An international playboy finds true love in a sexy new standalone contemporary romance from Aliza Mann.
Ashton Lyle is a man in control. His rules are Discipline. Hard work. No deviation. And lucky for him no one is able to resist his mega-watt smile, dazzling wit, sexy British accent, and ability to manipulate any situation in business . . . and in bed. That is, until he meets a woman with rules of her own.
Terra Ellis is a self-made woman who knows what she wants. A successful entrepreneur, she has worked hard to cultivate an impeccable image. A tumultuous relationship with her ex-husband has reinforced her drive but it has also made her question serious relationships. After all, a busy woman has no time for romance. That is, until Terra meets a man who sees through her façade.
Ashton and Terra are about to discover that some rules were made to be broken. . . .
This ebook includes an excerpt from another Loveswept title.
I so wish that I can say that I loved Breaking His Rules by new-to-me author, Aliza Mann, but, frankly, it was a struggle for me to finish.
I was drawn to Breaking His Rules because of that gorgeous cover and the fact that I'm trying to read as many authors going to Book Lover Con this year as possible. However, I always struggle with M/F contemporary romance, and this book fell to that curse.
I'm not sure exactly why I had so much trouble with the story. It felt polished and well-written, but it took me ages to read. I had to force myself to read a few pages every day, and my mind kept wandering to other books and I'd put this one down again. It didn't engage me.
Part of the reason is probably that I don't like when book start off sex-forward. I am a huge fan of the slow, slow burn and sexual tension that builds over time. I like the MCs to not even kiss before 50% in, just build the tension and get to know one another. I know that is just my personal preference, but I tend to check out when relationships process too fast because I just don't get as emotionally invested in the romance. I also thought it was strange in this story how there was a BDSM-lite scene right off the bat, which didn't quite fit with the tone of the story.
I was also excited for a reformed-rake premise, which is a weakness of mine, but Ashton went from "I never get involved" to extremely attached in the blink of an eye. I wanted more of the cocky playboy who gets schooled-vibe, which I didn't quite get.
I wish I loved this one, but it was just okay for me. Bummer.
This is an amazing romance story that will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next. I started this book out and thought I would be able to put it down but no I had to keep reading to see what was going to happen to Ashton and Terra.
Ashton is your very British play boy not looking for love. He is sitting in a restaurant when he sees a gorgeous woman in need of saving form the date she is on. So he approaches her and they quickly become friends. From there the two of them talk all the time and spend time together and when they do they seem to have this crazy chemistry but neither of them want to acknowledge it because if they do it could mess up their friendship and rules that they have set for one another.
This is an amazing romance story that is a must read. You will not be disappointed when you read this story. Plus you will fall in love with a gorgeous British man!
A sweet love story with two magnetic people being drawn together. We have a hero who likes older women because they don’t expect commitment, just romance. Then he meets a woman who is out of his league. She is too beautiful, too young and too successful. But she stops him in his tracks, literally. We have a heroine who is trying to make time for a bit of romance at the insistence of her friends. But with a successful club to run and an ex-husband from hell, she barely has time for anything. Enter our hero who can’t stay away.
Good romance. Thank you, #netgalley and Aliza Mann 😊
Merged review:
A sweet love story with two magnetic people being drawn together. We have a hero who likes older women because they don’t expect commitment, just romance. Then he meets a woman who is out of his league. She is too beautiful, too young and too successful. But she stops him in his tracks, literally. We have a heroine who is trying to make time for a bit of romance at the insistence of her friends. But with a successful club to run and an ex-husband from hell, she barely has time for anything. Enter our hero who can’t stay away.
I really enjoyed this romance - it's a sweet romance with lots of sexy times. I really liked the hero and heroine - both strong people who have successful lives of their own who ultimately find what they didn't even know that the needed with each other. Ashton grew on me over the length of the book but it is Terra who really grabbed me immediately. Strong, successful, confident and intelligent - everything a good heroine should be. I love the way their relationship unfolded. Although Ashton's falling for her felt a little fast, given what we know of him, I was able to overlook it. All in all, a really successful romance with memorable characters.
Note: Thank you to the publisher for providing me a free copy of this book for an honest review.
