An Elegant Solution

Modern Match-Maker #8

by Rocklyn Ryder

The last thing I'm looking for is a husband and Raven Swann doesn't deal in "maybe ever afters."

Alicia: I'm focused on my career, not getting married and making babies. So when my aunt and my grand-baby crazy mom decide to hire a professional match maker on my behalf I about come unglued.
Imagine! An arranged marriage in this day and age. It's insulting! But when I meet the man I'm supposed to marry I can't deny the chemistry between us.

Michael: When I signed up for an arranged marriage through a professional match maker, I was thinking I was ready for something serious, but I wasn't in a hurry to get to the marriage part. Until I meet my fiance. Suddenly getting married sounds incredible; the sooner, the better.

Too bad this arranged marriage plan wasn't even Alicia's plan. How do I convince her that I'm the man she didn't know she was looking for?

***
An Elegant Solution is the 8th book in the Arranged Marriage series by Rocklyn Ryder. It contains a complete story that follows one couple from their beginning to their happily ever after with no cheating, no cliffhangers, and just enough drama to keep it fun.

All the books in the Arranged Marriage series are complete stories that can be read in any order.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance

126 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 10, 2017

About the author

Rocklyn prefers her romance reads to be short, cute, and dirty; low drama and a little over-the-top: extra points for growly, alpha heroes with beards.

Originally from the farms and ranches of Central California, Rocklyn grew up in the lap of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Those small towns will always be home, but Rocklyn was born to roam.

These days she spends her days exploring America's back roads in her camper trailer, writing steamy happily-ever-afters while looking for internet.

Follow Rocklyn here, on Amazon, find her on social media, or drop by the website (rocklynwrites dot net) and keep in touch when you join the (mostly) weekly newsletter and never miss updates on what's in the works-- and what's working and not in a life full of adventure and shenanigans.

***
And what do I read? Total smut, the kind with over-the-top chemistry that gets characters to lose their minds and their clothes as soon as possible-- they can work out the kinks on the way to happily ever after later!

Reviews

[♡Tonya♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

**ARC RECEIVED IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **

3.5 stars

So far, I have enjoyed all of the arranged marriage stories - Raven Swan knows her stuff. While I liked this one as well, it started out a little rougher for me than previous books.

I'll be honest and say that while I ended up liking both the hero and the heroine eventually, it wasn't instant.

The hero, Michael, is a former manwhore who is actually engaged (fake engagement to help a woman he had been seening). Honestly, I almost stopped reading right then. I don't like hearing about the hero's OW stuff. He has a reputation and when he starts seeing himself as others are seeing him, he decides that he needs and wants to make some changes. Happening upon Raven Swan's website, he starts filling out the info.

With Alicia, the heroine, it was tougher to get behind her. She was practically forced to go along with the arranged marriage by her over zealous aunt and mother. I felt sorry for Michael. He was clearly starting to have feelings for Alicia and she kept him at arm's length, not wanting to admit her feelings- even to herself. I just felt she was not very likable. Did she come around? Yes. I just wanted something more from her.

-no cheating
-om drama - none
-ow drama - none but the hero was engaged at first but it was a fake engagement to help a friend get her parents off her back. She is long gone before Alicia comes along.
-some steamy sex scenes
-pushing away by heroine
-no violence of any sort
-cute little update 5 years later

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great Arranged Marriage romance by Rocklyn Ryder and this time it's the woman, Alicia, who isn't so sure about the whole marriage thing and it's her aunt and mom who push her into it. But when she meets her match, Michael, she doesn't think it's such a bad idea to begin with. The chemistry is there between them but she's still on the fence about it and until he doesn't respond to her texts after meeting and texting daily when he goes home, that she realizes what she has been missing and what she actually wants. Is it too late?
A great steamy read with lust/love and what I enjoy is the little to no drama in these stories and the way that the author captures your interest from the get go (even with little drama) it's the perfect read when you just want a great romance that makes you smile and happy.
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

Alicia is sitting at the bar, nursing a drink, trying hard not to let on how peeved she is about this situation. Her aunt and her mother have gone ahead and started the matchmaking process, but thank goodness they went through Raven's site. But Alicia doesn't want to settle down and have kids, yet. Not for a while actually. She is just not thrilled that this whole thing started without her consent. She is handed the questionnaire from Raven's site by her aunt....and man this is pretty intense. What can she do? This is paid for, and if she doesn't fill this paperwork out, her aunt will....ugh!

