Serenity

Inevitable #5

by Janet Nissenson

Matthew Bennett has suffered the worst sort of betrayal a man can ever know, and he’s trying to put his life back together after years of unhappiness and emotional neglect. He desperately needs the care and devotion of a good woman, someone who will not only erase the hurt he’s experienced, but help him cope with the tremendous stress and responsibility he endures daily as the CEO of a multibillion dollar corporation.
Through the yoga classes that she teaches, and her successful massage practice, Sasha Fonseca spends her days helping others improve their health and wellbeing, and also learning to combat stress. She leads a simple but serene life, content with the little she has, but shies away from any sort of long term commitments or serious relationships. Her unconventional upbringing has also made her fiercely independent, and she won’t let anyone try to mold her into something she’s not ever again.
Sasha is enlisted to help Matthew in a professional capacity, but it isn’t long before she finds herself drawn to him on an emotional and physical level as well. With a woman like Sasha in his life, Matthew finally believes he’s found the happiness that’s eluded him all these years. But will his scheming, soon-to-be ex find a way to destroy him once again, or will he get the happy ending that he deserves?

Genres: Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Family Drama

494 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 25, 2017

About the author

Janet is a lifelong resident of the San Francisco Bay Area, and currently resides on the northern California coast with her husband Steve and Golden Retriever Max. She worked for more than two decades in the financial services industry before turning her focus to producing running events. She is a former long-distance runner, current avid yoga practitioner, is addicted to Pinterest, likes to travel and read. She has been writing for more than three decades but Serendipity is her first official published work. There will be a total of six full-length books in the Inevitable series, plus one novella. Up next is the release of book one in the new Splendor trilogy!

Reviews

[Ramona Popescu · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a feeling that 2017 in books was going to be epic for me. I've started the year with a lot of good stories and things are getting better and better. When I heard that Janet will release Serenity I was super excited and wanted so much to read about her new characters, but also rejoice on the idea of rekindling with the old ones (especially Ian :D, yes, I will always have a soft spot for him).

So, here it goes. Sasha and Matthew are our couple from this book, 2 people that will feel an instant connection, but due to some circumstances, they will give into their feelings after various torturing chapters..

Matthew has 2 kids and lives an unhappy marriage. He knows that his wife has been cheating on him for a couple of years, but not wanting to upset his kids, he doesn't reveal that information to them. He wants a divorce, but of course his wife won't make life easy for him. The perks of being a multimillionaire is that you have everything you need, money, business, luxury cars and expensive trips, but what Matthew didn't have was love and fidelity. Until he meets Tessa's friend, Sasha, a yoga instructor and the kindest woman on the planet.

Sasha was very different from other heroines that I've read about."Serenity" is exactly the adjective that fits her perfectly and praises to Janet for choosing this word to represent both her and our beloved couple. Matthew will become Sasha's friend, will begin to attend her massage sessions and slowly this will grow into something else.

I loved the dynamics of this couple. Matthew needed Sasha in his life badly. After all the years of infidelity and only hard work, he found someone who wanted to take care of him, love him unconditionally and make him feel appreciated. He is exactly like Sasha, he wants only to give, not take. He is selfless and her happiness was his as well. He is a loving father, that will do anything for his kids and this further on will be his weakness. His relationship with his son, Casey, really made me swoon and wanted all the kids to have a father like that :)

I loved Sasha so much. I loved her in connection with Matthew but also in connection with Tessa and Julia, that made various appearances in the book. She was like a breath of fresh air, something different but so great for the book. She was so understanding, so kind and an example of trust. I came to think of her as being unreal, because all this qualities are very hard to find in a woman. She will teach Matthew how to start all over as a new man, living and feeling completely different than before. Of course she will also have her vulnerable moments, but at the end of the day, her love for Matthew will be greater than any insecurity she may have.

The book was exactly what I needed. The perfect mixture of great story and characters, with a plot that kept me intrigued. If I am not mistaken, Janet created her most hated villain. Lindsay was bitchy, gruesome, mean, revengeful, a lousy mother and wife, who cared only about her and her appearance. Being rich meant everything to her and when Matthew finally woke up and filled up for divorce, she was so twisted and sick and did everything in her power to prevent that from happening. I hated her so much and counted the pages until she could be punished as she deserves. The ending was quite satisfying for me and I continue to believe that she deserves MUCH more.

I totally recommend this book because it had a bit of everything. Janet's penmanship is amazing and I liked the way she combined the 3rd person POV with the descriptions and the dialogues, providing every bit of information and details that the reader would want.I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.



