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Con Man

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Lucas Taggart is the best con man in the business, so to speak. A former-geek-turned-hottie, Luke is now an image consultant and life coach to the rich and privileged in New York City. His eight-week program is designed to transform ugly ducklings into swans by instilling some much-needed confidence, and hey, a makeover never hurts. But when Ainsley Carrington signs up as a client, Luke's world is thrown into a tailspin. Ainsley doesn't need an image consultant; her image is already perfect just the way it is. Luke immediately finds himself grappling with his attraction to the introverted beauty as all his old insecurities come bubbling back to the surface. Thankfully, his new friend Mia is around to help him out. Soon enough, the teacher becomes the student as lines get blurred and professionalism gets thrown out the window. The thing is, Luke doesn't date his clients. Ever. But fighting his desire is proving more difficult than he ever imagined. Especially since the cocky and arrogant "confidence man" has just completely lost his cool. ***CON MAN is a romantic comedy novel intended for ages 18+ due to some offensive language and graphic sex/sexual situations.*** READ WHEN YOU'RE IN THE MOOD cocky, fun, dramatic, insightful, relatable.

298 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 19, 2017

57 people are currently reading
396 people want to read

About the author

T. Torrest

23 books1,673 followers
T. Torrest is a romance and chick-lit author from the U.S.; her alter ego writes eroticomedy under the name T. Torrid. Her stories are geared toward readers of any age that know how to enjoy a good laugh and a dreamy romance.

Ms. Torrest was a child of the eighties, but has since traded in her Rubik's cube for a laptop and her Catholic school uniform for a comfy pair of yoga pants. She's a pop-culture junkie, a movie aficionado, and an enthusiast of talking about herself in the third person. A lifelong Jersey girl, she currently resides there with her husband and two sons.

She also really digs it when she hears from readers, and is known to use words like "dig" in a non-sarcastic way. You can find out more about her books at her website: www.ttorrest.com


She also LOVES to get friend requests on goodreads and facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/TTorres... and personal messages from readers via email ttorrest@optonline.net.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
Profile Image for Patty ~ Wrapped Up In Reading Book Blog.
1,260 reviews10.2k followers
March 26, 2017
*****FOUR STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided By Author}


I liked to think of myself as a con man, if only as a play on words. I taught confidence, get it? But the title fit me better than I ever realized. I was a fucking fraud of the highest order. I was a fake and a phony and an empty shell of a man.


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CON MAN is a modern version of the Pygmalion story with a twist. T Torrest’s latest creation is filled with laughs, steam, and many unexpected turns. Just when you think you know what the story is all about, the author takes you down a completely different path. It’s like getting two stories for the price of one. Although it started off a bit slow in the beginning, once I saw the potential for the romance that I was rooting for, I found myself getting lost in the pages of this book. As an added bonus, we get to revisit with Trip and Layla from ”Remember When”, and it was actually during a pivotal moment.



Luke Taggart is an image consultant. His clients are insecure people who are in need of a confidence boost and a makeover. Most of his clientele are women but he does help a few men as well. Luke finds himself crushing on his latest client, Ainsley Carrington. This is something that has never happened to him before and one of his cardinal rules is to never get involved with his client. A few days later he ends up meeting another woman, who is in need of his services as she is about to go for a huge promotion at work and lacks the confidence she needs to get the job. Mia Cruz is a fiery Latina who keeps Luke on his toes and together they strike up a special friendship.



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I found Luke to be seriously dense and I was a bit annoyed with him for having such a major crush on a woman who he obviously only liked for her physical beauty. There was absolutely no chemistry between them. I knew right away who the perfect woman was for him and it was beyond irritating that he was so utterly clueless.



There were a couple of things about Luke that I thought were kind of odd and I wondered what the purpose was but it all ended up making sense during the last 40% of the story. T Torrest definitely likes to keep her readers on their toes. You can never assume you know what direction her stories are going to take and that’s what makes this author simply brilliant!!



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I’m purposely being vague because I don’t want to give away any spoilers!



CON MAN is currently available and for 99 cents!! That’s a definite bargain! Be sure to one-click!



