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Melbourne After Dark #2
Hard Deal
A deal with the devil…but who comes out on top?
Imogen Hargrove agrees to go on a date with the infamous Caleb Allbrook if he'll dig up dirt on her sister's cheating fiancé. After leaving her own two–timing ex, Imogen is determined to save her sister from heartbreak. Caleb might be tempting…seductively charming, even. But Imogen won't make the same mistake no more playboys!
Imogen Hargrove agrees to go on a date with the infamous Caleb Allbrook if he'll dig up dirt on her sister's cheating fiancé. After leaving her own two–timing ex, Imogen is determined to save her sister from heartbreak. Caleb might be tempting…seductively charming, even. But Imogen won't make the same mistake no more playboys!
225 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2018
34 people are currently reading
557 people want to read
About the author
Stefanie London
121 books979 followersStefanie London is a multi-award-winning, USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romances and romantic comedies.
Stefanie’s books have been called “genuinely entertaining and memorable” by Booklist, and “elegant, descriptive and delectable” by RT magazine. Her stories have won multiple industry awards, including the HOLT Medallion and OKRWA National Reader's Choice Award, and she has been nominated for the Romance Writers of America RITA award.
Originally from Australia, Stefanie lives in Toronto with her very own hero and is doing her best to travel the world. She frequently indulges in her passions for good coffee, lipstick, romance novels and anything zombie-related.
Stefanie’s books have been called “genuinely entertaining and memorable” by Booklist, and “elegant, descriptive and delectable” by RT magazine. Her stories have won multiple industry awards, including the HOLT Medallion and OKRWA National Reader's Choice Award, and she has been nominated for the Romance Writers of America RITA award.
Originally from Australia, Stefanie lives in Toronto with her very own hero and is doing her best to travel the world. She frequently indulges in her passions for good coffee, lipstick, romance novels and anything zombie-related.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 9, 2018
Hard Deal by Stefanie London is the second by from the Dare series by mills and boon and it's a great quick read with some giggles , emotions, and some steamy naughtiness.
August 27, 2018
4.25 stars.
Stefanie London brings us sexy sparring and saucy shenanigans in the second offering in her Melbourne After Dark series as good girl, Imogen gets up close and personal with her bosses son, Caleb.
I know every other female in this office seems to be under the deluded impression that you’re God’s gift to cha-chas, but I’m not blinded by a pretty face.”
I so enjoyed this and London plays it perfectly bringing together two people who each have their own issues but who bounce off one another in every sense of the phrase, creating everything from hilarious banter to moments which tug on the heartstrings.
If you’re looking for a good combination of romance, hot and steamy love-scenes and humour, then Hard Deal is the book for you.
You can pick your friends but you can’t pick your family.”
Copy received courtesy of Harlequin via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Stefanie London brings us sexy sparring and saucy shenanigans in the second offering in her Melbourne After Dark series as good girl, Imogen gets up close and personal with her bosses son, Caleb.
I know every other female in this office seems to be under the deluded impression that you’re God’s gift to cha-chas, but I’m not blinded by a pretty face.”
I so enjoyed this and London plays it perfectly bringing together two people who each have their own issues but who bounce off one another in every sense of the phrase, creating everything from hilarious banter to moments which tug on the heartstrings.
If you’re looking for a good combination of romance, hot and steamy love-scenes and humour, then Hard Deal is the book for you.
You can pick your friends but you can’t pick your family.”
Copy received courtesy of Harlequin via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
September 10, 2018
Amusing, provocative, and witty!
Hard Deal is a charming, titillating tale about the hardworking, dependable Imogen who finds it hard to trust and has a past riddled with heartbreak, and the handsome, charismatic playboy, Caleb who's determined to prove he's capable of more than just having fun and looking good.
The writing is fluid and sultry. The characters are hesitant, supportive, and lovable. And the plot sweeps you away into a storyline filled with shameless flirting, tantalizing mishaps, steamy chemistry, undeniable attraction, friendship, family, light drama, romance, and love.
Overall, Hard Deal is a passionate, cheeky, absorbing novel that's perfect for rom-com lovers everywhere. And even though it's the second novel in the Melbourne After Dark series and runs concurrently with Unmasked (Melbourne After Dark #1), it can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Thank you to Harlequin Books and Stefanie London for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Hard Deal is a charming, titillating tale about the hardworking, dependable Imogen who finds it hard to trust and has a past riddled with heartbreak, and the handsome, charismatic playboy, Caleb who's determined to prove he's capable of more than just having fun and looking good.
The writing is fluid and sultry. The characters are hesitant, supportive, and lovable. And the plot sweeps you away into a storyline filled with shameless flirting, tantalizing mishaps, steamy chemistry, undeniable attraction, friendship, family, light drama, romance, and love.
Overall, Hard Deal is a passionate, cheeky, absorbing novel that's perfect for rom-com lovers everywhere. And even though it's the second novel in the Melbourne After Dark series and runs concurrently with Unmasked (Melbourne After Dark #1), it can definitely be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel.
