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The Davenports #1
Oscar
Oscar Davenport always wins. Always. He doesn’t come second, and he sure as hell doesn’t lose. He’s founded and sold three tech companies, netting him almost a billion dollars. He ran a hedge fund worth hundreds of billions—until he got bored. His latest project, Six, a nightclub in LA is another winner. It’s both a successful business and a playground full of playmates.
He’s never met an obstacle he couldn’t overcome or a woman he couldn’t have. Until now.
Grace Evans is the kind of girl you’d find curled up with a good book on a Saturday night—at least, usually. This Saturday night is different. This Saturday night she’s gotten all done up, in a dress she can barely breathe in and heels she can barely walk in. She had to. She had to venture into the lair of the enemy.
The enemy is Oscar Davenport, and his lair is his swanky nightclub. When she lays eyes on him, she’s ready to believe he’s the devil incarnate. His wicked smile, his beautiful eyes—everything about him is an invitation to sin. He moves with the grace and arrogance of a big cat about to pounce. Unfortunately, he’s moving straight toward her. He’s singled her out as his prey. He’s moving in for the kill.
Little does he know that she isn’t about to surrender; in fact, he’s in for the fight of his life.
He’s never met an obstacle he couldn’t overcome or a woman he couldn’t have. Until now.
Grace Evans is the kind of girl you’d find curled up with a good book on a Saturday night—at least, usually. This Saturday night is different. This Saturday night she’s gotten all done up, in a dress she can barely breathe in and heels she can barely walk in. She had to. She had to venture into the lair of the enemy.
The enemy is Oscar Davenport, and his lair is his swanky nightclub. When she lays eyes on him, she’s ready to believe he’s the devil incarnate. His wicked smile, his beautiful eyes—everything about him is an invitation to sin. He moves with the grace and arrogance of a big cat about to pounce. Unfortunately, he’s moving straight toward her. He’s singled her out as his prey. He’s moving in for the kill.
Little does he know that she isn’t about to surrender; in fact, he’s in for the fight of his life.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2018
1376 people are currently reading
888 people want to read
About the author
S.J. McCoy
77 books1,057 followersHi, I'm SJ. A coffee addict, lover of chocolate and drinker of good red wines. I'm a lost soul and a hopeless romantic. Reading and writing are necessary parts of who I am. Though perhaps not as necessary as coffee! I can drink coffee without writing, but I can't write without coffee.
I grew up loving romance novels, my first boyfriends were book boyfriends, but life intervened, as it tends to do, and I wandered down the paths of non fiction for many years. My life changed completely a couple of years ago and I returned to Romance to find my escape.
I write 'Sweet N Steamy' stories because to me there is enough angst and darkness in real life. My favorite romances are happy escapes with a focus on fun, friendships and happily-ever-afters, just like the ones I write.
These days I live in beautiful Montana, the last best place. If I'm not reading or writing you'll find me just down the road in the park - Yellowstone. I have deer, eagles and the occasional bear for company, and I like it that way :0)
I grew up loving romance novels, my first boyfriends were book boyfriends, but life intervened, as it tends to do, and I wandered down the paths of non fiction for many years. My life changed completely a couple of years ago and I returned to Romance to find my escape.
I write 'Sweet N Steamy' stories because to me there is enough angst and darkness in real life. My favorite romances are happy escapes with a focus on fun, friendships and happily-ever-afters, just like the ones I write.
These days I live in beautiful Montana, the last best place. If I'm not reading or writing you'll find me just down the road in the park - Yellowstone. I have deer, eagles and the occasional bear for company, and I like it that way :0)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
March 24, 2018
~WRITING - PLOT - PACE~Sigh...this was yet another book that had the potential to be much better but was brought down by the continuous unnecessary repetition about how much of a player the hero was. If I have said this once I have said this a million times I DO NOT need to be reminded ad nauseam that a hero is a player. You can tell me ONCE and I can retain that information. The constant mentions of, and the comparisons to OW really took SO much away from what was a pretty damn good story. Aside from that issue, I found the writing to be quite good. It was a fairly quick book. This author has a nice flow to her writing style. The pace was very good. The plot was engaging as well. Last, it was all wrapped up in a decent ending.
~HERO~
OSCAR...I really didn't like Oscar for the first half of this book. I'm chalking that up to the author's incessant need to remind us over and over and over again about his player ways. Then he had an AH-HA moment and became much more likable. Well, that is until the phone conversation with his Mother at 70% and the dismissive way he thought about Grace. Then I went back to not liking him much. I think he had the potential to be a really good hero. He seemed like a decent guy. He was sweet. He had a good heart. Loved his family. Unfortunately, the author placed WAY too much focus on his whoring ways and that ultimately took away from his character A LOT.
~HEROINE~
GRACE... Honestly, I liked Grace a lot for most of the book but then near the end, she started to get wiggy and even at 94% when the couple should be on solid ground she was thinking the following when Oscar mentions marriage "Would he still feel the same way in six months—a year? Given his track record, she doubted it. Honestly, at that point, I was done with her. She started out being a strong and feisty heroine but as the book went on, she got more judgy and insecure. Ugh...it drove me NUTS.