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[Natalie ~ The Biblioholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Matthew and Sasha meet at Ian and Tessa's wedding. They both share a visceral reaction to one another, an attraction that hits you right in the gut. Too bad Matthew is there with his wife. It is soon revealed that his wife has been and continues to be unfaithful, while in his heart he knows that his marriage has been over for a long time. An unexpected event serves as the catalyst to the dissolution of the marriage.

I enjoyed the way the author moved us through the lives of her characters. The impending divorce and Matthew's contentious soon-to-be-ex gave this story its much needed angst and drama. This book lauded Sash as a woman of perfection, virtually on the path to be elevated to sainthood, while Matthew's wife was painted as a deceitful, manipulative, and whoring itchbay. Harsh. But true. The ex's actions weren't doing her any favors and I couldn't find an ounce of sympathy for her circumstance.

Although I wasn't a huge fan of Sash, I adored Matthew. He was a computer gee and a bit awkward, but he was also kind, considerate, generous, loyal, thoughtful, and a truly amazing father. I honestly cannot praise his character enough. He really was amazing. I loved that the author didn't create him to be perfect. He wasn't the perfect lover, the perfect lover, or the perfect man. But it was his slight imperfections that made him stand out. It was his humbleness despite his riches (dude's a billionaire) that made him special.

I've been a huge fan of Janet Nissenson's Inevitable series and despite the fact that this one wasn't as sensual or sexy or physical, it did spark a good note within me because it still hinged on the profound feelings of its characters, good and bad. If you're looking for a sweet, almost saccharine, romantic read, then Matthew and Sasha's story may just be the book for you!

Release Date: April 27, 2017
Genre: Contemporary Romance
POV: Multiple - 3rd person
Steam: 3.5 out of 5
Book Type: Standalone - Book 5 of the inevitable series with crossover characters

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book which featured Matthew and Sasha. Sasha had such a wonderful way of nurturing and reducing his stressful life. I am such a huge fan of Janet - ever since book 1 Serendipity! I love the way she writes- fluently and with such detail that you just can't stop reading!

[Terra Drynan-Werder · Rating 5 out of 5]

What another wonderful book by Janet Nissenson. I was first introduced to Janet's books with The Splendor Series (Ian and Tessa) and was so excited to voluntarily review an advance read copy of this book Serenity in The Inevitable Series. I love the way Janet tells a story, she draws so much emotion out of me as a reader that not all author's are able to achieve. I feel every minute of happiness, sadness, turmoil and joy that the characters are feeling while reading Janet's books. Sasha and Matthew's story is one of heartache, sacrifice, forgiveness and love. They both help each other through tough moments in life while both staying true to who they are and the love that they share together. I really enjoyed that Ian, Tessa and Julia all make appearances in Serenity, which not only enhance this book, but give a glimpse into their stories that I didn't read in their books. It's like having friends over to visit. Thank you Janet for another wonderful love story.

[Mindy Lou's Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

The nice guy gets ahead!

We met Matthew and Sasha as side characters in the previous books with Tessa and Ian. I was very intrigued with what would become of these two. Their brief encounter at Tessa and Ian's wedding reception was very innocent, but you could tell the author was hinting at what was to come. The good thing is she repeats this moment in the beginning of this book so that it can be read as a standalone.

At the time Matt was married, unhappily but still married. Now normally I would not want to read about a couple while one was with another. However, I was already rooting for Matthew to get far, far away from his wife before I even knew he was getting his own book.

We got to see glimpses of his wife, Lindsey, in previous books that did not shine a good light on her character. It was obvious Lindsey was having affairs and using Matthew for his money. In this case, the nice guy was coming in last. That is, until he walks in on her and the young trainer at their gym. It was the last resort for Matthew and spurred him on to getting his life back, first by divorcing Lindsey.

I'm usually not a fan of time jumps in stories but I really liked how this author gave us a moment in time with each month that passed. She needed to show the reality of how long it takes to get a divorce since Lindsey refused to sign the papers, but also show Matthew healing, meeting Sasha again and moving on. I felt like the time jumps flowed nicely.

There are a lot of frustrating moments in this book. Lindsey's pride at being left and her greed for Matthews money was a huge battle in this book. Matthew truly is the nice guy. He was very sweet, and a protector, but he bordered on the line of being a doormat as well. He made a few bad choices trying to do right by his kids. It's easy to judge that from the outside looking in. Sasha is one of the better heroines I've read and while I think Matthew deserved someone like her, she also deserved to be put first.

I normally gravitate more towards the strong Alpha's like Ian, but I also enjoy seeing the nice guy get his HEA and that's what you get in this book. I give this book 4 Inevitable Stars!

ARC provided by author.

