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Breaking All The Rules #1
The Deal Breaker
Working for my ex-boyfriend? Sure.
But falling for him again? That’s a deal breaker.
Dancing around my office in my bra isn’t exactly the way I’d have chosen to run into my ex for the first time in twelve years, but what can I say? Wes Lake has always had a knack for showing up at the most inopportune times.
Unfortunately, he also has a knack for leaving. That’s why I’ve made every effort to put him out of my head — and my heart.
But this time, he needs my help. Wes Lake, head of Manhattan’s preeminent real estate development firm, needs my tiny little marketing start-up to take on a special project at his company. The money’s too good to turn down, so even though I’m leery of working for my ex, I accept.
There’s just one
I can’t stop kissing him.
But falling for him again? That’s a deal breaker.
Dancing around my office in my bra isn’t exactly the way I’d have chosen to run into my ex for the first time in twelve years, but what can I say? Wes Lake has always had a knack for showing up at the most inopportune times.
Unfortunately, he also has a knack for leaving. That’s why I’ve made every effort to put him out of my head — and my heart.
But this time, he needs my help. Wes Lake, head of Manhattan’s preeminent real estate development firm, needs my tiny little marketing start-up to take on a special project at his company. The money’s too good to turn down, so even though I’m leery of working for my ex, I accept.
There’s just one
I can’t stop kissing him.
412 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2018
301 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Cat Carmine
9 books411 followersCat Carmine writes contemporary romance and romantic comedy. She also happens to like drinking wine, eating cake, buying too many books, and snuggling with her elderly cocker spaniel (oh, and her husband too.) She loves — and writes — books with sweet and sarcastic heroines and strong, sexy heroes who like a little bark with their bite. She thinks witty banter is the best kind of foreplay, and she tries to infuse all her stories with heart, humor and heat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
May 15, 2022
Another "oh my God, are you shitting me" book.
The male protagonist needs female protagonist for some reason (nah I don't remember what it was) even after having a history like there's no one else in the world apart from her who can be an option for the job.
So they share a history and as they start working together, they can't keep their hands off each other. And the things go out of hands. Literally.
The shocking reveal escalates the emotional drama and after some fights, they get together.
Did you find anything new or different here?
I don't know why writers even bother to write the same old story over and over again.
Nothing new here. Just same old borong stuff.
The male protagonist needs female protagonist for some reason (nah I don't remember what it was) even after having a history like there's no one else in the world apart from her who can be an option for the job.
So they share a history and as they start working together, they can't keep their hands off each other. And the things go out of hands. Literally.
The shocking reveal escalates the emotional drama and after some fights, they get together.
Did you find anything new or different here?
I don't know why writers even bother to write the same old story over and over again.
Nothing new here. Just same old borong stuff.
November 7, 2018
Another meh book for me. This book is so much like the other books I've read lately, that I actually had to look up the blurb to make sure I was reviewing the correct book. Heroine with no self-control, hero who is an asshole with a heart of gold, a load of stupid decisions, and BOOM re-hashed romance.
March 15, 2022
This was my first time reading this author and I like her writing but I just thought that this book has a too simple story.
Overall it’s a good read but nothing too exciting.
▬ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: second chance, workplace/office romance (boss x employee)
Overall it’s a good read but nothing too exciting.
▬ 𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: second chance, workplace/office romance (boss x employee)
April 15, 2019
It was a decent book.
Nothing too special but not quite boring.
Sometimes it was a tad bit melodramatic but that's fine.
Will probably try more of the author's works.
Nothing too special but not quite boring.
Sometimes it was a tad bit melodramatic but that's fine.
Will probably try more of the author's works.
March 5, 2019
I definitely think that I will be reading a lot more of Cat Carmine because this book was definitely enjoyable. I loved the interactions between the characters, I loved the history and background that the two MCs had with each other, I loved the intricacy of the setting. For a moment, I was tempted to stop reading the book because I thought the male MC (sorry, I forgot his name, I read a lot of books) was going to turn out to be an asshole. In my defense, he was doing a lot of asshole things. However, it ended up that he wasn't a huge dick, so it was all right at the end. Genuinely, though, what was his name? I keep on thinking Wolfe, but that can't be it. What was his name? For that matter, what was the girl's name. Oh, Rori. Yes, her name was Rori. Then, what was the guy's name? Wolfe? Warren? Wescott? Wes! There we go. I knew we'd get there eventually.