Thank you to Harlequin Books and Stefanie London for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2018
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Hard Deal is so much fun to read. It’s both steamy and playful and the chemistry Caleb and Imogen have practically snaps and sizzles on the page.
To all the world, nothing can ruffle Imogen Hargrove. She’s smart, organized, and keeps her passionate nature tamped down. But beneath the surface is a woman who wants to live a more vibrant, sensual life. Imogen was badly hurt by her cheating ex-husband and it’s easy to see why the emotional scars she carries have heavily impacted her life. She’s a kind-hearted heroine who is easy to like, even when she makes mistakes to guard said heart. I really liked Imogen, so I was eager to see her come out of her shell. Caleb helps her do that by knocking her off her axis. He’s a swoon-worthy hero who is so much more than the playboy people know him as. Caleb is charming, good looking, and sexy as sin, but that’s only a small part of him. He made me smile with his rebellious socks and the way he could read people. But it tugged on my heartstrings to see the hidden, vulnerable part that feels unwanted and unloved by his father. He and Imogen both have ghosts in their pasts they have to overcome in order to open their hearts and have a shot at a real relationship. Yet while Imogen and Caleb have to work for their happily ever after, that doesn’t mean the road to it is lacking in fun – quite the contrary. Hard Deal is deliciously dirty and Imogen and Caleb are anything but shy when it comes to pleasure.
Hard Deal is the second book in Stefanie London’s Melbourne After Dark series but it can easily be read as a standalone. That being said, I will definitely go back and read Unmasked because I absolutely adore Ms. London’s writing. I’ve only read a few of her books, but the ones I’ve read are flirty, fun, and wholly addictive. Caleb and Imogen’s romance is no exception and I cannot wait to re-read it.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Hard Deal is so much fun to read. It’s both steamy and playful and the chemistry Caleb and Imogen have practically snaps and sizzles on the page.
To all the world, nothing can ruffle Imogen Hargrove. She’s smart, organized, and keeps her passionate nature tamped down. But beneath the surface is a woman who wants to live a more vibrant, sensual life. Imogen was badly hurt by her cheating ex-husband and it’s easy to see why the emotional scars she carries have heavily impacted her life. She’s a kind-hearted heroine who is easy to like, even when she makes mistakes to guard said heart. I really liked Imogen, so I was eager to see her come out of her shell. Caleb helps her do that by knocking her off her axis. He’s a swoon-worthy hero who is so much more than the playboy people know him as. Caleb is charming, good looking, and sexy as sin, but that’s only a small part of him. He made me smile with his rebellious socks and the way he could read people. But it tugged on my heartstrings to see the hidden, vulnerable part that feels unwanted and unloved by his father. He and Imogen both have ghosts in their pasts they have to overcome in order to open their hearts and have a shot at a real relationship. Yet while Imogen and Caleb have to work for their happily ever after, that doesn’t mean the road to it is lacking in fun – quite the contrary. Hard Deal is deliciously dirty and Imogen and Caleb are anything but shy when it comes to pleasure.
Hard Deal is the second book in Stefanie London’s Melbourne After Dark series but it can easily be read as a standalone. That being said, I will definitely go back and read Unmasked because I absolutely adore Ms. London’s writing. I’ve only read a few of her books, but the ones I’ve read are flirty, fun, and wholly addictive. Caleb and Imogen’s romance is no exception and I cannot wait to re-read it.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
September 5, 2018
Hard Deal by Stefanie London is the second steamy romance in her Australian set Melbourne After Dark series. I really enjoyed the first story, Unmasked , and this story takes place concurrently (the heroines are roommates) but both are easily read as standalone romances.
Imogen Hargrove is determined that her experience with a cheating husband will not be her sister Penny’s fate. After seeing her sister’s fiance Daniel with another woman when he was supposed to be out of town she’ll do just about anything to prove his guilt or innocence, including breaking into a masquerade ball to confront him. She realizes soon enough that she has the wrong man and can’t resist indulging in a steamy kiss with the seductive stranger only to realize too late, that the reason he seemed somewhat familiar was that he’s her boss’s son. Oops!
Caleb Allbrook doesn’t know what Imogen is up to but the sexy spitfire in her daring masquerade ball outfit is quite a revelation from the prim and proper executive assistant he’s used to teasing and flirting with at the office. One brief stockroom encounter had him hankering for more, and when she tries to bribe her way out of revealing she’d crashed the ball by offering him a kiss, he’s quite happy to take her up on it. At work the next day, all the secrets are out and they both know that the attraction between them is decidedly mutual.