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review For: Serenity by Janet Nissenson 'Serenity' by Janet Nissenson is book Five in the "Inevitable" series. This is the story of Matthew Bennett and Sasha Fonseca. I feel this is easily a standalone book if you choose to do so. Matthew is a self proclaimed 'nerd' 'Geek' who is married to a 41 year old wife who through plastic surgery and his money looks younger than her age. She is in to younger men which finally becomes to much for Matthew. Matthew decided to go forward with a divorce. Matthew happens to meet Sasha at a Wedding about a month before he goes forward with a divorce. Meeting her, shows him really what he has been missing. Sasha is total different from him. Sasha is a yoga teacher and a hippie type personality. Where Matthew is a rich businesses man..up-type personality. But the attraction was immediately. But nothing happened and they didn't see each other until Matthew started fighting to get a divorce. Which with two kids does add to the mix. Sash is a loving caring person who for the first time Matthew feels someones wants to actually care for him and not what he has ...or does. I have loved the books that I have read so far in this series! This one did not let me down...loved it."My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H... http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/ https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...

[Cc · Rating 3 out of 5]

Once again, a clear winner. If you've not read this series, do yourself a favor and read it! One caveat, these are ROMANCES, they are not filled with murder suspense, car chases, hidden political agendas or whodunnits. They are romances between two people who are on their way to loving one another and these are the telling of thier stories. I am so tired of people reading a book without reading the blurb and expecting or wanting something else and they leave a bad review. Sorry, rant over. ;-)

Update ~ 3.5 ~ too lazy to re review, this was an early read of mine, take with grain of salt, lol.

[Mandie Foxylutely · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read in March 2017

Serenity is the fifth book in the Inevitable series but each book can be read as a standalone.

Matthew has been turning a blind eye to his wife’s indiscretions for a couple of years. Staying in his loveless marriage for the sake of his kids, he is finally pushed too far and takes the steps to end it. Being a multi-millionaire after building up his own company may bring him riches and anything he could ever need, except love. Finally free but feeling stressed out he takes up a suggestion to get a professional massage to ease his aches. Little does he realise where that ease that Sasha brings to him will be something he has always thought had passed him by in life. The love of a good woman and a sexy one at that.

Sasha, at first meeting, is the opposite of Matthew. She is quite bohemian in her ways and is the ultimate earth mother with her holistic healing and yoga. She is the calm to Matthew’s frenzy. Can two opposites attract? Yes they can but they both took a while to finally get there and admit they are meant to be, especially Sasha who has always believed she was destined to be forever alone in her life. To then find herself with Matthew and getting to know his two teenage kids was a curveball she never expected to appear in her life.

I loved the first slow burn of this romance that gathered momentum once they had both let down their guards. It was oh so hot when Matthew finally took the plunge when one of his regular massages with Sasha let to some steamy action they couldn’t deny! It wasn’t just the passion and intensity though between these two, it was the realisation that they weren’t that different at all and both wanted to be the loving and supportive partner they had subconsciously been searching for. This was a beautiful and simple romance that travelled through the pitfalls of dealing with a vindictive ex-wife who also manipulated her daughter to carry out an appalling act of deceit. I must admit that Matthew’s agreement when he wanted to sort that had me grinding my teeth and I could understand how hurt Sasha must have felt.

This was an epic read that was so emotional, from the hate for his ex, to the passion of the romance and the sweetness of the love they shared. A great tale of family, redemption and heart pounding romance. One definitely not to be missed and a five star read for me.

ARC kindly provided by the author to Foxylutely Books in exchange for an honest review

[KDRBCK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Serenity by Janet Nissenson is a full-length novel and the fifth book in the Inevitable Series.
This book can be read as a stand-alone; for better understanding I recommend to read in order.
Every book features a different couple.
This is Matthew and Sasha´s book.
Meet Matthew Bennett, geek, multibillionaire and family man. He suffers from the betrayal of his cheating wife and wants a divorce.
One day he attends a yoga class and there he meets Sasha.
Sasha is a good woman with a big heart. She starts seeing Matthew and is drawn to him. But she doesn´t do longterm relationships.
Matthew is smitten with Sasha, she´s like his air to breathe.
But his sheming soon to be ex has a masterfully crafted plan to win Matthew back.

I greatly enjoyed reading this book. I loved the characters and the words. I could feel the characters emotions in the words. I recommend Serenity and give 5 Stars.
Thank you Janet Nissensen !

[Janet Nissenson]

As with all of my new books, I like to share a bit of perspective on what went into the writing process. This is not a review, since I don't believe in rating and reviewing my own books, but more like an in-depth retrospective on Serenity.