~SECONDARY CHARACTERS~
This book has some good secondary characters. I really liked Spider (I hope he gets a book of his own). I also like Oscar's brother TJ (who IS getting a book of his own). Terry and Louise were also nice additions and all of them added extra layers to the overall story.
~HEAT LEVEL~
LOW. This was a bit of a slow burn in my opinion. We don't get any sex until 70% in, but the scenes we do get were suitably hot. I'll be honest, I am not sure I felt this couple had great on page chemistry. It was OK but could have been better.
~ANGST LEVEL~
LOW. I didn't find this one particularly angsty. As I mentioned earlier, it had A LOT of unnecessary OW stuff. Twice we have to read about our hero making plans to have sex with some random after meeting the heroine (he doesn't ever go through with it, but it was still a turnoff for me.) On top of that, we get oodles of mentions of his past manho ways. At one point he admits one of the goals he set for himself was to "get laid every day." Charming...isn't that?? There was no OM drama.
~IN THE END~
I liked a lot about this book. The writing. The plot. The secondary characters. The heroine (mostly). But it unfortunately, suffered from one of my biggest pet peeves (I don't think I need to repeat AGAIN what that was *lol*) and because of that I just couldn't connect with the hero. I didn't fall in love with him. I wanted to. I really did, but too much focus was spent on his past when it would have been better spent building the connection between him and the heroine. That said, I may still give the next book a read as I am really curious about TJ. Therefore yours truly is going to give this one a solid thumbs up and say I think a lot of people will really like this one.
March 17, 2018
Oscar is learning that his woman is a hard negotiator, "he narrowed his eyes and tried to hide a smile. “Okay, so Sunday. On Sunday, you’re mine.” Oscar is always wanting the best for his woman, "he knew she was worn out. Tomorrow, he’d make sure she had a relaxing day. They’d do something fun, and he’d make sure she got some rest." I liked this book, I loved that Grace made Oscar do some chasing.
March 28, 2018
31/2 stars!!
March 27, 2018
There are so many reasons to love this book. It was refreshing, steamy, heartwarming, and touching. I'm already anticipating T.J.'s story.
But that's not this book. This one's about Oscar. Well, actually, it's about Grace. So let's talk about her first.
The book starts when Grace is having a bit of a day. She has a run-in with one of the hottest guys ever in the lobby of her building, only to find out later that her boss has sold the land upon which her community center resides, and that means he's retiring - leaving her jobless. It was inevitable that the building would be sold, she just wasn't ready for it.
When her boss gives her the info on who's in the process of buying the parcel, Grace decides to find him and ask him if he could donate to their cause, or help them find a new location. Perhaps in exchange for some good press. She has no idea what kind of shock she's in for when she finds him.
Oscar Davenport has been jumping from one endeavor to another since he became a successful businessman. At the moment, he has a successful nightclub, and is looking to open a second. Not because it's his calling or anything, but because he's good at it. Then Grace comes into his life and turns everything on its head.
They both see things in each other that they need in their own lives, and at just the right time. Oscar's brother T.J. is also given a gift by Grace that Oscar will forever be grateful for, and he'd love her just for that. Luckily, there are countless things they find to love in each other, and it ends up being the forever kind.
I was so glad that I chose to pick up Oscar, and this won't be the first time reading it through. It's definitely a keeper. Also, could we have a book about Spider? Pretty please?
I give it 4.5 undercover driver stars.
March 24, 2018
I have to say that when I started this book I didn’t think there was anyway I could like Oscar as well some of SJ‘s other characters but I was sadly mistaken. I love the immediate chemistry between Oscar and Grace and how their story leads them to help each other become better people.
As with all of SJ’s stories, I love how she makes you feel a part of the town and the peoples lives around Oscar and Grace. I also like how she tied in her other series by bringing in Hope and Chance. You never know who’s gonna pop in to one of SJ’s books.
As much as I loved reading this story, I am so excited to see what’s next. I think I’m hoping that it’s TJ’s.
Although I think you can read this HEA as a standalone, I would suggest that you read the rest of the series as it becomes available as well as her other series. I think you’ll fall in love with her books as much is I have.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
As with all of SJ’s stories, I love how she makes you feel a part of the town and the peoples lives around Oscar and Grace. I also like how she tied in her other series by bringing in Hope and Chance. You never know who’s gonna pop in to one of SJ’s books.
As much as I loved reading this story, I am so excited to see what’s next. I think I’m hoping that it’s TJ’s.
Although I think you can read this HEA as a standalone, I would suggest that you read the rest of the series as it becomes available as well as her other series. I think you’ll fall in love with her books as much is I have.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
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January 9, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon & on iBooks today (1/9/2019)! 🎁
Blurb:
Oscar Davenport always wins. Always. He doesn’t come second, and he sure as hell doesn’t lose. He’s founded and sold three tech companies, netting him almost a billion dollars. He ran a hedge fund worth hundreds of billions—until he got bored. His latest project, Six, a nightclub in LA is another winner. It’s both a successful business and a playground full of playmates.
He’s never met an obstacle he couldn’t overcome or a woman he couldn’t have. Until now.
