What do you think?
Rate this book
Queen of Pentacles
She had a smile that could drop any man to his knees, and all I wanted to do was corrupt her.
With just a few smooth words, I got my wish. She melted when I touched her, her voice nothing but moans.
When it was all over, I didn't expect to see her again.
Flash ahead to Monday morning and I'm shocked to find out she's my new boss.
Power, wealth, a body I could ride for days; this woman had it all.
The attraction between us is explosive, the look in her eyes just begs me for more.
There's only one problem, her ex-boyfriend doesn't want me near her.
He tells me she's off limits, and he's willing to tear her apart to win this war.
But I don't take orders from stuck-up suit who already had his chance.
She's my queen now.
With just a few smooth words, I got my wish. She melted when I touched her, her voice nothing but moans.
When it was all over, I didn't expect to see her again.
Flash ahead to Monday morning and I'm shocked to find out she's my new boss.
Power, wealth, a body I could ride for days; this woman had it all.
The attraction between us is explosive, the look in her eyes just begs me for more.
There's only one problem, her ex-boyfriend doesn't want me near her.
He tells me she's off limits, and he's willing to tear her apart to win this war.
But I don't take orders from stuck-up suit who already had his chance.
She's my queen now.
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
33 people are currently reading
795 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
July 25, 2021
Going into this book blind, I didn't know what to expect as this was one book that I had originally brought as a paperback for someone in a book exchange, and then because I had purchased it, I was able to get the eBook copy for 99c and thought what the heck, why not and the rest was history until trying to decide what to read and scrolling through clicked on Queen of Pentacles and wow, I loved the book more than I thought I would as I connected with both the main characters. In this book, we first meet Ash who is a journalist trying to get back into the world of writing after he was fired and his reputation slightly tarnished. He is at a charity event when he sees a beautiful strong female, Nola. The two share an amazing instant passion-fuelled moment on the balcony and then go their separate ways. That is until Monday morning and Ash discovers that the sexy female is his new boss of the magazine, he is an intern at. No guy has ever been able to get under Nola's skin like Ash and the thing is she likes him a lot as he isn't like the guys, she rubs shoulders with. However, life isn't all rosy and rays of sunshine as her right-hand man at work Clint wants Nola and he isn't going to let anyone get in the way of what he wants, even if he has to blackmail Nola to get what he wants - her. I loved the dynamics between all the characters especially the scenes between Nola and her father and Ash and his family. Queen of Pentacles by Leah Holt is a book, I recommend everyone to read and it can be read as a standalone romance story too.
October 20, 2018
When Nola has a seriously hot, exhibitionist one night stand with an intense man, she never imagines she'll be staring down at him later as he waltzes into her company's staff meeting as a new hire. Yikes!
I loved Nola and Ash together. He's confident af and knows what he wants and that's Nola. She's been groomed her whole life to take over her father's company, his legacy. And she's doing a fabulous job of it so far. But then Ash sweeps in and rattles her. She can't possibly let a little thing like a ons get to her, can she?
Of course things can't go easily for our couple, because of course not. But like the amazing couple they are, they take on their obstacles with grace and style and fall in love all while doing so. If you like your office romances on the passionate side, with an absolutely fabulous couple, I highly recommend you 1-click Queen of Pentacles today. I am so looking forward to more from this author and from the Cards of Love series!
ARC via Booksprout for an honest review.
Full review posted on Live Through Books Blog.
October 23, 2018
QUEEN OF PENTACLES:
Upright: Practical, homely, motherly, down-to-earth, security
Reversed: Imbalance in work/ family commitments
Throwing my hand around her throat, I held her face high as I bit her neck and spoke clear and firm into her ear. “Like you're mine? You are mine.”
It's all about throat, not kinky words.
“Alright,” I said, running my fingers through my hair to straighten it. “I need to get back to work so my boss doesn't get pissed at me. You need to stop trying to seduce me, Ms. York, for Christ sake, we work together now.”
Giggling, she started fixing her desk. “Yeah, that's exactly what happened here.”
“You know I'm not just some sex toy, you need to take me out to dinner too.” Pointing at her, I walked towards the door. “Tonight, seven o'clock, meet me at Sergio's.”
He is saying this. I laughed so hard kdkdldlld
So the story was very low-key, short and enjoyable. Not sex-sex-sex type.
Why the heck we don't know how old they are
xoxoxo
iko
Upright: Practical, homely, motherly, down-to-earth, security
Reversed: Imbalance in work/ family commitments
Throwing my hand around her throat, I held her face high as I bit her neck and spoke clear and firm into her ear. “Like you're mine? You are mine.”
It's all about throat, not kinky words.
“Alright,” I said, running my fingers through my hair to straighten it. “I need to get back to work so my boss doesn't get pissed at me. You need to stop trying to seduce me, Ms. York, for Christ sake, we work together now.”
Giggling, she started fixing her desk. “Yeah, that's exactly what happened here.”
“You know I'm not just some sex toy, you need to take me out to dinner too.” Pointing at her, I walked towards the door. “Tonight, seven o'clock, meet me at Sergio's.”
He is saying this. I laughed so hard kdkdldlld
So the story was very low-key, short and enjoyable. Not sex-sex-sex type.
Why the heck we don't know how old they are
xoxoxo
iko
October 17, 2018
Looking at all the reviews on Goodreads, I know my opinion is going to be hugely unpopular, but I just struggled to connect with Ash. I tried so hard but he just wasn’t for me.