Overall, I liked the book. I will be reading more Cat Carmine for sure. Especially because all the characters seem to be interconnected. And I'm out.
Overall, I liked the book. I will be reading more Cat Carmine for sure. Especially because all the characters seem to be interconnected. And I'm out.
April 8, 2018
If you love a second chance romance that will have you on an emotional rollercoaster ride, then you need to read this book. Wes & Rori story will have you teary eyed and at times wanting to throttle Wes. Wes & Rori were high school sweethearts and Wes hurt her and now years later Wes wants Rori’s company to help his company, but there is a secret that could destroy what could be a their second chance. Will finally Wes & Rori finally get their HEA? Great story with a great characters that I really enjoyed.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
August 27, 2018
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I like this author so I was happy to get another book from her. In this one we have Wes and Rory who were once high school sweet hearts til Wes screws up and leaves her high and dry on prom night (yeah I would have hurt him) Any hoo years later and he needs her help. Will she forgive? Give them a chance? It was a little roller coaster we laugh, cry, root for and want to throw you kindle at Wes sometimes..
March 9, 2022
OKAY it was like a second chance romance which is automatically in my good graces, the spice was p good but it did have the miscommunication trope HOWEVER the way he resolves it is SO ADORABLE!!
May 5, 2025
Their push and pull did t last long! They had good chemistry and I did feel like their wasn’t much actual talking about their feelings
April 9, 2018
I am voluntarily writing this review for this book I received through Booksprouts arc.
Rori and Kyla opened up a marketing company in New York. They even have an office in Manhatten compliments of her parents owning the building.
It had been so hot in their office they took their fans and raised their shirts and were dancing around. Kyla turns around and sees Wes and then she tries to tell Rori to put down her shirt. Wes and his partner in Goldlake development and they are in need of Rori/Kyla Marigold PR company services. When Wes sees Rori the old pangs come back. Rori was surprised to see Wes in their little tiny office. He tells her that he is their for business but she really wants to pass on the job because she feels they are too small. She finally signs the proposal but she still had a hinky feeling but the money. Now Kyla and Rori can afford to do PR for the community center in Elmwood Gables. Little does Rori know that Goldlake development was going to take the building and change it drastically. Emma, Rori's sister tells her she really doesn't trust Wesand reminds her that he is a user. Wes asked Rori to go to the country club with him because he was trying to get into the club. While they were there Rori couldn't help herself she asked Wes to come to the wedding with her. Rori tells her sister Emma that Wes is going with her to her friends wedding Emma was worry that he do what he did so long ago. Rori was going to go to the bulldog rescue event and when Wes heard about it he said he would go. Rori and Wes go back to his condo she spends the night. Wes has a secret that he can't reveal to Rori. The both of them have major chemistry and couldn't keep their hands off each other. When Wes was at the bar two guys who look like they were in the wedding. When they found out who he was they asked him about the development project and he somewhat freaked since they know Rori. Wes and Rori have s*x when they left the reception and Rori is falling in love with Wes again. Finally. The last day when they were leaving Trent the bridegroom's brother mentions to Wes about his secret. Rori finds out about Wes's secret. That was it she felt that he had played her again just like high school. Rori left earlier than expected and rode home with her parents to their house so she could lick her wounds. Going back into the city Rori couldn't believe that Wes would be that callus. Will Wes and Rori get back together for a second chance or will Rori and Wes go their separate ways for good
Rori and Kyla opened up a marketing company in New York. They even have an office in Manhatten compliments of her parents owning the building.
