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Millionaire Moguls #8
His Los Angeles Surprise
A millionaire with a wary heart...and a first love worth repeating.
"Success couldn't make former model Alexis Armstrong forget the one who got away. When she 'rents' Derek Moore at a fund-raiser to show him what he's missed, things don't go as planned.
"Success couldn't make former model Alexis Armstrong forget the one who got away. When she 'rents' Derek Moore at a fund-raiser to show him what he's missed, things don't go as planned.
- GenresRomance
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 16, 2018
76 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Sheryl Lister
73 books284 followersSheryl Lister has enjoyed reading and writing for as long as she can remember. She writes contemporary and inspirational romance and romantic suspense. She been nominated for an Emma Award and RT Reviewer’s Choice Award and named BRAB’s 2015 Best New Author. When she’s not reading, writing or playing chauffeur, Sheryl can be found on a date with her husband or in the kitchen creating appetizers and bite-sized desserts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 15, 2018
In this story we have Derek and Alexis who dated through out high school and broke up like most couples do. Fast forward to several years later and they are reunited at a bachelor auction. I’m a sucker for second chance romances and this was a good read.
Derek grew up without a father and because of that he has a lot of abandonment issues and doesn’t want to get close to anyone to avoid the pain. I know exactly how Derek feels. Alexis has always loved Derek since they were kids but love wasn’t always enough. This was was well written story about facing your fears and letting your guard down. Derek did a lot of soul searching and I loved his growth in the book as well. There were times I wanted to shake him for being stubborn but I understand his reasoning.
We also have a sub plot with Derek’s father that carried over from “A Los Angeles Passion” and the plot is good but I was hoping we would get more from the investigation. Often times it seemed repetitive. I also would have liked Derek and his father to spend more time together as they have a lot of issues.
This was my first time reading anything by Sheryl Lister and I really enjoyed the story. The writing was good, the story flowed and held my attention. I will be checking out more books from this author and adding to my ever growing and never ending to be read list.
*NetGalley Review*
Derek grew up without a father and because of that he has a lot of abandonment issues and doesn’t want to get close to anyone to avoid the pain. I know exactly how Derek feels. Alexis has always loved Derek since they were kids but love wasn’t always enough. This was was well written story about facing your fears and letting your guard down. Derek did a lot of soul searching and I loved his growth in the book as well. There were times I wanted to shake him for being stubborn but I understand his reasoning.
We also have a sub plot with Derek’s father that carried over from “A Los Angeles Passion” and the plot is good but I was hoping we would get more from the investigation. Often times it seemed repetitive. I also would have liked Derek and his father to spend more time together as they have a lot of issues.
This was my first time reading anything by Sheryl Lister and I really enjoyed the story. The writing was good, the story flowed and held my attention. I will be checking out more books from this author and adding to my ever growing and never ending to be read list.
*NetGalley Review*
October 16, 2018
If you come from a disconnected background it can leave you feeling unsure of who you are and you will get where Derek is coming from in a way. Most of all how you truly feel about a relationship you have whether it be with friends, lovers, or the one.
It can make you determined to do great things in your life to outdo what you came from the ‘I’ll show you,’ attitude. It can make you freeze in place at whatever age the trauma touched your life also. Giving you the impression that you will end up just like your parents.
For Derek, it seemed to always be a part of his life since he father denied him at birth. Not sure really how all the three brothers were connected but they were. There is Trey, the oldest, Derek, and Max the youngest. From what I gather they all come from different baby mommas. Their father is a millionaire leaving them set for life. He has already given them each a sizeable trust fund which to this day Derek has not touched.
Dereck, however, he has considered it hush money to keep out of his life until now his father is dying and he wants to be surrounded by the same boys he never wanted to claim, Trey and Derek. Can you say ‘resentment?’ Derek and his mom are extremely close and with her being a supermodel of her time they lived very comfortably.
Derek dated his high school sweetheart until senior graduation when he broke up with Alexis. Saying he had to prove to his father he could amass his own fortune in spite of him. That he could be a better businessman and a better man. So, he dumped her. She was in tears for a long while over that.
