I actually had high hopes for and I figured what the hell. No time like the present to get my smut on. And Alexis Hall has been my go-to over the years whenever I want something that makes me feel a little horny, baby. He writes good characters, there’s just enough angst, the dialogue is always witty and up until this point the smexytimes, while pretty hot, were delivered fade-to-black style.

So, as I said, this appears to have started off as some sort of “challenge accepted”/anything you can do I can do without making readers vomit better response to the nightmare which was 50 Shades. Good news is this features 100% less cringe-inducing “inner goddess” speak, a plot and steamy rather than barfy bang sessions. Bad news (which I knew before ever starting) is this is totally the start of a series and if you want any sort of wrapping up of things you would have to continue reading. I am not that girl, so I will be stopping with numero uno and just remain thankful this was not a shitshow like its inspiration.

[Rhosyo MT · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three reads and still as excellent.
A slow burn trilogy were I can actually feel the instant attraction from the very beginning.
This was my first ever AjH book and I remember the first time reading chapter one, with the meet-cute phone call, and knowing right away I was in for something special.

This is an amazing reimagining of the classic billionaire romance.
The trilogy explores this sub-genre and dismantles all its not-that-good stereotypes and power imbalances, to then put it all back together in a way that’s fresh and healthy and so good to read!
Arden Saint Ives is one of my favourite heroes. There is no one like him, I love Caspian describing him as a person full of light, because he truly is.
As with any of Hall’s Books, Ardy’s story is full of positive messages. I love how happy reading his perspective on life makes me feel.

.....................

Post-reading ramblings ahead:
(Since I’ve read the whole trilogy, some things I say here might be ideas based on me already knowing the complete plot... it could be a little spoilery)

*I’ll always think Nik had a crush on Ardy, a big one, and obviously it was a bit reciprocated too. This could have been an amazing couple.
And it's mind blowing to think that it was Nik's illness and absence from the fundraiser that caused Caspian to meet Arden in the first place.
Nik really liked Arden, but saw Ardy wasn’t ready or interested in a committed relationship so he never really tried anything. Ardy never thought too much about Nik’s possible attraction to him, labeling his best-friend as “mostly straight” and thinking the two of them together was impossible.
Lucky for Caspian, though. If Caspian hadn’t appeared just when he did, I’m sure Nik would have finally made his move on Ardy.

*I also still think that Nik and Bellerose would be amazing together. I’ll ship them until AjH writes their book or proves me wrong with other love interests for both.... either way, I need more books with all this secondary cast as main characters.

*I didn’t remember Nathaniel to be so full of himself. Or maybe I did, but this time he felt so self-centered and insufferable🙈. That prologue is amazing! But it could be misleading to any new readers. This is a story that vindicates kink and the healthy search for personal pleasures, how these can make us understand ourselves and make as free, happy.
Nathaniel is completely lost and full of prejudices. He claims to know Caspian but I think in all his years of acquaintance, he understood him even less than Ardy’s first impressions of him.
These books play with the idea of Ardy not knowing Caspian at all, that he maybe was amazed with the enigmatic, quite and powerful man but never knowing the real person behind. Obviously that’s not the case. While this could be true at the beginning, Ardy patiently gave shy and enigmatic Caspian space to slowly unravel himself right from the start. Nathaniel saw those hidden places and choose to fill them with his own ideas that had nothing to do with the real Caspian.
I love the books for placing this character that pictures the way someone can be a really toxic and oppressive influence for the one they love while thinking they are doing the right thing.
I still kind of feel sorry for N, though. Maybe he could grow as a person and find someone to love and respect for what they truly are.

*Despite Ardy being the MC of the trilogy, it’s Caspian struggles and inner demons that fueled the main conflicts. And Ardy wanting to help him, not in changing into a better version of himself, but just accepting that what he is and likes is completely acceptable and good and compatible with sharing a happy, healthy life with someone he loves.

.....................

A story about two people making each other better and confident and at peace: 🥰Hall’s Magic.
Alexis Hall is my favorite author. I’m completely in love with most of his work, but it is Arden that still wins my All time favorite Cinnamon-roll character (...or pancakes with dulce de leche, to be more accurate with my own tastes 😛).

[Sam I AMNreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is so much like FSoG in that it's not at all like FSoG.

If you're an old friend you might realize that long ago, that series was what got me into romance and erotica. In my younger more astute years, what I read sat firmly in the literary fiction section. There were never 6 packs on the cover, or embracing overwrought couples in coordinated clothing. I read a lot. Then...I had a child. My idea of reading became parenting boards and blogs and books so that I could do everything so exactly just right. Then I had my second child. I really missed reading. Ultimately though, my brain could barely handle anything above a Twitter feed. And somehow FSoG popped up on my phone. In ebook, cause egads I would never be caught with that in physical form. You know what? When I had decision fatigue and could barely pay attention but really really wanted to feel sexy...FSoG was exactly what I needed. It was horrifying. But I adored it. Oh sure, I was under no assumptions that it was good... But Christian Grey dictating my every move felt like the exact fantasy of a woman with two very small children.

Did I realize Ana was kind of a dumbass? Yep. Did I think in real life, I'd actually prefer pressing the heel of my shoe to Christian's nads, teeth gritted, ready to slice his throat if he tried that shit with me in real life? Yep. Did it hinder my enjoyment? Ummm. Not really.

So... Believe me when I say I was looking forward to Alexis Halls nod to that series only to realize it's only a nod in feel. Sure, the billionaire has no emotional intelligence. Sure, he's controlled. A major difference here is he's not ridiculous. He doesn't forbid (well yet) or dictate what Arden can or cannot do, and he seems like he's cracking. Like he's trying. Like he genuinely does not get how to not be broken.

And Arden is not Ana. They have instalust, sure, but when he has a personality and a sense of self in a very believable (to me) 20 year old package? It's easy to see why anyone would be attracted to Arden's light. And importantly, Arden's desires align with Caspian's style but he still demands something from it. He's not weak. He's just twenty.

So this angsty, roller coaster first person POV is undoubtedly not for everyone. And I think listening really helped. I could not resist Joel Leslie's performance of Nick, Arden, or Caspian. They were all fantastic, charismatic, and distinct. they had depth. It was funny. It was a delight, it had angst and I was hooked. I highly recommend the audio.

[Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally posted at Sinfully.

3.5 stars

This is one of those books that’s going to have a distinct divide between loved it and hated it. Alexis Hall’s take on the broody, kinky, emotionally stunted billionaire-dom who is suddenly taken with the awkward college student, starts off seeming like a parody of Fifty Shades of Grey. The framework is there, with striking similarities to start, but after the first few chapters the parody feel was gone. It is still clearly a play on the familiar theme, but Arden isn’t Anastasia Steele and Caspian isn’t Christian Grey.

I loved Arden from page one. He is about to graduate Oxford with hopes of a journalism career, but he’s been lazy and has no real prospects. He does have an inner monologue that is smart, witty and self-deprecating. He’s not an innocent flower, but he is rather emotional. Our pansexual hero has had a parade of people through his dorm room and wants to be a slut in a dungeon for Caspian from their first meeting. When the two actually meet for the first time and have their first sexual experience, Arden knows that Caspian wants something similar, but things don’t go well after that.

The men eventually come to an agreement. Caspian wants Arden but doesn’t want more than sex. Arden wants Caspian and agrees to a six month period of just that. No strings attached sex when Caspian wants it. Caspian installs Arden in one of his apartments in London, convincing Arden that it will be easier to meet up and will provide Arden with the freedom to look for work and not worry about being homeless. Things pretty much go downhill from the start. Arden just wants to be with Caspian – not the billionaire, not the closed off man, but the man he had glimpses of the first time, the man who apparently has a certain sexual appetite for rough sex and bondage. What he gets is a closed off Caspian who treats him like a whore (unintentionally because Caspian is apparently just clueless). Arden isn’t a shrinking flower and he thought he could work with what Caspian offered, but he’s just too emotionally invested.

Arden wants rough sex, he wants to explore a BDSM relationship and he makes that clear, but Caspian keeps throwing out this nebulous fear he has of hurting Arden and his need to maintain control. A need which Arden clearly tests. We don’t get more than that – a fear he’ll hurt Arden like he hurts others, that he isn’t a relationship man, that he must have control. While it’s obvious that Caspian is taken by Arden and that he’s trying to be what Arden wants, within his own limitations, it’s just as obvious he doesn’t know how to deal with Arden’s effect on him. That is still all we know by the end of the book. We don’t get to know Caspian much. There is the capacity for warmth and tenderness but most of the time he’s just very cold even when he thinks he’s being kind and sweet. We know that Caspian has family issues, we meet his troubled younger sister, but it all remains a mystery.

This book has me all jumbled up. I loved the writing. Alexis Hall always gives spectacular dialogue, witty with a beautiful use of language (I always learn a new word or two). I loved Arden. He is a bright light any time he is on the page, but Caspian is another story. I didn’t hate him, I certainly didn’t love him, it was more I was indifferent towards him for much of the story and that was a problem for me, even though with the story’s framework I know that was the way it was supposed to go. The initial spark between the two when they first talk and then meet, slowly dwindled for me to the point that I didn’t feel a connection at all. Whether it’s Caspian’s cold nature or what, the flame didn’t grow for me until the last pages of the story where we finally see a peek of Caspian as person, the glimpse of what Arden saw early on that kept him coming back for more. The sex scenes were often vague and I felt detached, likely the way Arden felt while it was going on, but that also did little for me as far as feeling the connection. While some of this may have been the author’s intent, it made it difficult for me to want to see them together, especially once Arden decides he’s had enough.

There’s not a lot of romancing in this book, there’s also not really any BDSM at this point. The story started off great and was a lot of fun, the middle lost me a bit, but It ends on a hopeful note, what some may consider a bit of a cliffy, a HFN with a promise to try. I knew going in it was a series, but didn’t realize it was going to follow the same couple. Now that I know it, even though there were some big bumps in this one, my love of Arden and the author’s writing will have me crossing my fingers and coming back for the next installment.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

A drop dead gorgeous billionaire who is a repressed Dom and after the whole damn book we still don't know anything about him beside being a repressed Dom? Oh yeah, sounds pretty familiar and pretty dark. But since this book had such a cheeky and blunt title call 'How To Bang a Billionaire', the little twist come in the form of wannabe submissive Arden St. Ives.

Arden is a English literature student volunteering to make cold calls to successful alumni hoping to get some generous donation. Due to his wacky personalities, he made an impression on Caspian Hart, the most beautiful man to grace the earth. His words, not mine. This book is told entirely in Arden's POV, which honestly most of the time I find it hilarious. He had a tendency to be optimistic one minute and self deprecating the next. Bipolar, much? He also tends to babble a lot and he can go on and on about the same issue over and over again in his head. Initially I want to shout at him to just get over it already and stop being a drama queen. But Arden being Arden, I think he is an acquired taste, the more I read about him, the more I like his idiosyncrasy.

Caspian Hart is the rich asshole extraordinaire. He is like this gentleman who is always being nice and proper but I want to throttle him most of the time for being an emotionless brick wall. He is very close off about his personal stuff, but tend to shower Arden with anything money can buy.

Arden has little self worth when it comes to comparing himself to his secret lover. And living like a mistress or worst a prostitute waiting for Caspian's attention is initially tantalizing, but later on make him feel worst than a whore. When Arden finally grow a back bone and showed Caspian what he needs, will Caspian able to reciprocate? Okay, in the end Caspian is still as mysterious as ever and I still haven't seen kinky scene yet, but this book do end with a nice HFN for them.

I know this might sounds really 50 Shades, but I don't care cause this is M/M and I love it.

[M.I.A · Rating 5 out of 5]

*4.5 Stars*
Joel Leslie should seriously limit himself to narrating posh British MC's because he excels. Audiobook fans, don't hesitate.

The story of Arden, Oxford Student who catches the eye of Caspian, the enigmatic billionaire.

Caspian who doesn't do casual or relationship but finds himself drawn to Arden. Never agains turning into one more time. Consumed by desire for the very first time? At least consumed by something he's never felt before. The eccentric kinky billionaire who's afraid of his own desires.

Arden with his quirky jewelry, his joie de vivre, his desire to obey, his fascination of the beautiful, cold man who gives him glimpses of compassion but continuously rejects him. This intense, controlling, complicated man, he can't help but want for his own.

But what do you do when you're falling for someone who would lay the world at your feet but never reveal their true self, always contained, always hidden, always a mystery, out of reach and unattainable?

They barely scratch the surface here, just laying the foundation for what's to come. Both trying their hands at honesty rather then blindly accepting scraps in order to be together.

I expected this to be somewhat, erotic, but it's really more character driven then it is sex driven which gives it a lot of substance. Though, one shouldn't be surprised, its Alexis Hall after all and his skills with creating enigmatic, complex, fascinating characters is impressive as hell.