It had been so hot in their office they took their fans and raised their shirts and were dancing around. Kyla turns around and sees Wes and then she tries to tell Rori to put down her shirt. Wes and his partner in Goldlake development and they are in need of Rori/Kyla Marigold PR company services. When Wes sees Rori the old pangs come back. Rori was surprised to see Wes in their little tiny office. He tells her that he is their for business but she really wants to pass on the job because she feels they are too small. She finally signs the proposal but she still had a hinky feeling but the money. Now Kyla and Rori can afford to do PR for the community center in Elmwood Gables. Little does Rori know that Goldlake development was going to take the building and change it drastically. Emma, Rori's sister tells her she really doesn't trust Wesand reminds her that he is a user. Wes asked Rori to go to the country club with him because he was trying to get into the club. While they were there Rori couldn't help herself she asked Wes to come to the wedding with her. Rori tells her sister Emma that Wes is going with her to her friends wedding Emma was worry that he do what he did so long ago. Rori was going to go to the bulldog rescue event and when Wes heard about it he said he would go. Rori and Wes go back to his condo she spends the night. Wes has a secret that he can't reveal to Rori. The both of them have major chemistry and couldn't keep their hands off each other. When Wes was at the bar two guys who look like they were in the wedding. When they found out who he was they asked him about the development project and he somewhat freaked since they know Rori. Wes and Rori have s*x when they left the reception and Rori is falling in love with Wes again. Finally. The last day when they were leaving Trent the bridegroom's brother mentions to Wes about his secret. Rori finds out about Wes's secret. That was it she felt that he had played her again just like high school. Rori left earlier than expected and rode home with her parents to their house so she could lick her wounds. Going back into the city Rori couldn't believe that Wes would be that callus. Will Wes and Rori get back together for a second chance or will Rori and Wes go their separate ways for good
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2018
There are some authors that you can always count on. Some that you know, whatever they put out next, you’ll absolutely love. Cat Carmine is one of those authors. I know I can follow her on any book journey and not be disappointed – that my time spent with her characters will have plenty of laughs, some great chemistry with a little smoldering heat, and lots of heart to tug on my emotions.
I was pleased to get an early copy of this to read, but I loved this book so much I purchased my own copy. I swear, reading a Cat Carmine book for me is like coming home. It’s comfortable and familiar and just makes everything in me relaxed and blissful. I have yet to meet a second chance romance I’ve hated, so of course, I quickly got invested in Wes and Rori's story. The way he broke her seventeen-year-old heart made me really want to hate Wes, but from the very beginning, his big heart and goodness were peeking out. Twelve years later he's found his place on the world and wants to hire Rori's marketing company. A lot changes in twelve years, so they should be able to keep things professional, right? Just in case, Rori decides they need a “no hanky panky" contract, to be safe. You don’t have to read very many romance novels to know how well that turns out.
These two main characters, as well as the secondary characters, were great fun! If you’ve read any of the other books, you’ll enjoy catching up with Jase and his brothers at Jase and Celia’s wedding. Wes and Rori were both strong, endearing characters with enough vulnerability to humanize them. Rori is a kind, generous, caring character, working with charities like the bulldog rescue and a community center trying to promote its urban garden, but don’t let that fool you. When Wes messes up (and it was like a train wreck that you see coming and just can’t look away from) Rori's kind, generous nature doesn’t mean Wes is forgiven. He has go beyond big to epic, both emotionally and financially, to prove himself, and the highlight of his grand gesture is poignantly beautiful and sweetly precious. Ms. Carmine certainly did a phenomenal job of timing the revelations of the past with the present for maximum heart string tuggage. *sigh*
This book is well worth the time and money and will make your heart happy, and I have no doubt you’ll fall in love with these characters as I have. I can’t wait to see what comes next. It looks like Rori's sister, Emma/”Ms. Perfect", might enter the same orbit as Wes' rich, irresponsible, playboy college roommate, Tyler, which should prove to be quite entertaining. So while you’re reading this one I'll be getting the popcorn ready for Emma's story.
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
I was pleased to get an early copy of this to read, but I loved this book so much I purchased my own copy. I swear, reading a Cat Carmine book for me is like coming home. It’s comfortable and familiar and just makes everything in me relaxed and blissful. I have yet to meet a second chance romance I’ve hated, so of course, I quickly got invested in Wes and Rori's story. The way he broke her seventeen-year-old heart made me really want to hate Wes, but from the very beginning, his big heart and goodness were peeking out. Twelve years later he's found his place on the world and wants to hire Rori's marketing company. A lot changes in twelve years, so they should be able to keep things professional, right? Just in case, Rori decides they need a “no hanky panky" contract, to be safe. You don’t have to read very many romance novels to know how well that turns out.