Grace Evans is the kind of girl you’d find curled up with a good book on a Saturday night—at least, usually. This Saturday night is different. This Saturday night she’s gotten all done up, in a dress she can barely breathe in and heels she can barely walk in. She had to. She had to venture into the lair of the enemy.
The enemy is Oscar Davenport, and his lair is his swanky nightclub. When she lays eyes on him, she’s ready to believe he’s the devil incarnate. His wicked smile, his beautiful eyes—everything about him is an invitation to sin. He moves with the grace and arrogance of a big cat about to pounce. Unfortunately, he’s moving straight toward her. He’s singled her out as his prey. He’s moving in for the kill.
Little does he know that she isn’t about to surrender; in fact, he’s in for the fight of his life.
Blurb:
Oscar Davenport always wins. Always. He doesn’t come second, and he sure as hell doesn’t lose. He’s founded and sold three tech companies, netting him almost a billion dollars. He ran a hedge fund worth hundreds of billions—until he got bored. His latest project, Six, a nightclub in LA is another winner. It’s both a successful business and a playground full of playmates.
He’s never met an obstacle he couldn’t overcome or a woman he couldn’t have. Until now.
Grace Evans is the kind of girl you’d find curled up with a good book on a Saturday night—at least, usually. This Saturday night is different. This Saturday night she’s gotten all done up, in a dress she can barely breathe in and heels she can barely walk in. She had to. She had to venture into the lair of the enemy.
The enemy is Oscar Davenport, and his lair is his swanky nightclub. When she lays eyes on him, she’s ready to believe he’s the devil incarnate. His wicked smile, his beautiful eyes—everything about him is an invitation to sin. He moves with the grace and arrogance of a big cat about to pounce. Unfortunately, he’s moving straight toward her. He’s singled her out as his prey. He’s moving in for the kill.
Little does he know that she isn’t about to surrender; in fact, he’s in for the fight of his life.
March 19, 2018
Sigh. Oscar is amazing. No, seriously, he's so great. I really, really thought I wouldn't like him. I didn't in the beginning, but he grew on me. He starts out as an arrogant asshole, and transforms into a sweet arrogant asshole. Grace and Oscar meet in an elevator and have an instant connection. After finding out that Oscar plans on tearing down her center for those in need, Grace makes it her mission to ignore the connection and try to get him to help her relocate the center. After all he's a billionaire who could just write the charity off, right? Oscar has different plans for Grace and knows he needs to get her under him soon. After a vet opens his eyes, things change and we are left with a super sweet story.
I loved and hated Grace at the same time. She's a strong character and sometimes a bit too strong. She doesn't like anyone judging her, yet she judges others a lot. She realizes this and fixes it herself. Oscar is a playboy turned monogamous man after spending time with Grace. The work they both do at the shelter and the dates make them realize they are each other's person. I enjoyed this book so much and I'm eager to read about TJ and Reid. Oscar has some of the best secondary characters I've ever run across and I love them all! Terry is my favorite though!
I loved and hated Grace at the same time. She's a strong character and sometimes a bit too strong. She doesn't like anyone judging her, yet she judges others a lot. She realizes this and fixes it herself. Oscar is a playboy turned monogamous man after spending time with Grace. The work they both do at the shelter and the dates make them realize they are each other's person. I enjoyed this book so much and I'm eager to read about TJ and Reid. Oscar has some of the best secondary characters I've ever run across and I love them all! Terry is my favorite though!
March 21, 2018
I have been so blessed to read some wonderful books lately, and this is one of my favorites! This story has the romance we romance readers love, but it has so much more. This is one of those books that make you think deeper about what is happening to others that we don’t even know. It touched my heart, gave me happy tears, and made me want to be a better person. I was so happy to read about a rich family that had heart and felt like a family I could know. The love that was shown in Oscar’s family was awesome. This author did a fabulous job of writing this story. I was entertained, but also learned about hardships other have. I was so glad to see someone that had money truly want to help because of their compassion and not just because they had money. Oscar and Grace were so good for each other, and were able to show the other a different side of life. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I strongly encourage you to read the book. I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book.
March 26, 2018
This is the first book I have read by this author and if this book is anything to go by I’ve missed some great reads.
Oscar Davenport always wins, and he does whatever is needed to win and on the face of it the property he has just bought to turn into his second nightclub will be another winner but for it to succeed he needs to get past Grace Evans.....
Grace Evans is the totally opposite of women Oscar normally attracted too, she is the sort of girl who loves to curl up with a book on a Saturday night not be out drinking and dancing. A chance meeting in a lift stirs up all sorts of emotions in her, what she doesn’t expect is to have to meet the tall dark handsome stranger again when she is trying to stop the demolition of the centre she helps run for homeless Vets, single mums and young children. Will Grace be able get Oscar to change his mind about his nightclub and will Oscar get Grace to go out on a date with him ..........
Once I started reading this book there was no putting it down, I didn’t like Oscar very much at the start but by the end that man had won me over and had me all hot and bothered, there was no doubting the instant attraction ths couple have and I loved joining them on their journey of getting to know each other. The characters in this book all have depth and I can’t wait to read book 2 in this new series as well as checking out other books by S.J. McCoy.