I had a hard time with this book. It never really hooked me. So It did not keep me engaged. I had it for weeks and would pick it up, read a bit and put it down. It had great dialogue and the writing was very well done. But, in the end, I think there just wasn't enough tension or concrete plot to hang the forward story on. And honestly the couple chemistry just wasn't there on page for me.
We are first introduced to Ashton, the hero, in his first person POV chapter where he is telling us his philosophy of romance/sex etc. Basically he keeps it light with no strings and he tends to like older women. He is at a bar trying to pick up one such woman when he notices the heroine Terra who is trying to fend off a rather handsy date and he heads to her rescue.
That is their meet cute and it actually moves into a rather amusing, somewhat slapticky scene where she ends up punching him (accidentally).
From there they dance around each other and have no strings sex. Of course that never works in a romance novel. In this case it is Ashton who catches feelings real fast with Terra blowing hot and cold. He'd pursue, she'd try to hold him off, they'd realize they're just so sexually attracted to each other and then they have sex. Only for the whole dance to start over. There is a scene where Ashton get to show his protectiveness of Terra which finally convinces her to take him seriously. This could have been an effective push-pull tension but it fell flat for me and I just wondered what was the hold up?
I also don't feel I got a bead on either one of them as a person. The book is told in alternating first person POV chapters However the 'voice' of Terra and Ashton was indistinguishable. I could easily forget whose chapter I was in sometimes because there was no difference in tone, thought etc. As a mater of fact, Ashton is a white, British male and there were times his inner thoughts (word choices, inflections) felt distinctly like a black woman's.
It was an ok book but it really didn't get me invested in either the characters or their relationship.
This is a review based on an ARC received from the author/publisher via Netgalley
This was a very well done book although I did find the story itself very predictable. The author did a good job developing the characters and their relationship as the story unfolded. The chemistry between Ashton and Terra was great. Ashton is a self proclaimed ladies man. He knows how to give them what they need without all the ugly entanglements of a relationship. Terra is a busy divorcee who has given up on love and relationships. These two seem perfect for each other. Turns out that is exactly the problem, they work too well and before long they are breaking all the rules.
Overall a very enjoyable read and I'd definitely recommend it.
Yes! Yes! (Oh, please excuse the premature exclamations.)
In Breaking His Rules the player, pharmaceutical sales rep Ashton, gets played in all of the most satisfying ways by business owner Terra. From their chivalrous meeting and funny comedy-of-errors encounter to their reluctant courtship and unplanned relationship these two engaging characters laugh, argue, and tease each other with an irresistible sense of joyous self-awareness consistent with people who are in their prime. Their chemistry smokes from the pages.
Secondary characters and tangential story lines are thoughtful and well-developed. Modern spins on issues of age and ethnicity feel authentic. Plus, Terra and Ashton's love story is simply a totally satisfying read.
This was story that showcased that it doesn't actually matter what walls you put up or what rules you have in place, or what fears and hang ups get in the way. At the end of the day love will win out, even when what it actually looks like doesn't line up with what you always imagined it would. Nice and sexy realistic love story.
Filled with sexy banter, steamy loves scenes, and a British hero, this own voices contemporary romance is a wickedly hot romance that gave me all the feels. 10 Stars! I adored Ashton and Terra and I know you will too! I highly recommend this feel-good romance.
Wow..Wow..wow!! I just loved Terra and Ashton's story. He was a good guy at heart and each 0f them deserved a happy ending. Especially, all that Terra went through with that creep Marcus. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I voluntarily read this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Hopefully, there will be a follow up story with Gary and Gloria.
I am not a fan of older woman younger man situations, but that is me to each its own. I found this book ok, not the best but I guess you could pass the time, me I would have read something else. So we meet Ashton a self proclaimed playboy and then he meets Terra and all of sudden he is head over heels and in love so he apparently changed his way fairly quickly, yeah that did not convince me. But it is what it is, so then we have Terra a divorcee and little leary of getting hurt again but Ashton and his charming ways convinces her and then we have a whole lot of sexy times...That was basically it..
Rcvd an ARC atno cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
4.25 stars - Solid romance where Ashton, the hero, actually saves the heroine’s life. He’s younger than her, 11 years to be exact, but there’s no cougar talk here. He’s the pursuer, and while she’s very much into him, she thinks she knows the score. Boy, is she wrong. They both get a first hand lesson in true love and it couldn’t have come at a better time for them.
I enjoyed this read and think you will too.
I received an ARC of this book, from the publisher, via NetGalley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review. What happens when two people not looking for love meets? The seem to be drawn to each other and the romance is off the charts. Ashton is a ladies man and he doesn't think that love is in the cards for him. And he seems to be alright with that. He finds the ladies not looking for a relationship to get what he needs and gives them what he knows they need. He can watch a woman and know a lot about her, this is how he ran into Terra. Terra is on another date from hell. Although this guy is a friend of a friend, she can't stand being with him any longer. When the man she noticed at the bar watching the group of older ladies approaches her, she doesn't know what to do. Then she realizes he is there to save her from Mr. Grab Hands. She isn't looking for a relationship, just a little fun, is that really too much to ask. Ashton and Terra end up spending time together and it is messing with both of their heads. Neither one wants to admit to themselves that they are feeling something for the other. Can they go out on a few dates without feeling getting involved? Will Terra tell Ashton about her past? Can Ashton share his past with Terra? Will they be able to move on from each other if a relationship is not possible? I really enjoyed this story and I hope you like it too. This being a first for me from this author, I can't wait to read more from her.
Honestly, this book was just okay for me. I had been waiting and waiting for it to be available but it honestly did not do much for me.
The premise is a romance surrounding a middle-aged woman (Terra) and a younger man (Ashton) who doesn't actually commit to relationships. I felt that Ashton "fell in love" with Terra very quickly for someone who doesn't commit. Then Terra fights pretty hard to keep him at arm's length - this helped to build some much needed romantic tension. Their romance became sweet and fun. Their chemistry ignites and their love blossoms. This is definitely a quick read that is different from the normal modern romance. If you are looking for something that flips the gender roles a little, this may be the book for you.
DNF before the end of the first chapter. Honestly, I was turned off almost right from the start. I didn't like either character, I couldn't connect with them, and I was getting cranky with the way they were behaving. I looked at a few reviews and figured it probably wasn't going to change, so I thought I would cut my losses since it obviously wasn't a match for me. Course, now I forget the specifics, so not helpful...but whatever.
**I received this book from Random House - Loveswept through NetGalley for an honest review.**
Terra is a self-made woman who knows what she wants and Ashton is a man in control.
I’ll be honest, I did not care for the first couple of chapters at all. Things started out a bit shallow and I felt like if I stopped I would be OK with my decision. While I questioned Terra’s decision making after knowing someone for such a short period of time I suspended my beliefs because I’m sure some people are like that in real life.
The middle of this book was very enjoyable. The chemistry between these two was legit hot and their banter was great. I appreciated the humor throughout, it lightened things up a bit with these two professionals. I also liked the introduction of their friends, they for sure added a lot to their story.
This had some drama that almost felt random and was a major WTF for me. I think that kind of made things go downhill for me since things started out so light and fun.
Overall, the epilogue redeemed some things for me after the lackluster chapters towards the end. The instalove and constant sex was not a plus for me. Also, Ashton’s stalker tendencies were a big red flag, attractive or not.
*Mondo huge thanks to NetGalley & Lovestruck Publishing for this free copy in exchange for an honest review*
Breaking His Rules is a sweet (yet steamy) tale of a playboy turned one-woman-man and how one should always keep their heart open to love. Ashton is a likeable character: his jokes and whit are spot on and that British accent is enough to make a girl’s knees buckle. Terra is a boss who doesn’t need a man but she sure enough ends up with a good one!
Aliza writes this story full of passion and emotion. There were times when I was on tender hooks waiting to turn the page and see what would happen next. Her romance scenes were well-written, albeit repetitive. Steamy isn’t even the word to describe them....SMOKIN is more like it!
Merged review:
*Mondo huge thanks to NetGalley & Lovestruck Publishing for this free copy in exchange for an honest review*
Breaking His Rules is a sweet (yet steamy) tale of a playboy turned one-woman-man and how one should always keep their heart open to love. Ashton is a likeable character: his jokes and whit are spot on and that British accent is enough to make a girl’s knees buckle. Terra is a boss who don’t need a man but she sure enough ends up with a good one!
Aliza writes this story full of passion and emotion. There were times when I was on tender hooks waiting to turn the page and see what would happen next. Her romance scenes were well-written, albeit repetitive. Steamy isn’t even the word to describe them....SMOKIN is more like it!