Serenity turned out to be a little less focused on the physical/sexual relationship between the MC's - Sasha and Matthew - and more so on how their initial friendship/mutual attraction evolved into a deeper relationship between them. It's a little softer, more emotional, and overall sweeter than most of the previous books, but there are still any number of passionate scenes between them.

Matthew is a very different hero than the others I've created - Nathan (the sexy dirty talker from Serendipity); Ian (the swoonworthy seducer from Splendor); Nick (the asshole dominant from Shattered); and Ben (the brooding drifter from Sensational). Matthew is an admitted nerd, and even though he's now a successful, very wealthy CEO there will probably always be that part of him that's a little bit uncertain, a little bit awkward, and goofy. But overall he's the downright nicest hero I've created, the only one with children from his former relationship, and he finds himself torn between his longing to be a great father (which he is) and being with Sasha. I felt at times during the writing process that Serenity was more Matthew's story than Sasha's, especially since she was the stronger of the two of them, the one who was more confident and sure of herself, and who wound up guiding him to a better place.

And Lindsey (Matthew's ex) was definitely the most evil, vile villain I've ever written, way more so than Cameron (Nathan's ex from Serendipity) or Jason (from the Splendor trilogy). But the one good thing about creating such a thoroughly despicable villain is how satisfying it is to see them get their comeuppance eventually (no spoilers!)

I did love the concept of opposites attracting, because when they first meet Sasha and Matthew live in pretty much entirely different worlds. It was great to see how they had such a positive influence on the other, how they found a way to make their lifestyles mesh, and their epilogue was one of the sweetest and most satisfying to write.

I hope that you'll enjoy this book even though it's a bit different than some of the previous ones in the series, and that you'll count Sasha and Matthew among your favorite fictional couples!

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Janet Nissenson is a new to me author, and I have to say, I was utterly impressed with her work in SERENITY. While this is part of series, the novels can be read completely as stand alone novels, and it reflects in her writing. Matthew and Sasha have met in a previous novel, but it didn't exactly reflect in the sense that the reader would end up having too many questions about the how, what, why, and when situation. Janet did a perfectly great job of detailing that information, without making it seem too lengthy, and dragging it out. Now, there were parts that seemed slow to kick off, but the overall pace of the novel never faltered, and really kept me wanting so much more than what I was reading in that moment. I enjoyed all of the characters; from Matthew and Sasha to Ian and Tessa, and so many other smaller characters, there was great dynamics, great points of view, outstanding story line and just ugh. SO MUCH GOODNESS! I don't want to spoil the novel, just know that you will thoroughly enjoy this book. I cannot wait ti get my hands on the rest of Janet Nissenson's novels!

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the Inevitable Series and well named because the ending certainly left me feeling serene. It's a sweet, moving, involving stand alone story about characters I've looked forward to reading about. Sasha and Matthew are friends with characters from the previous books in this series.

Sasha is a kind, loving person who lives life on her own terms. She's found success and her niche in teaching yoga and being a professional masseuse. While she's content with her career and the close friendships she's formed, romantic relationships haven't worked out.

Matthew has two children he adores and a hugely successful business, but is unhappy in his marriage. His wife is shallow and greedy, cheating on him and making constant demands. One day she pushes him too far, so he leaves her and files for divorce. While Matthew is finding his footing as a single man, friends suggest he see Sasha for a massage to help alleviate his stress.

Over time, Sasha and Matthew become friends and eventually give in to their growing attraction. It's wonderful to see these two deserving people find love and be appreciated. Unfortunately, there are forces at work determined to undermine their happiness.

One of the things I've marveled at and enjoyed throughout the Inevitable Series is how the stories from the different books intertwine beautifully. Often I get taken out of stories while reading because of inconsistencies. Janet Nissenson manages to keep intersecting story and timelines in several books consistent. It's something I really appreciate as a reader.

I love this series and if you haven't read it, I suggest you do.

[Marie Wright · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a love story where things don't run smoothly. Matthew and Sasha meet at the wedding of two of their mutual friends. Matthew is in the throes of extricating himself from a marriage, after walking in on his wife in bed with a younger man.

He turns to Sasha purely for her massage skills, but quickly becomes enraptured by other endearing features besides her expert touch! Their relationship goes from strength to strength until Matthew's estranged wife plots to try to win him back.

Janet Nissenson manages to convey the rollercoaster of emotions between Matthew and Sasha and their feelings at every stage. I loved it!

[Timitra · Rating 2 out of 5]

Serenity did not work for me for many reasons, mainly because of the hero. He made a stupid decision that took this book from an okay, somewhat enjoyable read to completely ridiculous and yes I know you need to suspend belief while reading sometimes but this was a bit too ridiculous for me.