Oscar Davenport always wins, and he does whatever is needed to win and on the face of it the property he has just bought to turn into his second nightclub will be another winner but for it to succeed he needs to get past Grace Evans.....
Grace Evans is the totally opposite of women Oscar normally attracted too, she is the sort of girl who loves to curl up with a book on a Saturday night not be out drinking and dancing. A chance meeting in a lift stirs up all sorts of emotions in her, what she doesn’t expect is to have to meet the tall dark handsome stranger again when she is trying to stop the demolition of the centre she helps run for homeless Vets, single mums and young children. Will Grace be able get Oscar to change his mind about his nightclub and will Oscar get Grace to go out on a date with him ..........
Once I started reading this book there was no putting it down, I didn’t like Oscar very much at the start but by the end that man had won me over and had me all hot and bothered, there was no doubting the instant attraction ths couple have and I loved joining them on their journey of getting to know each other. The characters in this book all have depth and I can’t wait to read book 2 in this new series as well as checking out other books by S.J. McCoy.
March 27, 2018
This is my first SJ McCoy story and I did enjoy it. It is a slow go at first. Oscar is a great character and I loved him. Grace is a tuff woman and the opposite of any woman that Oscar had ever dealt with before. They have a great romance story to be read. I loved Oscar and Gracie's love story. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy for my honest review.
March 25, 2018
Oscar by SJ McCoy is the First book in The Davenports Series. This is the story of Oscar Davenport and Grace Evans.
Oscar is all about winning and keeping himself entertained. Grace is a strong women looking to keep her Center going and when Oscar threatens that she moves in to make him change his mind.
Oscar made a deal on a lot that he hoped to open a club at not knowing what the lot had meant to Grace it was her Center for kids and Vets. Along with buying that lot it was enough for Grace's boss to retire so she will be looking for another job too.
Grace goes forward to see what she can do to keep her Center going which leads her back to Oscar.
Really enjoyable easy read.
Oscar is all about winning and keeping himself entertained. Grace is a strong women looking to keep her Center going and when Oscar threatens that she moves in to make him change his mind.
Oscar made a deal on a lot that he hoped to open a club at not knowing what the lot had meant to Grace it was her Center for kids and Vets. Along with buying that lot it was enough for Grace's boss to retire so she will be looking for another job too.
Grace goes forward to see what she can do to keep her Center going which leads her back to Oscar.
Really enjoyable easy read.
March 24, 2018
If I could give it more stars I definitely would. This was a great book. I was planning on reading for an hour and then finishing it up by Sunday. Yea well—it’s done. Read it all in one night. Wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about Oscar, but LOVED HIM!! Glad we got to see Chance and Hope. If you need a book to read-this is the one for you!!
March 22, 2018
I loved Oscar and Grace’s story!! They had a instant connection. The more time they spent together the harder they fell in love. He gave her the family she always wanted. This is such a sweet and heartwarming story. I would recommend this book to everyone. I can’t wait to read about the rest of the Davenports!! SJ McCoy has outdone herself once again. I absolutely loved it!!
March 23, 2018
I loved loved loved this book :) Again another amazing book from SJ and I can’t wait for more and more to read ;)
March 29, 2018
Another great book by SJ McCoy. She makes you fall in love with her characters. You get to meet new people and catch up on old ones. They make you laugh and cry from the beginning to the end.
March 19, 2018
This was a nice story. Supposed big bully billionaire buying out all the old homes and establishments from the unemployed and needy and a young woman helping the people and finds herself attracted to bully.
A nicely developed story. Oscar is determined to expand his empire and Grace is confused when she meets Oscar, they both have a lot to discuss when they meet.
A great read with interesting secondary characters I’m hoping to meet again in their own books.
A nicely developed story. Oscar is determined to expand his empire and Grace is confused when she meets Oscar, they both have a lot to discuss when they meet.
A great read with interesting secondary characters I’m hoping to meet again in their own books.
April 2, 2018
Absolutely loved Oscar, I could not make my mind up whether he was Simon Cowell, or Mr Knightley or was the story all about Grace and nothing to do with Oscar apart from him being the "Love" of her life. This must have every heart pulled as SJ McCoy once again excelled herself with this fabulous endearing must read romance. Loved Loved Loved it.
The cover is catching and the guy gets you thinking with his posture and of course his thumb.
Oscar the hero is described but not so you know him, you have to keep reading and the way SJ describes his character using clever thoughts you may just think he is arrogant but there is something more and that intrigued me all through the book. As I said above I thought him a bit like Simon Cowell who is not what I say a player of women, or Mr. Knightley although Grace is no Emma.
Grace this book was a lot about how Oscar loved her and you get that from the attraction he has . This is LOVE at first sight. She is worshipped by Oscar and doesn't know it. Although he will not face up to it.
I like the way the author uses other sayings yet does not just quote or plagiarise. If you can take the heat from a contemporary romance this is good it's not too erotic but has enough to let you experience it.
The cover is catching and the guy gets you thinking with his posture and of course his thumb.
Oscar the hero is described but not so you know him, you have to keep reading and the way SJ describes his character using clever thoughts you may just think he is arrogant but there is something more and that intrigued me all through the book. As I said above I thought him a bit like Simon Cowell who is not what I say a player of women, or Mr. Knightley although Grace is no Emma.
Grace this book was a lot about how Oscar loved her and you get that from the attraction he has . This is LOVE at first sight. She is worshipped by Oscar and doesn't know it. Although he will not face up to it.
I like the way the author uses other sayings yet does not just quote or plagiarise. If you can take the heat from a contemporary romance this is good it's not too erotic but has enough to let you experience it.
March 25, 2018
After hearing that the building that she uses for a community center has been sold, Grace confronts Oscar Davenport in an effort to save it. What they both discover is that neither is the person they thought the other to be like. Can they both overcome their own self doubt and learn that together they make each other a better person. I loved reading Oscar and Grace's story, and how their eyes became opened to how other live and lived. Whether it be themselves or their loved ones around them. I am looking forward to reading the following books in the series.
March 29, 2018
"After hearing that the building that she uses for a community center has been sold, Grace confronts Oscar Davenport in an effort to save it. What they both discover is that neither is the person they thought the other to be like. Can they both overcome their own self doubt and learn that together they make each other a better person. I loved reading Oscar and Grace's story, and how their eyes became opened to how other live and lived. Whether it be themselves or their loved ones around them. I am looking forward to reading the following books in the series.
"
"
March 29, 2018
Wonderful characters
Grace and Oscar are both damaged in their own way. Oscar has run out of challenges and he's bored. Grace grew up in the system and doesn't know how to trust. Neither knows how to communicate with the other. But with the help of some great secondary characters, while they work to save a local community center, they may just save themselves.
I loved that this wasn't just a HEA. It was about acceptance, trust and respect. It was a learning experience, and that is what love should be; learning and growing every single day. Together.
Grace and Oscar are both damaged in their own way. Oscar has run out of challenges and he's bored. Grace grew up in the system and doesn't know how to trust. Neither knows how to communicate with the other. But with the help of some great secondary characters, while they work to save a local community center, they may just save themselves.
I loved that this wasn't just a HEA. It was about acceptance, trust and respect. It was a learning experience, and that is what love should be; learning and growing every single day. Together.
March 22, 2018
Another great read!! Oscar and Grace are from two different worlds. He grew up in a loving family, had money and looking for a direction for his life. She grew up with nothing, living in foster homes and on the street. After meeting they had to each learn how to let go of some of their ways and learn how to accept what could be. Oscar needed to how lemonade was made and Grace had to learn champagne and strawberries was something she could learn to like.
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February 27, 2023Purchase Amazon May 15, 2019
March 27, 2018
I loved this book. Oscar and Grace have amazing chemistry. He grew up with wealth and family, she grew up with nothing; their lives collide where her heart resides - the Centre. Through the Centre and Grace, Oscar finds his purpose, his next important thing, and he finds love. Grace learns not to judge a book by its cover, she finds love and the family life she’s always craved. Amazing book about friendship, love and finding life’s purpose.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2019
Awesome Story
I love Oscar and Grace story. This book pulled me in tight from the beginning. All the miss communication between them but love always wins. Come join in Oscar and Grace journey.
I love Oscar and Grace story. This book pulled me in tight from the beginning. All the miss communication between them but love always wins. Come join in Oscar and Grace journey.
April 3, 2018
Oscar was a fabulous book absolutely loved this couple and I know the next will be just as amazing as all SJ s other books. Keep them coming please one excited reader here hugs X
March 28, 2018
Four “instant chemistry in an elevator” Stars!!!
****
Where do lives go when two worlds collide and two people from very different walks of life end up meeting? Where rich meets the unsure; where stubborn meets the confident and the future meets the past? SJ McCoy has written an intriguing story in the new book Oscar about two people from very different walks of life that find it is possible for both to walk a new path together.
Our main characters, Oscar Davenport and Grace Evans meet in an elevator (what is it about those elevators??) before we really know anything about them and they have instant, hot and sexually arousing chemistry. I mean “is it possible to find a hotel room right now” instant chemistry that ropes you into the story before you even know anything about them.
Oscar Davenport is a charismatic, billionaire playboy but he also had a kind of cocky charming side to his personality. It’s probably due to the fact that he always gets what he wants. You know, that irritating cad who has been successful in everything he touches from hedge funds to tech companies and now a nightclub named Six, his normal Saturday night hangout. He has the usual number of strikingly beautiful women throwing themselves at him and all he has to do is pick the “flavor of the night.” But something didn’t jive with Oscar from my perspective. This man has a great family, loving siblings, a good education, and he was raised by great parents, so those things don’t mesh with the lifestyle he has chosen. I think Oscar is on a quest to find meaning in his life. Something that gives purpose to his all too boring, “things come easy to him” life. He just doesn’t know it yet.
And then Grace Evans crosses his path. Now here’s a girl who’s had a rough life. But you’ve heard the old adage “what doesn’t end up killing us, only makes us stronger”? Well that’s how I picture Grace in this story. She’s had to pull herself up by her bootstraps more times than she can count, and each time she gets more and more stubborn, always fighting for survival. She knows all about survival having survived the foster care system. And in an effort to help those still bound by a system, she started a community center for latchkey kids, vets who need a place to gather, and young moms who need a place to find help. But now it’s all going to go away because of Oscar Davenport. He and his money need something to do, so he’s bought the lot that the community center sits on to build another nightclub. But our sweet Grace is not going to take this turn of events without a fight and Oscar Davenport is the one she will declare war on if she has too.
So let’s talk about their story. The premise was predictable, but likable and really, oh so sweet. Not a lot of angst which was kind of a nice break from the “boy loses girl” premises. Sometimes you just need to stick around and work things out and I was happy to see that these two did. Oscar was your usual billionaire playboy but very likable as the story progressed. I liked Grace but her insecurities got on my nerves a bit. When she and Oscar finally got together, I did have difficulty with her constant second guessing about Oscar and his intentions, almost right up to the end. I get that this girl had struggles, but hey, when someone finally indicates marriage is in their future, get with the program girlfriend!!!!
The main characters were well developed and had quite a bit of depth to them. The secondary characters were enjoyable and fun to read and I can see a couple of stories developing for future books. Overall, I enjoyed Oscar and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it or give it two thumbs up!!
An Advanced Reader Copy was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
****
Where do lives go when two worlds collide and two people from very different walks of life end up meeting? Where rich meets the unsure; where stubborn meets the confident and the future meets the past? SJ McCoy has written an intriguing story in the new book Oscar about two people from very different walks of life that find it is possible for both to walk a new path together.
Our main characters, Oscar Davenport and Grace Evans meet in an elevator (what is it about those elevators??) before we really know anything about them and they have instant, hot and sexually arousing chemistry. I mean “is it possible to find a hotel room right now” instant chemistry that ropes you into the story before you even know anything about them.
Oscar Davenport is a charismatic, billionaire playboy but he also had a kind of cocky charming side to his personality. It’s probably due to the fact that he always gets what he wants. You know, that irritating cad who has been successful in everything he touches from hedge funds to tech companies and now a nightclub named Six, his normal Saturday night hangout. He has the usual number of strikingly beautiful women throwing themselves at him and all he has to do is pick the “flavor of the night.” But something didn’t jive with Oscar from my perspective. This man has a great family, loving siblings, a good education, and he was raised by great parents, so those things don’t mesh with the lifestyle he has chosen. I think Oscar is on a quest to find meaning in his life. Something that gives purpose to his all too boring, “things come easy to him” life. He just doesn’t know it yet.
And then Grace Evans crosses his path. Now here’s a girl who’s had a rough life. But you’ve heard the old adage “what doesn’t end up killing us, only makes us stronger”? Well that’s how I picture Grace in this story. She’s had to pull herself up by her bootstraps more times than she can count, and each time she gets more and more stubborn, always fighting for survival. She knows all about survival having survived the foster care system. And in an effort to help those still bound by a system, she started a community center for latchkey kids, vets who need a place to gather, and young moms who need a place to find help. But now it’s all going to go away because of Oscar Davenport. He and his money need something to do, so he’s bought the lot that the community center sits on to build another nightclub. But our sweet Grace is not going to take this turn of events without a fight and Oscar Davenport is the one she will declare war on if she has too.
So let’s talk about their story. The premise was predictable, but likable and really, oh so sweet. Not a lot of angst which was kind of a nice break from the “boy loses girl” premises. Sometimes you just need to stick around and work things out and I was happy to see that these two did. Oscar was your usual billionaire playboy but very likable as the story progressed. I liked Grace but her insecurities got on my nerves a bit. When she and Oscar finally got together, I did have difficulty with her constant second guessing about Oscar and his intentions, almost right up to the end. I get that this girl had struggles, but hey, when someone finally indicates marriage is in their future, get with the program girlfriend!!!!
The main characters were well developed and had quite a bit of depth to them. The secondary characters were enjoyable and fun to read and I can see a couple of stories developing for future books. Overall, I enjoyed Oscar and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it or give it two thumbs up!!
An Advanced Reader Copy was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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July 26, 2019
No no no. I can't finish this book, I could hardly tolerate starting it. The fem protag takes 'attraction at first sight' way past the 'nervous virgin talking to her first crush' (which would be to far anyway) and into 'this girl is so busy drowning in her own drool that she didn't notice her brain has floated right out of her head' territory. I am so tired of romance heroines losing their frigging senses when they encounter an attractive 'hero'. It insults the level of self-possession and intelligence that many women have when authors, especially female authors, tell their (mostly female) readers this is what they believe almost every woman would do if she met a mildly attractive man. Even a fantasy needs to be mildly realistic, and that concept is annoying in 5 books, and absolutely ridiculous to the point of being obnoxious in the 50+ books I've found it in.
The male protag is sleazy, so much so that I feel like I'm covered in greenish-black slime after reading his parts of the book. He links everything to sex. Everything. He has only talked/thought about the fem protag's physical attributes since the beginning of the book, which isn't so bad by itself, but he is ridiculously overbearing to the point of creepiness. The fem protag came to his nightclub to ask him something and he immediately links her question to sex. He doesn't talk it out of her, no, he tries to kiss it out of her and gropes her (this tactic doesn't work by the way and send to be just an excuse to get his hands on her, ew). The fem protag obviously came to him about a serious matter (sex proposition or no) by her manner and instead of sympathizing/empathizing with her distress, he takes it as an opening (where there really wasn't one) to shove sex in her face. He didn't take her seriously at all, and says as much a few pages later! He's such a pickle (unpleasant and shaped like something whose name is a little more apropos). He basically said 'Lol, I wrote off your request before you made it a few days ago, but now I'm boobs...uh, I mean now I'm listening.' How is that hot?
There are also other little things that he says/does that give me that creepy controlling, manipulative vibe, e.g., instead of talking at the coffee shop that they met at which is also owned by the fem protag's friend (a safe, logical place that could give her more confidence), he tells her they're going to head back to his house and there was no asking involved. Airhead that she is, the fem protag just followed along. Who the heck goes to the house of some guy she doesn't know/have any kind of relationship with & is sexually attracted to so they can have any sort of serious meeting? She wanted to keep her wits about her and finally discuss the center that's so impotant to her. Yeah, that kind of situation sure makes it easier.
Last rant then I'm done with this book. The male protag's character might have been slightly redeemed if everyone and their mother hadn't talked about what a Cassinova he was without showing me jack. If I had seen how he talked with other women maybe he wouldn't have come off like such a sleazeball. But I doubt it.
The male protag is sleazy, so much so that I feel like I'm covered in greenish-black slime after reading his parts of the book. He links everything to sex. Everything. He has only talked/thought about the fem protag's physical attributes since the beginning of the book, which isn't so bad by itself, but he is ridiculously overbearing to the point of creepiness. The fem protag came to his nightclub to ask him something and he immediately links her question to sex. He doesn't talk it out of her, no, he tries to kiss it out of her and gropes her (this tactic doesn't work by the way and send to be just an excuse to get his hands on her, ew). The fem protag obviously came to him about a serious matter (sex proposition or no) by her manner and instead of sympathizing/empathizing with her distress, he takes it as an opening (where there really wasn't one) to shove sex in her face. He didn't take her seriously at all, and says as much a few pages later! He's such a pickle (unpleasant and shaped like something whose name is a little more apropos). He basically said 'Lol, I wrote off your request before you made it a few days ago, but now I'm boobs...uh, I mean now I'm listening.' How is that hot?
There are also other little things that he says/does that give me that creepy controlling, manipulative vibe, e.g., instead of talking at the coffee shop that they met at which is also owned by the fem protag's friend (a safe, logical place that could give her more confidence), he tells her they're going to head back to his house and there was no asking involved. Airhead that she is, the fem protag just followed along. Who the heck goes to the house of some guy she doesn't know/have any kind of relationship with & is sexually attracted to so they can have any sort of serious meeting? She wanted to keep her wits about her and finally discuss the center that's so impotant to her. Yeah, that kind of situation sure makes it easier.
Last rant then I'm done with this book. The male protag's character might have been slightly redeemed if everyone and their mother hadn't talked about what a Cassinova he was without showing me jack. If I had seen how he talked with other women maybe he wouldn't have come off like such a sleazeball. But I doubt it.
August 10, 2019
I enjoyed this book. The protagonists are relatable and likeable, even the heroine – which is saying a lot these days. Grace has had a tough start in life, involving foster care, child abuse, even sleeping rough. She has a great go-get-them attitude, and she is very beautiful, which turns out to be useful in catching the hero’s attention. Oscar is a dream come true as far as male protagonists go, although at the start we are only shown his cocky, fun-loving side.
The plot is engaging although the love story feels a bit rushed. I loved the focus on the community centre which supports veterans, single mothers, the homeless, and disadvantaged people of every type. Grace sounds caring and sincere in her dedication to helping others in the same situation she has overcome so courageously. Oscar’s solid upbringing and lovely family offer a stark counterpoint to Grace’s grim early life. The many supporting characters are well drawn and enrich the narrative.
I appreciate the care taken with the cover; it faithfully illustrates Oscar’s favourite mannerism, but someone should have told the model that he’s supposed to be hiding a smirk behind his thumb – not look like he’s about to suck it! The writing is competent if a little trite and mechanical. I noticed a lot of repetition and a certain overuse of standard phrases. Most of the characters nod and shake their heads so much that it’s a wonder their noggins haven’t fallen off yet! The bedroom scenes are explicit but tasteful and germane to the storyline. The ending is predictable but satisfying.
This is an optimistic tale with a super-smart, wealthy hero who is kind and charitable, and a street-smart, scarred heroine who is insecure but open to embracing a better life. It’s a soothing, comfortable read. Oscar’s two brothers have their own books as sequels within the same world. I would be interested in reading them.
The plot is engaging although the love story feels a bit rushed. I loved the focus on the community centre which supports veterans, single mothers, the homeless, and disadvantaged people of every type. Grace sounds caring and sincere in her dedication to helping others in the same situation she has overcome so courageously. Oscar’s solid upbringing and lovely family offer a stark counterpoint to Grace’s grim early life. The many supporting characters are well drawn and enrich the narrative.