Breaking his rules is an adorably honest love story. I felt like the relationship progression. was natural and very reminiscent of today's dating scene. I loved that Tera was a bar owner (Yass Queen) with a clearly awful ex-husband. It made her human because those are real people issues. Ashton had his own issues with his father and the death of his mother. They both seemed really normal and clearly good for each other. I enjoyed the fact that they were able to recognize that they each wanted each other and the fight against being together didn't last long. So, all in all, I loved the love story and the characters blew me away
This contemporary romance was a mix of fun, serious, and sensual; one of my favorite combinations. Plus, it takes place in Detroit, Michigan. This is close to where I grew up, and a place I visit often, so reading a story surrounding sights I'm familiar with was an extra treat.
Readers who love steamy romances with plenty of heart will enjoy this story!
"""Sometimes, you don't know what you need until it's there, just in front of you. Then boom. your life begins."" ~ Terra
Ashton had life rules he lived by religiously. Terra had sworn off of love. Somehow the two of them found themselves in the same place at the same time, because love works that way. What was supposed to be a one-time attraction, morphed into a lifeline that could not be denied. Together they helped to heal their hearts and taught each other to trust.
This was a good read. Humor is a component of their personalities and I appreciated the quirkiness. Ashton at times was swoon worthy and Terra was no wallflower."
Breaking His Rules by Aliza Mann is a story about two people determined to stay away from relationships. One loves his life just at is is now, uncomplicated. The other is tired of complications. I loved watching these two interact with each other.
Ashton Lyle was not ready for Terra Ellis. Always avoiding commitments, but Terra changes his life in ways he never expected. Terra was left leery of relationships after her divorce and definitely does not need one in her life right now. So when she meets Aston, she is determined to keep away. But their chemistry between them is undeniable!
Breaking His Rules by Aliza Mann was a fun and sexy read. This push and pull romance was fun, if at times a bit angsty, read.
Title: Breaking His Rules Author: Aliza Mann Publisher: Random House Publishing Group - Loveswept Reviewed By: Aliza Mann Rating: Four Review:
"Breaking His Rules" by Aliza Mann
My Rationalization...
I loved this beautiful sweet story of Ashton and Terra with him being eleven years younger. It was really nice how this author was able to give us a story that really balanced out so very well together giving the reader one well-written storyline along with a sexy romance. I loved how with each having their own personal issues were able to at the end get it all worked out.
*I received an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!*
Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Ashton and Terra story is a well written novel set within a modern setting. She's an older woman wary of getting hurt and he a charming, quick witted man looking for short term but finding true love instead. While I wasn't crazy about how quickly he falls for her especially since he initially declares himself a playboy, I did enjoy the incredible chemistry he has with Terra. Nice modern romance with a strong heroine and a charming, kind hero.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, secrets, and heartbreak.
This is Terra and Ashton’s story. Both strong willed can they really have a chance? Both hard workers but is that keeping them from love? She is a little put off relationships after her last one. Can he convince her to give him a chance? The both have a set of rules but in the end are they willing to break them all for each other?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read.
Aston and Terra meet when he rescues her from a bad blind date. Aston isn’t the relationship type of guy and Terra is all about her business. What will happen when sparks fly between these two. Fast-paced read with plenty of drama and steam. I liked the characters and the story held my interest throughout. A good read.
This book was ok. Two people that were so much alike but had lots of chemistry. Terra and Ashton weren’t looking for anything serious when they unexpectedly met each other in the strangest way. The book had an ok flow to it and at times felt stuck but it was a cute love story. They both had their issues snd Ashton sometimes assumed things that weren’t and Terra stressed things that were irrelevant. But regardless not a bad story.
I loved the opening scene to this book. We immediately get insight into Ashton's character. He's a good guy at heart and the rules he lives by are just a barrier to protect his own fragile heart. I really enjoyed learning more about Ash's vulnerabilities and it was refreshing that they stemmed from his relationship with his father and not because our hero was jilted from a woman in his past. Terra was a strong, confident woman with a few vulnerabilities of her own. The attraction between these two characters was red-hot and consumed both of them in a super short time period. Some might call it insta-love. I call it wonderful. I'm all about instincts. When you meet 'the one' you'll know. This book starts out playful and funny but delves into deeper issues as the story progresses. Grab a glass of wine and savor the story!