US: http://amzn.to/2naYYoH
UK: http://amzn.to/2n0FsdP
CA: http://amzn.to/2n0xYHY
AU: http://amzn.to/2nt8v7Q




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Profile Image for The Sassy Bookworm.
4,059 reviews2,869 followers
March 14, 2017
description

descriptionQuite frankly this cover is the best part of this book. It's sexy. It has wonderful composition. The typography is interesting and unique. A fabulous cover all around.description

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This book pissed me off SO bad. First of all shame on whoever wrote that blurb because it has to be one of THE most misleading blurbs I have ever read. Because of that I spent the majority of this book confused and unable to enjoy the story at all. I went into this expecting one thing and I ended up with something completely different.

For those that want to know ...

Unfortunately, because of that the whole entire point of the book became moot and I was unable to connect with ANY of the characters. Not to mention the plot was ALL over the place. I mean WTH was up with the memory loss storyline? It added NOTHING to an already confusing plot.

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Profile Image for Rejane.
1,366 reviews62 followers
not-interested
March 14, 2017
Read Eve Recinella review
She said the heroine is not the one in the blurb, Ainsley. But another woman called Mia who isn't even mentioned. Misleading much?? And the plot is all over the place. Not for me.

A piece of her comment
I hope she doesn't mind. I can't post comments on her posts because is set to private.
So I'm going to quote her:

"Eve Recinella (Between The Bookends)
Ugh, I am just SO pissed off. The blurb is SO totally misleading. I get not wanting to give the plot away, but if "I" as a reader expect something to be as the blurb states, and I am given something entirely different I am not going to allow myself to connect to characters that seemingly are not going to be the primary focus of the story...KWIM?"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Kristine GPI Bookblog.
379 reviews25 followers
March 27, 2017



A few years ago I stumbled on Ms Torrest's Remember When series, my fate as a bonafide TTorrest fan was cemented in those first moments of discovering Chester and LayLay, since then I have devoured each of her new releases, savouring in a style that is intrinsically hers, discovering new characters to love and enjoying the little Easter eggs she leaves for her readers.



In T's latest release we meet Lucas (Luke) Taggart, the ultimate CON MAN, after graduating from gangly and awkward teen to universally hot ladies man, Luke has created a lucrative business, Swan Inc. doing the same for many of the young, wealthy elite, unconcerned with their reasons for change he beautifies his clients, one by one.



When Luke haphazardly runs into Mia, an unexpected relationship is born, part business and part friendship, the two navigate the city, learning each others quirks. Mia with her brash and gregarious personality, and Luke with his well schooled attitude, the two set about slowly ingraining themselves in the others lives.



When Luke meets his newest client Ainsley, he is unprepared for the instant reaction she inspires, for the first time in over a decade Luke is left speechless, as lust and admiration converge, he finds himself falling for his new client, the one thing he veiled to never do.



In typical Torrest fashion behind the witty dialogue and explosive chemistry is a sweeter and more poignant message. We're often told as children to not judge a book by a cover, Luke often blurs this old adage with advice and tasks that encourage his participants to present the best possible package to the world in order to achieve their desires. I'll be honest, I had moments of being absolutely disgusted with the hero, his focus on losing weight and having the perfect body in order to conform to society's standards of beauty waged a war on my heart, there were times when I struggled to find anything about him agreeable, and yet there was still that niggling feeling that he deserved another chance, that despite those douche'y moments early on where I wanted to climb into the pages and sock him in the mouth, I knew I was best to reserve judgement.



In a light and fun story about beauty being in the eye of the beholder, of second chances at life and love, at recognising your worth, and empowering yourself to be the absolute best you you can be, Torrest reminded why I adore her words and her stories, with the throw backs to monuments and beloved characters and the introduction of new soon to be favourites, Con Man was an absolute joy to read, incredibly entertaining from start to finish.
Profile Image for ✦ Ellen’s Reviews ✦.
1,763 reviews360 followers
March 25, 2017
3.5 Stars!!

Con Man is a perfectly romantic, slightly raunchy, very sweet comedy from one of my favorite authors. First, let's discuss what I loved. The cover is fantastic. The premise of the story is very clever, reminiscent of the movie 'Hitch' with Will Smith. Luke is an image consultant and works with his clients to make them more confident. T. Torrest writes a fantastic male POV and the book is very funny.

I loved Mia and could see that Luke should get her out of the "friend zone" almost from the very beginning - passionate, smart, funny, she is just a gorgeous woman. And she's curvy! Loved that. Their banter is very witty.

This is a fast read but I can't say that the characters will stay with me. I did love the tie-in to the 'Remember When' series (but you do NOT need to read that series first, this book is a complete standalone). There is a major twist to this book that I did not see coming but seemed a little confusing.