I have to add two very important things:
yay to British accents & Alexis Hall has become an unforgettable author in MM for me.

Highly recommend, can't see that changing as I rush to the second book.

[Eugenia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audiobook September 2019: Joel Leslie ROCKS THE FUCK out of this book!! 5+++
I still want to slap Caspian upside the head. I still ADORE Arden, and I still want to hug Ellory! I waited on this audiobook until I could binge on the trilogy!!!

Original ebook review April 2017:
I LOVED THIS BOOK!

And now comes the dreadful wait for the next book. I'm seriously addicted to Alexis Hall and to the characters he created in this glorious book of his.

Here we meet the very likable and self-deprecating, 20 year old Arden, and the icily beautiful, self-made billionaire, Caspian Hart. I have to say, that the plot line is of that one book at everyone loves to hate about the recent college grad and the troubled millionaire who doesn't like to be touched and is very domineering. Yes, that one that was made into a movie. As Hall states on his website, he was doing an LGBTQ+ take on the billionaire romance trope. And his take is soooo much better!!!!

Let me repeat, I LOVED THIS BOOK. Arden was delightfully endearing and lovable. His intelligence combined with naïveté and openness captured me. I found Caspian less approachable and much more of an enigma--which makes sense since the book is written from Arden's POV. The two contrive to have an arrangement in which they're more than casual lovers, but less than boyfriends. Arden wants more. Caspian won't give more.

I won't provide any spoilers, but I'll just say that the two do come to a sort of HFN--enough of a "sort-of" to make you die to read the next novel. Because I'm really hoping that's where the kinky kicks in.

[Krista · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF at 60%

I wanted to love this book so much. Based on the description, there was every indication that I was going to. But, once I got into it, I realized that there was one big thing that was wrong.

Caspian Hart is the biggest asshole "hero" I've ever read in any book. Ever.

I'm okay with the hero running hot and cold for a while. It gives the hero/ine a chance to prove that what they could have together is worth wading through all the bad stuff. But Caspian just runs cold all the time. There is no hot. I realize the hot could come at a later time in this book or in the series, but I need SOMETHING in order to keep me engaged - a few moments of genuine tenderness and affection or some other indication that a future real relationship is even possible. And there was none of that.

At 60%, we still know absolutely nothing about Caspian other than he's a billionaire and his dad is dead. We don't know what he actually does or how his father died or if he has siblings or what he likes to do in his spare time. We've never seen him in anything but a fancy suit (even when he's having sex). Which makes Caspian flat, one-demensional and incredibly difficult to connect with.

Caspian's continued treatment of Arden as a high-paid whore (and Arden's acceptance of that treatment) gave me so much rage, I had to take frequent breaks from reading. His constant coldness and dismissive attitude toward Arden was degrading and demoralizing. Which made me hate him. And then I hated Arden because he accepted it all, even though he admits that it makes him feel like crap.

Also, as a side note, I was shocked at the similarities between this book and Fifty Shades of Grey...

Caspian is a billionaire who meets Arden when Arden calls him to talk him into a donation for the university that Arden is fixing to graduate from in mere weeks. Caspian finds him intriguing and they have a few interludes where Caspian starts to woo Arden before telling him that he's not someone Arden wants to be with and leaves. Then, Caspian shows up unexpectedly at a bar where Arden has gotten drunk while celebrating his graduation and saves Arden from a potential suitor getting too frisky. After barfing on Caspian's shoes and passing out, Arden wakes up in a fancy hotel. Caspian buys him breakfast and then tells him he wants him. They enter into negotiations of their sexual relationship. Caspian provides Arden with a phone and a place to stay and a credit card in exchange for Arden making himself available whenever Caspian wants him (because Caspian is a busy man, so Arden always has to be ready at a moment's notice).

Sound familiar??

[Darien · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a lot, and I’m a little obsessed with Arden and Caspian. High Key it’s very 50 shades of grey but less rapey ridiculous. On to book 2.

[BWT · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the story of funny but flailing Oxford student, Arden St. Ives, and the enigmatic billionaire he falls in love with...but will closed off Caspian Hart be able to return Arden's love? With some (I think) tongue in cheek nods to Fifty Shades of Grey, although thankfully much better written, this has plenty of laughs, mostly at Arden's expense, without becoming silly about it.