ARC won in a contest

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent as always! Full review after official release!
Several months late in posting this, and I had to re-read portions of the book since it’s been awhile since I read it. But it was every bit as beautiful as I remembered, and I was glad for the chance to read it again, especially since I’ve been in something of a dry spell lately and not much has been able to hold my attention. This particular author, however, has always been able to hook me into her stories right from the beginning, and keep my interest during the entire book.
Serenity is more of an emotional book, more of a tender story, than say the passion of Splendor, or the angst of Shattered, or the often comical escapades in Sensational. The heroine, Sasha, is just like the title of the book – serene. Not much rattles her, and she’s about as even-tempered, calm, and rational a person that you could ever meet. The hero, Matthew, was a geek for most of his life, and even now as a forty year old CEO with more money than he knows what to do with, traces of that geek still remain. He’s probably the sweetest and overall nicest of the heroes in this series, and I found his insecurities really touching.
The book opens with a short flashback scene to when the MC’s first met, a scene that appeared in Claim, the final book of the Splendor trilogy. When the two of them meet again, it’s several months later, Matthew has filed from divorce from his horrible wife (more on this truly evil witch in just a bit!), and his friends Tessa and Ian are advising him to make an appointment with Sasha for a massage, insisting that it’s exactly what he needs to help him cope with the stress of his divorce (and might I add how much I loved the few scenes with Tessa and Ian who will always be my favorite book couple!)
As it turns out, Sasha is exactly what Matthew needs and has always needed, in a lot of different ways. Their connection is something sweet and special, and even though they start out as friends it’s obvious that they have an attraction for each other.
But Matthew’s evil wife Lindsey is furious that he had the nerve to dump her, and gets even madder when she learns he’s dating Sasha who happens to be a lot younger than she is. She schemes, along with their selfish daughter, to get Matthew back no matter what, and to break him and Sasha up.
To reveal any more would give away some major spoilers, so you’ll have to read it for yourself to see what happens.
As usual, I loved the supporting characters in this book – from Sasha’s parents who have had this crazy love/hate relationship for decades, to Matthew’s feisty assistant Elena, and especially Matthew’s son Casey who more than makes up for his nasty sister. The supporting characters are woven into the story but not so much that their own story overtakes the MC’s. You see just enough of them to keep things interesting, but not so much that it takes away from the main storyline.
And, as usual, the writing is fluid and effortless and flawless, with a plot that draws the reader in and keeps them interested. It’s almost impossible to find an author who pays such attention to detail, who brings characters alive, and who can actually WRITE.
Serenity might not have been as erotic as some of the other books in this series, in particular Serendipity and Splendor, but there was still plenty of passion. Overall, I felt that it paid more attention to the emotional connection the MC’s had rather than the physical, but that didn’t stop me from enjoying it every bit as much as the other books in the series. I have loved every book in this series, and love the fact that each one has a different feel to it all while being beautifully written.

[JG · Rating 3 out of 5]

Despite being marketed as a standalone book, I did feel that my enjoyment was affected by not having experienced the character development and introductions en route to Serenity. It's like joining an established group of friends, who, despite their best intentions to make you feel part of the group, you are continually playing catch up with their life experiences and shared bonds.

That said, this was quite an enjoyable story. I loved the chilled hippie v nerdy businessman feel to it and Sasha’s character was enchanting. The storyline involving Matthew, by comparison, was what gave this story substance but sadly it wasn't enough to successfully draw me wholeheartedly into the book.

After Sasha and Matthew’s introduction to each other, the story focuses on Matthew’s separation from his wife and his attempts to divorce her based on her repeated cheating but Lindsey isn't going to back down easily. Refusing to sign the divorce papers, this is where the story gets a little farcical as Lindsey does everything she can think of to make Matthew return home. After a promising start to the book, my interest waned but then my frustration with Lindsey kicked in and I managed to read the book to its conclusion, if only to see Lindsey get what she deserves.

Whilst the story is well written and without errors, I feel that my overall enjoyment was definitely affected by having not read the earlier books in the series and whilst the author did try to recount the backgrounds to the side characters, I still felt a little out of the loop on occasion.

This ebook was kindly provided by the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.



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[Felicia Eddy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.5

I have been eagerly waiting for Matthew and Sasha's book ever since they were introduced in the Splendor series; the one scene they had together is something that has stayed with me. When you talk about opposites attract Matthew and Sasha are a perfect example and then some.