Overall, pick this one up if you're in the mood for a clever and sexy book written from a male POV. It's nothing too heavy and is an enjoyable read.

(ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)

Profile Image for Anne OK.
4,105 reviews553 followers
March 25, 2017
This book is the TOTAL CON! I wasn't expecting what I just read. And I wasn't happy about what I read either. The blurb is very misleading and in my opinion, this story isn't very believable either. At times, I was even a bit bored and uninterested. The story was a little OTT and a lot of roving ridiculousness for this reader. I'll admit that the cover and the blurb caught me in the one-click web -- and thankfully, it was only a 99-cent mistake for me.

I may end up being in the minority on this one -- but that's okay. I'll live to read another day!
Profile Image for Stacy.
191 reviews71 followers
Read
March 31, 2017
DNF @50 %
I really tried to like this, but I just couldn't get there. I had no connection at all.
Profile Image for Mari.
2,129 reviews5 followers
March 25, 2017
So I'm not really sure how I felt about this one after, I feel conflicted. First based on the title alone I thought this is like a con Ocean's Eleven kind of book. Turns out con is confidence when I read that blurb. Second I had to reread that synopsis, cause I was scratching my head if I missed something. Talk about misleading and too bad too since I was so excited to read this cause that cover was delish. So just a warning if you're expecting a story exactly like stated well you're in for a surprise. That can be good or bad depending on the reader.

On to the likable parts. I liked the premise nerd and not so good looking turned that around into successful hot dude who now helps other do the same see beyond the superficial and build confidence. Lucas seemed like charismatic and intriguing guy with all his backstory. His two main clients here are Ainsley from the blurb and Mia. It's noticeable how he interacts with either. While I'm not happy with how he favors one over the other it will make more sense later on. I feel it's rather obvious how it's leaning.

Here's where it went iffy for me. Spoiler alert. I personally find the redirection from the brief distracting, perhaps intentionally done so. It lead to me feeling disconnected or just weird after seeing how it progressed. After a while of the other stuff it felt got long winded and I admit I got bored . I preferred some parts over the others for sure.

Since this is described as romantic comedy I would say this is how I felt after watching My Best Friend's Wedding. In the sense of whoever you root for Julia or Cameron and that whole frustration. Still not everyone will be completely happy with whoever does end up with guy. But it happened as it should be. Then there the good elements with Dermot and everyone else. Like this book, good moments and not so good.

I had no problem with the writing style it was easy and likable enough. I've read T. Torrest previous books and enjoyed them. After ruminating on it, I can understand why the author chose to do it this way. Maybe a way to highlight differences in both relationships with the hero. I can understand what the author tried to do. That switcheroo shouldn't be an issue for many, I just didn't appreciate it, that blurb should be written/presented in another way though to be honest. The title issue made sense in the end. Con Man is a case of expecting to getting a pretty looking present but when you open it is inside isn't what you hoped it would be. All in all an a good concept behind it I would've probably liked it better if O didn't expect too. I do think there are others would still like this book.


** ARC provided for an honest review **
Profile Image for A little birdie told me....
627 reviews31 followers
April 21, 2017
This was a strange little read.

Told entirely from Luke's POV, it's his story of self discovery. A 28 year-old male virgin (a point which I find very hard to believe) is a self-help, confidence-building guru who charges the affluent to assist them in finding their groove, which is another fact I find hard to buy since he hasn't truly found his own groove.

In fact, the whole book is rather hard to swallow. This guy who is supposed to read people well enough to help them makeover their lives is quite the idiot when it comes to the couple of chicks the book shows him helping. How is he successful again? The assignments he has them perform are cute, but what's the point? It's lost on me.

This retrograde amnesia thing was just another weird thing. There were so many quirky side trips, the other got lost following all of them.

I don't remember the Remember When trilogy well enough to compare the writing, but this book was not my bag, baby. It wasn't a bad read, but it definitely wasn't my favorite.

I did love the movie references, though.
Profile Image for Barbara.
2,644 reviews61 followers
March 23, 2017
Fantastic RomCom! Luke is the perfect example of the frog that turns into a prince. A shy gangly kid, with no memory of his childhood, remakes himself into a hot successful business owner. If fact he now owns/runs Swan Inc. Luke is a image consultant who helps people come out of their shells and live up to their full potential (or changes the ugly ducklings into swans so to speak). Luke is suave, confident and always in control. Well up until he meets his latest client, Ainsley. Ainsley completely knocks Luke for a loop and totally out of his comfort zone. So much so he breaks down and tells his new client/friend, Mia, all about Ainsley and how much he waits hers. Mia is a sassy, curvy outspoken gal that thinks Ainsley is all wrong for Luke yet she still tries to help him win her.

This story has some hilarious moments as the ladies go through some of Luke’s crazy confidence assignments. The author has done an excellent job of writing a story that is funny, entertaining and has a very strong message to boot! Sorry I don’t do spoilers, so I’ll simply urge you to buy the book and you’ll know what I mean! This is an a very well written RomCom with a wonderful storyline - you won’t be sorry you’ve picked it up. I highly recommend Con Man.
Profile Image for Eleanor.
1,184 reviews29 followers
March 23, 2017
3.5 Swan Inc Stars

So I'm not even sure how to start this review. I'm very conflicted.. From reading the blurb I thought this was going to be a completely different book. From the get go I couldn't stand Lucas. He seemed like a pompous ass. He was very unlikable for me. I also realised while reading Con Man that I prefer kick ass leading ladies and Ainsley just wasn't this for me.

I enjoy the writing style and it flowed really well. This was also my first read from T. Torrest and although this story wasn't for me i would give more of her work ago. Just because this wasn't for me I feel it will be for a lot of other people. Different strokes for different folks and all that.

http://realtastypages.com
Profile Image for Theresa Alberts.
838 reviews6 followers
March 17, 2017
Con Man is the story of Luke and his thriving business Swan, Inc. Luke takes those who want an image make-over and helps them with everything from gym time, diet, confidence, clothes and hair. His success rate is high and he has never dated or wanted to date a client...until now. Ainsley comes to him because she needs to gain confidence because she wants to start husband hunting, one man in particular, her longtime crush. Luke falls for Ainsley's beauty immediately and bides him time until their contract is up so that he can make his move.

Mia is a confident and sassy executive who is up for the promotion of a lifetime. But she lacks confidence in public speaking and team building. A chance meeting with Luke one morning leads to her retaining his services in a accelerated confidence boosting program. What happens is a friendship that has Luke leaning on Mia as more than a client. When feelings come into play, all bets are off for both of them. But do they feel the same about each other? Or is the infatuation one sided?

I really wanted to love this story because the synopsis intrigued me. However, the plot fell a little short for me. I felt that the story dragged a lot at times and I found myself skimming to just get through it.

2 stars
Profile Image for Bethany.
878 reviews12 followers
March 24, 2017
Luke has been the master of makeovers for years by transforming self proclaimed ugly ducklings into swans. Little does he know that the biggest makeover he will ever perform, will be on himself.

At first you will think Luke is just the run of the mill guy with his society standard of what people should look and act like and trying his best to fit them into that mold.
It will take two very different women to prove to Luke that the only "con" this man has made is the one on himself for keeping his heart so guarded.

Ainsley and Mia are the perfect odd couple to bring everything to a head and show Luke that his past will not define his future especially when he has a great woman by his side.
I loved the random pop culture references dabbled throughout the story, but the true star was the underlying message of not judging a book my its cover.
Profile Image for Lisa.
677 reviews20 followers
July 5, 2017
T. Torrest does it again. I absolutely loved this book. The laughs, the banter, the movie quotes, and most importantly, LUKE TAGGART. I honestly didn't see what was coming and I enjoyed the heck out of it when T. Torrest made my head spin like a record, baby right round round round. Seriously, head was like, Wheeeeeee!... If you enjoy a fun loving romcom, this here is the one for you.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
March 13, 2017
Sometimes a man just needs his woman, “Luke, it’s the middle of the—” Her words were cut off as I wrapped my arms around her waist and collapsed into her. I didn’t even realize I was shaking until I felt her hands resting against my shoulders. The anger left her voice as she asked, “What’s going on? Are you okay?” I really liked this book I liked the chemistry Mia and Luke had.
Profile Image for Faith Andrews.
Author 22 books1,088 followers
March 15, 2017
Get ready to laugh out loud and swoon over this refreshingly full of heart Con Man!

Full Review to come!
Profile Image for Dawn Nicole Costiera.
686 reviews23 followers
July 29, 2017
4.25 stars!!