When Imogen finds out that Caleb and his brother Jason who both work at the family company are friends with her sister’s fiance, she enlists Caleb’s help to find out if he’s cheating on her sister in return for a date with Caleb. That date is a bit of sexual self discovery as Imogen finds she and Caleb have an interest in some shared kinks, like semi-public sex. It’s the start of a hot and steamy affair in and out of the office that could have serious consequences if people found out. But more importantly, as Imogen and Caleb grow closer emotionally, will the consequences to Imogen’s heart be worth the risk?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-har...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Imogen Hargrove is determined that her experience with a cheating husband will not be her sister Penny’s fate. After seeing her sister’s fiance Daniel with another woman when he was supposed to be out of town she’ll do just about anything to prove his guilt or innocence, including breaking into a masquerade ball to confront him. She realizes soon enough that she has the wrong man and can’t resist indulging in a steamy kiss with the seductive stranger only to realize too late, that the reason he seemed somewhat familiar was that he’s her boss’s son. Oops!
Caleb Allbrook doesn’t know what Imogen is up to but the sexy spitfire in her daring masquerade ball outfit is quite a revelation from the prim and proper executive assistant he’s used to teasing and flirting with at the office. One brief stockroom encounter had him hankering for more, and when she tries to bribe her way out of revealing she’d crashed the ball by offering him a kiss, he’s quite happy to take her up on it. At work the next day, all the secrets are out and they both know that the attraction between them is decidedly mutual.
When Imogen finds out that Caleb and his brother Jason who both work at the family company are friends with her sister’s fiance, she enlists Caleb’s help to find out if he’s cheating on her sister in return for a date with Caleb. That date is a bit of sexual self discovery as Imogen finds she and Caleb have an interest in some shared kinks, like semi-public sex. It’s the start of a hot and steamy affair in and out of the office that could have serious consequences if people found out. But more importantly, as Imogen and Caleb grow closer emotionally, will the consequences to Imogen’s heart be worth the risk?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-har...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
August 28, 2018
Stefanie London came to my attention when Bad Bachelor released. I loved that book, so I vowed to read anything else that she writes. Hard Deal was a fun read for me, with likable characters and a sweet romance, but going in, I was expecting much much more smut given that the book is published under Harlequin Dare. If you weren't aware of it, Harlequin Dare is a new sexy line that focuses a lot on the sexy times. As always, I thought the writing in Hard Deal was really addicting. London definitely has got the talent! I honestly couldn't stop reading the book. Caleb and Imogen might have had a little bit of animosity between them (more on Imogen's side than Caleb's), but it was obvious that these two had smoldering chemistry. I enjoyed the banter between them and the romantic scenes were really sweet. The few sexy scenes that were in the book were steamy as hell, but like I said, I expected more smut! Overall, I think Stefanie London is going to be on my auto-read list. Her books are just so much fun!
August 18, 2018
I bow down to you MS London you steamed my glasses up and made me laugh in this fabulous instalment in this series, it is witty, funny and so very sensual it sizzles as Imogen Hargrove is seduced by the disreputable Caleb Allbrook in a journey to a HEA which left me so very happy, this is a story not to be missed.
Imogen works as PA to the head of The Allbrook company, she has been burnt badly by her ex-husband and finds it very hard to trust men, she can be very insecure, but at work she takes no nonsense from anyone even the boss’s son Caleb, he is one man she intends to stay away from even if her heart flutters at times when he is near. But when she suspects that her sister’s fiancé is two timing her Imogen makes it her business to do some investigating and this leads her to actually get help from non-other than Caleb.
Caleb has always been second best son in his family and seems to go out of his way to set his father off, the way he dresses, his socks are the best, and yes he has had many relationships none that have lasted but he is drawn to his father’s PA but she always seems to avoid him or has smarty pants answers, but one day he is determined to get to know her better, and when that chance happens at the masquerade ball when she literally falls at his feet, let the fun begin.
I savoured every word in this book, I laughed, I felt for Caleb at times with his position with his family, the emotions ran strong throughout, and the steamy, sensual seduction that played out as Caleb bought the insecure Imogen from grey to rainbow, and bought her back to what she was before her ex, got her to remember what enjoying life and sex is all about and to see them fall so much in love was such a pleasure woohoo I loved this story, I highly recommend this one, it just rocks, thank you MS London for another keeper.
Imogen works as PA to the head of The Allbrook company, she has been burnt badly by her ex-husband and finds it very hard to trust men, she can be very insecure, but at work she takes no nonsense from anyone even the boss’s son Caleb, he is one man she intends to stay away from even if her heart flutters at times when he is near. But when she suspects that her sister’s fiancé is two timing her Imogen makes it her business to do some investigating and this leads her to actually get help from non-other than Caleb.
Caleb has always been second best son in his family and seems to go out of his way to set his father off, the way he dresses, his socks are the best, and yes he has had many relationships none that have lasted but he is drawn to his father’s PA but she always seems to avoid him or has smarty pants answers, but one day he is determined to get to know her better, and when that chance happens at the masquerade ball when she literally falls at his feet, let the fun begin.
I savoured every word in this book, I laughed, I felt for Caleb at times with his position with his family, the emotions ran strong throughout, and the steamy, sensual seduction that played out as Caleb bought the insecure Imogen from grey to rainbow, and bought her back to what she was before her ex, got her to remember what enjoying life and sex is all about and to see them fall so much in love was such a pleasure woohoo I loved this story, I highly recommend this one, it just rocks, thank you MS London for another keeper.