Matthew is a 40 something tech billionaire; trapped in a loveless marriage he is just surviving. When he meets Sasha a girl who doesn't own tech - she barely has a phone and a laptop forget it, the impression she makes on him in the span of a 20-minute conversation is unforgettable. Sasha is a free spirit who believes in doing the right thing for her body as a yoga instructor and masseuse. She never forgets the handsome man she met at a wedding who looks sad. Flash forward a few months Matthew's life has changed dramatically; leaving his wife (finally) now on his own his friends (the adorable Tessa and Ian) recommend him seeing Sasha, he can use a good massage. When Sasha and Matthew start spending more time together their attraction intensifies. They find that they can influence each other in a positive way and that opposites can find a common ground, but with Matthew's ex-wife and daughter trying to win him back home can they really make their unique love work.

Ms Nissenson does a fantastic job taking her readers on a journey with her characters; her exposition is detailed and so beautifully written and the dialog between her characters is top notch. Her attention to detail makes her world feel so real and it doesn't feel like it's too much. Told from dual POV's we get a true sense of who her characters are and the journey they take. Don't get me wrong both characters are flawed and the decisions they sometimes make made me want to throw my tablet but it is part of their journey. We do get to see our other favorite characters from her previous books including Julia and Nathan along with Tessa and Ian and there even is a shout out to Dr Jordan which I loved.

If you are looking for a story that is beautifully written that is a romance and a story of discovering one's authentic self, you must read Serenity - you won't be disappointed.

[Karthika · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[Jenni Crawford · Rating 4 out of 5]

***I voluntarily reviewed this book for Katsindiebookblog, and I gained no monetary incentives nor was I specifically requested to review the book.*** This was a really great sweet read. It’s in a series, however it can be read as a standalone. This story is of Matthew and Sasha. They initially meet at a mutual friends wedding, share a quick dance together and part ways. Sasha is a professional masseuse and yoga instructor. Matthew is a multibillionaire CEO, married, and has 2 teenage kids. One day leaving work early, due to the flu, he walks in on his wife have an affair. Despite this going on for years, Matthew has finally had enough of it. He kicks her out, and immediately files for divorce. Upon weeks and months of stress, his friends push him to go see a masseuse to level his stress. He eventually sets an appointment up, and upon arrival he realizes he’s meeting with Sasha from months ago. Eventually one thing leads to another and they are working on a relationship. However, with an impending divorce, his ex wife isn’t making it easy on him.
Can these 2 figure out a way to have a relationship despite a conniving ex wife in the picture? Can Sasha let go a little of her independency to even enjoy a relationship? What about the kids that are involved? You must consider them.
This is a well written book. It’s easily to get sucked into the story, and makes you want to reach into the story to smack the ex wife a good few times! If the others that are in the series are like this one, I definitely look forward to reading more!

[my_booktrail · Rating 4 out of 5]

RECEIVED ARC COPY IN EXCHANGE OF AN HONEST REVIEW


what i liked the most about this book is that this book doesn't have a SURE OF HIMSELF CONFIDENT ALPHA MALE. Matthew's character was very different from Nathan's ​and Ian's character. They were confident alphas where as Matthew was a hurt soft slightly unsure of himself not that he wasn't strong. For having been married to Lindsey for so many years he definitely is strong not like Males in other books.

As for Sasha, she definitely has loads of stock of patience j think i need to buy patience from her stock. Instead of being a yoga instructor she should have been anger management counsellor.

Overall other was a nice read. I like that Janet writes stories fro multiple characters and also includes previous characters.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I picked up this book by new-to-me author Janet Nissenson I wasn't sure where it was going to go, I have to admit that I was a bit on the fence when it started off with Matthew being married. In the synopsis it states that Matthew has suffered the worst sort of betrayal a man can ever know, and we get to see that betrayal right at the start. Please know that Matthew does NOT start a relationship with Sasha until he has separated and filed for divorce, I do not consider this cheating but I am aware that some might. I loved Sasha and Matthew together, they definitely worked well as a couple and they balanced one another out.

My Full review can be seen here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...

[Sharron M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved everything about this book and the series.

[Bianca · Rating 5 out of 5]

Multibillionaire CEO, Matthew Bennett is trying to move on from years of unhappiness. He’d been tied to a woman who’s been nothing but a burden. He plans to be the best father he can be, but he can no longer stay in a loveless marriage. His intense work schedule is stressful and he is held highly accountable for its continuing success. That’s where Sasha Fonseca comes in. Recommended by his friends, she is a highly regarded yoga instructor who also practices massage therapy. When he’s told about Sasha and how she could help relief his stress, he doesn’t know that this is the same woman where he connected to some time ago. The woman that gave him reasons to think a little deeper. Only then, everything was a bit different.

“And I think the first time we met that I knew somehow you would be the one to save me.”

Matthew and Sasha remain professional until they realize their connection becomes undeniable. I won’t say much about how this develops, but please know this is a slow burn romance in THE best way possible. The author is skilled in the way she executes this story. She never tells you about their feelings. The allows you to feel their words. To live them. After some time, they can no longer put up this façade and they give in to their desires. Matthew can no longer be a client. The boundaries set were easily overshadowed by the yearning for each other. Matthew has a past, while Sasha only knows how to be fiercely independent. His love is tender and passionate. Her love is guarded until there’s simply no holding back. She loves unconditionally. Something Matthew didn't think was ever possible. Little do they know that their past threatens to dismantle everything they’ve worked to build between them.

“That ache you feel?”
“That’s love, Sasha. I know because I’m feeling exactly the same thing right now. But it’s a good ache. One that will always remind us of how much we love each other.”

I was in awe of the strength of these two characters. Vulnerable yet strong. While Matthew made hard choices, it truly showed the protective and compassionate part of him. Can Sasha continue giving herself to a man who is obviously stretched so thin? So much happens with these two. Their love story isn’t easy. But what true love story is? There are circumstances that shakes them to the core of their relationship. Everything they’ve built comes to a heart stopping halt. Decisions are made. Hearts are broken. But their love always remains.

Although this story is a bit lighter than her other books, I found it no less inspiring. Because that’s what Janet Nissenson’s writing does to you. She writes with meaning. With purpose. Sensual and compelling, this magnificent story is one that must be read! I’ve said this many times, but she is truly master at her craft of romance writing. Her refined prose never goes unnoticed as she navigates her reader through a story that reminds you that in love there is a gamble. You trust the person with your heart. This story is a true testament to love being the most frightening yet exhilarating risk a person can take.

Serenity is a wonderful addition to this series. With an engaging storyline of how opposites attract, the author brilliantly produced an unexpected love story against some challenging circumstances. It was a perfect blend of romance balanced with second chances and forgiveness. As expected, with this book, the author gave us a story with a lesson: to be fearless and honest in love. At all times. Phenomenally written and heartfelt, Serenity is certainly one of the most fascinating stories I’ve read all year.

[Tamalama · Rating 2 out of 5]

Having read this author before, I expected a little better to be honest. I know that there was a disclaimer at the end of the book regarding the difference between this one and the others in the series. While the difference due to the lack of heat was noticeable, it wasnt what made me not enjoy it as much. My lack of enjoyment stemmed from the male protagonist, my goodness WHAT A WIMP! I'm sorry I'm all about the alpha male and I don't mean necessarily brute strength. This man had no backbone, he let all of the women in his life run all over him. I don't care how damn geeky or socially awkward he was, the way that he let his wife blatantly disrespect their marriage for years was horrible. You knew that your wife was cheating on you with a multitude of men, flirting with your friends and colleagues in your face and you did NOTHING!!! Where the hell are your cojones, MAN THE HELL UP BRUH!!! Then to top it off your daughter is a mini bitch in training who has no manners and you didn't think discipline her, like what the hell. I would have had the taste slapped out of my mouth for that type of disrespect that she gave her dad. Even after the truth came out about what her mother and she concocted, one would think that Wimpy Matthew would have gotten a clue on how to punish her. Oh no our perpetual WIMP decided that he wouldn't have contact with her until he was ready. Umm no, make her suffer, take away the car, credit cards, all her luxuries and make her earn it back with actions and respect. Can you tell that Matthew (because he hated being called Matt but never had the guts to let other know this) was not my cup of tea and frustrated the hell out of me. Even after he forgave Hayley and they reconciled she was still a brat. Like how embarrassing that Sasha's mother had to remind her about minding her manners at the dinner table. I was beyond frustrated and was so happy when it ended.

Another bone to pick, you are a BILLIONAIRE and you're not able to get your WHORE of a cheating wife to sign divorce papers, Puleeze. With all of the evidence of years of cheating and all the money that he had he couldn't have gotten a judge to sign off on the divorce, come on. He had more than ample grounds for a easy divorce without having to give the Bitch half his fortune. He should have dragged her through the mud from the get go but no Wimpy Matthew wanted to "protect the children" who already knew their mother was a Ho! I cant with this guy.

As for Sasha, she was too blah for me and goody goody. Minimal alcohol, minimal sweets, tea only, special vitamins... blah, blah, blah. I mean I know that she was all about the simple life but it was like she had no ambition to do anything besides yoga. I mean she was almost 30 years old and renting a room. Look I know that SF rent is helluva expensive but damn, were you ever going to move out of your small room. Now that my rant is over, I realize that the 2 bores deserved each other.

[Tina Todd shobe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matthew walks into a situation that no spouse ever wants to be in. After years of living his life for others it finally gives him the strength to start living life for himself. Having survived a relationship that dealt with the same issue I felt I really connected with Matthew and could feel his despair.

He previously met Sasha at a friends wedding and they reconnected when his friend's gave him her information to get a massage. This two seems to have deep connection right from the start. Sasha fought against it for quite awhile as she has a strong ethic about not mixing work with pleasure.

Sasha had turbulent childhood because of her parents. They had a very strong love/hate relationship. She's made a life for herself without turmoil and intends to keep it that way.

These two seem to be going along strong until Matthew's estranged wife has his daughter pulling a stunt that sucks Matthew back in to be there for his kids. Wow, is all I can say about his wife. She is just unbelievable.

I cheered when Matthew left his wife, his determination to work a very demanding career and still have time for his kids but then boo'd when he was a sucker and fell for his wife's ploy.

I really felt for Sasha when they split. She loved Matthew enough to not make him chose between his kids and her.

The only thing I didn't like about this book was that it took Matthew too long to play hard ball with his wife so that he and his kids to have a happy future without her drama.

Serenity is book 5 in the Inevitable Series. It can be a stand alone. I read the first 2 books in this series prior to reading this book and had no trouble following along and enjoying this book. We do revisit with characters from the the previous books and I feel if you read the books in order you'll get more depth from the series. I fully intend to go back and finish reading the series because it really is a good one. I think this book is very well written.

[Trish Kitty Taylor ***narniaandbeyond*** · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the Splendor Series by Janet, so when I had the chance to read Serenity I jumped at the chance – especially as it can be totally read & enjoyed as a standalone.

This is the story of Matthew & Sasha, two complete polar opposites in almost every sense, who come together & find they are actually compatible in so many ways. Matt is our very sexy, swoony & charming owner of one of Americas biggest Tech Giants while Sasha is our serine, gentle yogo teacher, with a coloured background & a secret that closed her heart off for good.

Their initial meeting although by chance, sets them on a collision course that neither of them were truly ready for & I loved just how much they both opened their hearts, learned to trust in their feelings & tried their best to mold a future filled with love & happiness.

But love & life are never easy & as the plot twists unfolded & omg let me tell you did the BIGGIE leave me with my jaw hanging & ready to kill a soon to be ex wife 10 times over, my heart hurt with such desperation for Matthew & the situation he found himself in. It ached for Sasha who had given her all, including her already fragile heart & it crumbled at the reality, that a man as good & honest as Matthew could have his one chance at happiness so cruelly taken away from him.

The angst kept me hooked as I poured through this book, with my emotions flip flopping all over the place. No matter how hard it got, I never gave up hope that truth & honestly would prevail & that everyone, especially the damaged, deserve sunshine & happiness & the best kind of together forever imaginable.

A fabulous read all round!

[Alexa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one just squeaked in as a 4 star read.

It was an emotional ride for sure and while there were parts that dragged a bit (maybe a bit long) overall I enjoyed the ride.

It spans a fairly large time period as the story unfolds so it is more of a slow burn read. As others mentioned, this Hero isn't so much of an Alpha man - more the quiet nice guy who finally has enough - and you WANT to see him find a happily ever after. So although this was not my preferred type of male lead, I was happy to see where his story took him. At times though I wished he would get more of a backbone - I wanted to reach through my Kindle and slap some sense into him!

Overall, I was rooting for the characters and was happy to follow along and see where the story took them!

[Julie McCleary · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by Janet Nissenson and boy let me tell you she does not disappoint. Even though this is the fifth book in the series you do not have to read the first 4 to understand what is going on. From the beginning we get a glimpse into Matthews marriage and from what I can see it isn't a happy marriage at all but it doesn't end there.......Janet has given us a tale of second chances, new beginnings and new love. Which everyone in my eyes totally deserves. I loved the main character's Matthew and Sash they just seemed so well connected and right. The story was smooth, which enabled you to get completely sucked into the story and enjoy every minute of it.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first book by Janet and it was very good! So many different feelings throughout the story of Sasha and Matthew. Sasha seemed to have it all together, seemed almost perfect. But like everyone she had a secret and it was killing her inside for many years. Poor Matthew, such a sweet man that was dealt a rough hand and a bitchy wife. Things like Lindsey did with Haley make me sick to my stomach, deceitfulness always comes out! Great story, I may need to start the series from the beginning so I can get to know the other characters. :)

[Dolly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Details....Too many, far too many

This book was like word soup....boring, minute details....Total verbal vomit. The main characters were likeable, as was the love story, but the ex was over-the-top aggravating. The ex interference was ridiculous. The whole story could have been told in 10 chapters. Awful.