While I found it funny, certainly witty, and I appreciated even though Arden was head over heels with Caspian he didn't just let Caspian walk all over him, I struggled to get through the story. Because it's told entirely from Arden's POV it unfortunately provided little insight into Caspian's mind or motivations. Also, the tentative HFN ending about killed me.

The real gem I found here is Joel Leslie's narration. He perfectly captures how out-of-his-depth Arden is, how Arden grows, and conveys the brilliant-yet-tragic tones of Caspian beautifully. Leslie's voice was so rife with humor and emotion...he just keeps getting better in his character voices and performances.

Truthfully, the story wasn't for me but the audio kept me going throughout and I found it to be a delightful listen.

Story: 2 Stars; Audio: 4 Stars = Total = 3 Stars

Audio copy of How to Bang a Billionaire (Arden St. Ives #1) provided in exchange of an honest review.

This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.

[Jo * Smut-Dickted * · Rating 2 out of 5]

I think the core of the story was there for me - I just found it hard to deal with the constant analogies and references. It kept pulling me out of the story for the sheer volume of things that were compared to, referenced against, or kind of pithily joked about- it makes for a complicated read and I found it mentally exhausting instead of exhilarating. Sometimes I just wanted things to be. Instead to be like - if that makes any sense.

Arden's internal (OMG SAVE ME from a reader POV) struggle drove me wackadoodles. He seems to have very few to no friends and it's absolutely understandable. I don't want to be near his head either. And there is no real reason for his angst - though we really know very little of his background really in terms of experiences he seems to have a loving and supportive family - so what's his drama?

There are some very funny quips and one liners and diaologues here but, for me, they were buried under two very unlikeable characters, so much internal drama with no reason really that I thought my head would explode, and no real care for the future. I would have appreciated it far more if Arden had just been the rent boy he was hired to be, let Caspian F*&^ the hell out of him, and used the time to get a job.

In the immortal words of Cordelia - I very badly wanted to tell Arden "Don't you have an elsewhere to be?"

[Em · Rating 5 out of 5]

re-read 11/14.
I wasn't so rushed reading this a second time & I enjoyed every bit of it all over again. I love Arden's sense of humor and it's so easy to see why Caspian falls so hard for him. He's awesome.

____________________________________________________

Oh I never wanted this to end. So much still to learn about Caspian Hart!!!!!

Random review tangent:

I hesitate to link E. L. James with Alexis Hall, but I'm just going to go ahead and do it. As I read this story I kept thinking it reminded me of another book though the link remained illusive (er. in hindsight it's like duh). How to Bang a Billionaire is the m/m version of the relationship Christian (50 Shades) might have had if the one with Anastasia failed.

stay with me.

In this completely fictional 4th book, Anastasia would have helped Christian while they were together to resolve his lingering negative BDSM associations, and very real need for a D/s relationship as a means to express his love. He's at peace with his past and his desires, but unwilling to participate in a D/s relationship with her. They break-up. Then, Christian meets someone else who's super great and the REAL love of his life. Christian is unwilling to explore a BDSM relationship with this person out of fear, but this NEW BETTER person is into it and doesn't want this vanilla, artificial expression of Christian's affection. The fictional future partner likes a bit of BDSM and the D/s relationship. He/she also thinks they can have a healthy relationship exploring it together. But Christian resists and resists and resists. End 4th book.

back to How to Bang a Billionaire

In this book, using the aforementioned theory, Arden St. Ives isn't Anastasia - he's the person after her. The true love. Caspian Hart is the Christian character - damaged by his (in this case) mysterious/intriguing past and trying to have a healthy relationship but unwilling to explore a D/s relationship with his new partner.

At least I think that's what is happening here with Arden and Caspian - though the jury is still out.

What it definitely is is a complicated love story - and it features my most favorite trope of them all - opposites. Returning to my earlier analysis (hmm), Caspian is the detached, wealthy, handsome business titan; Arden is the naive (in his own way) college student who sparks Caspian's attention and focus. They're different in every way but intensely attracted to one another from the first moment they meet. In fact, there's an instant connection between them before they meet, when Arden cold-calls Caspian to donate to his alma mater. Caspian is charmed, Arden is curious. The conversation is a delicious preview of what's to come - and the story sucks you right in from the get-go.

Again, much like 50 Shades, Caspian tries to dictate the terms of the relationship and Arden, bewildered by the attention and interest of his powerful crush, cedes to his demands. Which we all know is never a recipe for a successful relationship. And it isn't here either. Arden doesn't want Caspian's wealth or power or connections - he wants Caspian. Unfortunately, Caspian's past casts a very dark shadow over the relationship. We get glimpses of who and what might be there, but Mr. Hall deliberately leaves Caspian's history mysterious and unclear. Caspian is deeply fearful of a D/s relationship with Arden, though Arden urges him to let go and stop resisting what they both want. It appears they're moving in that direction when...Yep, the novel ends.

Misunderstandings/hot sex/missed opportunities... this is the relationship between Caspian and Arden in How to Bang a Billionaire. But this is a book by Alexis Hall and not E. L. James, so you already know he elevates this complicated love story into something better and more excellent than most everything else. It's poignant, bittersweet and tender - and just terrific.

I loved it almost as much as my favorite title by Mr. Hall - and I love knowing there is more to come from this pair and this author. You will too. SO SO GOOD. And also, the title. ITS HILARIOUS AND AWESOME.

p.s. does anyone know how many books are planned for the series?

[River · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm still not sure if this book is supposed to be taken seriously or if it's supposed to be judged and laughed at.
I've read other books from Alexis Hall so I know she is a good writer, I was utterly confused by this book which is basically the MM adaptation of 50 shades of grey.
This is the story of a quirky, happy, confused about his future, oxford student Arden and the disturbed, closed off but with a huge heart billionare Caspian.
First I need to clarify that the book is not a carbon copy of 50 shades obviously, a lot of things are changed but the core of the story is the same.
Arden enters an arranged relationship with Caspian and honestly believes that he can have a phisical only relationship without issue but of course get involved and Arden wants more but Caspian doesn't talk about himself and seems to have a troubled past and Arden wants to fix him.

I don't know what more to say.. The ending of the book even had an invitation for a masquerade party that's gonna happen in book 2. *massive eyeroll*

I swear there were parts that I thought "maybe in the end they are not going to end up together and it's going to be like the story should end, because it is not a healthy arrangedment." but of course that didn't happened. Arden is going to change Caspian with the power of his love and will to submit.

[Gillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed for Just Love

4.5 stars

I’m sure I wasn’t the only one who was intrigued when it was announced that Alexis Hall had decided to tackle the most overused, overdone, and arguably, the most popular trope in romance – the bildom.

I mean, this is the person that made us believe that a successful doctor on the verge of 40 would gladly relinquish control of his body and his heart to a 19 year old short-order cook with problem skin in the award-winning For Real. He also the same author who made us fall in love with a brilliant, sharp-tongued, depressed author and an earnest but uneducated, over-tanned, Essex boy – who turned out to be the wisest of the two – in Glitterland.

So yeah, I was very excited to see how he would spin a trope made uber popular by the much maligned FSOG and make it into something of his very own.

How To Bang A Billionaire (henceforth known as HTBAB), is everything the bildom trope should aspire to be; smart, funny and sexy with the added bonus of Alexis Hall’s trademark gorgeous prose. To paraphrase Meghan Trainor (because why not) it has “all the right words, in all the right places”.

Arden St. Ives is an absolute delight. I’m not sure I’ve fallen in love with a character quite so quickly before as I did with Arden. He’s not only delightfully funny and self-deprecating, he’s also smarter and more insightful then he gives himself credit for. Whether he’s struggling through making a cold call for a fundraising campaign, worried about his grades and his future plans after Oxford, or gamely negotiating a “short-term, prearranged” relationship with a billionaire, he’s always eminently relatable.

“Arden, I want to fuck you.”

He wanted to…Gosh. Well, I hadn’t been expecting that. Especially not when I felt – and probably looked – like I’d been shat out by a gastrically distressed camel.

Far from being the wallflower virgin who is plucked from obscurity (and from his aforementioned virginity) by an ultra-rich alphahole, Arden is well aware of what he is looking for when Caspian Hart enters his life. Unfortunately, what he wants and what Caspian is willing to offer are two different things. While Arden would be perfectly happy having a fling with the intriguing and handsome billionaire, Caspian initially dismisses the idea out of hand.

“…I’m quite a busy man, Arden, and I have neither the time or inclination to embark upon something both complicated and inevitably unsuccessful.”

And again with the half-empty glass. “How can you say that without even trying.”

He sighed, a finger stroking the crease between the eyes, as though it pained him slightly. “Because I know myself. I know what I’m capable of and I know what my life permits.”

While he’s not impervious to Arden’s charms and eventually does relent, Caspian insists on a restrictive verbal contract that stipulates a start and end date to their relationship, plus the requirement that Arden always be available on Caspian’s schedule. The payoff? It comes with a luxury condo and a credit card. But Arden desires something more than…stuff. Okay, he *likes* the stuff, but it’s the man he really wants. The ‘real’ man, not the aloof, watered down version Caspian is offering.

“I told you I wasn’t very good at caring for people.” A pause. “You keep saying you want me, Arden. Well, this is who I am.”

“No.” I came at him like a very small but determined tornado. “This is bullshit.”

Since HTBAB is told almost entirely from Arden’s perspective, any insight into Caspian Hart is filtered through Arden’s impressions. He’s precise, demanding and almost always implacable, except when he’s…not. These few exceptions are like a tease, both to the reader and to Arden, who is desperate to push their boundaries and pursue the D/s dynamic that he knows Caspian wants but refuses to allow.

For God’s sake, Caspian. Can’t you see I’m desperate for you to let go and dominate the fuck out of me? I like it rough. I like it filthy. And, most of all, I like it with you. When it is you. Not just the paper-thin façade of the man you think I want you to be.”

“It’s not that simple.”

“Isn’t it? It’s just sex. And I’m a fully consenting grown-up. No matter how rubbish I am at the grown-up part.”

“Those impulses in me aren’t…that is, they don’t come from a good place.”

Combined with the scorching prologue that starts this book, the above exchange is utterly enticing and leaves us with more questions than answers about who Caspian Hart really is and where and when “those impulses” were born.

If I haven’t mentioned it already, and if you couldn’t tell from the above quotes, a huge part of this book’s charm is it’s humour. Arden isn’t only the heart of this story, he’s also its funny bone. Whether it’s an extended internal dialogue or a throwaway line, he brings a beautiful levity to this story. Even Caspian is allowed to show a subtle wit and gentle teasing manner with Arden that makes him likeable and sympathetic despite knowing so little about him.

He took a neat little sip from his own glass. “Well, this is a Piper-Heidsieck Rate Vintage from 2002, reputably their best year since 1996.”

Oh dear Lord. I was so outclassed. “You know that just from tasting it?”

“It’s, ah, written on the bottle behind you.”

His tone was very careful, his expression unreadable, but his eyes were full of secret mischief.

Any similarity you see between HTBAB and Fifty Shades of Grey is strictly intentional (just look at the names of the characters). But don’t make the mistake of thinking this is some sort of parody. To me, this is the book that FSOG *should* have been if it hadn’t taken itself so seriously. Yes, Caspian is just as closed off and broody as Christian (albeit with a dry sense of humour), but Arden…oh, Arden is everything that Ana wasn’t and this book is all the better for it.

I will spend the next little while eagerly anticipating the next book. I want to know all of Caspian’s secrets and I definitely want more of the wonderful Arden. I would also like to see a little more of Caspian’s buttoned up assistant Justin Bellerose, who I didn’t mention in this review (I only have so much space here!) but who intrigued me greatly.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a witty, sexy billionaire romance that, above all, else is just plain fun.

I received an advanced copy of this novel in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[⚣Michaelle⚣ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.1 Stars

Not my favorite by Alexis Hall, but still enjoyable.

I was worried at first because I wasn't all that impressed with the narration (Joel Leslie is so hit-or-miss for me); he does amazing accents but I was blown away by the voice acting in both Glitterland & For Real...and JL's performance doesn't usually rise to that level for me. It still didn't in this instance BUT at some point I started to love his portrayal of Arden, if nothing else. He does that type of OTT dramatic character extremely well...and does it in a way that makes Arden's hysterics, immature behavior and drama believable & understandable. Seriously, that bit where he's freaking out the weeks (and that night) before his exams was so well done that I felt the anxiety bleed over into my own emotions, and had to pause the audio to calm down some!

Caspian is still a bit of an enigma and I'm not even sure I like him, nor am I sure I actually like him FOR Arden. As it stands I wasn't all that impressed with him. He's got that Christian Grey feel (not a compliment). But, character growth is one of my favorite parts of a story arc and I'm hoping we get more of that in the next book...? Which of course I will listen to because I love the way Alexis Hall writes. It feels current and approachable, but with a bit of flair that won't always appeal to everyone. Luckily, it does to me. And I'm intrigued enough by that ending, the way that Arden was coaxing Caspian out of his shell some by expanding their roles a little, that I'd like to hear more of that. Because Arden was right when he said something to the effect of domination & control not being about who does what but HOW it is done. LOVED THAT.