September 23, 2018
3.5 stars
Another nice one from the author. Both the h/H come with baggage, he from a father who will never notice him and she from a youthful marriage that soured her trust and confidence. I really liked the h/H, both of them had to come to terms with their past and plus the book had loads of sexy time as well. Nice read.
Another nice one from the author. Both the h/H come with baggage, he from a father who will never notice him and she from a youthful marriage that soured her trust and confidence. I really liked the h/H, both of them had to come to terms with their past and plus the book had loads of sexy time as well. Nice read.
September 25, 2018
This is the first book I have read by Stefanie London and completely fell in love with the characters. I did not know going in that it was a series, but definitely able to read as a standalone. I loved Caleb and Imogen and the connection they brought to the story. It could be felt from the start. Really loved Caleb's character, he was funny, charming and oh so sexy. Imogen saw through his defenses, maybe because she had a bunch of her own. I loved seeing how much the characters grew through out the story, how much they not only grew together but as individuals. Seeing Caleb bring so much out of Imogen was always exciting. I can't wait to read the other books in this series and many other stories from Stefanie London as she is a talented writer.
April 4, 2022
Hard Deal
4 Stars
Book #2 in the Melbourne After Dark duet focuses on Imogen Hargrove as she infiltrates the Carmina Masquerade Ball to out her sister's fiancé as a lying cheat. Unfortunately, the man she ends up following is non-other than Caleb Allbrook, her workplace nemesis. Despite swearing off men, especially notorious womanizers like Caleb, Imogen cannot deny their attraction, and she soon learns there is more to Caleb than meets the eye.
A charming read with many of my favorite tropes including a love/hate relationship and office romance. Both Imogen and Caleb are likable characters and they have great chemistry. There is also, thankfully, very little angst in their relationship.
Overall, a light and easy romance for a rainy day or a quiet evening.
4 Stars
Book #2 in the Melbourne After Dark duet focuses on Imogen Hargrove as she infiltrates the Carmina Masquerade Ball to out her sister's fiancé as a lying cheat. Unfortunately, the man she ends up following is non-other than Caleb Allbrook, her workplace nemesis. Despite swearing off men, especially notorious womanizers like Caleb, Imogen cannot deny their attraction, and she soon learns there is more to Caleb than meets the eye.
A charming read with many of my favorite tropes including a love/hate relationship and office romance. Both Imogen and Caleb are likable characters and they have great chemistry. There is also, thankfully, very little angst in their relationship.
Overall, a light and easy romance for a rainy day or a quiet evening.
April 14, 2021
Antroji knyga „Melburnas nemiega naktį“. Ji asistentė. Jis jos viršininko sūnus. Tai pirmosios knygos tęsinys: pirmojoje knygoje buvo rašoma apie Leinės nuotykius Karminos puotoje, o šitoje dalyje rašoma apie Imodženos nuotykius. Kalebas jau seniai nori Imodženos tik pastaroji nenori jokių santykių dėl iširusios santuokos praeityje. Tačiau išdykėlis Kalebas priveda ją prie tokio sekso, kurio negali užmiršti abu.
Knyga skaitėsi labai lengvai ir smagiai. Man tikrai patiko trumpi skyriai ir rašymo stilius.
Knyga skaitėsi labai lengvai ir smagiai. Man tikrai patiko trumpi skyriai ir rašymo stilius.
September 4, 2018
This book has both on page sex and cursing (including f-bombs) but as it's published under the “Dare” imprint that should be expected. If those things will cause you to leave a bad review, this book (and this imprint) is not for you.
Hard Deal had the perfect amount of sizzling chemistry, steamy sexiness and the kind of fun, sweetness that I love in a romance novel. I thought that Imogen and Caleb's relationship was really surprisingly sweet considering the amount of sexy times involved in the development of it. Imogen was a bit of a timid character, and Caleb's attention and affection urged her to be stronger, and to be more confident in herself. And I'm not ashamed to admit that even though it isn't my favorite term of endearment, for some reason every time Caleb called Imogen 'baby' I swooned. While Caleb was surprisingly vulnerable and in need of someone to see him as he is – a smart, hard-working man who deserves to be taken seriously. Imogen's ability to see past his reputation and to actually see him for who he was was the perfect balance to the people who took him for granted. To be totally honest, I wanted to punch Caleb's father (and his brother at times) for being such a jerk. But these two brought out the best in each other, and I loved that.
Without spoiling, I also absolutely loved the way that the Daniel/Penny stuff worked out.
This book is very, very sexy. The sex scenes are smoking hot without being too over-the-top-for-shock-value kinky – a balance that Stefanie London does so well.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a story about two people who have amazing chemistry from the start and who might not seem like the perfect couple, but who bring out the absolute best in each other. This book is the perfect example of that.