I appreciate the care taken with the cover; it faithfully illustrates Oscar’s favourite mannerism, but someone should have told the model that he’s supposed to be hiding a smirk behind his thumb – not look like he’s about to suck it! The writing is competent if a little trite and mechanical. I noticed a lot of repetition and a certain overuse of standard phrases. Most of the characters nod and shake their heads so much that it’s a wonder their noggins haven’t fallen off yet! The bedroom scenes are explicit but tasteful and germane to the storyline. The ending is predictable but satisfying.
This is an optimistic tale with a super-smart, wealthy hero who is kind and charitable, and a street-smart, scarred heroine who is insecure but open to embracing a better life. It’s a soothing, comfortable read. Oscar’s two brothers have their own books as sequels within the same world. I would be interested in reading them.
March 30, 2018
Oooh! This was a good read, if you love a good romance.
At first I didn't want to like Oscar - Grace was too good for him...he was so confident and arrogant.
But yeah then he worms his way into her heart and yeah now I kinda like him!
Another great read from SJ McCoy - I didn't put this down once while reading (except for a sleep in between) started at night, read til I was falling asleep and picked it up and read til the end in the morning.
The book itself introduces many new characters I'm hopeful SJ will write about in the future as well as revisiting some other characters from her other books I've already read. This is the first in a new series and I'm looking forward to more.
Oscar is successful, from a wealthy family but had to make his own way to success, and he has succeeded in everything he tried. He isn't satisfied though and tries to fine his entertainment with the many ladies willing to throw themselves at him. Until an encounter in a lift with Grace throws him of course. Then she turns up looking for him at his work, though she didn't know it was him she was looking for - he was simply a guy from a list and she went looking for a name - a very successful name she thought could help her.
His business plans are going to wreck her - both her employment and voluntary work are at risk due to his plans. But having survived many knocks in life she doesn't plan to take this sitting down. Up for action she realises her first move has to be to find this man and confront him, only when she does this she finds he is the guy from the lift! Not what she was expecting, but she is a strong woman and is not going to be put off - her voluntary work is too important - she must find a way to save her centre.
At first I didn't want to like Oscar - Grace was too good for him...he was so confident and arrogant.
But yeah then he worms his way into her heart and yeah now I kinda like him!
Another great read from SJ McCoy - I didn't put this down once while reading (except for a sleep in between) started at night, read til I was falling asleep and picked it up and read til the end in the morning.
The book itself introduces many new characters I'm hopeful SJ will write about in the future as well as revisiting some other characters from her other books I've already read. This is the first in a new series and I'm looking forward to more.
Oscar is successful, from a wealthy family but had to make his own way to success, and he has succeeded in everything he tried. He isn't satisfied though and tries to fine his entertainment with the many ladies willing to throw themselves at him. Until an encounter in a lift with Grace throws him of course. Then she turns up looking for him at his work, though she didn't know it was him she was looking for - he was simply a guy from a list and she went looking for a name - a very successful name she thought could help her.
His business plans are going to wreck her - both her employment and voluntary work are at risk due to his plans. But having survived many knocks in life she doesn't plan to take this sitting down. Up for action she realises her first move has to be to find this man and confront him, only when she does this she finds he is the guy from the lift! Not what she was expecting, but she is a strong woman and is not going to be put off - her voluntary work is too important - she must find a way to save her centre.
May 16, 2019
Unfortunately, I started off comparing this book (most the writing) to an author whose books I am absolutely ADDICTED to. I did try to give this book a chance - but please don’t take my review the wrong way, this is a wonderful book. I got the butterflies and that’s really the goal.
But as for the other aspects of the book: I feel like the story is a bit rushed. There could have been more chapters to really parse our the characters, make them a bit more three dimensional... I did enjoy the differing point of views between the two main characters but I also believe that the chapters could have ended on high notes instead of just cutting a section of the story into another chapter.
The love between the characters is there but why did it only take like 2 days for it to happen? Also, I believe things that were told from the characters mouths were sometimes a bit awkward and come have been written in more naturally.
Some of the writing is a bit plain and could have been done without (without the !s) or needed to be a more complex statement. Also, more sex please because Oscar is supposed to be hot and I’m left wanting!
I do believe this is a good book - although the rating is a bit high, but I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series.
But as for the other aspects of the book: I feel like the story is a bit rushed. There could have been more chapters to really parse our the characters, make them a bit more three dimensional... I did enjoy the differing point of views between the two main characters but I also believe that the chapters could have ended on high notes instead of just cutting a section of the story into another chapter.
The love between the characters is there but why did it only take like 2 days for it to happen? Also, I believe things that were told from the characters mouths were sometimes a bit awkward and come have been written in more naturally.
Some of the writing is a bit plain and could have been done without (without the !s) or needed to be a more complex statement. Also, more sex please because Oscar is supposed to be hot and I’m left wanting!
I do believe this is a good book - although the rating is a bit high, but I will definitely be checking out the other books in this series.
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