Alexis didn’t do too shabby herself. She went on to become one of the top supermodels internationally. She has filled up her passport several times. When she runs into Derek at the Millionaire Moguls organizations rent-a-bachelor function. She loves the fun idea. Derek’s brother, Trey had come up with it.
Finding out Derek was on the auction block Alexis made sure to do up the bid nicely to ensure she got what she wanted. That was, Derek.
I would have given it another star but I felt we came in without enough back story on some of the characters and plot. Not mention there are some unanswered things that weren’t resolved. Like who set up his dad? Will his dad make until Christmas? Etc.… I give this: 4 stars. Provided by netgalley.com.
Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
It can make you determined to do great things in your life to outdo what you came from the ‘I’ll show you,’ attitude. It can make you freeze in place at whatever age the trauma touched your life also. Giving you the impression that you will end up just like your parents.
For Derek, it seemed to always be a part of his life since he father denied him at birth. Not sure really how all the three brothers were connected but they were. There is Trey, the oldest, Derek, and Max the youngest. From what I gather they all come from different baby mommas. Their father is a millionaire leaving them set for life. He has already given them each a sizeable trust fund which to this day Derek has not touched.
Dereck, however, he has considered it hush money to keep out of his life until now his father is dying and he wants to be surrounded by the same boys he never wanted to claim, Trey and Derek. Can you say ‘resentment?’ Derek and his mom are extremely close and with her being a supermodel of her time they lived very comfortably.
Derek dated his high school sweetheart until senior graduation when he broke up with Alexis. Saying he had to prove to his father he could amass his own fortune in spite of him. That he could be a better businessman and a better man. So, he dumped her. She was in tears for a long while over that.
Alexis didn’t do too shabby herself. She went on to become one of the top supermodels internationally. She has filled up her passport several times. When she runs into Derek at the Millionaire Moguls organizations rent-a-bachelor function. She loves the fun idea. Derek’s brother, Trey had come up with it.
Finding out Derek was on the auction block Alexis made sure to do up the bid nicely to ensure she got what she wanted. That was, Derek.
I would have given it another star but I felt we came in without enough back story on some of the characters and plot. Not mention there are some unanswered things that weren’t resolved. Like who set up his dad? Will his dad make until Christmas? Etc.… I give this: 4 stars. Provided by netgalley.com.
Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
August 31, 2018
This book was so wonderful I loved how strong Alexis was and how even though things unplanned happened with Derek she respected herself not to give in to his crappy proposals. Derek had a lot of personal struggles with his relationship with his father and being a family a man himself , I think if you love Kimani Romance publishing you'll love this book while drinking coffee late at night or over the weekend
November 1, 2018
Releasing the past to allow for a new beginning
There are layers to this story. Fundamentally what we all know and learn is the wisdom of forgiveness. I think Sheryl without actually calling it out, laid the story out as to why forgiveness is important. Derek and Alexis story more than anything was about forgiveness. As without it there was not going to be a way in which Derek would have been able to move forward. We never realize the amount of baggage we hold by not forgiving. Derek just in time realize his need to forgive and opening his heart and emotions to love.
Alexis was the perfect backdrop to Derek because she knew who she was and what she deserved. It was heart to accept some truths for herself but self esteem allowed her to press for what she wanted.
Add in Max and Trey being the supportive brothers and Charlene the great friend and you have a foundation of supportive members who are rooting for the success of Derek and Alexis's relationship.
You'll love the intimate vulnerable scenes and the transparency of emotions. The one hospital scene you'll feel as if you're in the room.
Get redemption moment for Reginald as he conversed with Derek.
There are layers to this story. Fundamentally what we all know and learn is the wisdom of forgiveness. I think Sheryl without actually calling it out, laid the story out as to why forgiveness is important. Derek and Alexis story more than anything was about forgiveness. As without it there was not going to be a way in which Derek would have been able to move forward. We never realize the amount of baggage we hold by not forgiving. Derek just in time realize his need to forgive and opening his heart and emotions to love.
Alexis was the perfect backdrop to Derek because she knew who she was and what she deserved. It was heart to accept some truths for herself but self esteem allowed her to press for what she wanted.