Hard Deal had the perfect amount of sizzling chemistry, steamy sexiness and the kind of fun, sweetness that I love in a romance novel. I thought that Imogen and Caleb's relationship was really surprisingly sweet considering the amount of sexy times involved in the development of it. Imogen was a bit of a timid character, and Caleb's attention and affection urged her to be stronger, and to be more confident in herself. And I'm not ashamed to admit that even though it isn't my favorite term of endearment, for some reason every time Caleb called Imogen 'baby' I swooned. While Caleb was surprisingly vulnerable and in need of someone to see him as he is – a smart, hard-working man who deserves to be taken seriously. Imogen's ability to see past his reputation and to actually see him for who he was was the perfect balance to the people who took him for granted. To be totally honest, I wanted to punch Caleb's father (and his brother at times) for being such a jerk. But these two brought out the best in each other, and I loved that.
Without spoiling, I also absolutely loved the way that the Daniel/Penny stuff worked out.
This book is very, very sexy. The sex scenes are smoking hot without being too over-the-top-for-shock-value kinky – a balance that Stefanie London does so well.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a story about two people who have amazing chemistry from the start and who might not seem like the perfect couple, but who bring out the absolute best in each other. This book is the perfect example of that.
June 23, 2018
Caleb is just an impatient man at times, “I know, baby.” He lowered his forehead to hers, his eyes holding her captive. “Now lock this effing door and clear your schedule.” I liked this book, Caleb and Imogen had chemistry that was off the charts and it was fun watching Caleb try to woo his woman.
September 1, 2018
Stefanie London is the queen of sexy, flirtatious men with a heart of gold! She's just delivered another winning heartthrob with Caleb Allbrook. He's a major flirt, yet he's kind to all and downright fun to watch interact with people. His humor had me grinning often, his sensitive side tugged at my heart strings more than once and his happily ever after melted my heart! This story has a section that takes place at the same masquerade ball as the first book in the Melbourne After Dark series, so you may recognize snippets of the plot, but we delve deeper into his and Imogen's story. Really fun characters, several plot snippets going on to grab our interest at different times in the book and just an overall fun book to read. Really enjoyed it!
Imogen Hargrove never imagines a night of deception will turn into her own wonderland of sin, but that's exactly what starts to happen! All she wanted was to sneak into the masquerade party of the year to spy on her sister's fiancee Daniel because she's afraid he's cheating on her sister. The jokes on her when she realizes she's following the wrong man and the guy she accuses of being a louse is actually her boss's son, Caleb! A sizzling kiss between the two of them has her body reawakening from the deep freeze she put it into after a nasty split from her ex!
Caleb Allbrook is a ladies man, and he doesn't deny it ... but he's not the man she thought she was following and resents her trying to push him aside when she discovers that. The kiss they share proves the sizzling attraction he's always felt for her is no longer one sided, but can he get her to actually go out with him instead of continuing to hold him at arms length? It turns out he has an in with Daniel and promises to help her find out if he's stepping out on her sister ... but only if she promises him a genuine date!
Imogen Hargrove never imagines a night of deception will turn into her own wonderland of sin, but that's exactly what starts to happen! All she wanted was to sneak into the masquerade party of the year to spy on her sister's fiancee Daniel because she's afraid he's cheating on her sister. The jokes on her when she realizes she's following the wrong man and the guy she accuses of being a louse is actually her boss's son, Caleb! A sizzling kiss between the two of them has her body reawakening from the deep freeze she put it into after a nasty split from her ex!
Caleb Allbrook is a ladies man, and he doesn't deny it ... but he's not the man she thought she was following and resents her trying to push him aside when she discovers that. The kiss they share proves the sizzling attraction he's always felt for her is no longer one sided, but can he get her to actually go out with him instead of continuing to hold him at arms length? It turns out he has an in with Daniel and promises to help her find out if he's stepping out on her sister ... but only if she promises him a genuine date!
September 2, 2018
HOT, HOT, HOT!!! I loved reading Hard Deal by Stefanie London, book two in the Melbourne After Dark series. At age eighteen Imogene married a man twelve years her senior only to discover he was a serial cheater. After divorcing him, she struggled with trust any man to be faithful. Imogene, assistant to the CEO, dressed all prim and proper especially for work. Caleb, younger son of the CEO, made it his mission to rile her up. Attending a Masquerade Ball, hoping to catch her sister’s fiancé cheating, she ends up following the wrong man. A hot kiss with this stranger makes her forget her mission and finds her sexuality awakened after a long drought. Imagine Imogene’s mortification to discover that it was Caleb, a notorious womanizer, who she shared that kiss with. Making a deal to go on a date with Caleb in exchange for information on her sister’s fiancé proves that Imogene is not immune to Caleb’s charm. Imogene and Caleb are perfect models of not judging a book by its cover. Caleb was not the womanizer he let people believe he was and Imogene needed to let go of her past and learn to trust others. I think my favorite part of this story was Caleb’s trait of wearing fun, novelty-like socks to keep from looking boring.
Ms. London wrote a very hot story; filled with sexual chemistry, fun dialogue, and endearing characters. Beware, the heat level is high as there’s a lot of sexy time between Imogene and Caleb. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Ms. London wrote a very hot story; filled with sexual chemistry, fun dialogue, and endearing characters. Beware, the heat level is high as there’s a lot of sexy time between Imogene and Caleb. I highly recommend this book to other readers.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
September 23, 2018
Undercover Lovers
Imogen Hargrove suspects her sister's fiancé is a skirt chaser and she aims to find out the truth. She attends a Masquerade Ball where she does some recon on her future brother-in-law to see if he is indeed having an affair. When she gets close to her target, she gets the surprise of her life. Mistaken identity and a hot scorching kiss by a stranger spins her out of control. To make matters even worse, she discovers that Caleb Allbrook is the man responsible for the panty melting kiss.
Caleb is the youngest son of the CEO of The Allbrook Company, where she is the PA to the CEO. She has lusted after Caleb since the day she started. He has a reputation of going through women like a steam roller. All traits that Imogen wants to avoid. She was married to a man just like Caleb. Been there, done that, has the T-shirt. Caleb knows Daniel, so Imogen plots a plan and asks Caleb if he could find out if Daniel is indeed being unfaithful to her sister. She makes a deal with Caleb that she will go out on a date with him if he presses Daniel for some information.
Imogen discovers there is more to Caleb than she first thought. Yes, of course he is gorgeous, sensual and erotic, but underneath all that he is caring and tender. Stefanie London as always writes with a quick wit and humor with off the charts sexual chemistry between her characters, and this story is no exception.
Imogen Hargrove suspects her sister's fiancé is a skirt chaser and she aims to find out the truth. She attends a Masquerade Ball where she does some recon on her future brother-in-law to see if he is indeed having an affair. When she gets close to her target, she gets the surprise of her life. Mistaken identity and a hot scorching kiss by a stranger spins her out of control. To make matters even worse, she discovers that Caleb Allbrook is the man responsible for the panty melting kiss.
Caleb is the youngest son of the CEO of The Allbrook Company, where she is the PA to the CEO. She has lusted after Caleb since the day she started. He has a reputation of going through women like a steam roller. All traits that Imogen wants to avoid. She was married to a man just like Caleb. Been there, done that, has the T-shirt. Caleb knows Daniel, so Imogen plots a plan and asks Caleb if he could find out if Daniel is indeed being unfaithful to her sister. She makes a deal with Caleb that she will go out on a date with him if he presses Daniel for some information.
Imogen discovers there is more to Caleb than she first thought. Yes, of course he is gorgeous, sensual and erotic, but underneath all that he is caring and tender. Stefanie London as always writes with a quick wit and humor with off the charts sexual chemistry between her characters, and this story is no exception.
September 18, 2018
The final of Ms. London "Melbourne after dark" series and what a fantastic book. Imogen Hargrove as issues with trusting as her marriage ended when she found her husband cheating. She is constantly doubtful and it becomes a problem when she thinks her sister is marrying a man that is cheating on her also. Enter Caleb Allbrook , working in his fathers company but feeling like an outsider in the family. Loves his brother but feel that he was never wanted by his parents so he kind of sits in the background. He likes Imogen and she actually thinks he is hot but neither will make a move until Imogen decides to sneak into the invite only masquerade ball to catch her future brother in law in the act. Knowing what his mask looks like she moves in on him but doesn't realize that Caleb is wearing a duplicate mask and she is hitting on him. He realizes its her but a tattoo she thinks she has hidden. This is the start of such a wonderful story of two people that try to make a life for themselves and overcome the obstacles that haunt them. Filled with wonderful story truly funny lines and lets not forget that Caleb wears crazy socks example with tacos on them. I can only hope no one passes up on this story cause it is one the best books of summer. Loved it.
September 1, 2018
Imogen’s world is a little colorless and tame when we first meet her. As the very capable assistant for her company’s CEO, she’s dedicated, hard working and a little monochromatic in her wardrobe and presumably her life. With her peculiar anti-swearing vocabulary and serious demeanor, you’d imagine she’d have no interest in the company good-time playboy.
But Caleb, with his irreverent personality and quirky, colorful socks and ties, has caught her eye, just like she caught his. He hasn’t asked her out, assuming she’d say no, but he loves pushing her buttons anyway. After a case of mistaken identity and a hot-as-hell kiss, each of their assumptions about the other are tested.
I loved these two characters right away, with fun loving and naughty Caleb being the perfect foil for the more uptight Imogen. I thought for a chapter or two that Caleb’s perfect older brother might make a play for Imogen...thankfully, I was mistaken. Each is dealing with their own demons, but Imogen’s are the ones that can derail their relationship almost before it starts.
Fun dialogue, engaging characters and a nicely paced storyline makes this a 5 star read for me. Hard Deal by Stephanie London is sure to be your next favorite book!
September 2, 2018
So much fun!
Caleb is your usual charming second son, the rebel and black sheep of the family, has a bit of daddy issues and a lot of reputation, but wow what do you mean that's not all there is to him? Imogen is efficient, works hard all the way to the top, has no time for funny business so can the boss's son stop annoying her so much?
I love Caleb and Imogen together. I mean, opposites attract is one of my favourite romance tropes, so. I love how Caleb slowly brings Imogen out of her shell and teaches her that it's okay to let loose once in a while, and Imogen settles Caleb and sort of makes him more focus?? They have fun together, there's a lot of sexy and also intense emotions at play too?? Because Caleb is finally ready to more, and he's willing to give his all with Imogen, but she has been played before and now a little bit wary to trust.
Also I just have to mention that Caleb wears fun socks to work and that makes me love him a little bit more.
Definitely going to check out Lainey's book (book 1) now!
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
Caleb is your usual charming second son, the rebel and black sheep of the family, has a bit of daddy issues and a lot of reputation, but wow what do you mean that's not all there is to him? Imogen is efficient, works hard all the way to the top, has no time for funny business so can the boss's son stop annoying her so much?
I love Caleb and Imogen together. I mean, opposites attract is one of my favourite romance tropes, so. I love how Caleb slowly brings Imogen out of her shell and teaches her that it's okay to let loose once in a while, and Imogen settles Caleb and sort of makes him more focus?? They have fun together, there's a lot of sexy and also intense emotions at play too?? Because Caleb is finally ready to more, and he's willing to give his all with Imogen, but she has been played before and now a little bit wary to trust.
Also I just have to mention that Caleb wears fun socks to work and that makes me love him a little bit more.
Definitely going to check out Lainey's book (book 1) now!
E-ARC is received thanks to the publisher via Netgalley.
September 2, 2018
Hard Deal by Stefanie London is book Two in the Melbourne After Dark series. This is the story of Imogen Hargrove and Caleb Allbrook. I haven't yet read the previous book, so for me this was a standalone book.
Imogen still sore from a bad breakup from a cheating boyfriend looks to protect her sister from one. Thinking that her sister fiancé, Daniel might be one, Imogen goes 'undercover' at the Carmina Masquerade Ball to get the truth. But is sideline by her immediate attraction to an old college playboy named Caleb. Caleb is friends with Daniel and cuts a deal with him for a date if he looks into what Daniel is doing. But passion doesn't take long for that date to go up in flames.
Exciting hot read!
Imogen still sore from a bad breakup from a cheating boyfriend looks to protect her sister from one. Thinking that her sister fiancé, Daniel might be one, Imogen goes 'undercover' at the Carmina Masquerade Ball to get the truth. But is sideline by her immediate attraction to an old college playboy named Caleb. Caleb is friends with Daniel and cuts a deal with him for a date if he looks into what Daniel is doing. But passion doesn't take long for that date to go up in flames.
Exciting hot read!
October 21, 2024
This is a book that definitely got better for me as it went along. I loved the hero's baggage and he's one of those charmers with the unearned reputation for being a cad. It's the heroine who got on my nerves with this one. I understood her trust issues, but she's one of those heroines who doesn't swear and hand to God, says "Smurfing" instead. For the record, I hated the Smurfs growing up. High emotional moments at the end and loved the Black Moment between the couple. Suitably steamy for the now defunct Dare line.
September 8, 2018
Another sexy fun read from the mistress of witty banter! I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Imogen and Caleb and watching them fall in love, resisting it all the way. This was a fun flirty read but not light on the emotions. Stefanie London knows how to tug on the heart strings as her characters navigate their way to a happy ending. Hard Deal contains all the wonderful elements I've come to expect from a Stefanie London story.
August 14, 2018
Devoured in one sitting! Everything you want in a steamy romance! Love this author!
August 16, 2018
This was a great short read. I fell in love with Caleb right away. Imogen had to grow on me a little but she definitely did. Together these two were great and were exactly what each other needed. Imogen was a stickler at work where she was an assistant to the owner. Caleb was the black sheep son of the owner and a supposed player in regards to the ladies. Even though Imogen was attracted to Caleb she kept that fact well hidden because he was too much like her ex husband or so she thinks. In public Caleb portrayed himself as someone that flouted the rules and did what he wanted but really he took everything to heart and this was how he protected himself. His father disregarded anything Caleb said in regards to work and yet his brother could say the same thing and it was the best idea ever. Caleb and Imogen eventually go on a date as part of a deal- she has to go on a date with him and he has to find out from a friend if he is cheating on his fiancé (Imogen’s sister). Again Imogen has trouble trusting men because of her ex husband and even though Caleb has done nothing to disabuse this trust she listens to others about stories about Caleb’s past relationships. I will say when Caleb and Imogen get together it is quite HOT. You can tell how much Caleb likes Imogen and wants only her. Luckily Imogen realizes what she has with Caleb before she can ruin it too much. I would definitely recommend this book and it would be a great read by the pool or beach.
August 24, 2018
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series, and involves Imogen, Lainey (lead in book 1)'s friend. Imogen is on a mission to prove that her sister Penny's fiancé is cheating on her, and will do anything to ensure that she will not make a mistake. As we learn why she is so concerned, it is rather sweet, but also sadly misguided. Luckily her boss's younger son Caleb is just the man to explain that to her.