October 15, 2018
Ash and Nola will own your heart! Queen of Pentacles was a fantastic book! I loved Ash and Nola together. There were so many times I wanted to throw my Kindle across the room and then pick it up and hug it. Leah Holt wrote an amazing story filled with characters crafted so carefully that I felt like I knew them. The villain was so despicable, hence the Kindle throwing. Nola's dad was a wonderful, warm side character that added so much sweetness. The storyline flowed smoothly throughout the whole book so that I couldn't stop reading til the end. Every one needs to read this book!
October 18, 2018
Queen of Pentacles, is a standalone novel, written by Leah Holt and is part of the Cards of Love series. I must admit that I am a big fan of Ms. Holt’s writing. Her writing style is very descriptive and her character development is authentic and multi demential. I love when a book grabs me from the first sentence and this book did just that.
Nola York has grown up with the knowledge that she was going to take over the magazine empire her father built, and that is what she has done. The price she has paid for being a successful women, her life is devoid of romance. Ash Devoy was recently fired from his job at Inked Daily, a rival magazine, because he camouflaged a certain body part on the magazine's cover, now that had me cracking up. Nola and Ash meet at a charity event and immediately he knows that she is the woman he must possess. And my ohh my does he possess her. I enjoyed watching Nola and Ash’s relationship grow and mature. But what would a great story be without a bit of angst? So, Ms Holt gives us Clint. He has a different plan for Nola. That's when things get crazy interesting.
I thoroughly adored reading Nola and Ash’s story. It’s always a plus for me when an author writes an epilogue and Ms. Holt gives us a good one. Steamy scenes, a strong heroine, a sexy bad boy and a bit of conflict all rolled together to make a super read. Happy reading!
***I kindly received an ARC of this book by way of Booksprout. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review in order to read this book. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. This is my honest review.***
Nola York has grown up with the knowledge that she was going to take over the magazine empire her father built, and that is what she has done. The price she has paid for being a successful women, her life is devoid of romance. Ash Devoy was recently fired from his job at Inked Daily, a rival magazine, because he camouflaged a certain body part on the magazine's cover, now that had me cracking up. Nola and Ash meet at a charity event and immediately he knows that she is the woman he must possess. And my ohh my does he possess her. I enjoyed watching Nola and Ash’s relationship grow and mature. But what would a great story be without a bit of angst? So, Ms Holt gives us Clint. He has a different plan for Nola. That's when things get crazy interesting.
I thoroughly adored reading Nola and Ash’s story. It’s always a plus for me when an author writes an epilogue and Ms. Holt gives us a good one. Steamy scenes, a strong heroine, a sexy bad boy and a bit of conflict all rolled together to make a super read. Happy reading!
***I kindly received an ARC of this book by way of Booksprout. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review in order to read this book. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. This is my honest review.***
October 18, 2018
I loved Ash and Nola’s story. There connection was instant, it was hot and heavy right away with the understanding it could only be one night. There is something so hot and sexy about a man and woman coming together in a random location and having such An intense attraction that they can’t control themselves.
The best part is that the story doesn’t end in a one night stand, but carries over in to their normal lives. Ash obviously wants Nola for more then one night but Nola is in a position of power with a bad ex getting in the way of her Happily ever after.
They both fight in their own way to make this instant connection work no matter what. This is a great story of new all consuming attraction that will have many battles that will test Nola and Ash’a potential.
The best part is that the story doesn’t end in a one night stand, but carries over in to their normal lives. Ash obviously wants Nola for more then one night but Nola is in a position of power with a bad ex getting in the way of her Happily ever after.
They both fight in their own way to make this instant connection work no matter what. This is a great story of new all consuming attraction that will have many battles that will test Nola and Ash’a potential.
October 16, 2018
I write book reviews of modern romance novels at www.professorromance.wordpress.com. If you’re interested, come check them out.
To say I’m excited about the Cards of Love book collection would be an understatement. Thus far, I’ve read Sierra Simone’s The Moon, and I’m waiting for Ashley Jade’s The Devil, along with many more. When given the opportunity to sign up for an ARC of Leah Holt’s Queen of Pentacles, I jumped. She posted a teaser from one of the final chapters in this novella, and I was hooked. There was something provocative about the characters, Ash and Nola, and I knew I wanted to read an advanced copy to see the development of their story.
According to Holt, The Queen of Pentacles “when facing upright, […] is motherly, showing a love for others. [,,,] This card wants you to be practical, compassionate, and down-to-earth when dealing with people.” And at the outset of their story, Nola embodies this queen. She teeters on the edge of giving too much of herself and caring too much about others that it can be her downfall. In the story, Nola illustrates this initially by giving into her temptation at the hands of Ash. She is not someone who would make hasty decisions that might imperil her professional standing, but her connection to Ash and her want to give herself completely to him sexually are too great. As a character, she is a strong woman who simply makes some questionable choices that get her in quite a bit of trouble.
Now, from the outset, Ash seems uncomplicated and typically male in his lust for Nola. He sees her initially as a quick one-night stand. He is clearly attracted to her, but, like any good romance, he realizes quickly that she completes him. What was meant to be a one-night stand quickly becomes something more. When they meet again, we find that Nola is Ash’s new boss, and their chemistry grows, connecting them beyond their one night. From that point, Ash knows beyond a doubt that Nola is his everything. He realizes this before Nola, a refreshing change from many romances where men take longer to realize their deeper feelings.
I have to admit that I sometimes struggle with novellas because I want more story, and that isn’t the point of a novella. I want more back story for Ash and Nola. I don’t want to rush their love story, but the form of the novella doesn’t allow that. That being said, Holt develops the story and the characters well within that format, and we leave the book fulfilled with Ash and Nola’s story from beginning to end.
What we learn about the Queen of Pentacles is that the upside down card which begets “…chaos and an inability to separate what’s important” easily becomes right side up with love. Ash and Nola together embody this truth in Leah Holt’s romance.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
To say I’m excited about the Cards of Love book collection would be an understatement. Thus far, I’ve read Sierra Simone’s The Moon, and I’m waiting for Ashley Jade’s The Devil, along with many more. When given the opportunity to sign up for an ARC of Leah Holt’s Queen of Pentacles, I jumped. She posted a teaser from one of the final chapters in this novella, and I was hooked. There was something provocative about the characters, Ash and Nola, and I knew I wanted to read an advanced copy to see the development of their story.
According to Holt, The Queen of Pentacles “when facing upright, […] is motherly, showing a love for others. [,,,] This card wants you to be practical, compassionate, and down-to-earth when dealing with people.” And at the outset of their story, Nola embodies this queen. She teeters on the edge of giving too much of herself and caring too much about others that it can be her downfall. In the story, Nola illustrates this initially by giving into her temptation at the hands of Ash. She is not someone who would make hasty decisions that might imperil her professional standing, but her connection to Ash and her want to give herself completely to him sexually are too great. As a character, she is a strong woman who simply makes some questionable choices that get her in quite a bit of trouble.
Now, from the outset, Ash seems uncomplicated and typically male in his lust for Nola. He sees her initially as a quick one-night stand. He is clearly attracted to her, but, like any good romance, he realizes quickly that she completes him. What was meant to be a one-night stand quickly becomes something more. When they meet again, we find that Nola is Ash’s new boss, and their chemistry grows, connecting them beyond their one night. From that point, Ash knows beyond a doubt that Nola is his everything. He realizes this before Nola, a refreshing change from many romances where men take longer to realize their deeper feelings.
I have to admit that I sometimes struggle with novellas because I want more story, and that isn’t the point of a novella. I want more back story for Ash and Nola. I don’t want to rush their love story, but the form of the novella doesn’t allow that. That being said, Holt develops the story and the characters well within that format, and we leave the book fulfilled with Ash and Nola’s story from beginning to end.
What we learn about the Queen of Pentacles is that the upside down card which begets “…chaos and an inability to separate what’s important” easily becomes right side up with love. Ash and Nola together embody this truth in Leah Holt’s romance.
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
October 17, 2018
Nola and Ash
An out of the gate steamy, intense attraction that will leaving you fanning yourself. A publication banquet filled with oh shall we say mostly stuffy, entitled people . Ash Devoy is the quintessential bad boy in the journalism world. Yes he may have caused quite a stir at his last position but he is so good at people watching . He sits back, watches, learns and uses their weakness against them. Seeing Nola from across the room he has no idea who she is but knows that he must have her for at least tonight .
Nola has lived and breathed this world since a child as she ran the halls of her father's publishing company . It is now hers and she is the lady boss and damn good at her job. A chance encounter, a sexy smart mouth man and throwing caution to the wind for one night! It all seems like a great idea until Ash shows up at her company, she is now his boss and her ex boyfriend and co-worker decides he wont take no for an answer to rekindling their relationship! Ash and Nola cannot deny their feeling but blackmail has a way of throwing a wrench in your life!
Loved it !!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
An out of the gate steamy, intense attraction that will leaving you fanning yourself. A publication banquet filled with oh shall we say mostly stuffy, entitled people . Ash Devoy is the quintessential bad boy in the journalism world. Yes he may have caused quite a stir at his last position but he is so good at people watching . He sits back, watches, learns and uses their weakness against them. Seeing Nola from across the room he has no idea who she is but knows that he must have her for at least tonight .
Nola has lived and breathed this world since a child as she ran the halls of her father's publishing company . It is now hers and she is the lady boss and damn good at her job. A chance encounter, a sexy smart mouth man and throwing caution to the wind for one night! It all seems like a great idea until Ash shows up at her company, she is now his boss and her ex boyfriend and co-worker decides he wont take no for an answer to rekindling their relationship! Ash and Nola cannot deny their feeling but blackmail has a way of throwing a wrench in your life!
Loved it !!
~~Michele McMullen ~~
October 15, 2018
Trading Love For A Legacy
A fantastic must read from the great writer Leah Holt! I was gripped from the very first page in this superb storyline about the filthy rich who only want to get richer! Ash Devoy is attending the Berkhire Banquet where he meets Nola York. Ash is the bad boy of journalism. Details, mannerisms and shifts in people are his forte! His Achilles heel is he doesn’t stop until he gets what he wants! He is dark and obsessional with no off switch! She is filthy rich but the difference is she cares! There is Instant white hot, raw and wild chemistry between Ash and Nola. Her legacy is the magazine her father created that she must carry on in his name! Ash is a new hire at the magazine can they keep their ‘one night’ a secret and be professional in their dealings at the magazine now that Nola is his boss? Will Ash be Nola’s weakness and downfall? Will she be willing to lose her legacy for Ash and is he worth it? The heart wants what the heart wants! The man who made her smile! What will he do with his ‘golden ticket’? Can Nola fight for what she wants and make her life altering changes?