Michael is not ready to settle down just yet, but there is a little prank he is helping a girl he is seeing out in the works. Her parents think that since the sister was just married now Michael and this girl should be getting married. Only there is nothing there, really. His brother has talked to him about a lot of things, and ultimately it came down to him realizing it is time to get serious, a little bit more anyways. He checks out Raven's site and fills out the paperwork. Man, intense and worth it. Just as that is finished he is about to call that girl but she beats him to it, and "breaks up" with him...Wow!

Raven has her hands full with this one, first to top everything off Alicia's aunt.....enough said. Alicia has been talking with Raven, and come clean with the not really wanting to settle down and all. The response that Alicia gets is not at all what she is expecting, but she is going to at least give it a try and see where this ends up. Michael also has been in contact with Raven. Busy lady with this situation, indeed.

The selection for each others teams has been made, and now it is meeting time. Michael is stunned when he sees her in person. Alicia is mortified because her aunt is being....well her over zealous pushy aunt self....including meeting Michael for the first time in person. The "date with chaperone's and no alcohol" is all brought together by her aunt, and it is horrible. Needing air Alicia slips out, so did Michael (separately) and now things heat up and really quickly. These two definitely have chemistry. But Alicia admits to Michael she is not into this for marriage. Things look a little bleak for them.

Back home, Michael has again been in touch with Raven. and her advice is not what he thought it would be. He is convinced that Alicia and him were a perfect match. After talking with his mom a bit, he decides he is going to do something about it, try to convince Alicia they are right for each other. Alicia also has been talking with Raven and again not hearing what she thought she would have, she decides that she really does like Michael a lot more than she thought, and she needs to do some convincing to win him back. The surprises start with where and when Michael and Alicia meet up again, and then all the awesome things that happen from that point on. Happy ever ending achieved and in true style.

[Keryth Belvin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 8 Of The Raven Swann, Arranged Marriage Series, And It's The Best One Yet.

I am voluntarily reviewing an advanced reader copy of this book, An Elegant Solution by Rocklyn Ryder.

How anyone could read a Rocklyn Ryder book and not fall in love with the author, the book and the characters, is beyond me and NO I have NOT heard of that happening, I'm just saying cuz I love her work so much. Her books are scrumptious! I highly recommend that you devour one (or all) today!

Alicia has zero desire to meet, fall in love and marry, anyone but it looks like her aunt is not giving her much choice in the matter. Her aunt has gone behind Alicia back and hired the top Matchmaker in the country. Even though Alicia is furious, she fills out her portion of the paperwork and agrees to meet the man that her family has picked out for her.
Michael has decided it's time to settle down and get a wife so after surfing the web for a while, he happens upon Raven's website, is intrigued, impressed and he signs up.
Both their families think they would make a excellent match and arrange for them to meet. When they do, it's lust at first site. Their physical relationship needs no pushing or coaching from anyone else, but as for a long term/permanent relationship, they are both dragging their feet. However, Michael seems to be a lot more open to it than Alicia.
Is Michael already falling for Alicia? Can he win Alicia over and into falling for him as well? Will their family's interference help or hinder their relationship?

[Elysian Fields · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mom Might Just Know Best Sometimes!

This is a fun story with some really interesting characters. I love this series and the characters that this author develops for each new story. This one was full of pushy, assertive, and brash secondary characters (in the form of a mother and aunt). When the mother and aunt of Alicia decide that they do not want to wait anymore for her to find her husband they take matters into their hands and sign Alicia up with Raven. Michael is read for a wife and family but when he meets Alicia he finds out that this was not her idea. He is instantly hooked and just needs to help her along in the process.

I will say that this story starts out a bit blemished (there is a bit with Michael and another woman) but this story catches up to the wonder of the series. I really enjoyed that even though they are in love and getting marries, it was not a mad rush to the alter. This story is filled with great lines, fun story lines, and some steamy scenes. The story is short and sweet and makes a great addition to the others in this series. If you have enjoyed the others in this series you will enjoy this story and if you are new then you will get a feel for the greatness of this author. I received an ARC and am leaving a voluntary review.

[Lexee Toste · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this read. It's a pretty quick read but a fun one. Alicia's Aunt is "gifting" her the help of Raven to find her a husband but Alicia wasn't even worried about looking. She is starting her career and opening up her own business so that's where her focus has been. Michael, has gotten to the point where he is realizing some things and so is ready for a partner but not necessarily wanting to rush into marriage. He is ready for something serious though. They get matched and while they have instant chemistry they both have to deal with figuring out what they are ready for and if they want to give it a go. Alicia has a little more to work through on that front. I really liked the way that the story was written and flowed. There is a great balance between action and romance. The sex is explicit and fits the story and the characters. It was fun getting to see these 2 find their happy ending. Rocklyn Ryder's Arranged Marriage series books are always a great way to pass the time, and this one was no different. They are stand alone books so you can jump in anywhere you want.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Amy Fudge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alicia is an independent woman who owns her own business and knows what she wants. Sure she would like to have somebody to share her life with, but does it have to a race to the alter? Michael has a "player" reputation, and has finally decided he wants a committed relationship, but does it have to marriage or nothing? Alicia's Aunt and Mom sign her up for an arranged marriage. Michael signs up on a whim. They both think they know what they want, and don't want, but do they?

This was a fun book to read. The main characters are super, and the supporting characters are amazing, especially Aunt Vera. There is humor, instant chemistry with the main characters, steamy sex, and so much more. Once you start reading you won't want to stop until you have read the entire book, and you will smile at the HEA.

This is book 8 in this series, but each can definitely be read as a standalone book. I would recommend this book to any and all that love a good romance story with a twist of humor and some heat.

I received and ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review. This is my honest opinion.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Michael had been trying to end his fake engagement to his friends with benefits, when she abruptly brakes up with him. She has found someone she is serious about. Michael being called out on his serial dating by first his brother and now his former friends with benefits. Now he is thinking its time to get serious. Not ready for marriage, but a relationship that will lead there some day. So when he comes across Raven Swann's site he signs up.
Alicia values her independence. She is just starting to have some success in her design business. She doesn't have time for a serious relationship. Her mom wants grand babies and her maidan step aunt Vera thinks its time for her to settle down, so they sign her up with Raven Swann.
Loved Alicia and ;Michael. Aunt Vera was cringe worthy. Loved Michael's family. Loved learning more about Raven Swann. The epilogue closed out their story nicely. A fun, light and steamy story.
I received an ARC copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. I bought a copy in support of the author. Have and will be reading again. Love the Raven Swann stories.

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another win for match maker Raven Swan, despite both parties are not interested in getting married when they fill at the applications. Alicia is busy building her business, when she is gifted by her aunt and mother the opportunity to have an arranged marriage. She is not even sure why she fills out the forms. Michael, realizes that he wants a family like his brother has, and stumbles upon Raven Swan's website on his phone after being dumped by his fake fiancee, who he was trying to dump. When they meet, the chemistry is there, but Alicia sends him home without an indication that she wants to see him again. Did their teams pick the wrong person? Can Michael convince Alicia he is the one for her? Will Alicia realize she made a mistake of pushing him away before it is too late?

I read a free ARC for an honest review. While I missed the first few books, I have read the others and enjoyed this one as much as the previous ones. The stories are all fast, romantic reads. If only there was a real Raven Swan, there would be a lot fewer, lonely singles out there.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven Swann and her match making skills hit it again because she knew best. With Alicia not interested in getting married but her family intended in meddling in her life, scheming to marry her off and Alicia’s competitive spirit, she was up to a challenge. Caught in a life style that wasn’t satisfying him and worried that friends and women he had been with saw him as a player in whom you cannot trust, Michael decided he was ready and needed a wife. But, seemed Alicia and Michael match teams were not very organized in their duties. The strong attraction was there, the romance and the passion too but still something was not clicking and Alicia was a nut hard to crack. Different to the others stories this two were making things difficult. Interesting and entertaining how these two characters were dealing with their situation. This was not an easy match. Enjoyed it very much.

[Lisa Hoak · Rating 4 out of 5]

An Elegant Solution is another installment in the Arranged Marriage Romance series. Each one is a standalone book and only connected by the marriage broker, Raven Swann, so they can be read in any order. She is a modern-day matchmaker for those looking to get married....and even for those who aren't in such a hurry.

Alicia is signed up by her mom and aunt (OK mostly her aunt) because they keep reminding her she's not getting any younger. Alicia is just getting her business off the ground and isn't focused on personal relationships. Michael's in an odd situation and when things change, he takes matters into his own hands which surprises those close to him. Sorry, no spoilers from me! This was a good book and a little different from the others in the series. This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy of the book.