I loved this book which mixes super hot encounters with some real issues, and the way that people learn to deal with them. There is plenty of good humour, and awakenings to both feelings of love and passion, as well as self respect and growth.
A good entertaining read, thank you.
This is the second book in the series, and involves Imogen, Lainey (lead in book 1)'s friend. Imogen is on a mission to prove that her sister Penny's fiancé is cheating on her, and will do anything to ensure that she will not make a mistake. As we learn why she is so concerned, it is rather sweet, but also sadly misguided. Luckily her boss's younger son Caleb is just the man to explain that to her.
I loved this book which mixes super hot encounters with some real issues, and the way that people learn to deal with them. There is plenty of good humour, and awakenings to both feelings of love and passion, as well as self respect and growth.
A good entertaining read, thank you.
August 9, 2018
Hot, sexy fun romantic read well worth a look.
August 23, 2018
OK, now this was a fun read for me! Sexy story of Imogen and Caleb, the assistant and the boss' black sheep son. I loved their interactions and banter. There was a lot more to each of these characters than what they let others see, and it was a great time digging beneath the surface. Are there going to be more of these? Because I'm all in...
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 23, 2018
loved this book. had a hea.
September 13, 2018
Very enjoyable quick read. Meets the Dare promise.
The secondary characters added depth to the story too. I'm always a fan of a strong heroine who knows what she wants. Her drive to help her sister brought emotion, especially as it created conflict.
The secondary characters added depth to the story too. I'm always a fan of a strong heroine who knows what she wants. Her drive to help her sister brought emotion, especially as it created conflict.
September 7, 2018
Imogene had hated this week. Most of the time Imogene loved her job. Being an executive assistant of a CEO of the most respected architecture and construction company - Allbrook Company- in Australia had its perks. Like getting to work with a host of amazingly talented smart, passionate people. Not to mention the little blue box that appeared on her desk on her employment anniversary every year. Then to have the day like today It started with Imogene spilling her cappuccino on herself. She was late for a management meeting when trying to get the stain out of her blouse and her nemesis and had swooped and made Imogene look disorganized by handing out the wrong agendas then her boss demanded she shuffle his entire afternoon five minutes before he was due to present finance teams quarterly at town hall but Jason stepped in the CEO’s son. He was hot and being groomed Chances are she would be working for Jason. Caleb was the CEO’s younger son and he got Imogene’s hormones singing even though he was bad news. Jason and Caleb were both handsome but Jason ws serious, moody glances, and smooth in-command tones while Caleb was his polar opposite. Caleb was always quick with a snappy comeback and he didn’t take anything or anyone seriously and he was cocky. He was Imogene’s kryptonite.Imogene kept her attraction for Caleb hidden.In public Caleb portrays himself as someone that flouted the rules and did what he wanted but rarely takes anything to heart and that was how he protected himself. Then Caleb told Imogene he needed her help getting some original files. There was only three keys to the archive rooms where the files would be Ceo,Jason, and her. Caleb said Jason was busy as she knew. There was something about Imogene’s overly prim and proper way that got Caleb all hot and bothered. Imogene had been really hurt by her ex husband.imogene married at eighteen her husband, was twelve years older and a serial cheater Imogene found it hard to trust men Caleb is charming, good looking, and hot, he could also read people. But down deep Caleb felt unwanted and unloved by his father. Caleb's father disregarded anything Caleb said in regards to work. Imogene believes her sister Penny fiance Daniel is cheating and she ends up going to Caleb to help her find out. Imogen wanted to do was sneak into the Carmina ball to see if she could find out if Daniel is cheating. Caleb is determined to get to know Imogene better and he has a chance at the masquerade ball. At the ball Imogene follows the wrong man and calls him a louse but the man is Caleb. Then imogene literally falls at Caleb's feet and shares a hot iss with a stranger who is Caleb. Caleb has an in with Daniel as they are friends. and will help if Imogene goes on a date with him.
I loved this book. It was a funny, short, easy book. I loved Caleb and Imogene together and I loved how they interacted with each other. I loved the plot and pace. Iadvise you to read the first book in this series . I read this in one setting. I loved the amount of angst in this. I like the different phrases Imogene used instead of swearing. I I loved how Caleb wore novelty socks so he won’t look boring . I laughed out loud at times while reading this and that is rare for me. I loved the ins and outs of this book as well as the characters and I highly recommend this book.
I loved this book. It was a funny, short, easy book. I loved Caleb and Imogene together and I loved how they interacted with each other. I loved the plot and pace. Iadvise you to read the first book in this series . I read this in one setting. I loved the amount of angst in this. I like the different phrases Imogene used instead of swearing. I I loved how Caleb wore novelty socks so he won’t look boring . I laughed out loud at times while reading this and that is rare for me. I loved the ins and outs of this book as well as the characters and I highly recommend this book.
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