Add in Max and Trey being the supportive brothers and Charlene the great friend and you have a foundation of supportive members who are rooting for the success of Derek and Alexis's relationship.
You'll love the intimate vulnerable scenes and the transparency of emotions. The one hospital scene you'll feel as if you're in the room.
Get redemption moment for Reginald as he conversed with Derek.
January 8, 2019
Derek and Alexis are a great fit. Both are wealthy and have a great concern for the welfare of the less fortunate. So happy that Alexis stood her ground and refused to marry Derk unless he truly loved her and not for any other reason. Even though Derek had huge trust issues because of his selfish and self-absorbed father, he had a great relationship and support system with his hilarious brothers.
October 18, 2018
CONCEPT
Millionaire reunites with his first love and gains surprise.
CHARACTERS
Derek Moore never expected to see Alexis Armstrong at the fund-raiser event nor did he expect that Alexis would “rent” him for a date to support the fund-raiser. Alex is determine to show Derek what he has missed when he broke off the relationship during high school without an explanation. The results of the date comes at a surprise for both. Derek’s character is portrayed as a bit of a loner as he attempts to develop a relationship with his brothers while at the same time deal with the issues he has with his father. While he reluctantly agrees to help clear his father, he is not trying to convince Alex on a loveless marriage. Alexis became a successful model and will only marry for love. She knows Derek wants to be a part of his child’s life but she will not marry unless he loves her. Two strong willed people, will love win out.
DIALOGUE
The dialogue was fitting for this theme.
STRUCTURE
The story was structured and maintained a consistent flow.
OVERALL
Ms. Lister has another hit on her hands. I enjoyed Derek and Alexis’ story and there were times during this book, I wanted to shake Derek and one scene he lost some “cool points” but I could understand his actions due to his past insecurities. Overall His Los Angeles Surprise was a good read.
Millionaire reunites with his first love and gains surprise.
CHARACTERS
Derek Moore never expected to see Alexis Armstrong at the fund-raiser event nor did he expect that Alexis would “rent” him for a date to support the fund-raiser. Alex is determine to show Derek what he has missed when he broke off the relationship during high school without an explanation. The results of the date comes at a surprise for both. Derek’s character is portrayed as a bit of a loner as he attempts to develop a relationship with his brothers while at the same time deal with the issues he has with his father. While he reluctantly agrees to help clear his father, he is not trying to convince Alex on a loveless marriage. Alexis became a successful model and will only marry for love. She knows Derek wants to be a part of his child’s life but she will not marry unless he loves her. Two strong willed people, will love win out.
DIALOGUE
The dialogue was fitting for this theme.
STRUCTURE
The story was structured and maintained a consistent flow.
OVERALL
Ms. Lister has another hit on her hands. I enjoyed Derek and Alexis’ story and there were times during this book, I wanted to shake Derek and one scene he lost some “cool points” but I could understand his actions due to his past insecurities. Overall His Los Angeles Surprise was a good read.
January 23, 2020
I absolutely loved His Los Angeles Surprise. It was January's featured book in the Sizzling HOT Romance Book Club on Facebook.
Alexis and Derek rekindle their love from years before. But time has left them each with scars, and neither one is sure they're ready to risk their heart again.
Fate, though, has a big surprise for them.
This book is a beautiful story of love, loss, forgiveness, and second chances. By the end, I needed a tissue. Author Sheryl Lister has created characters with depth, people you come to really care about, and ultimately, you hope for everything to work out. You won't be disappointed. 5 HUGE STARS!!
Alexis and Derek rekindle their love from years before. But time has left them each with scars, and neither one is sure they're ready to risk their heart again.
Fate, though, has a big surprise for them.
This book is a beautiful story of love, loss, forgiveness, and second chances. By the end, I needed a tissue. Author Sheryl Lister has created characters with depth, people you come to really care about, and ultimately, you hope for everything to work out. You won't be disappointed. 5 HUGE STARS!!
November 8, 2018
Lovely emotion. I thoroughly enjoyed the elements of family and community. Heartfelt and fun.
Derek and Alexis are two characters i could read an entire series about. But i believe it is due to Ms Lister's wonderful writing style. Ive added a few of her titles to my wish list.
There was a crime being investigated in this story. We do not know how it ends. I wish the mystery had played out in this title. I'm sure the author would have done a great job.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the review copy of this book.
Derek and Alexis are two characters i could read an entire series about. But i believe it is due to Ms Lister's wonderful writing style. Ive added a few of her titles to my wish list.
There was a crime being investigated in this story. We do not know how it ends. I wish the mystery had played out in this title. I'm sure the author would have done a great job.
Thank you NetGalley, the author and publisher for the review copy of this book.
November 17, 2018
FANTASTIC!
The Millionaire Mogul series is one of the best multi author series I have ever read! The authors in this series always seem to be on point with the series thread and accurately keep the facts of the other installment authors. Derek has always appeared to be the toughest Moore brother. He has so much emotional baggage that it seemed impossible to overcome. That was before he crossed paths again with Alexis. Ms. Lister has written a story that was well developed, kept to the premise of the series and also left us with great anticipation for the next book.
The Millionaire Mogul series is one of the best multi author series I have ever read! The authors in this series always seem to be on point with the series thread and accurately keep the facts of the other installment authors. Derek has always appeared to be the toughest Moore brother. He has so much emotional baggage that it seemed impossible to overcome. That was before he crossed paths again with Alexis. Ms. Lister has written a story that was well developed, kept to the premise of the series and also left us with great anticipation for the next book.
December 4, 2018
Book #3 - A millionaire with a wary heart…And a first love worth repeating Success couldn’t make (former model/infant mortality) Alexis Armstrong forget the one who got away. When she “rents” Derek Moore (real estate developer/sales) at a fund-raiser to show him what he’s missed 10 years ago, things don’t go as planned. Their sizzling chemistry reignites…with lasting repercussions. Their one-night of passion leads to her pregnancy. Derek, the perpetual bachelor wants to be there for his baby, but Alexis will only marry for love. Can he convince the stubborn beauty he’s for real?
November 14, 2018
His Los Angeles Surprise by Sheryl Lister is a sexy reunion romance for high school sweethearts who went their separate ways and now have a chance to start anew.
Alexis Armstrong is a successful model who uses her money to fund charity initiatives, including helping pregnant African American women who suffer from high infant mortality rates. When she reconnects with her old high school flame Derek Moore at a Prescott George (aka Millionaire Mogul) holiday outreach fundraiser, she ‘buys’ time with him at a bachelor auction. Their dinner together becomes a sexy one night stand with no plans to hookup again, until Alexis discovers she’s pregnant.
Derek has kept his emotions tightly in check for years, since leaving town due to family scandals and breaking things off with Alexis. But he has no intention of shirking his parental duties and offers Alexis marriage and commitment to be a good father. Alexis doesn’t want to bring up a child in a loveless marriage so she declines – but she does agree to spend time with Derek and get to know the adult version of the boy she once loved. As they get closer together, can Derek convince her to change her mind and give marriage to him a chance?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-his...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Alexis Armstrong is a successful model who uses her money to fund charity initiatives, including helping pregnant African American women who suffer from high infant mortality rates. When she reconnects with her old high school flame Derek Moore at a Prescott George (aka Millionaire Mogul) holiday outreach fundraiser, she ‘buys’ time with him at a bachelor auction. Their dinner together becomes a sexy one night stand with no plans to hookup again, until Alexis discovers she’s pregnant.
Derek has kept his emotions tightly in check for years, since leaving town due to family scandals and breaking things off with Alexis. But he has no intention of shirking his parental duties and offers Alexis marriage and commitment to be a good father. Alexis doesn’t want to bring up a child in a loveless marriage so she declines – but she does agree to spend time with Derek and get to know the adult version of the boy she once loved. As they get closer together, can Derek convince her to change her mind and give marriage to him a chance?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-his...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
November 6, 2018
I liked Derek & Alexis’ story because it incorporated a favorite trope, reunited sweethearts. The story was well-written and entertaining. Although the book is part of a series, kudos to author, Sheryl Lister who provided adequate background information that was needed for this story. Derek and Alexis were good for each other, and I loved their chemistry. I recommend His Los Angeles Surprise for your reading pleasure.
January 25, 2020
Loved this book! It was January’s featured book in The Sizzling Hot Romance Book Club on Facebook.
Derek and Alexis have a past that each of them don’t like to remember. A chance meeting has them getting together again and a surprise neither one of her expected. This was a beautifully written story with relatable characters. Will definitely be reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving my review.
Derek and Alexis have a past that each of them don’t like to remember. A chance meeting has them getting together again and a surprise neither one of her expected. This was a beautifully written story with relatable characters. Will definitely be reading more from this author.
I received a copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 30, 2018
I love second chance romances and Sheryl Lister did not disappoint. Derek and Alexis reunite at a Rent-a-Bachelor fundraiser. One night of passion sets them on a journey where Derek has to face his fears. Throw in the subplot of finding out who set Derek's father, and you can't go wrong. I can't wait to see how this series ends.
December 13, 2018
A great second chance at love story by Sheryl. One night of passion leads to a commitment neither Alexis and Derek is prepared for. Will their relationship survive the second time around? Sheryl Lister’s A Los Angeles Surprise is based on trust, love, commitment, and forgiveness. My favorite type of storyline.
December 28, 2018
Love 💘it!
Derek was a hard nut to crack. 😛 Even I wanted to throttle him. Wake up dude. Alexis is in love with you. I wanted Derek to be a man and get over his blocked feelings. Very captivating read especially close to the end during Alexis scare. I loved the epilogue, momma so proud Derek. Hercules,Hercules! 😋
Derek was a hard nut to crack. 😛 Even I wanted to throttle him. Wake up dude. Alexis is in love with you. I wanted Derek to be a man and get over his blocked feelings. Very captivating read especially close to the end during Alexis scare. I loved the epilogue, momma so proud Derek. Hercules,Hercules! 😋
March 22, 2019
In "His Los Angeles Surprise," Sheryl Lister delivers a hot, heartwarming second chance romance. I *love* that particular trope, and Derek's and Alexis' history feeds into their present insecurities. My heart squeezed for them as they went through their ups and downs, and I can't wait to read earlier installments in this series!
August 15, 2019
Awesome book!!!!!
I really enjoyed this book, because the characters had a good back story that they slowly took the time to work through. To understand how they wanted to be in each other's lives. I love the love interest she was strong and didn't just accept what was offered. This was a great book.
I really enjoyed this book, because the characters had a good back story that they slowly took the time to work through. To understand how they wanted to be in each other's lives. I love the love interest she was strong and didn't just accept what was offered. This was a great book.
November 14, 2018
Great entertainment
November 28, 2018
A wonderful read!
November 29, 2018
This is the 7th book in the Millionaire Mogul series and is a awesome read.
Derek and Alexis great high school love story about trust and love.
Now on to read about baby brother Max!!!
Derek and Alexis great high school love story about trust and love.
Now on to read about baby brother Max!!!
December 5, 2018
A great love story.
December 26, 2018
Another great read by Sheryl Lister!
January 17, 2019
Let the Series Continue!
I know there is more to the series. I am thoroughly enjoying them. Have the next book on hand already.
I know there is more to the series. I am thoroughly enjoying them. Have the next book on hand already.
February 7, 2019
Loved it
The epilogue wasn’t what I expected but I enjoyed the book
The suspense is good and makes you wonder what will happen
The epilogue wasn’t what I expected but I enjoyed the book
The suspense is good and makes you wonder what will happen
February 14, 2019
Good book, very enjoyable. The only thing I didn't like was that the suspense of their father's problem was never solved.
March 1, 2019
Second chance at true love
Having a baby always brings truer feelings to the fore. Great storyline with three sons forgiving an errant father and making up for lost time.
Having a baby always brings truer feelings to the fore. Great storyline with three sons forgiving an errant father and making up for lost time.
April 21, 2019
Waiting for next Book
August 13, 2019
I'd have to give this one 5. I had to hold the tears in at the end.
September 13, 2019
Wish it was longer , wanted to know gender of the baby
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews