Penthouse Player

Billionaire Bosses #1

by Tara Leigh

Abandoned by her mother and spurned by her father, Reina St. James is tired of being treated like a dirty little secret. It wasn’t easy making her way into the high-risk, high-reward Wall Street world ruled by financial kings and trust fund tyrants. But now that she’s got a stiletto-clad toe into one of the swankiest firms in Manhattan, Reina is determined to prove she’s more than just a pretty face hiding an ugly past.

For Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV, escaping the shadow cast by generations of family fortune has been difficult, and success hasn’t come without sacrifice. Tristan has always put business before pleasure… Until Reina’s curved lips prove an invitation he can’t resist.

Walking away from their explosive night together won’t be easy, even if the heat between them might consume both of their careers. Will Reina and Tristan risk everything by betting on each other?

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Ebooks, Forbidden Romance, Erotica, Billionaires

248 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 5, 2017

About the author

Want to keep up with Tara Leigh and hear all the news & behind the scenes details about her books? Just click here: http://bit.ly/TaraLeighNwsltr. And are you a member of her exclusive readers group? http://bit.ly/TaraLeighReaders

Tara Leigh writes sexy contemporary romance about billionaires and rock stars that are alpha without being ***holes.

She attended Washington University in St. Louis and Columbia Business School in New York, and worked on Wall Street and Main Street before “retiring” to become a wife and mother. When the people in her head became just as real as the people in her life, she decided to put their stories on paper. Tara currently lives in Fairfield County, Connecticut with her husband, children and fur-baby, Pixie.

Do you love signed paperbacks? Want to know if Tara will be signing at an event? Do want to check out all the gorgeous teasers for Tara's books? Are you a writer looking for tips on writing and publishing? Check her website! https://www.taraleighbooks.com

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Reviews

[SueBee★bring me an alpha!★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2! Penthouse Player (stand-alone). Focused intern must avoid affair with her new boss while a twitter troll is set on ruining everything!

Penthouse Player (stand-alone) follows Reina St. James as she begins her internship at the Bettencourt bank empire. She is determined not to let her upbringing nor heritage define her.

She has a plan which does not include a one-night stand with her soon-to-be boss.

Hedge Fund Manager, playboy and heir Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV, X-Man is in fundraising mode for his hedge fund. He just has to make it through the next few weeks with his dick in his pants.

As luck would have it he almost had a one-night stand with the new intern.

Story goes on to follow Tristan and Reine as they work side-by-side while fighting their attraction. When Tristan finds himself being stalked by a twitter troll and the victim of sabotage it becomes a raise against time to uncover a traitor.

But while doing that he might also expose well-kept scandalous secrets.



Eight words to describe Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV, X-Man: Charismatic, noble, assertive, trusting, commanding, reflective, easy-going and worldly.



Eight words to describe Reina St. James: Motivated, lonely, smart, conflicted, observant, goal-oriented, analytical, and secretive.

Penthouse Player, told from dual POVs is an unfolding mystery, forbidden affair and an impossible romance with poor girl meeting one of most sought-after bachelors in the country. It offers the perfect mixture of romance, suspense, lies, deceit, jealousy, betrayal, secrets and scandal. It ends perfectly with truths and revelations.

***
Hero: ★★★★1/2
Heroine: ★★★★1/2
Plot: ★★★★1/2
Storytelling: ★★★★★
Sexual tension: ★★★★1/2
Sex scenes: ★★★★1/2
Story ending: ★★★★
******************************************
OVERALL RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
Angst: | LOW FOCUS |
Darkness: | LOW FOCUS |
Humor: | LOW FOCUS |
Kink: | LOW FOCUS |
Romance: | HIGH FOCUS |
Sex frequency: | MEDIUM FOCUS |
Suspense: | MEDIUM FOCUS |

ARC provided to me by author Tara Leigh in exchange for an honest review.

[CristiinaReads୨ৎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

➳When it comes to sleeping with the boss, and it may sound wrong but feels right? Tara Leigh knows how to do it correct...



➳One always expects to read more and more about the mystery of the male character in a love story, and how the female changes him and makes him think about love and how he is capable of loving someone. This story is different though. Tara Leigh has brought a new meaning to the idea of the female having a past, that no matter the consequences, she does not indulge in the action of love. One would think that it would be the other way around, but after witnessing the past of Reina, and Tristan being there to try and comfort her, this story takes a turn of events that one would never expect.

➳I really love the chemistry between these two characters. The differences is what brought them together hare their similarities in a world that is separated by the high and lows of a socialite or anti-socialite. Though struggles were brought upon between Reina and Tristan in regards to having to indulge in a relationship during working hours or during their private time, their actions are what makes them such unique characters in a world filled with insecurities and hierarchies.



➳Overall, I enjoyed this book much more than what I was honestly anticipating. The second book, I can already tell it will be incredible knowing what was shared in this first one. Thank you to Tara for sending me this novel as I will treasure it since it was beyond beautiful. I highly recommend this novel if you are looking for an office romance "affair" with struggling character to find what true love actually means. And if not, then just read it anyways cause you will adore it either way;)

➳Order Link:
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➳ARC kindly provided by SMP publisher, in exchange for an honest review...

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[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 - "I kind of like having you as my boss..." Stars!

The first book in the Billionaire Bosses Series gives us a romance with a bit of a forbidden twist, and who doesn’t love a bit of boss/employee after hours shenanigans.



I’ll be honest and say I have been giving debut authors a bit of a wide berth lately, but when a trusted friend and fellow reviewer raves about a book to me, I pay attention because she is even pickier than I am generally.

"I’m rather discriminating about the opportunities I choose to accept…"

And I am glad I did, Penthouse Player delivered everything I want in an office based romance, chemistry, banter and plenty of sexy-times. I can’t say that there as anything particularly new and unusual about Tristan and Reina’s story, but I think when you love the characters as much as I did these two, it makes a massive difference, also the author has a really engaging writing style as well, which as a reader just pulled me completely into everything that was going on.

"How about you make me an offer."

Well written, it read well, and I cannot wait to see what the author has in store for us in the future. Not too long to wait as Deal Breaker is due before the end of the year.

ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest. Review.

[Nicola · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars.

When it comes to the sleeping-with-the-boss trope I'm something of a finicky customer but Tara Leigh has kicked her Billionnaire Bosses series off in style.



From the first moment Tristan and Reina meet at a fundraiser in Manhattan the sparks between them fly and they waste no time in getting up close and very personal, until Reina suddenly hightails it, leaving Tristan wondering why.

"Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV was the human form of the scotch he drank—expensive, rare, and intense."

Coming from four generations of internationally renowned banking geniuses, Tristan is privileged, wealthy and commands the attention of those around him with confidence and charm. However considering the title, I didn't find Tristan so much of a playboy—yes he has a presence about him but he has a very down-to-earth side—and the fact that Reina is ten years younger and a new-employee does nothing to deter him from the fact he wants her, consequences be damned.

"Not only will I discover every single nerve and crevice in your vulnerable, and very naked body, I will devour and exploit every one of your weaknesses. I won’t merely control you, Reina. I will own you."

Reina was a great female lead. Whilst young and inexperienced in the corporate world, she's fought her own battles growing up shaping her into the independent, driven young woman she is, although not without understandable insecurities. And I really felt for her: she's stuck between a rock and a hard-place, there is an imbalance of power and it's easy for Tristan to ignore what people think as his career isn't just beginning, but there's much more at stake for her, yet she has the capability to turn that imbalance on its head.

"I don’t know how not to want you."

I loved seeing these characters fall, their chemistry is passionate, heated yet tender and the secondary characters add to the overall story, playing their part in the drama and conflict, although I do think the aspect involving Reina's mother seemed to play out a bit too nice and easy all things considered. Nevertheless, Penthouse Playboy was a well-paced, easy, enjoyable read and a fantastic debut from Tara Leigh—I'm looking forward to reading more from her in the future.

Copy received courtesy of St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.



*Stock Images

[Aisling Zena · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

Tara Leigh took a classic plot, a hedge fund heir and his employee/trainee, and gave it depth and background. Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV met Reina St. James at a charity fundraiser. The sparks flew and caught fire burning everything in their way until Reina finds out that Tristan is actually her future boss.



"We could have been mistaken for Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively[...]"

Of course the problems preventing them being together isn't just that. Reina comes with dark secrets and vulnerabilities while Tristan has his own issues to deal with. Fighting the temptation to be together proves impossible.

"Denying the heat between us was futile, so why was I fighting it?"

"But when it came right down to it-real intimacy scared the hell out of me. I wanted to keep my guard up, keep my mask on, except Tristan wasn't making it easy."

"What would happen when Tristan and everyone else realized that I was flying high on wings slapped to my back with scotch tape and Elmer's glue?"

"How could I convince her that we had something special,something worth fighting for, if she didn't believe it too?"

I was engaged and involved with these two and their respective backstories. I empathized with Reina. But at around 50% I got a bit weary of their introspection. We have alternative POVs and we get to see exactly how they both tick. Their issues and feelings all laid bare and while that gave them depth and a three-dimensionality, it also tired me out after a point. They would go into introspections in the middle of conversations and then answer a question. I found myself backtracking because I lost track of how the conversation started. I just wanted them to have a nice long dialog without either of them going in their heads. This was my biggest issue with this and frankly I think it comes down to personal preference so don't let me stop you from picking this one up. Especially if you like the billionaire and employee plot, with all it's drama.


**ARC kindly provided by author via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

[Maria✦❋Steamy Reads Blog❋✦ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Francoise · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I loved this book set in the world of Wall Street billionaires! The story is full of passion and intrigue, it is well written and fast paced. I read it almost in one sitting, I could not put it down! The plot has some riveting twists and turns that kept me waiting for the next shoe to drop.

Reina St.James and Tristan Bettencourt meet at a charity fundraiser. Reina is a recent graduate and has landed a job of trainee at Bettencourt, one of the most sought-after firms in New York. As a teenager, she was fascinated by tales of mergers and acquisitions and the corner office is her ultimate professional goal. She is strong but carries some emotional baggage.

Tristan is really a wonderful character, charming and charismatic. He is a genuinely nice guy, ambitious, confident, but also tender and considerate. Heir to a banking dynasty, he is a member of the privileged elite and seems to have it all, including a close-knit family. But that doesn’t mean he’s not a hard worker. So far, he has had one goal in his professional life: make money. He has set up his own hedge fund and doesn’t want to let his family or his investors down, despite their high expectations. He is attracted to Reina, but, as his employee, she should be off limits. It would look seriously bad to be involved with a member of the staff. He can’t afford a scandal that would tarnish his reputation or result in a loss of credibility. And yet, he can’t stay away from her.

I enjoyed how Reina and Tristan’s relationship progressed. At first, Reina doesn’t want to do anything with him. One-night stands are not for her, especially not with her boss and she is determined never to count on a man for anything. She is scared of intimacy and confused by her feelings for Tristan, even though she enjoys their flirtation. But Tristan loves a challenge and he’s more than willing to fight for her.

Their romantic connection was palpable and undeniable, their banter was delicious and had me giggling and smiling. This fast-paced story was emotionally charged and showcased two strong characters forging a deep bond based on love and tenderness, amid corporate intrigue. I highly recommend it!

An advanced copy was provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.

[BookAddict ✒ La Crimson Femme · Rating 4 out of 5]

Billionaire men courting helpless females are a dime a dozen romances. I read this book on a lark because the Publisher sent it to me and I trust this specific one when she sends me books she thinks I might like. She's learned my taste in books surprisingly quickly. Ms. Leigh is a new to me author who caught my attention in the very first few paragraphs in this book. Within a chapter, I was disgusted and was going to mark it as a DNF and send a note back to the Publisher not to send me anything more like this. That would have been a mistake.

Ms. Leigh set me up for a mind twister I wasn't expecting. Reina is the main character and she first comes off as a determined woman. But then, as more descriptions come through, a reader may think she is just a woman looking for her MRS. in the worst of ways. Personally, I have zero interest in reading shallow women who are gold diggers. Some enjoy it, I do not. As the book slowly peels the layers back on Reina, I am heart broken. If there is one way to get me hooked, it is to detail the past of a child neglected by the very one she thought would love her. I teared up as I learned more about Reina's parents and what was done to her. Sometimes, blood is not thicker than water. Nor does blood dictate who one really calls and consider's their father.

Reina is the kind of woman I understand, appreciate and admire. She set herself a goal and she fought her way fairly to it. The cards are stacked against her and she overcomes each obstacle. I love it. So when a man totally screws up her plans, I'm just as pissed as she is. (Isn't it always a man?)

Tristan owns the company that Reina worked hard to get a job in. When their almost hook up reveals the boss/employee relationship, Reina barely runs out of Tristan's home screaming. Their relationship is complicated. The chemistry between the two is exciting, forbidden and so hot. Ms. Leigh does an excellent job of creating heat. The environment she sets the characters in is also spot on. For those who understand the business world for Wall Street, Ms. Leigh has softened the ugliness through a rose coloured filter. There are certain elements that rang true which is what made this story feel more realistic. I'm impressed.

This story did take me on a bit of a roller coaster ride because it felt like I was watching a train wreck about to happen. The conflict is real. We all know what Tristan should do yet we can understand what he wants to do instead. His actions cause a lot more ramification for a woman than a man of his position. Life is unfair and the business world, it is even more so. Whilst the sexual tension is going on between the two, Reina's past comes to haunt her. I have to say, I loathe her biological parents. I am disgusted and appalled. I just can not fathom treating anyone that is blood related to them in this manner. The sheer cruelty is astonishing at times. Abuse is not only physical. Reina is a strong female who could have had "daddy issues" and "mommy issues". Thankfully, she does not. For me, this story is so good because of Reina. Tristan is a bit of a cad.

This story kept me turning the pages to see how it would end. This erotic romance is recommended to readers who enjoy strong females who overcome their past and get their happily ever after.

*provided by St. Martin's via NetGalley

[Umaiya ❄️Ramblings of a Scattered Mind❄️ · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC provided by Author via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.

I don't know why but I have a tough time reading arcs always. It's like this thing where if I didn't get it myself I'm just not gonna be as interested. That being said I have yet to read a brilliant arc.

So Penthouse Player was pretty cliché, there was nothing new and it really read like a debut book. I'm not saying that's a bad thing but see, in here it probably was. The idea of a first book is that it's very personal, it's close to your heart, it's your little baby. You want it to be perfect and the characters, the little lights of your life, to get that happily ever after which is finally now in your hands.

Here's the problem. Everything was too perfect.

Not only is Reina a one of a kind beauty, she's also hella smart and a graduate from an Ivy League she put herself through. Got a job right outta college at the most happening place on Wall Street. Met a guy at a party, had no conversation with him only "smiled" and he's head over heels, don't you look at my woman possessive.

Holy Shit.

Do you see what I'm getting at? Every thing just wrapped up into a clean clear package of a wonderful, happily ever after with rainbows and sunshine. It wasn't very believable. I couldn't see the struggle that was supposed to be Reina St.James's life that she whined a lot about.

I didn't like Reina. Tristan was boring and not much to write home about. Very vanilla.
If you like a book with no conflict, a easy breezy read, this one's for you.
It wasn't for me. So a low 3 stars.
And I hope you like it better.

[Preet · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

I love office romances! Usually these have some aspect of the forbidden to them, which I think makes them all the more appealing. I'd never read anything by Tara Leigh before, but there was something about the blurb that caught my eye. I had hoped this book was going to be hot, which it was, but I certainly wasn't expected the twists the story took. I actually those were great because they kept me hooked to the story and trying to guess what would happen next.

Reina and Tristan truly burned up the pages. Their chemistry was evident from the first time they met. I got all hot and bothered and then had to cool my jets when it became clear consummation of their passion was going to have to wait. Instead of being turned off, my interest in them grew as they banked their passions to work together. It was like them having to wait made it sweeter for them and me.

I loved how focused Reina was on becoming someone and giving those who had abandoned and hurt her the proverbial middle finger. I mean Reina may have been sleighed and hurt, but she was strong and hard working. I liked Tristan a lot more than I was expecting to. Yes he was wealthy and entitled, but he wasn't an asshole. I liked how Tristan had created something of his own, even if he could've rested on his father's laurels for the rest of his life.

Tara Leigh really impressed me with Penthouse Player. I've never read her before, but after reading this book I am eager to see what happens in the next book. If you're looking for an office romance with high heat, drama, and intensity, this book is for you!

[Pennie Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reina grew up knowing she was missing something and yet she wanted it all. Now she has the chance at a job with her father's competitor, her father who denied her. No worries. This is Wall Street and Big Business. Tristan has worked hard to get where he is even if he was born into it. A chance meeting at a party and sparks and heat and oh-la-la could it get any hotter? What they don't know at the time is Tristan is Reina's boss. So many secrets but if they can get past them they will be able to overcome all. So much chemistry and heat wrapped up in this morsel.

**Received this ARC for review from the publisher via NetGalley**

[Nancy❤The❤Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

 ~~3.75 stars~~  (MORE THAN GOOD)

This book started off with some real heat between Reina and Tristan.  You see the hot alpha male in Tristan appear within the first few pages. 

The web of secrets were luring me into the dark side. I wanted that cookie and the milk to go along with it. I didn't care what the consequences were.

I enjoyed the dual POV's. I didn't like the insta-love aspect of it. I want to read about the challenge and chase of falling in love. The mess ups and the success of finally getting to the grand prize. 

Reina's childhood was so sad to me but I love how she didn't let what she didn't have or how she was treated hinder her from succeeding in life. Reina's composed facade always seemed to crumbled when Tristan was around, but who could blame her. Tristan seemed like he can make you do anything he asked. And if he flashed that killer smile I think any woman would've been mush. 

Though the drama was somewhat predictable it didn't affect my enjoyment of the story. I knew where the drama would arise and I was spot on. It was nice how the author didn't draw out the drama though. That made me enjoy the book just a little bit more than if it was drawn out. I like that Tristan was a strong character and he knew what to do in that predicament.

This was Tara Leigh's debut and she did a stellar job. I can't wait to see who the next Billionaire Boss is about. I'm really hoping it's Bryce. I'm drooling just thinking about the possibilities for that hot hockey player. Hey Tara if you don't have a heroine's name picked out when you write Bryce's story, you can always use my name. LOL

[Crystal's Book World ~ Crystal Cordova · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was really intrigued about this book starting with the blurb and the cover. I love a good "Sleeping with your Boss" trope and was going into this thinking it was going to be similar to others in the same category of romance. What I did not expect was two powerful and strong people were sort of broken from their past. Penthouse Player was sinful and very unexpected. You get the good, bad, and sexy all in one twist.

Reina trumps the Queen card of what she takes on in life. Tristan will never back down from what he wants. I really was impressed with their first encounter. Tristan saw Reina and immediately claimed her from the arms of another man. This book had the high and lows. It was a true emotional rollercoaster.

[Lea ★ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC provided through Netgalley.

I really liked this one. It was so my cup of tea. Fun and quick.
I haven't read a book set on a Wall street for a long time, so this was a great change of pace.
This was the first book I've read from this author and it won't be my last.
I was intrigued right from the start. It is a great plot with believable characters.
Can't wait to read more in this series.

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 3 out of 5]

If your heart has been broken by those that are suppose to love you unconditionally how can you tell when someone truly cares about you and would do anything for you? This story is more than just a Boss/Employee Relationship, its about opening yourself up to the possibility that this relationship may just be the thing that sets you right again. After countless heartbreaks from her parents Reina has a hard time with relationships, always believing that they will leave her, that she isn't good enough for anyone to truly love. But is Tristan any better? He's a playboy, and he has had his heart broken, though he won't admit that to anyone let alone himself.

You can see my full review here: https://nadineisobsessedwithbooks.blo...

[Sissy's Romance Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

'Penthouse Player' by Tara Leigh is the First Book in the New series called "Billionaire Bosses". This is the story of Reina St. James and Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV.
Renia mom left her and her 'Dad' when she was a young teenager. Renia had learned through over hearing her mother that the man she left them for was actually her real dad. It seemed that he was married and Renia was what he called a 'bastard' child. Her real father has to keep up an image and doesn't want legitimate kids to know about her. So her mom never came back to see her and her 'Dad' kind of left her to her on devices. Now Renia is working towards a great career and has taken a job at Bettencourt. Renia meets Tristan at a party and they almost have a one night stand before Renia realizes who he is an takes off.
This puts a spin on her working for him and they both try to fight their attraction but can't for long.
I enjoyed their story!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Merged review:

Book Review For You: PENTHOUSE PLAYER by Tara Leigh Penthouse Player by Tara Leigh My rating: 4 of 5 stars 'Penthouse Player' by Tara Leigh is the First Book in the New series called "Billionaire Bosses". This is the story of Reina St. James and Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV. Renia mom left her and her 'Dad' when she was a young teenager. Renia had learned through over hearing her mother that the man she left them for was actually her real dad. It seemed that he was married and Renia was what he called a 'bastard' child. Her real father has to keep up an image and doesn't want legitimate kids to know about her. So her mom never came back to see her and her 'Dad' kind of left her to her on devices. Now Renia is working towards a great career and has taken a job at Bettencourt. Renia meets Tristan at a party and they almost have a one night stand before Renia realizes who he is an takes off. This puts a spin on her working for him and they both try to fight their attraction but can't for long. I enjoyed their story!"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...... https://twitter.com/soapsrus68 https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR... http://booklikes.com/bloghttps://roma...... https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo... View all my reviews
 

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a great debut! Penthouse Player is a sexy, engaging office romance. Reina is a 23 year old graduate about to start her internship with one of the heaviest hitters on Wall Street - the Bettencourt financial empire. When she meets a hot guy at a fundraiser, and goes home with him, she's all for it until she sees the logo of her soon to be employer hanging on his wall. Oops! Time to go.



When Tristan sees the gorgeous young woman he'd had in his bed (and lost) in his conference room among all the other interns, he knows he's in trouble and that he should have heeded the warning his gut gave him the night before. But still, his body can't help but remember how she felt in his arms for those brief minutes, and he wants her all over again. And he means to have her, even if she's too young for him, even if it wouldn't look appropriate for him to be dating one of his legendary company's interns.

Reina and Tristan steam up the pages in Penthouse Player. But, more importantly than that, they have a believable emotional bond. She's smart and strong and fiercely determined he not learn about her past. And he's just as smart and strong, and kind and determined to keep Reina in his life. When you put Wall Street shark with a young, determined protégée, you should get an epic matchup, and that's exactly what Tara Leigh gives us with Reina and Tristan's story. Kudos to her for such a fantastic debut!

I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.

[Isha Coleman · Rating 5 out of 5]

So different, yet just the same. It's hard to piece your heart back together after having it broken so many times. Reina is the girl that nobody wanted, but the woman determined to succeed. Ambition has taken her far, but will her nuisance of a heart ruin her all over again? Tristan has it all. Or so it seems. Money, notoriety and success mean nothing, if you lose yourself along the way. Tara Leigh appeals to that vulnerability that makes us human. THE HEART! The emotions are raw and the heat is real. Penthouse Player is a look at life's tragedies and complications. Reina finds her inner strength as she struggles with a foolish heart and a sharp mind.


Merged review:

Penthouse Player (Billionaire Bosses) by Tara Leigh  
So different, yet just the same. It's hard to piece your heart back together after having it broken so many times. Reina is the girl that nobody wanted, but the woman determined to succeed. Ambition has taken her far, but will her nuisance of a heart ruin her all over again? Tristan has it all. Or so it seems. Money, notoriety and success mean nothing, if you lose yourself along the way. Tara Leigh appeals to that vulnerability that makes us human. THE HEART! The emotions are raw and the heat is real. Penthouse Player is a look at life's tragedies and complications. Reina finds her inner strength as she struggles with a foolish heart and a sharp mind. 

[Sangria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow! Great first book IMO by this author & a world she created I've never really delved that much into. Wall Street. I liked both characters. Reina was extremely strong & likable & brilliant I couldn't help but root for her. Tristan, he was just yummy thru the whole book.

We start w/ Tristan & Reina meeting at a charity event. They hook up to some degree only for Reina to realize at Tristan's home that he's going to be her boss come Monday. She runs out, shows up for work on Monday, Tristan whose hedge fund she's working for is there & were off and running.

There's secrets Of Reinas birth that play heavily into this story. Her Mother is a piece of work, and I'm not sure I could of forgiven her like Reina did. Tristan, fighting the obvious attraction, a good love story, and the culmination of all of it. I was looking forward to maybe Kyle, Bryce or Celeste getting a story because those supporting characters make up a big part of this book. But, I just looked at the next book in the series & Im not sure who those characters are? They were not in this book.

I will read it though. I like the flow of the author, she made me understand the world building of the biz & the steam was lit! Recommend.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book I have read by this author and I have to say I would look for more from Tara Leigh. Throughout the story of course we know the secret that Reina is trying to hide from everyone including her boss. And even though you know the secret will be revealed you can't help but keep on reading to see just how big of a train wreck the secret will end up being. All in all it was a very enjoyable billionaire romance.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this novel.

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review:

A well written book but an over-simplified story. The plot had so many twists--a bastard daughter abandoned by her mother for a multi-millionaire, makes something of herself. It was a bit overreaching to think she could meet and basically fall in love at first sight with another mega-millionaire who just so happens to be a nice guy, with a Dad who is also a nice guy. Not saying that there aren't any out there. It just gets better and better. She is finally outed for who she is and SHE IS BELIEVED-easily. She is accepted by her siblings for the most part, she faces down her mega-rich Dad with a few threats and gets her way. She sort-of reconciles with her Mom who finally finds a backbone and is 'sorry'. That was the biggest pill to swallow. The story wraps up with a HEA which I don't mind at all, but the story became so unbelieveable, it was a shame. I guess if you want chick-lit with no conflict or heartache thrown in, this book is for you. I can leave it. Thanks however for allowing me to read this book. It was not a tough read at all, and was actually quite enjoyable. Just not the story for me. 3.5 stars

[Siobhan · Rating 4 out of 5]

My first Tara Leigh book was Deal Breaker, the second book in the Billionaire Bosses series, and since then I have been more than happy to dive into each new Tara Leigh release. In fact, I’ve become somewhat of an obsessed fan girl, overly eager to consume each and every word Tara Leigh shares with the world. Thus, I decided it was finally time to go back and see where it all began.

In some ways you can tell Penthouse Player is Tara Leigh’s debut book, at least if you’re a fan of her work. Penthouse Player is a wonderful read, yet I wasn’t quite as in love with it as I have been with her more recent work. Had I not already read all of Tara Leigh’s other work, though, Penthouse Player would have ensued I did so. It was a great introduction to Tara Leigh’s writing – and I assure you, Tara Leigh’s work has only grown stronger from here.

Penthouse Player offers exactly what you would hope for from a billionaire romance. It has plenty of drama, plenty of steam, and all the emotion you could hope for. It did start of a wee bit on the slow side, but once things started to move it moved at a serious pace. We’re introduced to the characters, we get to see them interact, and then it isn’t long before things start to move and do not stop. It is event after event, drama after drama, with each new element ensuring you’ll be hooked throughout.

As has been the case with all the Tara Leigh books I have read – and that is all her work, with Penthouse Player being the last book I needed to read to label myself a fan who has read all her work – Penthouse Player was a book I consumed in a single sitting. Once I started, I found myself unable to pull myself away. I was hooked, and you will be to.

As a fan of Tara Leigh, I can say I’m more than happy to have gone back to read her debut book. It was wonderful and works as a great introduction to the author’s work. As I’ve read Tara Leigh’s latest releases, I can say she has grown a lot as an author – but growth does not equate to any kind of failure with Penthouse Player. Penthouse Player set the bar high, and Tara Leigh has certainly demonstrated she is more than capable of getting better and better with each new book she shares with the world.

If you have yet to read a Tara Leigh book, you certainly need to amend that.

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reina St. James was abandoned by her mother for the father that wanted nothing to do with her, so she's no stranger to rejection. It's made it to where she has just learned to blend in with whatever crowd she's in, but on the flip side, she's worked her behind off to make her way into the high-risk world of Wall Street, and she refuses to let anyone derail her goal. But she never saw Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV coming, who has busted his behind to make his own success outside of his families' illustrious name. He's always put business before pleasure, but he never saw Reina coming, and she shook his world up. However, she walked away from an explosive night when she found out who he was, and he couldn't get her out of his head. Imagine his surprise when she showed up at his company to work. They both know that being together could mess everything up, but neither can stay away from the other. At the end of the day, will they risk everything by betting on each other? I heard a rumor that this is Tara Leigh's first book, and frankly, I couldn't believe it! Her talented writing style shone through the pages, and had me completely hooked cover to cover! Xavier & Reina were great characters, even with their flaws, as neither trusted very easily. And I was never so happy when Reina finally stood up for herself! This story was so compelling that I devoured it in one sitting on the first weekend of the NFL. I know that doesn't sound that crazy to some, but I'm all about football season so that's saying a lot to me, as this author is a new addiction for real! Twists & turns had me singing serious colorful metaphors, while the sexy times were EXPLOSIVE, which will destroy panties. I'm already sure that I'll NEVER get enough of this new author, so I'm ready for more ASAP! HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review Tara Leigh - Penthouse Player

Received an ARC from Netgallery in exchange for an honest review.

I am Rating this book 5 +++++ Stars as it met all the ✅ for my kind of FAVORITE read ... very fortunate NG sent me a copy as I really liked this new author

Loved Reina & Tristen's story - read it in 24 hrs - its the kind of book you are up till 2:00 AM when you have to get up the next day @ 5:30 AM for work !! I was hooked from the first few chapters.

This book begs the question is it a lie or untruth by omission? Tristen is pretty upfront going into this relationship Reina certainly not so much... she is smart & breathtakingly gorgeous but hiding some secrets & is very afraid of getting hurt - a recent college grad embarking on her dream job ... only to find out the gorgeous guy she meets at a charity event and oh by the way almost sleeps with ....is her new boss ..

Great plot - great secondary characters & loved the Wall Street - Banker setting ! Can't wait to read more in this series.

I highly recommend this read & I am still swooning over the HEA !! Loved the epilogue - what a great way to end this awesome love story

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penthaus player is an interesting love story on the Wall Street. At first, I thought this book will not be for my taste a rich playboy CEO and an opportunistic social climber. But no the story is so much more after you see what is behind the strong facade and under the expensive suit you see two completely different persons. Tristian and Reina are both really great person you can not help but to fell in love with them. I loved how did author hat escalate attraction between them how they were constantly denied the pleasure and tasted just a few bread crumbs. Tristian is truly amazing character down on earth and with a great relationship with his father. And Reina her story is just sad and heartbroken but she did it, and she overcame the fear and her anger transmitted in something good, the wish for success. With Tristian, she makes a great team they are both stronger because of their love and at the end, we see that sky is the limit. Great story with an unexpected twist and a lot of suspensions.
I volunteered to review an ARC of this book for Netgelly

[Cindy Reifel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reina St. James has worked her butt off over the years to get her degree and move to NY in order to get an internship with Bettencourt, a Wall Street Company that is internationally known and respected and, has a new hedge trading fund that she wants to be part of. Tristan Bettencourt IV is the head of this company and, as soon as he sets eyes on Reina, falls head over heels, as she does for him. This causes some serious problems because, Reina St. James is the illegitimate, unaccepted daughter of Gerald Van Horne, the man her mother left her and her father for because she loved her lover more than her daughter. The passion, fear, unintended neglect of personal details, constant evasion of co-workers and paparazzi and, finally, potential loss of the new hedge fund that Tristan has built from the ground up, finally brings everything to a head. I had enough trouble as it was trying to put this book down. It was glued to my fingers for the last quarter of the book aaannnnddddd ===IT WAS WORTH IT!!!!!

[Linda Rea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reina was not acknowledged by her biological father her whole life in fact when he decided to divorce his first wife and marry her mother Reina was not to be acknowledged at all. When Reina's father died is when she found out who he was and decided never to acknowledge him either so when she graduated she applied for his competitors business and was lucky to get accepted but she never knew Tristian the son of Bettencourts would be her boss. When they met it was love at first site but Reina felt like she didn't belong in his world and he was the boss so they so each other on the sly. When the Van Horn company her biological father's company started to take over the Bettencourts she knew it was only a matter of time till her secrets were out and she and Tristan would be no more. I loved the characters and how they dealt with the world of high finance and each other.
Reviewed on behalf of Once upon an Alpha

[Riley Mackenzie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penthouse Player is a fantastic forbidden love story with a smokin' hot alpha hero and a strong and sassy heroine. These characters come alive through Tara Leigh's beautifully crafted sexy and smart read that is filled with twists and turns that leave you guessing until the very end!

[Cathy Geha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Penthouse Player by Tara Leigh
Billionaire Bosses #1

Hooked from their first scene together I was rooting for Tristan and Reina from the beginning. This well written debut novel shows promise for Tara Leigh’s future as I look forward to reading what she writes next.

Tristan Xavier Bettencourt IV is a moneymaker on Wall Street. He has an Ivy League degree, played hockey in college and has chosen to work hard though he has family money. Into his life walks Reina St. James and he is smitten at first sight. When Reina’s hot suddenly goes to cold and she hurries out his door he is curious. When he walks in to a company orientation program for interns at the family company he more than surprised to see her there. From that point on there is a bit of chase but a lot of insta-love to go with the insta-attraction. The beautiful couple of alpha, older, wealthy wonderful lover and the younger new-on-the job, intelligent, driven-to-succeed woman have a few things to deal with before they can achieve their happily ever after. I felt like kicking Reina’s mother in the patoot and wished her childhood had been easier but it added to the story so all’s well that ends well.

There was some predictability but it did not deter from the story and as I liked both Tristan and Reina I kept reading – in fact – I stayed up reading till 2am needing to finish the book before sleeping.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press-Swerve and Barclay Publicity for the ARC – This is my honest review.

4 Stars

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 1/2 stars!

Penthouse Player is the first book in the exciting new Billionaire Bosses series, and it's off to a terrific start! With the great storyline, complex characters, secrets, lies, betrayal, and intriguing twists, this emotional roller-coaster of a story will have you hooked from beginning to end. This was a fantastic story, and a great start to what is going to be an exciting, and sizzling hot series!

Tristan was a great male lead for this story, and I really liked him. While he could've been the typical billionaire, he wasn't. He was down to earth, considerate, cared about his work and employees, and was an overall great guy. Reina was a little harder to connect with, but I really liked her, especially after she finally got rid of all of the secrets she'd been holding onto for most of her life. It made a huge difference in her personality, and allowed her to find her true self, instead of the fake persona that she'd had to adapt to in order to get through life.

Tristan and Reina made an incredible couple, and they were also great together when it came to the business aspect of the story too. I loved the twists and turns throughout the book, some that I never saw coming, but were so long overdue. I really enjoyed this book, and I believe that it's going to be an amazing series. I'm looking forward to the next book, and to see where the author takes the story.

I strongly recommend this book, series, and great author.

I have voluntarily reviewed this arc provided by the publisher via NetGalley.