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy
A fantastic must read from the great writer Leah Holt! I was gripped from the very first page in this superb storyline about the filthy rich who only want to get richer! Ash Devoy is attending the Berkhire Banquet where he meets Nola York. Ash is the bad boy of journalism. Details, mannerisms and shifts in people are his forte! His Achilles heel is he doesn’t stop until he gets what he wants! He is dark and obsessional with no off switch! She is filthy rich but the difference is she cares! There is Instant white hot, raw and wild chemistry between Ash and Nola. Her legacy is the magazine her father created that she must carry on in his name! Ash is a new hire at the magazine can they keep their ‘one night’ a secret and be professional in their dealings at the magazine now that Nola is his boss? Will Ash be Nola’s weakness and downfall? Will she be willing to lose her legacy for Ash and is he worth it? The heart wants what the heart wants! The man who made her smile! What will he do with his ‘golden ticket’? Can Nola fight for what she wants and make her life altering changes?
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy
October 16, 2018
This was my first book by Leah Holt and I was pleasantly surprised. Her writing technique is amazing. So descriptive. I loved it from Chapter one!
In this story, we meet Nola York and Ash Devoy. They meet at a charity event where things get steamy from the get-go. Trust me. Very steamy. *fan self* They agree that this is a one-time thing since they will probably never see each other again. They are left craving each other. The one-time thing is not enough. They go on as normal. Monday (right after charity) what a surprise that Ash shows up for the first day at his new job to find out that Nola is his boss. Sparks continue to fly between the two but there is a tiny (annoying) obstacle in their way known as Clint (Nola's ex-boyfriend). He causes a lot of issues for them to keep them away but they work through it all in the end. This contains a HEA that is swoon-worthy. Trust me. That epilogue left me wishing for an Ash of my own. I highly recommend this read and look forward to reading more of the Card of Love series books.
In this story, we meet Nola York and Ash Devoy. They meet at a charity event where things get steamy from the get-go. Trust me. Very steamy. *fan self* They agree that this is a one-time thing since they will probably never see each other again. They are left craving each other. The one-time thing is not enough. They go on as normal. Monday (right after charity) what a surprise that Ash shows up for the first day at his new job to find out that Nola is his boss. Sparks continue to fly between the two but there is a tiny (annoying) obstacle in their way known as Clint (Nola's ex-boyfriend). He causes a lot of issues for them to keep them away but they work through it all in the end. This contains a HEA that is swoon-worthy. Trust me. That epilogue left me wishing for an Ash of my own. I highly recommend this read and look forward to reading more of the Card of Love series books.
October 19, 2018
I enjoyed Nola's and Ash's story very much!!
Leah Holt is amazing author!!
This book was beautifully written and it gives you the right amount of love, angst, and above all kickass heroines!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leah Holt is amazing author!!
This book was beautifully written and it gives you the right amount of love, angst, and above all kickass heroines!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2018
I enjoyed Nola's and Ash's story very much!!
Leah Holt is amazing author!!
This book was beautifully written and it gives you the right amount of love, angst, and above all kickass heroines!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Leah Holt is amazing author!!
This book was beautifully written and it gives you the right amount of love, angst, and above all kickass heroines!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 25, 2020
no me gusto tanto la historia , me aburrio un poco y talvez le de otra oportunidad y lo intentare con otro de sus libros mas adelante
November 3, 2018
This is a cute story, about what would you give up for love. Nola and Ash are a good couple, this is an insta love story between them. A great addition to the Cards of Love series.
October 28, 2018
Ash sees a beautiful woman at an high end function they connect for one night. It’s supposed to be over but come Monday morning he meets his new boss. Nola is shocked when she sees Ash again. She tries to keep things professional but Ash wants no part of that, secret affairs, blackmail and romance keeps everyone on their toes.
October 18, 2018
If I was told I had only one word available to use to review this book it would be: LOVE.
This entire story made me feel as though I was being slowly but surely wrapped more & more in the softest, warmest, most comforting blanket ever devised. This doesn't mean the plot didn't have steamy sex-- it did, or suspense-- it did, or tension-- it did. BUT, through all of it, the currents of love Ash (H) handsome, cocky, self assured but laser focused on what/who he wants & Nola (h) beautiful, intelligent, hard as nails on the outside but searching for something missing in her life on the inside, had for each other (even before they realized what they were feeling) pulsed & glowed, for me at least.
Every encounter Ash & Nola had, every one of their alternating POV chapters gave me a warmer & warmer feeling for both of them. And I was crossing EVERYTHING that they would have a HEA. The secondary characters were excellent: the villain was a complete *ss-- HOW I longed for his TOTAL downfall & Nola's hard as nails businessman father was still a father. I have to say this was one of the most pleasurable emotional reads I've experienced & I think many readers will agree. I know when I was finished I was smiling.
There is some OM drama but it brings excellent tension & suspense (whenever the villain appeared in the story my mind would hiss: BOO!!!) to the story, there is no OW drama, nor cheating by either the H/h. There is a very satisfying epilogue too. Do the H/h get their HEA? As my mother would say: That's for me to know & you to find out ;0).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire story made me feel as though I was being slowly but surely wrapped more & more in the softest, warmest, most comforting blanket ever devised. This doesn't mean the plot didn't have steamy sex-- it did, or suspense-- it did, or tension-- it did. BUT, through all of it, the currents of love Ash (H) handsome, cocky, self assured but laser focused on what/who he wants & Nola (h) beautiful, intelligent, hard as nails on the outside but searching for something missing in her life on the inside, had for each other (even before they realized what they were feeling) pulsed & glowed, for me at least.
Every encounter Ash & Nola had, every one of their alternating POV chapters gave me a warmer & warmer feeling for both of them. And I was crossing EVERYTHING that they would have a HEA. The secondary characters were excellent: the villain was a complete *ss-- HOW I longed for his TOTAL downfall & Nola's hard as nails businessman father was still a father. I have to say this was one of the most pleasurable emotional reads I've experienced & I think many readers will agree. I know when I was finished I was smiling.
There is some OM drama but it brings excellent tension & suspense (whenever the villain appeared in the story my mind would hiss: BOO!!!) to the story, there is no OW drama, nor cheating by either the H/h. There is a very satisfying epilogue too. Do the H/h get their HEA? As my mother would say: That's for me to know & you to find out ;0).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 21, 2018
Queen of Pentacles, is a standalone novel, written by Leah Holt and is part of the Cards of Love series. I must admit that I am a big fan of Ms. Holt’s writing. Her writing style is very descriptive and her character development is authentic and multi demential. I love when a book grabs me from the first sentence and this book did just that.
Nola York has grown up with the knowledge that she was going to take over the magazine empire her father built, and that is what she has done. The price she has paid for being a successful women, her life is devoid of romance. Ash Devoy was recently fired from his job at Inked Daily, a rival magazine, because he camouflaged a certain body part on the magazine's cover, now that had me cracking up. Nola and Ash meet at a charity event and immediately he knows that she is the woman he must possess. And my ohh my does he possess her. I enjoyed watching Nola and Ash’s relationship grow and mature. But what would a great story be without a bit of angst? So, Ms Holt gives us Clint. He has a different plan for Nola. That's when things get crazy interesting.
I thoroughly adored reading Nola and Ash’s story. It’s always a plus for me when an author writes an epilogue and Ms. Holt gives us a good one. Steamy scenes, a strong heroine, a sexy bad boy and a bit of conflict all rolled together to make a super read. Happy reading!
***I kindly received an ARC of this book by way of Booksprout. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review in order to read this book. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. This is my honest review.***
Nola York has grown up with the knowledge that she was going to take over the magazine empire her father built, and that is what she has done. The price she has paid for being a successful women, her life is devoid of romance. Ash Devoy was recently fired from his job at Inked Daily, a rival magazine, because he camouflaged a certain body part on the magazine's cover, now that had me cracking up. Nola and Ash meet at a charity event and immediately he knows that she is the woman he must possess. And my ohh my does he possess her. I enjoyed watching Nola and Ash’s relationship grow and mature. But what would a great story be without a bit of angst? So, Ms Holt gives us Clint. He has a different plan for Nola. That's when things get crazy interesting.
I thoroughly adored reading Nola and Ash’s story. It’s always a plus for me when an author writes an epilogue and Ms. Holt gives us a good one. Steamy scenes, a strong heroine, a sexy bad boy and a bit of conflict all rolled together to make a super read. Happy reading!
***I kindly received an ARC of this book by way of Booksprout. I was not contacted, asked or required to leave a review in order to read this book. I received no compensation, financial or otherwise. This is my honest review.***
October 14, 2018
I recieved an ARC of Queen of Pentacles by Leah Holt in exchange for an honest review. Queen of Pentacles is part of the Cards of Love series; each aithor was given a card from a deck of tarrot cards to base their story on. Over 2 dozen authors participated in this
"Pick your card.
Choose your fate.
Fall in Love.
Pick another card.
Fall in love all over again.
Which card will you choose?"
In Queen of Pentacles we meet Nola and Ash. They first meet at a charity function, where Ash zeroes in on Nola. I wasn't sure if I liked Ash at first; he came across super cocky and a bit too forward, but that changed as the book progressed. They have an instant attraction and connection. Ash convinces Nola that a quick hookup would benefit them both. After he assures her there are no string attached, it'sjust sex, they go for it. It's hot and steamy right off the bat, and they both leave wanting more,but know it was a one time deal. Cut to Monday where Ash meets gis new boss and owner of the magazine, Nola. More steam insues in office and all looks to be well until Nola's ex Clint, a privileged, entitled, jealous Ahole, who is also her CEO, pops up. Some drama, and blackmail, from Clint ensues. But don't worry, it all ends well with a nice HEA. I really enjoyed Queen of Pentacles and can't wait to read more from the Cards of Love collection. Leah Holt did it right; there was the perfect amount of steam, romance, and drama, to pull you in. I could not but the book down, and read this all in one sitting.
"Pick your card.
Choose your fate.
Fall in Love.
Pick another card.
Fall in love all over again.
Which card will you choose?"
In Queen of Pentacles we meet Nola and Ash. They first meet at a charity function, where Ash zeroes in on Nola. I wasn't sure if I liked Ash at first; he came across super cocky and a bit too forward, but that changed as the book progressed. They have an instant attraction and connection. Ash convinces Nola that a quick hookup would benefit them both. After he assures her there are no string attached, it'sjust sex, they go for it. It's hot and steamy right off the bat, and they both leave wanting more,but know it was a one time deal. Cut to Monday where Ash meets gis new boss and owner of the magazine, Nola. More steam insues in office and all looks to be well until Nola's ex Clint, a privileged, entitled, jealous Ahole, who is also her CEO, pops up. Some drama, and blackmail, from Clint ensues. But don't worry, it all ends well with a nice HEA. I really enjoyed Queen of Pentacles and can't wait to read more from the Cards of Love collection. Leah Holt did it right; there was the perfect amount of steam, romance, and drama, to pull you in. I could not but the book down, and read this all in one sitting.
October 17, 2018
This is my first book by Leah Holt and it was a great introduction to her writing style and story building. I loved the concept behind the Queen of Pentacles, the focus of a woman who has everything but nothing in what she really wants.
Queen of Pentacles follows Ash, a man who is giving a chance to start at the bottom again in his career after a mishap from his prior magazine company. He is now starting as an editor and observing the life of the rich and famous at a charity party. The people there are all about competing and looking the best and showing how much money they are. But a woman catches Ash's eye, Nola is everything that Ash wants, her spunk, her actual love for helping people, but she's hiding behind a mask. After their one night neither can forget what happened, but they don't think they'll see each other again until Ash shows up in a meeting in Nola's company.
Ash is all alpha and knows what he wants, he's also a gentleman when is comes to impressing and taking care of Nola. But the two are blocked by a constant annoyance of someone who keeps harassing and blackmailing Nola. Nola has a lot to discover about herself, she need to grow up and out of the safe zone she's been living in.
Overall this was a great story and smoking hot, the romance is off the charts , even is such few pages. I was able to feel the connection of the characters and get pulled into their world. I look forward to reading more from Holt now that I have tried her work.
Queen of Pentacles follows Ash, a man who is giving a chance to start at the bottom again in his career after a mishap from his prior magazine company. He is now starting as an editor and observing the life of the rich and famous at a charity party. The people there are all about competing and looking the best and showing how much money they are. But a woman catches Ash's eye, Nola is everything that Ash wants, her spunk, her actual love for helping people, but she's hiding behind a mask. After their one night neither can forget what happened, but they don't think they'll see each other again until Ash shows up in a meeting in Nola's company.
Ash is all alpha and knows what he wants, he's also a gentleman when is comes to impressing and taking care of Nola. But the two are blocked by a constant annoyance of someone who keeps harassing and blackmailing Nola. Nola has a lot to discover about herself, she need to grow up and out of the safe zone she's been living in.
Overall this was a great story and smoking hot, the romance is off the charts , even is such few pages. I was able to feel the connection of the characters and get pulled into their world. I look forward to reading more from Holt now that I have tried her work.
October 31, 2018
Ash Devoy was recently fired from his job at Inked Daily, a rival magazine, because he camouflaged a certain body part on the magazine's cover. We do learn that Ash grew up on the poor side of the tracks, not wealthy at all like Nola.
Nola is a CEO of a very popular magazine company. She has been working at the firm for ages, as her father was CEO before her. Nola grew up with wealth.
One night at a gala party, Nola spies Ash from across the room. She knew right then that she wanted him. Ash saw Nola at the bar, and he knew right away he wanted her. As Ash went up to her, and they began talking, he knew there would be no one else for him. They moved to the balcony to talk to each other, and wind up doing much more than talking!
That next week Ash shows up to his new firm for his first day of work. Guess who is leading thee meeting of course, none other than Nola. Nola can't believe that she is seeing her one night stand again! How she has dreamed of him since their night together.
Will Ash be able to keep seeing Nola even though she is now his boss? Will Nola be able to see Ash? Will they be able to keep the bedroom antics out of the business office? Or will Clint, Nola's ex-boyfriend ruin life for them?
We don't know the back story of the characters. We don't know how old they are -- I would say in their 30's, as they are both established in their work life.
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest review.
Nola is a CEO of a very popular magazine company. She has been working at the firm for ages, as her father was CEO before her. Nola grew up with wealth.
One night at a gala party, Nola spies Ash from across the room. She knew right then that she wanted him. Ash saw Nola at the bar, and he knew right away he wanted her. As Ash went up to her, and they began talking, he knew there would be no one else for him. They moved to the balcony to talk to each other, and wind up doing much more than talking!
That next week Ash shows up to his new firm for his first day of work. Guess who is leading thee meeting of course, none other than Nola. Nola can't believe that she is seeing her one night stand again! How she has dreamed of him since their night together.
Will Ash be able to keep seeing Nola even though she is now his boss? Will Nola be able to see Ash? Will they be able to keep the bedroom antics out of the business office? Or will Clint, Nola's ex-boyfriend ruin life for them?
We don't know the back story of the characters. We don't know how old they are -- I would say in their 30's, as they are both established in their work life.
I did receive a free ARC copy of this book. I am freely leaving a honest review.
October 16, 2018
One of the most beautiful stories about love I've read lately. I haven't highlighted so many passages even in my most favourite read as in this one.
Even after several days after finishing it and several more books I have read I clearly remember the emotions this story has stirred in my heart and soul. Hero's feelings were so raw, so pure, so intense. First pages of the book suggest completely different storyline. First chapter is off the charts. It's hot and steamy and made me blush. I was so surprised how the story unravelled from there. Suspense in the best way possible. I just turn the pages impatiently to satisfy my curiosity.
I instantly fell in love with the main characters and my heart ached for Nola and I cheered for their happily ever after. She was so lost with her feelings, fixated on her image and what people will say or do when they discover what happened.
"My world was crushing around me and the safety of chrysalis I had nestled into was cracking, but there wasn't beautiful butterfly emerging with glorious wings. I was a disfigured moth, lost and weak, distraught and sad."
I loved this read so so much. For me it's perfectly written. I will be coming back to this one for sure.
Even after several days after finishing it and several more books I have read I clearly remember the emotions this story has stirred in my heart and soul. Hero's feelings were so raw, so pure, so intense. First pages of the book suggest completely different storyline. First chapter is off the charts. It's hot and steamy and made me blush. I was so surprised how the story unravelled from there. Suspense in the best way possible. I just turn the pages impatiently to satisfy my curiosity.
I instantly fell in love with the main characters and my heart ached for Nola and I cheered for their happily ever after. She was so lost with her feelings, fixated on her image and what people will say or do when they discover what happened.
"My world was crushing around me and the safety of chrysalis I had nestled into was cracking, but there wasn't beautiful butterfly emerging with glorious wings. I was a disfigured moth, lost and weak, distraught and sad."
I loved this read so so much. For me it's perfectly written. I will be coming back to this one for sure.
October 20, 2018
Ash and Nola meet at some society party. He's instantly taken with her, and she's taken with him. Ash was upfront about what he thinks and what he wants. I was with Nola-should he get a drink in his face or should they go find a discreet corner!?!!. Well, a secluded balcony will do just fine. Fabulous night to remember, they part ways. But..........
Yep, come Monday morning they find out she's his boss.
This was a really good quick story. I really liked Ash's confidence, it wasn't arrogance, he just knew what he wanted. There was a snag in the love story due to her ex (they worked together, but only dated a very short time). He tries to blackmail her to stop seeing Ash, but after the initial meltdown and talking to her father, Nola knows what she has to do. I really enjoyed the story and the writing. The chemistry is very hot between our couple and their conversations are well placed and necessary. Not just filler or word count. And you can feel the connection they have to each other. No misunderstandings or unnecessary angst, just a woman who needs to look inside herself to make everything right. Wonderful story! Grab a copy and enjoy!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Yep, come Monday morning they find out she's his boss.
This was a really good quick story. I really liked Ash's confidence, it wasn't arrogance, he just knew what he wanted. There was a snag in the love story due to her ex (they worked together, but only dated a very short time). He tries to blackmail her to stop seeing Ash, but after the initial meltdown and talking to her father, Nola knows what she has to do. I really enjoyed the story and the writing. The chemistry is very hot between our couple and their conversations are well placed and necessary. Not just filler or word count. And you can feel the connection they have to each other. No misunderstandings or unnecessary angst, just a woman who needs to look inside herself to make everything right. Wonderful story! Grab a copy and enjoy!!!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2018
I'm beginning to sound like a broken record, but with this collective of authors behind the Cards of Love series, I've been coming across new to me authors and Leah is one of them, and this was a perfect insight to the type of writer she is and I can't wait to read more of what she's got!
Ash doesn't pull any punches, if he wants it he goes for it, damned to anyone else who gets in his way, and he wants Nola. Nola strives to dominate in all aspects of her life, so when the opportunity comes up to step outside that box, she jumps in with both feet. With a start that draws you in, you can't help but feel the desire between these two characters. Leah adds that little bit of detail that really draws you into the world she is creating. My heart also jumped in with both feet, and felt every twinge of emotion that Ash and Nola went through, and by the time the end came I was riding the high with both of them.
Another awesome addition to the Cards of Love series, and if you are up for a quick, steamy and romantic ride, with an alpha that will take your breath away, be sure you read Queen of Pentacles.
Ash doesn't pull any punches, if he wants it he goes for it, damned to anyone else who gets in his way, and he wants Nola. Nola strives to dominate in all aspects of her life, so when the opportunity comes up to step outside that box, she jumps in with both feet. With a start that draws you in, you can't help but feel the desire between these two characters. Leah adds that little bit of detail that really draws you into the world she is creating. My heart also jumped in with both feet, and felt every twinge of emotion that Ash and Nola went through, and by the time the end came I was riding the high with both of them.
Another awesome addition to the Cards of Love series, and if you are up for a quick, steamy and romantic ride, with an alpha that will take your breath away, be sure you read Queen of Pentacles.
October 22, 2018
**2.5**
Unfortunately, this novella wasn't my style, though that's the risk I took with a new-to-me author. Even keeping in mind a shortened timeline, I really didn't get a sense of the MCs personalities, and certainly no sense of love. From my perspective, their attraction was pure & only instalust, which is already not a trope I'm fond of. But sometimes it can be altered into love, but that wasn't the case here. Especially in the heroine's (Nola) attraction to the hero (Ash). He just came across as immature, hotheaded, and possessive (and not possessive in the sexy way, more like a 'your opinion is irrelevant, you're mine no matter what' vibe). Didn't really see what made Nola go so gaga for him.
There also seemed to be some discrepancies in how her father was portrayed in the past & present. It was kind of confusing to see where her conflict over work/life balance came from when there didn't seem to be pressure from him all along. The villain was completely two-dimensional. Sorry, I just couldn't connect with this story :/
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Unfortunately, this novella wasn't my style, though that's the risk I took with a new-to-me author. Even keeping in mind a shortened timeline, I really didn't get a sense of the MCs personalities, and certainly no sense of love. From my perspective, their attraction was pure & only instalust, which is already not a trope I'm fond of. But sometimes it can be altered into love, but that wasn't the case here. Especially in the heroine's (Nola) attraction to the hero (Ash). He just came across as immature, hotheaded, and possessive (and not possessive in the sexy way, more like a 'your opinion is irrelevant, you're mine no matter what' vibe). Didn't really see what made Nola go so gaga for him.
There also seemed to be some discrepancies in how her father was portrayed in the past & present. It was kind of confusing to see where her conflict over work/life balance came from when there didn't seem to be pressure from him all along. The villain was completely two-dimensional. Sorry, I just couldn't connect with this story :/
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2018
Stop me if you've heard this one before...