I am so impressed with Con Man by T Torrest. It's my first book by this lady. What the hell took me soooo long to read her?? Better late then never! I love her writing style. Con Man is extremely well written. It's totally relatable and realistic. I found it to be a fun, easy read with a multitude of layers. It was completely unexpected!

Lucas Taggart is a former GEEK turned hotty. His mission in life is to do the same for his clients. He's essentially a life coach. Teaching one odd duckling at a time, how to become a beautiful refined swan. Luke comes off as mister cocky, but deep down he's really not. His inner geek isn't quite gone. He's very good at his job and has been especially successful. This beautiful complex man has his own past to deal with. I loved Luke!! He's definitely hot, but it's his huge heart that got me! He's compassionate and cares deeply for all his clients....

In Con Man, we get 4 Intertwined stories. Not only Luke's, but his 3 clients, Jared, Ainsley and Mia... All of which have completely different personalities. They all brought so much to this story. Being around so many women you would think Luke gets around, but he has a rule never to date his clients. Too bad because it seems Luke has a thing for one of them (And no it's not Jared lol). While his other client might have a thing for him... Lines become blurred all around. Does he go with his heart or his head? Sometimes we just don't see what's right in front of us.....

This friends to lovers story had it's share of twists that I didn't see coming. I love the way the story and characters evolved. It's a slow entertaining build up filled with humor and eventually love! You will not be able to put it down.
Profile Image for Sarah MacDougall.
146 reviews
March 24, 2017
*This ARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review*

What a fantastic book this is. A refreshing read romantic read that was perfect for the rainy days we’ve been having. I am new to this author but was intrigued with everything from the cover and title to the synopsis. This book is very well written. I love that it’s written in the leading male’s perspective. It’s not often that romance books are strictly written in the male’s POV. I also love how the author wrote it like Luke himself was telling us a story even so much as saying things like “look here” and “I wouldn’t lie to you”. It makes me feel more connected to the story, like he’s telling me the story and not the author.

Lucas Taggart is the founder and CEO of Swan Inc., where he runs a makeover service. He provides makeovers like new hair styles and clothes, as well as boosting his client’s confidence with lessons and therapy. In order to be confident and have self-esteem, they must be able to overcome their fears, whether that be speaking in front of crowds or putting themselves out there to meet a significant other. It’s hard to push yourself if you’re not feeling it and that is what Luke’s job is to do.

Here, he meets Ainsley Carrington. An already beautiful woman who seems to hold herself together, but was sheltered as a child and is shy and insecure. Luke is taken back by her beauty and can’t help but stare at her when he’s around her. The confident man is feeling like he can barely get two straight words together when he’s around her. Luke’s main rule is that he doesn’t cross any lines while working with his clients. So him trying to start any sort of relationship with Ainsley is out of question until at least the eight weeks is up.

In all this time he works with Ainsley, Luke has made a new friend, Mia Cruz. Mia is also a new client that Luke so happened to meet by ruining her shoes. When they got to talking about what they do, it was brought up that Mia is about to be promoted in her job but is not confident enough to do speeches in front of office meetings and direct people on what to do. Luke, doing what he does, offered her his services to help her with that. Luke and Mia turn out to be great friends and it’s nice to see how their friendship blossoms.

An unexpected twist just passed the half-way mark makes the book that much more interesting. I’m already invested in Luke trying to get Aisnley’s attention and his friendship with Mia, that I didn’t think the book could handle anything else. But, the author executed this twist perfectly and I was interested to see how it would play out.

T. Torrest is a new to me author with this book, but I’m definitely going to look into her others. She has quite the list, so far, and more books on the way. This book is considered a New Adult/Adult novel. There is language, and sexual content throughout and not suitable for young readers.
Profile Image for We like it big book blog.
969 reviews44 followers
March 25, 2017
Melanie's 4.5 Star Read

Stepping into the pages of Con Man was a reminder of how much I’ve missed T. Torrest’s stories. This book held so much more than I had anticipated. It went deeper than what was on its surface taking me completely by surprise. And it was a damned good surprise to say the least. What I love so much about this author’s writing is her ability to draw you in. The details that she’s able to jot down to make her readers vividly see and feel exactly what her characters are seeing and feeling gives me such a high. Con Man is a page turner with quite a few moving parts; all enough to make you gasp from shocking revelations. All of these twists and turns were managed exceptionally well, squashing any whiplash that I personally find aggravating.