These two main characters, as well as the secondary characters, were great fun! If you’ve read any of the other books, you’ll enjoy catching up with Jase and his brothers at Jase and Celia’s wedding. Wes and Rori were both strong, endearing characters with enough vulnerability to humanize them. Rori is a kind, generous, caring character, working with charities like the bulldog rescue and a community center trying to promote its urban garden, but don’t let that fool you. When Wes messes up (and it was like a train wreck that you see coming and just can’t look away from) Rori's kind, generous nature doesn’t mean Wes is forgiven. He has go beyond big to epic, both emotionally and financially, to prove himself, and the highlight of his grand gesture is poignantly beautiful and sweetly precious. Ms. Carmine certainly did a phenomenal job of timing the revelations of the past with the present for maximum heart string tuggage. *sigh*
This book is well worth the time and money and will make your heart happy, and I have no doubt you’ll fall in love with these characters as I have. I can’t wait to see what comes next. It looks like Rori's sister, Emma/”Ms. Perfect", might enter the same orbit as Wes' rich, irresponsible, playboy college roommate, Tyler, which should prove to be quite entertaining. So while you’re reading this one I'll be getting the popcorn ready for Emma's story.
*I reviewed this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
May 5, 2024
DNF’d at 35%… and what a load of crap! I wasted over 4 hours of my life waiting for this story to get better, but decided to cut my loss and save my brain cells. Let’s see…we’ve got the H, an a-hole named Wes Lake. Wes is a wealthy Real Estate mogul who decides to look up his high school girlfriend whom he not only stood up for the prom, but never contacted to explain or apologize. But after 12 years with no contact, Wes gives the h, Rory, and her small marketing firm, a multimillion dollar contract (also part of a great reveal because H is not being forthcoming regarding his motives). Rory says no to the contract initially but soon changes her mind, like every thought she has. How does h even run a business if she can’t make a decision and stick to it…oh wait her firm is struggling and their largest contract to-date was only $10,000. So the h and H kiss and Rory decides they need another type of contract so that they will keep their hands off each other and remain professional. Yet the contract and every other thing Rory vows not to do with Wes only lasts a nanosecond. Hello author…you just wasted several hours setting up a scenario where we think the h will show some backbone, self-control and respect for herself, only to dial it back immediately by making out with H again and invites him to a wedding that just a second before she said she would not. Not only does the h have no impulse control but her good friend, whose wedding she is attending, asks h “did you ever ask H why he ghosted you at prom”….I am sorry h shouldn’t have to ask that of the H…an explanation and apology should have been the the first things out of H’s mouth upon contacting h 12 years later. So I already see the big reveal and climax coming a mile away and frankly I can’t waste any more brain cells waiting for an explanation that any decent human being would offer up immediately!
This was the 4th book I’ve read from this author and they are getting worse and not better, so I think I am done.
This was the 4th book I’ve read from this author and they are getting worse and not better, so I think I am done.
April 7, 2018
Rori and her friend Kyla are an up and coming marketing company that gets the break of a lifetime when Rori’s old boyfriend, Wes contracts her company to work on a special project.
Wes is Rori’s high school sweetheart and he broke her heart. While her heart is cautious her body has other ideas. Unknown to Rori, Wes has been cyber stalking her and may feel a bit more about her than he’s letting on.
As these two try and navigate a strictly working relationship they seem to keep finding themselves kissing and taking liberties with each other.
Will have to admit the beginning part of the book started a little high schoolish with some of the dialogue. Thankfully it evolved into something more as the story progressed.
Rori is sweet through and through, doesn’t mean she’s a doormat she just has a good heart and looks at the world a bit more positively than some. Wes has had a hard climb to success and now that he’s gotten past his impoverished childhood he is ready to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
I was wondering how the author was going to redeem Wes from the major secret that he was keeping from Rori. It was a dozy and it would crush and devastate Rori when she found out. She does do a nice job of tying in his past and his present to make a character that showed a lot of growth and heart.
All of the characters in the story all have great emotional depth, none of them was to out there. A great sense of family and community is the strong backbone of this steamy, with some tears and some laughter love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wes is Rori’s high school sweetheart and he broke her heart. While her heart is cautious her body has other ideas. Unknown to Rori, Wes has been cyber stalking her and may feel a bit more about her than he’s letting on.
As these two try and navigate a strictly working relationship they seem to keep finding themselves kissing and taking liberties with each other.
Will have to admit the beginning part of the book started a little high schoolish with some of the dialogue. Thankfully it evolved into something more as the story progressed.
Rori is sweet through and through, doesn’t mean she’s a doormat she just has a good heart and looks at the world a bit more positively than some. Wes has had a hard climb to success and now that he’s gotten past his impoverished childhood he is ready to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
I was wondering how the author was going to redeem Wes from the major secret that he was keeping from Rori. It was a dozy and it would crush and devastate Rori when she found out. She does do a nice job of tying in his past and his present to make a character that showed a lot of growth and heart.
All of the characters in the story all have great emotional depth, none of them was to out there. A great sense of family and community is the strong backbone of this steamy, with some tears and some laughter love story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2018
Chief Strategist Rori Holloway started Marigold Marketing with her friend Kyla Zhang almost a year ago and they're struggling due to their focus on non-profits. That is, until Rori's handsome ex Wes walks in with a project they can't turn down. Real estate developer Weston Lake and his business partner have built GoldLake Developments into one of the biggest and most successful in NYC. Wes hasn't seen Rori since he stood her up for prom 12 years ago but can't stop thinking about her. Rori is impressed with GoldLake Developments's new hiring initiative for disadvantaged women and agrees to promote it but she's still not convinced Wes' motives are completely altruistic, and she's right to be concerned. GoldLake Developments needs a a good-will project to take attention away from a deal they're trying to close and having Marigold represent GoldLake Developments's hiring initiative would buy them way more credibility. Even though Rori agrees to do the project on the condition that things stay strictly professional, Rori and Wes can't stop kissing each other and soon rekindle what they once had until Rori finds out the truth about the project. Wes will do anything to get Rori back but will it be enough?
Cat Carmine delivers a poignant, touching and steamy story that will tug at your heartstrings
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
Cat Carmine delivers a poignant, touching and steamy story that will tug at your heartstrings
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book
April 9, 2018
Loved this second chance story between Rori Holloway and Wes Lake. Two kids from opposite sides of track so to speak, with Rori and her strong family connections who grinds her way up to start her own marketing firm supporting the "good guys" like the Bulldog rescue and other feel good stories throughout the city. And the seemingly serendipitous way Wes Lake reenters her life after becoming one of the richest men in Manhattan, loved that he basically "built" the city that Rori just lives in.
I couldn't put the story down, as every time Rori was going to stick to guns and not given in further to Wes potentially breaking her heart again, she sticks her foot in her mouth. And just like that her rules from the paper napkin contract fall one by one. I especially enjoyed how the missing details that Rori doesn't know about Wes are slowly revealed from their high school romance and weaved into the story through both small flashback and what Rori's family knew. I do like that Wes does get redeemed through the story and that he's still the sweet boy that Rori remembers and whom he's mom would be proud of.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I couldn't put the story down, as every time Rori was going to stick to guns and not given in further to Wes potentially breaking her heart again, she sticks her foot in her mouth. And just like that her rules from the paper napkin contract fall one by one. I especially enjoyed how the missing details that Rori doesn't know about Wes are slowly revealed from their high school romance and weaved into the story through both small flashback and what Rori's family knew. I do like that Wes does get redeemed through the story and that he's still the sweet boy that Rori remembers and whom he's mom would be proud of.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2019
Rori and Wes were high school sweethearts up until Wes left town abruptly. Rori hasn't seen him in a decade and it's for the best. When he shows up at her office right in the middle of a shirtless dance party offering her firm a contract, she doesn't want to trust him. The contract is way too good to pass up, but can Rori and Wes work together without developping feelings again?
I loved Rori's character. I felt like we didn't get a lot of her in Filthy Fiance (her best friend Celia and Luke's story), but it was enough to intrigue me to read this book. She loved her family dearly and was passionate about every project she took with her firm. Her blatant judgement of her sisters Emma and Blake as "perfect" and "the baby of the family" respectively was a bit annoying. Also, she was a doormat every time Wes was around. I had a lot of trouble coming to terms with Wes as a character. I felt like he was using Rori, lying to her and was acting like a jackass for the first half of the book. When he started to feel more human, I liked him way better. My favorite part was Celia and Luke's wedding. I love that we got to see the Whittaker brothers and their SO again and it made for a great segue into this new set of characters.
I loved Rori's character. I felt like we didn't get a lot of her in Filthy Fiance (her best friend Celia and Luke's story), but it was enough to intrigue me to read this book. She loved her family dearly and was passionate about every project she took with her firm. Her blatant judgement of her sisters Emma and Blake as "perfect" and "the baby of the family" respectively was a bit annoying. Also, she was a doormat every time Wes was around. I had a lot of trouble coming to terms with Wes as a character. I felt like he was using Rori, lying to her and was acting like a jackass for the first half of the book. When he started to feel more human, I liked him way better. My favorite part was Celia and Luke's wedding. I love that we got to see the Whittaker brothers and their SO again and it made for a great segue into this new set of characters.
April 7, 2018
The Deal Breaker is a sweet, sexy second chance romance between Rori and her high school love, Wes.
Rori and her friend have founded a marketing firm that has mainly concentrated on non-profits and charities. Sounds good, but not so good for their company's bottom line. That's where Rori's ex comes in. Since high school, he has formed a premiere real estate development company that's in need of a good marketing firm for their latest development. Rori never thought she'd see the guy who ditched her on prom night without a word. As their professional relationship goes on, their personal relationship heats up and soon they realize the feelings they had in high school never disappeared. But, Wes is hiding more than one secret, and when they come out, will Rori stand by her man or will it be all too much for her to put up with?
I liked The Deal Breaker. It's sweet and sexy and both Rori and Wes are interesting, layered characters. I'm looking forward to more from Cat Carmine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Rori and her friend have founded a marketing firm that has mainly concentrated on non-profits and charities. Sounds good, but not so good for their company's bottom line. That's where Rori's ex comes in. Since high school, he has formed a premiere real estate development company that's in need of a good marketing firm for their latest development. Rori never thought she'd see the guy who ditched her on prom night without a word. As their professional relationship goes on, their personal relationship heats up and soon they realize the feelings they had in high school never disappeared. But, Wes is hiding more than one secret, and when they come out, will Rori stand by her man or will it be all too much for her to put up with?
I liked The Deal Breaker. It's sweet and sexy and both Rori and Wes are interesting, layered characters. I'm looking forward to more from Cat Carmine.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 8, 2018
This wonderful story grabbed me by the shirt and kept me glued to every page!
Rori is such a terrific character, alternating between admitting her undeniable attraction for Wes and girding herself, preparing for the other shoe to drop. I loved how the author revealed this angle to the readers before Rori found out, building the tension and letting us squirm while we hoped against hope she'd figure it out in time.
Wes is so dreamy, so sweet, and it was gut wrenching at times to watch him struggling to balance his need for success against his better nature. As the author teases out the backstory, though, we learn to show a little sympathy and cut him some slack. But just a little. He still has to confront the error of his ways and make the appropriate change in course.
If you like to yell at your Kindle, live vicariously through the characters that live there, and whoop and dance and cheer when the grand gesture seals the deal on a beautiful HEA, then this is the book for you. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Rori is such a terrific character, alternating between admitting her undeniable attraction for Wes and girding herself, preparing for the other shoe to drop. I loved how the author revealed this angle to the readers before Rori found out, building the tension and letting us squirm while we hoped against hope she'd figure it out in time.
Wes is so dreamy, so sweet, and it was gut wrenching at times to watch him struggling to balance his need for success against his better nature. As the author teases out the backstory, though, we learn to show a little sympathy and cut him some slack. But just a little. He still has to confront the error of his ways and make the appropriate change in course.
If you like to yell at your Kindle, live vicariously through the characters that live there, and whoop and dance and cheer when the grand gesture seals the deal on a beautiful HEA, then this is the book for you. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
February 17, 2025
Super cute contemporary Romance !
The one that got away with no explanation what so ever but years later shows up at my door step welp in this case her office !
Rory has been fighting her feelings for Wes ever since he showed up at her door and it’s tug and pull bwt them both trying to sort their feelings out !
during HS they were in separable and on prom night the most special night ever Wes left ! With no explanation to Rory and they both had this gut linger feeling about it for years.
Naturally Wes had a good reason but it takes Rory a little bit to get around it. Over all they get it together and live happily ever after a huge blow out!
PS !!!! Was supper supper excited to have my Witker Brothers make an appearance !!!!!!! That Rory is besties with Chase wife !! Was estatic to have their wedding revealed because in their books it was just it happened in time. No details !!! So to get that now in this book YESSSSSSSSS !!!
On to the next book! w/ Miss perfect Emma and Mr bad play boy ….
The one that got away with no explanation what so ever but years later shows up at my door step welp in this case her office !
Rory has been fighting her feelings for Wes ever since he showed up at her door and it’s tug and pull bwt them both trying to sort their feelings out !
during HS they were in separable and on prom night the most special night ever Wes left ! With no explanation to Rory and they both had this gut linger feeling about it for years.
Naturally Wes had a good reason but it takes Rory a little bit to get around it. Over all they get it together and live happily ever after a huge blow out!
PS !!!! Was supper supper excited to have my Witker Brothers make an appearance !!!!!!! That Rory is besties with Chase wife !! Was estatic to have their wedding revealed because in their books it was just it happened in time. No details !!! So to get that now in this book YESSSSSSSSS !!!
On to the next book! w/ Miss perfect Emma and Mr bad play boy ….
April 11, 2018
I found this story quite strange as it felt quite too long. The first quarter is ok, then in the second and third quarter it seems to just really overextend somehow and becomes both really looooong and boring. I must admit that I started speed reading those parts but I normally don´t just stop reading a book when I find it boring, I speed read and try to do that as fast as I can. Then came the last quarter of the book, and then it picks up again and something started happening and it even became quite good again. So the last quarter and the first I read with enthusiasm that was nowhere to be found during trying to read the second and the third quarters. Overall I´m sorry but I can´t give more than three stars.
I voluntarily received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I voluntarily received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 11, 2019
This was a fun book to read. It had the love elements and the drama of unrequited love.
Rori and Wes are high school sweethearts and have fallen in love with each other. Now it’s prom night and Rori is ready to say the words to him but he never shows up. He leaves and she doesn’t hear from him for like 10 years or so. She is now living in NYC doing marketing for non-profits. And then one day Wes Lake walks into her office and nothing is the same again. He remembers her and wants to be with her again and she can’t deny the magnetism she has for him. But he broke her heart so nothing is going to happen, no kisses no sex. Nothing. But of course that goes out the window very quickly. They both have to face their past in order to get through the present. And when Rori learns why he really hired her to help his company, everything could fall apart.
Rori and Wes are high school sweethearts and have fallen in love with each other. Now it’s prom night and Rori is ready to say the words to him but he never shows up. He leaves and she doesn’t hear from him for like 10 years or so. She is now living in NYC doing marketing for non-profits. And then one day Wes Lake walks into her office and nothing is the same again. He remembers her and wants to be with her again and she can’t deny the magnetism she has for him. But he broke her heart so nothing is going to happen, no kisses no sex. Nothing. But of course that goes out the window very quickly. They both have to face their past in order to get through the present. And when Rori learns why he really hired her to help his company, everything could fall apart.
September 14, 2024
Wes Lake, Rorie's first love, shows up on her doorstep after 12 years with a job offer: do the marketing for his multi-million dollar real estate project and subsequent non-profit venture. Her small business is desperate for the income but can she put aside her past heartache to do the job?
Rorie's heart was broken by her high school sweetheart but their chemistry is stronger than ever and she can't help but fall in love with him again. I can relate to this, having had my own second go around with a high school boyfriend after a years-long gap. I can appreciate how strong those feelings can be and how hard it is to resist. And when Wes finally confesses what had happened, all the pieces fall into place to make things seem less awful. They deserved a second chance together.
Tropes: High School Sweethearts, Second Chance Romance
Rorie's heart was broken by her high school sweetheart but their chemistry is stronger than ever and she can't help but fall in love with him again. I can relate to this, having had my own second go around with a high school boyfriend after a years-long gap. I can appreciate how strong those feelings can be and how hard it is to resist. And when Wes finally confesses what had happened, all the pieces fall into place to make things seem less awful. They deserved a second chance together.
Tropes: High School Sweethearts, Second Chance Romance
April 10, 2018
Emotional and hot
Wes and Rori were high school sweet hearts until Wes broke Rori's heart by standing her up and disappearing from her life on Prom night. Now 12 years later Wes is a successful property developer and he wants Rori and her PR firm to work for him. The attraction is instant as is the pain of seeing Wes again. No apologies no explanations just a job offer her firm cannot afford to turn down. Can Rori trust Wes enough to work for him. Can Wes get Rori to forgive him? He wants her in his life not just in business. He knows he could end up hurting her again even though that's the last thing he would ever want.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wes and Rori were high school sweet hearts until Wes broke Rori's heart by standing her up and disappearing from her life on Prom night. Now 12 years later Wes is a successful property developer and he wants Rori and her PR firm to work for him. The attraction is instant as is the pain of seeing Wes again. No apologies no explanations just a job offer her firm cannot afford to turn down. Can Rori trust Wes enough to work for him. Can Wes get Rori to forgive him? He wants her in his life not just in business. He knows he could end up hurting her again even though that's the last thing he would ever want.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 10, 2018
I received a complimentary copy of this book with no requirements for leaving a review. This review is being left voluntarily and any and all thoughts are my honest opinions on this book and the authors work. This story centers around Wes and Rori...and if they will finally get the second chance the both really want. It is filled with secrets, humor, amazing chemistry, tears and it is complex and intense in points throughout. Great writing encompassing the past and the present in this book. I was enthralled to the point that it was like it became a part of me by the time I finished the last word. 4 1/2 solid stars from me
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 9, 2018
A Review of The Deal Breaker by Cat Carmine
Rori and Wes - 4.5 Stars
This author knows how to grab your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat. The fact that Rori and Wes were high school sweethearts and that he hurt her by standing her up for prom was what caused a ten year absense in each others lives. Now he needs her help and she decides to give him a second chance (for the benefit of her business). But, there are still secrets and hidden agendas that can blow everything to smithereens and break her heart all over again. Definitely worth taking the time to read.
**Honest review voluntarily provided from a Complimentary Copy**
Rori and Wes - 4.5 Stars
This author knows how to grab your attention and keep you on the edge of your seat. The fact that Rori and Wes were high school sweethearts and that he hurt her by standing her up for prom was what caused a ten year absense in each others lives. Now he needs her help and she decides to give him a second chance (for the benefit of her business). But, there are still secrets and hidden agendas that can blow everything to smithereens and break her heart all over again. Definitely worth taking the time to read.
**Honest review voluntarily provided from a Complimentary Copy**
April 11, 2018
Talk about second chances! This was a great book from Cat Carmine. I really loved some of the intensity and the emotions throughout the book. You also get quite a bit of mystery with some flashbacks to the mains characters pasts and trying to figure out what happened with them in high school. This is a beautiful story of two loves finding each other amd that love again. Loved it! I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Hero, Wes = 5/5
Heroine, Rori = 5/5
Chemistry = 5/5
Sex = 5/5
Plot = 4/5
Mystery = 3/5
Action = 1/5
Darkness = 2/5
Humor = 3/5
POV = dual
Would I recommend this book = yes
Would I re-read this book = yes
Would I read future books by this author = yes
Hero, Wes = 5/5
Heroine, Rori = 5/5
Chemistry = 5/5
Sex = 5/5
Plot = 4/5
Mystery = 3/5
Action = 1/5
Darkness = 2/5
Humor = 3/5
POV = dual
Would I recommend this book = yes
Would I re-read this book = yes
Would I read future books by this author = yes
April 11, 2018
3.5 stars. Wes doesn’t show up to take Rori to the high school prom. Unbeknownst to her for many years, there were extenuating circumstances. She and her friend Kylie start a PR firm that specializes in nonprofits and pro bono work. Out of nowhere, Wes shows up to her office to hire her for a special corporate initiative project for a large amount of money that will enable them to spend more time on their preferred clients. This project is to defer attention from an underlying deal with the city. They quickly discover they are still very attracted to each other. This book is a bit long to start but picks up.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book
April 12, 2018
I’m only new to this author and have only read a handful of books by her but I did really like this book very much. Has a really great storyline that I liked, plus I do love dogs lol and the characters where amazing and I absolutely love how they interacted with each other, really made the book in my opinion. They had great chemistry and romance between them throughout the story and it really shows in the book. I can’t wait for more books by this author as I really like how she writes her stories and that she could become one of my favourite authors in time if her books are all like the ones I’ve read so far. I would wholeheartedly recommend this book
April 9, 2018
This is one heck of an emotional rollercoaster ride that I was so glad I got to read. I really enjoyed this second chance romance. Wes and Rori’s romance will have you in tears and sometimes you will want to kick them both mouth mainly Wes. These two were childhood sweethearts but Wes hurt her and now years later he needs her company to help his company. Their are secrets that could reek havoc on their second chance. What will they do to over come their issues.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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