(As I wrote that bit about Caspian reminding me of Christian I realized that this story is more along the lines what 50SOG could have been had ELJ gotten the BDSM parts right, and not used them as some panacea for trauma/abuse/etc. Which made me add a bit to the rating; it started off 3.9 Stars.)

[Vallie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yowza baby! Billionaire romance with the quirky college kid?

Alexis Hall be like:



Yes, * cough *50 shades satire *cough*, this was EVERYTHING you want in a tortured-soul-billionaire-meets-fresh-faced-college-kid-with-kinky-inclinations romance.

First off, Arden. Dear me, that kid is in my bones now. I absolutely adored him. There’s something to be said about the bravery required in being yourself, especially when that might make you feel a little like an outsider. Arden has such a unique voice and that becomes obvious very quickly from his interactions with his college roommate and his reaction to Caspian. Arden has a sensitive soul that is fortified by an honesty that can render you speechless. It’s like he doesn’t know how to fake it. Whether it’s silly, vain insecurity about his clothes, or deeper worry about his life choices after college, he exudes this adorable “LIKE ME SAVE ME LOVE ME” quality as well as a bit of the “I could do with a spanking” *wink* quality. It’s been a while since I was in a character’s head that felt so real, so well-developed, and so damn entertaining. I just adore this kid.

And Caspian.

Well.

You want to talk about sexual frustration.

He is the embodiment of the hot, young, tortured billionaire. Move over Mr. Grey! Seriously, he is withdrawn, obviously a genius, very well spoken, and totally smitten with Arden. The expected developments occur –Arden is moved into one of Caspian’s flats with the understanding that they will have a sexual relationship. Mind you, the sex scenes are actually very few in this book but the UST was off the charts and the interactions between Caspian and Arden were so intense (THAT PHONE SEX SCENE!) that even though my greedy self would like more, it was more than enough to establish intimacy without being gratuitous.

There is no silliness in this book. The characters have depth and while there tends to be some melodrama here and there, it’s very carefully tethered before it crosses the line. Also, what surprised me is that a D/s dynamic is very heavily implied but barely acted upon in this book, all under a veil of Caspian’s darkness that he wants to control. Very cloak and dagger and damn you Alexis Hall for making me wait till fall to see what happens next!

And this is how Mr Hall wrote a billionaire romance par excellence. The thematic similarities with 50 shades are too big to be coincidental. This was no accident in my opinion. This was a brilliant twist on a tired, overused trope, written with wit and full of current references. And the writing –if you’ve read any of this author’s previous works you have seen how he can manipulate language like clay and make it profound. There was no difference here.

However. As much as I loved all of the above, and as much as I can appreciate how a cliché trope can turn brilliant at the right hands, the comparisons kept taking me out of the story. I was made too aware of the structure of the plot, often catching myself wondering if something with turn out in a way vaguely or closely reminiscent of 50SOG, and that took from my enjoyment significantly.

This is for readers who enjoy billionaire romance with a sprinkle of pretty woman vibes –with numerous references in text for this. If you like your MM characters insanely hot, vulnerable but with a hint of danger, dirty talk, and kink that slips right out of your fingers, just barely whetting your appetite, pick this up.

Recommend!

[MaDoReader]

No estoy de humor, definitivamente

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Updated for audiobook review
Read Jay’s audio review in its entirety here.

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.75 stars

How to Bang a Billionaire is the first book in Alexis Hall’s new Arden St. Ives series and I absolutely loved it. This one pretty much had me from “billionaire dom” to be honest. Interestingly, the dom/sub side of things doesn’t play prominently here in this first story. In fact, Caspian quite clearly is trying to keep that side of him at bay. Yet I was captivated nonetheless with this one from the very start.

First off, I have to say this story rests strongly on Arden’s incredibly engaging shoulders. The story is told strictly from his POV, which is a really clever choice. So much about Caspian is a mystery to Arden and the man holds so much of himself back, that it makes sense that we never truly know what is happening in Caspian’s head. Plus, Arden is so adorably, unintentionally charming I couldn’t help but love him. Arden pretty much admits he has wasted his time at Oxford having fun and has no idea what to do with himself now. And he has such a great voice, I found him so incredibly entertaining.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.