The premise reminded me of a film called Hitch which I loved. Luke Taggart is the founder and CEO of Swan Inc. A lifestyle coach set to changing and improving people’s lives. People who seek help in building their confidence, bettering their physical attributes, etc. in order to find happiness and contentment in their lives. However, as the pages began to turn the story turned into something SO MUCH better. Luke soon learns that everything he’d put so much emphasis on and things he’d thought most important aren’t remotely close to what’s actually staring him square in the face. The curve balls thrown at him changes the most important areas of his life and though he falters, the strides he takes to make things right was what made me fall in love with his character. However it was a feisty force that comes barreling into Luke’s life that completely stole the show for me. Mia Cruz was refreshing. I had a major girl crush on her. I loved her honesty and her confidence but more so, I loved her selflessness. She’s exactly who I’d love to grow up to be.

Con Man definitely conned me. I went into this thinking it was going one way but instead it took me on a path that was even more wonderful than I’d planned for. With its witty dialogue and insightful story line, T. Torrest has once again proved just why she’s an author to read. This romantic comedy will make you second guess all of society’s and our personal superficial expectations. Everything about this book just felt right and I’d recommend this to a friend in a heartbeat.

Ps. For T. Torrest fans, you’ll also get a special treat that will have you Tripping all over yourselves.
348 reviews12 followers
March 23, 2017
Ok, so I wavered a bit on my rating for this one. I am still teetering between 3 & 4 stars so I guess I'll see what I can convince myself to rate it by the end of my rambling review.

I liked the book. I liked the characters. But I spent about 2/3 of the book looking for the meaning of the title. Stupid right? BUTTTTTTTTTTT I am one of those people I guess. And I wish I could tell you but I can't but when I finally figured it out I was like....hmmm yeeeaah.

Lucas Taggart is a hottie. A slightly entitled hottie and at times even a little egotistical, but overall a pretty well written character. There were a couple of times I stopped like, "Uh what? SERIOUSLY??" But honestly I can be a little critical so I let those slide. (One of my comments on a highlight was "dumb, dumb man..." so like I said well written...and probably accurate because I find myself saying that a lot about REAL people!) As for the other three main characters, and I say main because I think labeling them as supporting characters would give them the shaft in this cute little book, the personalities were easy to see and picture them as real people in the real world.

Jared, Ainsley and Mia all have completely different personalities but work well in conjunction with Lucas. They are all of Luke's clients and really make this book what it is. Luke has a rule that he won't date his clients but he is really struggling with abiding by that with Ainsley. When he meets Mia the story just gets more interesting....of which I can't elaborate because NO SPOILERS!

The twists and turns in the story just drag you deeper down the rabbit hole. The way the story and characters evolve will have you diving in and staying there until you hit the last page. and apparently I like it more than I thought so I'll give it a solid 4 stars. I will note though that the title caught my attention and the blurb hooked me but in the end I don't feel as though I was slightly misled. You could argue Um, hey did you read the title? But it just rubs me a little bit the wrong way.
Profile Image for A Book Lover's Emporium Book Blog.
2,816 reviews171 followers
March 23, 2017
There is nothing sinister about the Con Man in question in this light-hearted romcom. The "con" actually stands for confidence, and the hero of our story believes he has a thing or two to teach about it. Like any good romcom, the timeline is divided among several interwoven characters layered with the stitching of the main character's past, present and future. The author hails from the same part of the U.S. as me, and seems to have spent her formative years in the same decade, as well as in Catholic school. 'Nuff said. Her geographical and pop-cultural references were like bumping into old friends for me, but also added a descriptive element that set the story apart from your everyday, feel-good story.

Going in, I was prepared for a light read, but began to worry that the pace was a bit too stagnant for the better part of the first half. Luke was sweet and funny, but by no means sent your pulse racing. In fact, the dude was starting to sound like a chic at some points. He had a lot more game within his inner monologue. We were also introduced to his history with memory loss from a childhood accident, then forced to put it on the back burner. As a reformed ugly duckling Luke makes a living as an image consultant. He teaches his clients confidence, giving them makeovers of both their inner and outer selves. Little does he know, his clients take him on the same journey toward self-discovery. All this is done with lots humor peppered throughout.

Our con man begins to wake up and senses that his own perspective could benefit from a slight overhaul. He also becomes enlightened to some of the back-burner issues I mentioned. This is when the story became a page-turner for me, and then: "I laughed. I cried." I really did. I was endeared by the story as it unfolded, and Luke really won me over. The ending had all the feels of a heart-warming romcom. I was a bit underwhelmed by the pace at the beginning, but as it turned out, my gradual appreciation grew and so appropriately paralleled the journey of the main character. Of Con Man, I must declare, in the words of Buttercup, "I have loved you for several hours now, and every second, more."
Profile Image for Gata Leitora / Cat reader.
593 reviews9 followers
March 23, 2017
When I got this book I never imagined that I would meet a true "Ratatoulle" moment, remembering with joy and fun films that rocked my adolescence back in the 80s and 90s .... Mainly Secret Admirer ,1985.
Do not call me old, huh ?! But for me it was the best crop of teen movies, full of sugary and romantic moments. Unfortunately today it is difficult to find many of them, I have already looked for many to see again with my daughters and nothing .....

Anyway .... I loved this!

Luke is the irresistible hot-geek guy, an image he created for himself after suffering so much in his teens and youth as an ugly duckling. Realizing the potential of their change resolves setting up a company to improve the image of people with low self-esteem.
His self-confidence collapses when he becomes attract by his new client Ainsley, a beautiful and gourgeous girl, extremely shy and who wants to change her image to find a "man to marry".

Even though he is not on the same page as Ainsley, he begins to act like a teenager full of hormones and in every appointment that he has with the girl, he melts and sees several signs that she is interested also in him, believing that he is more and more in love.

As he does not date his clients, he looks forward to the end of classes to declare his love.
While this don't happen he went out with Mia, a latin girl, full of curves and smart that not to be melted by Luke's charm and along with Jared, one of his clients , they gave me some more hilarious moments .

The book surprised me as I had already said and from the middle to the end, the story transforms itself in such a way that it left me on the ground. The writer built the plot very well, and with simple and amusing language made me very excited to make Luke open his eyes and realize how he had everything he wanted right there in front of him.

4/5 stars
Kisses, Myl



Profile Image for Louise H's Book Thoughts.
2,038 reviews317 followers
March 24, 2017
I give this 4.5 stars

First of all I have to say that I am stumped as to what genre of book I would place this in. Romantic comedy .... well yes it is a bit, in that Bridget Jones way that is more than just the romance, but the romance seems to be a small part of the entire story.

The story is humorous and witty, the book is very well written, the characters are likeable, believable and fully rounded and the plot has been extremely well thought through. The book is written entirely from Luke's (Lucas') POV, which may seem strange but it does work and is necessary for the plot. There is a lot more to Luke's story than being an image consultant who falls for a client and THIS is what fills a good part of the book and makes it special. In fact this is more a story of Luke discovering who he is and what he wants, in more ways than one.

The pace is good, the story is engaging and it did tug at my emotions - both making me laugh and cry. The part where Luke actually gets the girl is almost an aside, but that was because there was more depth to this story and more to explore. It was also nicely different in that the post 'get together' angst was not based on the hero and heroines relationship but on another aspect of Luke's life entirely.

I didn't engage massively with Ainsley but I will say that if you feel the same it is worth sticking with the book because it is a really good read. I can't add any more details without adding spoilers but I DO recommend that you read this book.
Profile Image for Jae Mod.
1,719 reviews220 followers
March 22, 2017
***ARC Provided by the Author for an Honest Review***

WoW! That so did not turn out as I expected it to. T Torresst’s Con Man is not what you expect, and I would advise you to go into it with an open mind.

Luke is a self-made man, one who uses his skills to improve the self-confidence of the more privileged residents of New York. Ainsley is a client who is attending Luke’s course to enlist his help to attract the attention of the one person she plans to marry. There is an attraction on Luke’s side that is undeniable, but he has a rule of never dating his clients……… well he did.

The reason I advise going in with an open mind is because there is a twist to this story you don’t expect. I found this to be an intriguing read, but it was lacking something that I just couldn’t put my finger on. Did it distract me from the story line? Well no, but I thought it could have been expanded more to draw the reader in.

There is a something between Luke and another client Mia that adds a certain mystery to this story. Mia is the one Luke goes to for advice but it creates a crossroads in the story that forces you to keep reading to see what direction Luke will take.
Profile Image for Michelle Mankin.
Author 65 books1,280 followers
March 30, 2017
I loved this story!!! Absolutely and completely loved. TTorrest engaging style that will make you smile. This is a modern day adaption of My Fair Lady written from Professor Higgins point of view. Plus, we have the contrast of not just one but two women getting their makeovers.
I felt like I was walking the streets of New York with the characters, and it was brilliant to see how Lucas-- our Professor Higgins-- learns more from his students as the story moves along. There is also an underlying theme straight out of the movie about confidence being more about WHO we are than how we LOOK that I adored.
Mrs. Higgins: How ever did you learn good manners with my son around?
Eliza Doolittle: It was very difficult. I should never have known how ladies and gentlemen really behaved, if it hadn't been for Colonel Pickering. He always showed what he thought and felt about me as if I were something better than a common flower girl. You see, Mrs. Higgins, apart from the things one can pick up, the difference between a lady and a flower girl is not how she behaves, but how she is treated.
Profile Image for Tracy.
684 reviews20 followers
March 20, 2017
A twisty novel, Con Man was such an interesting read. It tells the tale of Luke, a geek turned hottie, and his life makeover clients.

A chance meeting brings him Mia, another meeting brings him Ainsley. From there we get an unexpected friends to lovers romance. The characters are realistic, the setting is fun. I was having a bit of trouble with the slower moving plot, and the confusing blurb. Other than that, the chemistry was off the charts and watching the characters personal growth was very entertaining.

3.5 stars and recommended to the reader who loves a twisty plot!

*Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads*

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Profile Image for Lisa  Hershaw.
334 reviews14 followers
March 26, 2017
3.5

I wanted to like this book I really did, but it just didn't work for my taste. It did remind me of the film Hitch. It wasn't that it was bad, far from it, it's probably that I wasn't really in the mood for a comedy at this particular time.

Imagine consultant Luke is hired to help people feel better about themselves and be more confident in achieving their goals.

So when Ainsley turns up looking for Luke's help, he becomes infatuated by the idea of her as he helps her on her mission. She's his ideal woman or what he thinks he wants and there is also the fact he doesn't date clients.

However, what he doesn't notice is his friend Mia, but when she calls him in out on his lustful crush will he be willing to notice the person right in front of him?
Profile Image for Naomi Connor.
359 reviews4 followers
March 24, 2017
***ARC provided in exchange for an honest review - Naomi / Scandalous Book Blog***

Im not really sure where to start with my review. I enjoyed this book, its not exactly what I expected, however I get it, I get the title too. The con is the way people perceive one another.
A perfect Romcom that kept me entertained for a couple of hours.

Lucas was a man that grew on me. He wasn't always this confidant good looking guy, growing up he had his own issues. Now the man who says he can help you change your life...this I got to see!

The secondary characters were fun and easy to connect with. All with different personalities they bought so much to this story.

There are some twists in this book that you wont see coming just make this story all the more interesting.
Profile Image for Witchy Richey's Booktastic Reviews.
1,100 reviews66 followers
March 22, 2017
Amazing! Were you a little geeky in high school or are you somewhat insecure in your life and could use a little push, are you ready to become the 'swan'? If you have the money than Luke is your man. He takes the 'ho hum' and turns them into 'WOW'.

This is a great read with quirky characters, lots of feels and fun. It's a little twisty with some great movie references and the 'aha' moment that you will see coming, is so very satisfying.

You will learn and grow right along with Luke. You will love Mia and her sassy wit and language. Luke will worm his way into your heart and you will just smile.

This one will leave with a goofy grin and a warmth coursing through your body. Plus have your copy of The Princess Bride and Some Kind of Wonderful handy because there will be watching involved. Heck have them playing in the background while you read, it could enhance an already great experience! A light hearted, great read that you can really sink your teeth into.
Profile Image for Sasha Says.
808 reviews4 followers
March 24, 2017
T. Torrest is a one-click author for me, and after reading the blurb, I was so excited to read Con Man! Tina is the queen of pop culture mentions and her Easter Eggs are the bomb and such a treat for her loyal fans. And Con Man was everything I wanted it to be! Luke was such a fabulous hero- he's sexy, hilarious, and outwardly so confident- but there is so much beneath the surface. I enjoyed Ainsey (or Paisley as Mia so hilariously calls her) and Mia was such a treat! The romance in Con Man can definitely be considered a slow burn, and when it all comes together, it's perfect. A must-read for romantic comedy fans!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this title.*
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