[Karina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. I loved this newest installment of the Arranged Marriage series by Ms Ryder. Alicia and Michael were a little different coming into the arrangement than others have been. First of all Alicia is not the one who signed up. Her aunt is behind it along with her mother going along somewhat. Michael stumbles across the sight while looking at dating sights. Both are strong willed people who are not really looking to hurry up and get married. Of course the must want to subconsciously or why fill out all the paperwork it involves? Raven of course kknows and understands what they are both looking for. And knows that even though Alicia's aunt is trying to run her life she knows how to handle the two looking for love. I also like that we learn more about Raven and her own family. This was such a great read and I look forward to more in the series.

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t usually expect hot and funny to be two adjectives that go together. In this book they do, perfectly. Alicia’s “team” take the ridiculous, the ludicrous, and the downright bizarre to new levels while trying to find her Mr. Right. Michael and his “team” are positively tame in comparison. (His team includes a gay best friend, so you get the idea just how ‘out there’ this whole process gets.) There were times I was laughing so hard I couldn’t breathe. And at others I was considering how to stuff myself in the fridge to cool down. Alicia and Michael are a match made in Raven Swann’s brilliantly devious mind. Neither one thinks they’re ready for marriage just yet however they can’t deny the explosive chemistry they have together.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book.

[Sherri Babb · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off I have to say that this is my favorite series. I have loved it from book one. There is just something about an arranged marriage that makes for a good book. That being said An Elegant Solution was a little different then the other books in this series but boy was it good. I loved Michael and Alicia together. From the first time they saw each other you could feel the chemistry between the two of them. Alicia was a little unsure about wanting to be in a relationship. A few times in the book I felt absolutely heart broken because of what both Michael and Alicia were feeling. You throw a meddling family in the mix and it makes for a very good read. I would highly recommend this book.
I voluntarily received a copy for my honest review

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the eighth book in the Arranged Marriage Romance series. They are all standalone stories that can be read in any order. With this one, Raven Swann has outdone herself! She has taken on two new client. These clients are much more resistant to her services than her previous clients have been. Alicia and Michael are not looking for marriage at all, if truth be told. Alicia is only going through with the whole setup to appease her mom and aunt. Michael is only going through with it to "give it a try" and see what happens. Can Raven make this match one made in marriage heaven? I'll leave that to you to find out. These are great stories and I recommend the whole series!
*I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. This is my honest review.*

[Julianne Macneil · Rating 5 out of 5]

i read this book as part of an arc program. I love the Raven arranged marriage books, they are a combination of instant love and doubt. In this book, Alicia is approached by her mother and aunt to make use of Raven's service to find her a husband, but she doesn't want to get married. Alicia goes along with them to keep the peace. Michael isn't looking to get married, but when his friend with benefits calls off their relationship, he decides he does want a wife, only nobody thinks he is serious. When they meet, they have a great connection but part ways because they don't want to get married. This was a little different as the main characters are afraid of commitment and aren't really sure if it is what they want. This book has steamy scenes and some humor. Another good one!

[Rebecca Johns · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alicia really doesn't want to get married, but her aunt is forcing her hand into an arranged marriage. Michael wants to end his fake relationship when he gets the feeling that people think he isn't cut out for love and marriage. Both of them reluctantly work with Raven Swann to find what they need. When they first meet, sparks fly and they know the physical chemistry is there and has to be taken care of. Alicia thinks thats all it will be, physical so she doesn't express her feelings when he goes back home. They both fight their internal struggles with this relationship until they realize that they need to talk to each other to express their love. I absolutely loved this book, and all the arranged marriages books. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[CharmaineW · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
Oh dear, what's a girl to do when her family decide she needs to get married...panic or run. Well Alicia decides to just go along with things for some peace. Little does she realise that signing up with matchmaker Raven Swann will change her life. Michael loves women and that's the problem . He needs to get out of this fake relationship and find a real wife. Deciding to contact matchmaker Raven Swann will be such a shock, he won't realise what's hit him. It started off so simple but meeting Alicia is a anything but. She is gorgeous. The instant chemistry is hot and it was lovely to read how they decided if they were 'the one' or not. Absolutely loved it all.

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love and enjoy this series so very much.

I'm amazed at the different scenarios the author comes up with to set up these arranged marriages and not have them all sound alike.

Michael was a bit different than most of the men we have read about to date. He wasn't looking for a forever at the moment but wanted something. At first I found Alicia a bit weak, that she allowed her aunt to bully her into this arrangement but I loved when she found her footing and fell for Michael. Compromise was put to the test in this book and came out with an A+.

I'm looking forward to the next book and I'm not sure if I will every get bored reading a book by Rocklyn Ryder. She knows how to make you laugh and pant all in the same sentence.

[Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being pushed into an arranged marriage is the last thing Alicia is looking forward to. Michael is known as a player but after a make believe engagement, now realizes he wants a real one. Instant attraction blooms, but will Michael be able to prove that he doesn't want a housewife? Will Alicia be able to accept that getting married doesn't mean no freedom?

Another Rocklyn Ryder arranged marriage hit! Loved how these two weren't necessarily looking for right now, but ended up being the perfect match. Michael and Alicia both proved they were willing to go the extra for the chance of a relationship. Great book and definitely recommend!

[SJ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free advanced reader copy of this book and voluntarily decided to review it

Alicia's Aunt and mother have decided that Alicia needs to settle down and so have paid for her to find love with Ravens marriage broker business, much to her dismay, but she does fill in the forms

Michael has just come out of a relationship of convenience and decides he wants to get married and have kids. It worrys Michael that Alicia is not serious about it as he is rather smitten

Well written, romantic read with a great plot line and loveable characters, I highly recommend

[Rachel Blomberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoy reading about Raven's Arranged Marriage Series.
This one has was perfect where the woman was not sure if she wanted to get married, but kinda pushed into it by her Aunt and her mother. But soon realized that she was open to the ideal of marriage. Now the man was a player that was never serious about a girlfriend but decided he wanted a woman to call his own.
This is an excellent short story and you will not be disappointed. I look forward to the next book in the series, which all are standalone books.
I voluntary review this ARC copy

[E.A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

As always, this new book in the Arranged Marriage series is a great read. It's a sweet, yet hot story about two people who eventually want to settle down and get married, theyjust don't want to do it right away. It follows their first meeting and how they eventually end up on love with one another. It seems that Raven Stark never misses when putting people together with their match!

I've enjoyed all of the books in this series and hope there will be more on the way. This book is a quick read that you can do on one sitting and I definitely recommend it!

[ANNBOOKSHELF · Rating 4 out of 5]

A match maker that knows what belong together before they even do is simply amazing! Whirlwind romance

Alicia independent entrepreneur with too much on her plate gets a curve ball. She has been set up by her aunt and mom for a marriage broker and she thinks they are crazy. Bad boy player image has a fake engagement which turns him into a potential pursuing something he didn't know he wanted. He contacts Raven the match maker service to fond a wife. The connections are interesting...violence 0, sex1

More reviews: my2centsbookreviews.com

[SouthernAngel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raven Swan knows her stuff even with the most difficult clients who shy away from commitment, are as stubborn as they come and very career orientated. I really enjoyed the difference in this arranged marriage read, with some fight and pushing from Alicia's family and perseverance from Michael can they have their HEA? It was romantic and sweet read with explosive chemistry.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.

[Brianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily received an ARC for an honest review. I loved that this story took a slightly different approach to the arranged marriage. I liked the strong chemistry between the characters, and that they were both strong characters trying to maintain their independence. Great story, as always. You get a little more information about Raven Swann too, which I love. Very steamy scenes, and I loved Michael!!

[Lofty · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 1/2*
Alicia's aunt & mum have decided she needs to get married so apply to Raven Swann for her arranged marriage services.
Michael has been helping a friend by pretending to be her fiancé he wants to call it off but she beats him too it as she's met someone.
Is it to late to realise you want marriage & commitment?
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
Another lovely story

[Leanne Bryson · Rating 5 out of 5]

**I am voluntarily reviewing an Advanced Readers Copy of this book**
I am absolutely obsessed with the Arranged Marriage books by Rocklyn Ryder. Each book has its own twist on the characters relationship an An Elegant Solution lives up to the rest!! Alicia gets pushed into this arrangement and finds Michael, who is a bit reluctant himself. But then it happens, chemistry sticks and Raven Swann has another win!! I can't wait for the next book, and the next, and the next......

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have anxiously awaited each book. The arranged marriage prospect that you will find the one that is right for you, picked specifically because that person fits. I love it. Michael is ready for marriage, maybe not as quick as his match is found but once he meets Alicia his plans change. Alicia isn't ready for marriage at all so when she finds out she has a match, she won't change her plans, but Michael has an excellent solution. I voluntarily read a copy of this book and loved it.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book cracked me up a few times! Their first date was, um, interesting. The heat between these two was oh so good. I found it interesting how neither of them really thought they wanted the marraige and babies. Also, it's one of the things I love about this series. There are all kinds of couples that get together and have their HEA.