There's nothing excruciatingly bad about Queen of Pentacles. It's a well-known romance trope - the one night stand that turns into a workplace affair. The Bossy Boss who lays out too-strict rules. The Alpha Hero who breaks all the rules to get his woman, and she loves him for it. The Smarmy Stalker/Boyfriend/Co-worker who resorts to blackmail in order to derail the romance. Granted, BB is female, AH is her employee, and SSBC is a fellow exec, so there's a bit of twist there, but still it's a typical contemporary romance we've all read before. The writing is a bit odd, as though the author has a perfect command of text book English (American) but struggles badly with idiomatic expressions. Makes for the occasional "Huh, What?" Characters are rather one-dimensional and stereotypical, and act in predictable and stereotypical ways. If you read it, you'll get a reasonably standard romance, written by an OK writer with a formulaic approach to her craft, and you'll get the expected HEA. If you don't read it, you really won't miss much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There's nothing excruciatingly bad about Queen of Pentacles. It's a well-known romance trope - the one night stand that turns into a workplace affair. The Bossy Boss who lays out too-strict rules. The Alpha Hero who breaks all the rules to get his woman, and she loves him for it. The Smarmy Stalker/Boyfriend/Co-worker who resorts to blackmail in order to derail the romance. Granted, BB is female, AH is her employee, and SSBC is a fellow exec, so there's a bit of twist there, but still it's a typical contemporary romance we've all read before. The writing is a bit odd, as though the author has a perfect command of text book English (American) but struggles badly with idiomatic expressions. Makes for the occasional "Huh, What?" Characters are rather one-dimensional and stereotypical, and act in predictable and stereotypical ways. If you read it, you'll get a reasonably standard romance, written by an OK writer with a formulaic approach to her craft, and you'll get the expected HEA. If you don't read it, you really won't miss much.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 13, 2018
This is a quick read featuring the female CEO of a magazine, and the complications that ensue with a new reporter as a result of the impulsive one-night stand they’ve just had. Nola has a reputation as a cold-hearted b*tch – focused only on her work with no time for personal amusements, including friends and lovers alike. Ash is a bit of a bad boy – charming, good-looking and determined to make her his woman. Enter Clint, Nola’s ex-boyfriend who believes that Nola is still his. As Nola belatedly realizes some truths about herself and her ambitions, Clint has upped the ante, putting her blossoming romance with Ash in jeopardy. The story is well written with plenty of drama and some suspense along with several seriously steamy scenes. I enjoyed the story despite finding the plot to be a bit predictable at times.
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.
October 28, 2018
A quickie at a public event leads to so much more...
This is a delightful insta-love romance in the Cards series. It works just fine as a standalone. If there were any references to the rest of the series, they were not obvious and I never felt like I was missing anything. So jump in anywhere.
And I heartily encourage you to jump in. The story was very well written, easy to read and very enjoyable. The characters were solid and believable, including the stalker ex-boyfriend. The story kept me engaged from start to finish, eagerly turning pages to find out what came next. The ex does pose a major obstacle for our couple to overcome, so there are trials to navigate on the path.
As along the way, you are assured of plenty of hot steamy sex, all leading to a nice HEA. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
This is a delightful insta-love romance in the Cards series. It works just fine as a standalone. If there were any references to the rest of the series, they were not obvious and I never felt like I was missing anything. So jump in anywhere.
And I heartily encourage you to jump in. The story was very well written, easy to read and very enjoyable. The characters were solid and believable, including the stalker ex-boyfriend. The story kept me engaged from start to finish, eagerly turning pages to find out what came next. The ex does pose a major obstacle for our couple to overcome, so there are trials to navigate on the path.
As along the way, you are assured of plenty of hot steamy sex, all leading to a nice HEA. I am looking forward to reading more by this author.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
October 17, 2018
There are so many stories out there where the hard working, determined woman winds up sleeping with the billionaire only to find out afterwards, oops, he's her boss. We've all read them. Leah Holt, has reversed it in this unique romance. Ash has just gained employment with the magazine and given a ticket to go to a high end charity event. There isn't really an assignment so he's people watching to gain information and see who's doing what when he meets Nola. This meeting will start a chain of events that will take on a spectacular life of it's own. Laying out choices of what's important in life and what you will do to achieve them. Her storyline and characters are put in circumstances and given choices that are so relatable it's near impossible not to root for the good guys and boo the bad. What a wonderful story.
October 14, 2018
Ash and Nola
Nola has everything - looks, money, job, dad, etc.
Ash is a reporter who was fired from his last job because he made a c*ck on the cover of the magazine. He feels he comes from nothing.
These two couldn't be more different from each other. But somehow, these two make love look easy.
They meet before Ash officially starts working for her. I think Ash knew who she was, but Nola had no idea she would ever see him again. Imagine her surprise to see him come into orientation, late. They continue to date behind closed doors.
Too bad Nola's ex-boyfriend is a 'butt' and he blackmails her with a video of Ash and Nola.
I greatly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!
This is my first book by Leah Holt, but I plan on reading more by her soon.
Nola has everything - looks, money, job, dad, etc.
Ash is a reporter who was fired from his last job because he made a c*ck on the cover of the magazine. He feels he comes from nothing.
These two couldn't be more different from each other. But somehow, these two make love look easy.
They meet before Ash officially starts working for her. I think Ash knew who she was, but Nola had no idea she would ever see him again. Imagine her surprise to see him come into orientation, late. They continue to date behind closed doors.
Too bad Nola's ex-boyfriend is a 'butt' and he blackmails her with a video of Ash and Nola.
I greatly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!
This is my first book by Leah Holt, but I plan on reading more by her soon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews