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The Heiress

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A new heartfelt and suspenseful stand-alone novel from New York Times bestselling author Cassia Leo.
How much is love worth?
Twenty-two-year-old Kristin and her single mom have always struggled to make ends meet. When her mother’s body begins to deteriorate after many back-breaking years of working as a housekeeper, Kristin must say farewell to her college dreams and hello to a full-time job waitressing. She doesn’t really mind. After all, giving up on her dreams will be her penance for that one horrible night.

Her luck begins to turn when she meets Daniel Meyers at work. Daniel is sexy and funny, but most importantly, he wants to get to know the real Kristin. It doesn’t hurt that he’s also extremely wealthy and intent on protecting her. Kristin feels safe with him. She wants to open up to him, to share the details of the awful night that changed her life. But she can’t shake the feeling that Daniel may be keeping a dark secret of his own…

374 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 26, 2017

689 people are currently reading
1758 people want to read

About the author

Cassia Leo

96 books6,843 followers
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Cassia Leo grew up in California and has lived in three different countries. She loves to travel and her dream is to one day score a record deal based on her awesome shower singing skills. She is the author of the Shattered Hearts series (Relentless, Pieces of You, Bring Me Home). She is also the author of the popular Luke and Chase series.

Come chat with her on Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorcassialeo or Twitter:www.twitter.com/AuthorCassiaLeo

Or you can follow her blog at http://cassialeo.com to stay up to date on new releases and giveaways.

Thanks for reading!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
Profile Image for Carlene.
1,027 reviews277 followers
September 26, 2017
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

I am so excited to have a new Cassia Leo book, she writes romance like no one else and The Heiress is no different. The Heiress introduces us to Kristin and Daniel, two strangers from opposite sides of the track who have a chance meeting. Kristin works hard to take care of her mom, she'll do anything to keep a roof over there head and food on the table so when Daniel stands up for her and helps her make that happen she agrees to a date. She notices he's a little moody and seems to be hiding a Bronx upbringing under his wealth, but she feels comfortable and finds herself trusting him. Daniel falls for Kristin under the guise that he's a wealthy businessman, but the truth is far worse. He started everything with his family in mind, but as he gets to know her he knows he has to do what is right. The stakes are high and he's putting it all on the line, but protecting her is worth it.

If I was in over my head, I didn't care. He was worth it.

The Heiress is told from the alternating perspectives of Kristin and Daniel, each giving a glimpse into their relationship and how it blossomed so quickly. We get to see Kristin's past, starting with her move to the Bronx at the young age of eleven until present day at twenty-two. We get to know her family and friends, but there's secrets in her past even she tries to ignore. Kristin is a firecracker of a character, she has some fantastic one-liners, but she's also an excellent damsel in distress. Daniel, from the start, was obviously keeping something from Kristin. He really is perfect on paper, but like Kristin the reader too catches onto his shifting moods and the reader also sees just how coincidental their meetings are. It's hard to deny them once they're together though, they're sweet, they're romantic, they have a pile of sexual chemistry between them, and they seem to bring out the best in each other. Getting to see into both of their perspectives as they recognize what they feel for one another was so interesting. Then there's the twists, and oh are they good. I wondered for a while where the title of the novel came into play and it's perfect. Cassia Leo manages to write a fairytale romance story that doesn't feel over the top, is cushioned by quite a bit of suspense, and has an incredible message about forgiveness.

I didn't know how long this thing with Daniel would last. The beautiful things in my life were never permanent.

I think I liked this story so much that I just wanted more. There's some great secondary characters that I wish had more page time, I felt like they brought so much more to who Kristin was and who Daniel was. I also, selfishly, want more after everything plays out. Like always, I wanted more than the epilogue, though it was fantastic too.

If Daniel and i were on a collision course, from this moment forward, I was going to close my eyes and remain blissfuly ignorant until the moment of impact.

The Heiress is a fantastic new release from Cassia Leo and a much needed fresh story in the romance genre. It's a unique, fun story that was fun to read and absolutely the HEA romance story I dreamed of. Romance readers are going to love Kristin and Daniel's chemistry.
Profile Image for Lillian ☁ Cloud 9 Books ☁.
575 reviews342 followers
October 5, 2017
***** 4.5 Stars *****

The Heiress is about a young woman with the world on her shoulders. As her mother's body weakened from years of physical labor, Kristin left school to take care of her mom.

When she isn't assisting her mother, Kristin works at a bar to pay for a tiny apartment in the Bronx. She needs a break but she can't get out of the endless cycle.

Daniel Meyers is a natural protector. He is also a very wealthy man. He falls deeply in love with Kristin as she continuously shocks him with her loyalty, bravery, and beauty. There's just one problem. His own dark secrets might break them apart.

I loved this story. The first half of the book was told in Kristin's point of view, and then it switched to Daniel's. It was absolutely addicting, and my mind was always wondering what was going on. Daniel was such an enigma, and I couldn't stop thinking about him.

Cassia Leo does a brilliant job to pull you in. Her writing is like a drug! I wish the ending was slightly different, but overall I really enjoyed this book!


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Profile Image for Beverly  Cindy.
856 reviews102 followers
November 2, 2017
It's not a secret I am a big fan of Cassia Leo and I have read her books. Rockstars, politicians or your average guy-next-door, each book is a unique experience. The story stays with you for eternity. I know what I'm talking about. I read the 'Shattered Hearts' series in 2013 and I'm still talking about the characters. By the way I miss them so much.

Cassia is the kind of author that always delivers and every book gets better and better.

“You’re my Picasso. You’re priceless.”


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This journey is about Kristin and Daniel. Both sacrificing everything for family. Until one of them realizes something that will change the rules of the game

Curious?

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This story is about forgiveness and following your heart.

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Release Date 9/26/17
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A must read you definitely can't miss.
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Release day is 9/26/17.
Pre-order Now:

Amazon: http://bit.ly/HeiressAmazon
iBooks: http://bit.ly/HeiressiBooks
Nook: http://bit.ly/HeiressNook
Google Play: http://bit.ly/HeiressPlay
Kobo: http://bit.ly/HeiressKobo

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Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,305 reviews104 followers
October 29, 2017
4.5 Stars

http://rpmbt-blog.com/rpmbt/review-th...

I wasn’t sure what I was going to get when I picked this book up, but boy was I shocked with The Heiress by Cassia Leo! This book had me laughing, wanting to cry, and falling in love with Kristin and Daniel’s characters.

Kristin is down on her luck, taking care of her mother and trying to keep her life together. Something bad happened two years ago, and since then she’s just been trying to survive. When a chance meeting occurs with the sexy rich Daniel she tries to fight the attraction, but she can’t deny what she feels towards him. From there a whirlwind romance starts and trust me, you’re in for a wild ride! I loved the back and forth between these two characters and the will they won’t they, and all the secrets these two were keeping.

Trying to figure out what happened two years ago with Kristin was driving me nuts, and then when we found out, my heart broke for her. I wanted to hate her, but then instead I just hurt for her. Then in part two when we get Daniel’s point of view my world was completely shook up yet again! I didn’t know which side was up and which side was down, just that the feelings between these two were real, and I knew it was going to be a wild, wild ride. When we got inside of Daniel’s head I wanted to hate him more than I wanted to love him, but he had his reason’s for doing what he did, and it explained some of his behavior.

When part three hits in this book, OMG I was on pins and needles waiting to see what was going to happen with these two characters now that we knew both of their secrets and I was just waiting to see how everything was going to play out. I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy road for either of them, but I really, really wanted everything to work out for them. Daniel and Kristin were meant for one another and wow, the way their story came together and ended was amazing.

I truly adored how the author made this book in three parts. We got to see Kristin’s POV and her struggles and then Daniel’s POV and his struggles, and then both of them and see how everything worked out for them. This story had so many twists and turns, angst, laughs, some tears, and definitely a love story for the ages. I picked this book up and was unable to put it down! If you’re looking for a unique romance that has a bit of suspense, and one that will keep you on your toes, I highly suggest picking up The Heiress by Cassia Leo today, trust me, you will not be disappointed, I read it in one sitting!
Profile Image for Megan.
231 reviews
October 2, 2017
ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 Stars
“Are you real?” I sighed with relief as I smiled up at him. “Define real.”


I absolutely love everything I have read from Cassia Leo. Her writing pulls me in and keeps my captive until the last page. I also love a good series and Cassia Leo is amazing at them, keeping the characters and story-lines developing and keeping your interest throughout. But there is something great about a well written standalone that makes me happy to not have yet another cliff hanger waiting for me at the end. When I saw Cassia was releasing one soon I was so excited and couldn’t wait to get my ARC of The Heiress.

The Heiress didn’t disappoint either. It was such a well-crafted story line and I fell in love with Daniel and Kristin. Their connection and bond was very well done but I honestly want more of them. I wanted more of all the characters, they were all so well written and the way they all played their part in the overall story line was very well done.

I think the only thing The Heiress was really missing was that extra level of angst. Kristin is angry at her situation, her mother, landlord, and even Daniel at times, but even in her anger she is so level headed. I wanted her to I don’t know do something totally irrational, throat punch the handsy jerk from her work or something to that extreme. Not that the lack of angst took away from the story or made me like it any less, I just kept expecting something more to happen.

I love this author and this book, I would defiantly recommend this to everyone. Especially if you haven’t read anything from yet, this standalone would be a great place to start.
Profile Image for Chelé-----4 The Love of Books .
1,025 reviews56 followers
September 26, 2017
What a story!! I went in blind because it had been awhile sense I've read a Cassia Leo book and I was SO excited to see what The Heiress was about and of course it was NOTHING like I expected but WAY better!

I loved Kristin, she's smart, loyal, funny and kind. She takes care of her mother all on her own whenever she's not working hard as a waitress at a not so upscale restaurant. One day she comes home to an eviction notice taped to her door that she knows is a mistake, her landlord refuses to believe the clerical error and Kristin is left distraught.

Enters Daniel, he's beyond handsome, caring, protective and he wants to help Kristin. In fact, he offers to pay her rent. Kristin is obviously taken a back and is very skeptical of him but she gets to know him and he makes her feel safe.

Kristin and Daniel fall easily into each other and a strong bond is formed but there's things in Kristin's past that she is scared to share with Daniel because she doesn't want him to look at her differently and Daniel....well, let's just say his name is one of the only truths he's told. So many lies and secrets.

In true Cassia Leo fashion there's a GIANT twist that I just didn't see coming. The Heiress is filled with suspense, intrigue, passion, romance and intensity! I love Daniel and Kristin and I want more!!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
266 reviews9 followers
October 31, 2017
This book was boring. I hate insta love books. Insta chemistry and attraction is fine. The story lacked depth and character development. I would have skipped finishing but we didn’t have power and I needed something to do. I did a lot of skimming. Thank god I only paid 99cents.
Profile Image for Cydney Reads.
385 reviews5 followers
May 23, 2019
Cute

I enjoyed the story, I did enjoy that there was no cliffhanger, and that Daniel and Kristin ended up in a happily ever after relationship. The only thing the story was lacking was a feel of excitement, I just didn't feel certain thrills I normally get out of chase scenes. Other than that disconnect, I enjoyed the story.
Profile Image for Paula Jackman.
68 reviews15 followers
September 23, 2017
Mystery, betrayal, regrets, heart ache, heart warming, funny, forgiving, loving and a whole lot more then I highly recommend this book.
The Heiress is definitely one of my favourite reads so far for 2017

Each character played a special part in this story and whether you hated or loved them, they are what made this story so perfect. The author has a knack of bringing her characters to life and that is what I love about this book.
The banter between the two main characters was perfect. There was a lot of sass and humour but also a vulnerable side to both of the characters.

The story itself is beautifully written, the struggles that the characters go through are real and it will definitely pull at your heart strings.
Profile Image for Courtney.
673 reviews22 followers
October 1, 2017
So this was good. I was enjoying it more so in the beginning. Kristin and Daniel were just Ok MCs to me. The major conflict in this book happened and then literally all was forgiven the next chapter. There was no seperation, no I have to think about things or anything. After that happened I was really just trying to get to the end to finish it. I don't think it deserves a 2.5 but then at the same time I feel 3 stars is too much. Eh idk, on to the next.
Profile Image for Becca.
687 reviews54 followers
September 26, 2017
4.5 Stars - Cassia Leo serves up a sweet, sexy, and suspenseful read with The Heiress, Kristin and Daniel’s unconventional love story. From the very first page, I was intrigued. There was something inexplicable between Kristin and Daniel that drew me to them and kept me invested in their developing relationship despite how different they seemed. As their journey progressed, the chemistry between the hero and heroine became more obvious and their connection deepened. Kristin and Daniel challenged one another, pushing each other away for the sake of their personal baggage, only to be drawn back in by that intangible pull. The secondary characters added plenty of heart and tons of intrigue, ensuring that I had no choice but to hang on for whatever wild ride Cassia Leo had in store.

Kristin is the kind of heroine I always love getting to know. Hardworking and loyal to those she loves, she’s beautifully flawed and perfectly real. There was something so genuine about this character’s voice that drew me to her heartache. I couldn’t help but feel for her and all she’d already endured. Determined to find her way in the world and make up for the mistakes of her past, Kristin was resilient and vulnerable in a way that made her entirely relatable. Daniel, on the other hand, raised plenty of questions. Everything about this character was carefully crafted and I enjoyed how this hero’s personal history unfolded as the novel progressed. While maintaining a bit of mystery concerning Daniel was necessary to the storyline, I would have liked to unravel him a bit more near the end of the book for the sake of really connecting with him.

One thing I can always count on with this author is her unique and enthralling storylines. The Heiress was no exception and I thoroughly enjoyed the slightly mysterious and certainly surprising journey Cassia Leo had in store for her readers with this book. I loved trying to piece together all the hints and character inconsistencies throughout the novel to try to come up with the truth behind the romance. Cassia Leo’s writing evoked plenty of emotion, tugging on my heartstrings as the past came to light and Kristin and Daniel’s world began to unravel. Although sprinkled with some undeniably suspenseful moments, The Heiress maintained a heartfelt and oftentimes downright swoon-worthy overall tone that made this novel a quick and entertaining read. A poignant and powerful story of loss, love, and forgiveness, Cassia Leo has another memorable romance on her hands with The Heiress!
Profile Image for PAULA.
708 reviews42 followers
September 25, 2017
THE HEIRESS by CASSIA LEO

Well, what can I say? Cassia Leo is truly one of the BEST storytellers of contemporary romance. I fell in love with her storytelling prowess when I read Book 1 of the SHATTERED HEARTS series and from the moment I finished reading it I know I will read every book that she releases after that. Black Box was the book that proved to me that she is one the best. It is still my fave book of hers and IDK if it will be different in the coming months but for now it is her best book yet (IMHO).

Was THE HEIRESS different? Yes and no. Yes because her characters are different, the story is not what I was expecting, the twist is something that I didn’t saw coming (as always) and the story is much lighter than the previous ones. Not that it’s a bad thing but I feel like the characters are much more carefree, light & funnier. The banter between the 2 main characters are spot on that it was kinda jerk-ish but funny. ;) No because Cassia again delivers that she didn’t disappoint me and my expectations. TBH, I was kinda hoping that it will be longer that I didn’t realize when I was reading a few pages before the epilogue that it will be the end. But overall, it was good a book. She delivered and she gave her readers something to look forward to in the following months coz I heard she will be releasing a new series. YAY!

Would I recommend this standlone for those who haven’t read any of her books? YES. Definitely. And hopefully they will read more of her previous ones and see why I am hooked. Why I can say that she is one the best in her genre and that she ALWAYS freakin delivers.



**Also posted on AMAZON & my TUMBLR account.
Profile Image for Letty  (Cover to Cover Book Blog Reviewer).
650 reviews1 follower
September 26, 2017
Both Kristin and Daniel will do anything for their family. That is the most important thing for them, but that can be the one thing that threatens their happiness.

Kristin is sassy, smart, and living with a guilt that doesn’t allow her to think she deserves to be happy. When she meets Daniel, she sees the handsome, rich, and enigmatic man that he wants her to see. She feels safe and protected when she’s around him, not knowing there’s a secret lurking in the background.

Their chemistry is combustible, the banter is fantastic and humorous. The relationship that develops had me rooting for them and wanting to see them happy.

Cassia gives us a story full of mystery and drama. The characters are so well developed and the plot is smooth, grabbing the reader from the get-go. I was intrigued, trying to put the puzzle pieces together and going on the journey with both Kristin and Daniel. Every character has a purpose, making sure the story moves along beautifully. The different POVs made the story flow that much better, allowing for all sides to be explored.
Profile Image for Preet.
3,381 reviews233 followers
November 5, 2017
4.25 stars!

The blurb is what sold me on this book. I thought it was beautifully written and I loved how the story played out. I wasn't able to make the connection between the title and story until close to the very end, which was great! I liked how the book was split into parts, it really helped build the anticipation and suspense.

Kristin is a really likable and relate-able character. I admired her for taking care of her mother and how fierce she was. I completely understood her attraction to Daniel.

Daniel is a great guy too. I loved how he was with Kristin and her mother. I especially loved how he was with his friends and family.

Without giving too much away, I would've loved more on the suspense side. I would've loved to have known more about Kristin's family, and I would love to read more about Petra, Kristin's best friend.

I think this is the first book by Cassia I have read. I do not anticipate it being my last. I own so many, it may be time to start working my way through them and finding out what I've been missing!
Profile Image for Helena Bookhooked .
449 reviews53 followers
September 26, 2017
This is a new standalone form Cassia Leo.

This book has me on the fence a little as I liked Daniel but I felt deceived by him and yet i liked him as a character and I suppose thats good writing that it evokes feelings so i guess thats ok...

Kristin was likeable from the first few words, she is hard working, kind and just completely selfless. Sexy without really knowing it and deserving some good to come to her.

The book is split into “Parts” and I felt this style worked really well.

This was a good engaging read with plenty of suspense and angst to keep the pages turning to find out the truth.

The attraction, love, deception and finally redemption is what made this such a great read with fantastic engaging writing to get absorbed into the story.
Profile Image for Kim Perry.
508 reviews26 followers
September 24, 2017
Kristin is smart, creative, and a loyal daughter. She would love to pursue her art, but instead she has a dead end job so she can support her mom. It seems as if karma is playing yet another joke on her when a sexy stranger steps in to help. Daniel is rich and seemingly out of her league, but he's also around whenever she runs into problems. Kristin is not some damsel in distress, as she is strong and independent. She's swept away by him, his protectiveness, and a surprising chemistry. Both are loyal to their families and have secrets that could end a quickly deepening relationship before it really begins.

The Heiress is sexy and surprising as secrets are revealed. Told in both POVs, Cassia Leo shifts between the past and present with unique and flawed characters.
Profile Image for Lexie Abshire.
40 reviews2 followers
September 16, 2017
Are you real?
Define real.
Kristin and Daniel are all about taking care of their family. To them family is everything. So what do you do when you fall in love with the one person that could get in the way of family? There are some deep secrets in this book. Will love win?

"You see, she knew something important. Bad things happen to good people every day. It's not God or the universe trying to punish you or teach you a harsh, unknowable lesson. It's just life."

"That motherfucker thinks he's batman."

This book is wonderful. And Cassia is brilliant. She always finds a way for her characters to burrow into our hearts and stay for a lifetime.

This is a must read!!
Profile Image for Karen.
5,385 reviews74 followers
October 2, 2017
Pretty intense with intrigue and suspense but a touch awkward. The end was nice.
Profile Image for Becca.
2,003 reviews27 followers
December 1, 2017
I loved this unconventional love story.

Full review to come.
Profile Image for Retta Rusaw.
12 reviews6 followers
September 20, 2017
Wow is all I can say! I laughed, I wanted to cry and I was left with just wow by the end of the book. If you like a back and forth, what's going to happen next and holy shit I didn't see that coming kind of book then read this book!!
Profile Image for Sarah~Book Obsession Confessions .
1,304 reviews88 followers
October 4, 2017
I really liked both Kristin and Daniel. I think they were both relatable and sympathetic characters. I liked Daniel almost immediately even while wondering what he may be hiding. Kristin is struggling in her life but she keeps on going and doing her best. Both have secrets that slowly get revealed so the suspense build up was good. The romance is both sweet and enjoyable to see their connection grow as they get to know and appreciate each other. I felt they really liked each other for real reasons not just instalove. I really like knowing why the characters have feelings for each other.
There's definitely some big shockers that come to light.
I've read other books by this author and this was a bit different which shows her range. I've enjoyed everything I've read by her. I highly recommend this book. It has romance,suspense and secrets.

Profile Image for Erin.
237 reviews
September 27, 2017
A Cassia Leo standalone! Sign me up!!! This author can write the heck out of a romance and this one was no slouch.

The story of Daniel and Kristen was so beautifully written. I fell in love with these characters so fast...even the ones I hated I still wanted to know all about them!

Daniel, a handsome stranger...is always there during a distressing moment. Right place right time? Or a set up?

Kristen, a strong woman who has been handed a hard life and is just trying to get by and take care of her responsibilities.

The author has taken us on a thrilling and exciting ride full of, twists, heartache, lies, Love and so much more.
246 reviews3 followers
September 27, 2017
Dear lord, this was painful to read. It was long, drawn out, and boring.
Profile Image for Deliah Lawrence.
Author 3 books23 followers
May 1, 2021
I’m really getting hooked on reading sexy and steamy romance novels. Anyway, this is the first time I’m reading anything by Cassia Leo. I like her storytelling style of moving between the past and the present, allowing readers to learn the characters’ backstories and bringing things full circle.

So let’s meet Kristin Owens, a sassy NYU art college student who dropped out to care for her mom by working as a waitress at Cantina Joe’s to pay the rent for their South Bronx apartment. Angry that she has received an eviction notice for alleged nonpayments, she storms down to the property management company to fix the clerical error. While there she meets Daniel, a handsome and well-dressed stranger who saved the day by paying the rent.

The chemistry between them was instant. Daniel showers her with attention something she hasn’t had in a while. He appears to be the knight in shining armor showing up to save her from a jerk at Cantina Joe’s and from folks trying to hurt her. While she is falling for him, she can’t help but question his motives especially when his mood changes and after catching him looking over his shoulder a few times.

In the midst of all this, she shares with him the guilt she’s been carrying around because of an incident that put Petra, her best friend in a wheel chair. He listens and gives her advice to mend that friendship. Their romance grows. However, when Kristin learns the truth about Daniel and why he’s in her life, it takes a dose of forgiveness to regain the trust in their relationship as well as her relationship with her mother.

Overall, this was an engaging and sexy read with a few twists that lead to a very satisfying ending! However, I would have loved to read more about Petra. And yes, I would definitely read other novels by Cassia Leo.

Some of my favorite lines:

Before I could open my mouth, Daniel reached his hand out to Leslie. “I’m Daniel, Kristin’s bodyguard. It’s nice to meet you.”

Leslie turned to me, her eyes wide with surprise.

I waved off Daniel’s comment. “He’s not my bodyguard,” I said, trying to sound more annoyed than I actually was. “He’s a customer who was kind enough to give me a ride.”

He turned to me, one eyebrow cocked. “Customer? What exactly am I paying you for?

I narrowed my eyes at him. “Keep it up and you’ll be paying for a one-way ticket back to your car.”

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