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The Bourbon Brothers #3
Engaging the Enemy
An ambitious heir will stop at nothing--including a fake engagement to a bitter rival--to secure his future in the family empire in Reese Ryan's intoxicating tale of deception...
Usually Parker Abbott is buttoned-down and by the books. But he will do whatever it takes to be the next CEO of King's Finest Distillery, even play fake fianc� to his childhood nemesis, Kayleigh Jemison. The deal is simple. She needs him to pose as her partner to help impress an evil ex she expects to encounter at her friend's destination wedding. In exchange, she'll sell Parker the piece of property that will secure his family legacy.
As Parker and the fiery redhead get reacquainted, what started out as deception turns into shocking passion. It's beginning to feel more like a real relationship than a business deal. But then the day of the destination wedding rolls around, and Kayleigh's aim to impress is too on target! Now when her ex wants a second chance, who will Kayleigh choose?
From Harlequin Desire: Luxury, scandal, desire--welcome to the lives of the American elite.
Don't miss a single story in The Bourbon Brothers series from Reese Ryan:
Book 1 -- Savannah's Secrets
Book 2 -- The Billionaire's Legacy
Book 3 -- Engaging the Enemy
Book 4 -- A Reunion of Rivals
Usually Parker Abbott is buttoned-down and by the books. But he will do whatever it takes to be the next CEO of King's Finest Distillery, even play fake fianc� to his childhood nemesis, Kayleigh Jemison. The deal is simple. She needs him to pose as her partner to help impress an evil ex she expects to encounter at her friend's destination wedding. In exchange, she'll sell Parker the piece of property that will secure his family legacy.
As Parker and the fiery redhead get reacquainted, what started out as deception turns into shocking passion. It's beginning to feel more like a real relationship than a business deal. But then the day of the destination wedding rolls around, and Kayleigh's aim to impress is too on target! Now when her ex wants a second chance, who will Kayleigh choose?
From Harlequin Desire: Luxury, scandal, desire--welcome to the lives of the American elite.
Don't miss a single story in The Bourbon Brothers series from Reese Ryan:
Book 1 -- Savannah's Secrets
Book 2 -- The Billionaire's Legacy
Book 3 -- Engaging the Enemy
Book 4 -- A Reunion of Rivals
219 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published March 7, 2019
143 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Reese Ryan
174 books604 followersVivian Award-winning author Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional, “grown folks” romantic fiction set in small Southern towns. Her characters find love while navigating career crises and family drama.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
Reese's books have been featured on Entertainment Weekly, BuzzFeed, and BookRiot. She is the host of Story Behind the Story—her YouTube show where readers and authors connect.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 26, 2020
Good book. Parker and Kayleigh were good friends as children until Parker did something stupid that destroyed their friendship. To complicate matters further, Kayleigh is convinced that Parker's father cheated her mother when he bought their family property. Now Parker has shown up at Kayleigh's store wanting to buy her property! Parker needs this sale to show his father that he is the best choice to be the next CEO of the family business, but how far is he willing to go?
Having met Parker in Savannah's Secrets, I wasn't sure I was going to believe he was redeemable as a hero. He is focused on the bottom line and his goals, and doesn't come across as caring much about people other than his family. He certainly doesn't have much in the way of people skills. Kayleigh is Savannah's best friend, which has made some gatherings a little awkward now that Savannah has married Parker's older brother. Kayleigh is creative and independent. She never forgot the hurt of Parker's sixth-grade betrayal, which doesn't make her any more willing to sell her property to him.
I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Kayleigh is ready to send Parker packing when she gets a call from her ex-boyfriend's sister. Suddenly Kayleigh needs a plus-one to a wedding, and who better than wealthy, gorgeous, Parker Abbott? She basically blackmails him into agreeing to pose as her fiancé in exchange for agreeing to sell her property to him. I loved this scene because it not only showed the issues between them; it also crackled with the sparks of attraction that were there too. I also enjoyed his family's reaction to the plan. Neither Kayleigh nor Parker was particularly happy when Savannah pointed out that their attitudes would not convince anyone that they were madly in love. Savannah was a genius in coming up with a plan for Parker and Kayleigh to get to know each other again, enabling them to carry off their masquerade. I was also sure that she clearly saw that they belonged together, and it was her way to get them to see it too.
I loved that first "tell each other what you see as their good qualities." That got them looking at each other in a positive light. Then the "ten dates in ten weeks" plan was to enable them to get to know each other and become comfortable with each other. It was fun to see each of those dates and the changes each one made in their relationship. With each one, the sparks of attraction burned hotter until they finally burst into flame. There were also some fun and sweet scenes between them, from the mountain biking trip to the dance lessons. At the same time, their friendship returned and grew into something more, though neither one would admit it. Just as Parker realizes the truth about his feelings, they arrive at the wedding, and he discovers that her ex wants a second chance. I ached for Parker as he makes a rather boneheaded move, believing that she still loves the other man. Meanwhile, Kayleigh is devastated by what she sees as another betrayal. A little communication would have gone a long way to preventing heartbreak for both of them.
I loved the ending as Parker went after what he really wanted, though it took a kick in the pants to get him moving. The only obstacle left to their happiness was her grudge against his father about the land purchase. I loved that Parker had learned his lesson about communication and honesty. I liked the conversation between Parker and his father, and his insistence that it was time to tell the truth. The revelation at the end was a surprise and went a long way toward changing my opinion of Parker's father as well as Kayleigh's. I can't wait to see what's next for the remaining Abbotts.
Having met Parker in Savannah's Secrets, I wasn't sure I was going to believe he was redeemable as a hero. He is focused on the bottom line and his goals, and doesn't come across as caring much about people other than his family. He certainly doesn't have much in the way of people skills. Kayleigh is Savannah's best friend, which has made some gatherings a little awkward now that Savannah has married Parker's older brother. Kayleigh is creative and independent. She never forgot the hurt of Parker's sixth-grade betrayal, which doesn't make her any more willing to sell her property to him.
I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Kayleigh is ready to send Parker packing when she gets a call from her ex-boyfriend's sister. Suddenly Kayleigh needs a plus-one to a wedding, and who better than wealthy, gorgeous, Parker Abbott? She basically blackmails him into agreeing to pose as her fiancé in exchange for agreeing to sell her property to him. I loved this scene because it not only showed the issues between them; it also crackled with the sparks of attraction that were there too. I also enjoyed his family's reaction to the plan. Neither Kayleigh nor Parker was particularly happy when Savannah pointed out that their attitudes would not convince anyone that they were madly in love. Savannah was a genius in coming up with a plan for Parker and Kayleigh to get to know each other again, enabling them to carry off their masquerade. I was also sure that she clearly saw that they belonged together, and it was her way to get them to see it too.
I loved that first "tell each other what you see as their good qualities." That got them looking at each other in a positive light. Then the "ten dates in ten weeks" plan was to enable them to get to know each other and become comfortable with each other. It was fun to see each of those dates and the changes each one made in their relationship. With each one, the sparks of attraction burned hotter until they finally burst into flame. There were also some fun and sweet scenes between them, from the mountain biking trip to the dance lessons. At the same time, their friendship returned and grew into something more, though neither one would admit it. Just as Parker realizes the truth about his feelings, they arrive at the wedding, and he discovers that her ex wants a second chance. I ached for Parker as he makes a rather boneheaded move, believing that she still loves the other man. Meanwhile, Kayleigh is devastated by what she sees as another betrayal. A little communication would have gone a long way to preventing heartbreak for both of them.
I loved the ending as Parker went after what he really wanted, though it took a kick in the pants to get him moving. The only obstacle left to their happiness was her grudge against his father about the land purchase. I loved that Parker had learned his lesson about communication and honesty. I liked the conversation between Parker and his father, and his insistence that it was time to tell the truth. The revelation at the end was a surprise and went a long way toward changing my opinion of Parker's father as well as Kayleigh's. I can't wait to see what's next for the remaining Abbotts.
July 11, 2020
2019 Ripped Bodice Summer Bingo: Wine & Spirits
I loved this so much! And it was such an enjoyable read considering recent books haven’t been that great for me. Childhood friends turned enemies to lovers + fake engagement to go to a wedding + meddling and supportive family + confident heroine. I haven’t read categories in a while, but this is definitely one of the best I’ve read.
I loved this so much! And it was such an enjoyable read considering recent books haven’t been that great for me. Childhood friends turned enemies to lovers + fake engagement to go to a wedding + meddling and supportive family + confident heroine. I haven’t read categories in a while, but this is definitely one of the best I’ve read.
March 31, 2019
Parker and Kayleigh used to be best friends growing up and they had a falling out and no longer speak. Several years later they are forced to reunite for a business deal. Things between the two are tense to say the least. I loved the back and forth between the two characters and the way they would ruffle each other’s feathers.
With Parker and Kayleigh you could feel the tension between the two but I wanted more with the couple. I felt like I was told about their relationship and I wanted to see it play out as I read. I had a hard time feeling their connection. The tension was there but I needed more to get me fully invested into the story.
Overall, I did enjoy this story. The characters are engaging. The story held my attention and it was nice to see couples from prior books and catch up with everyone. I look forward to reading Max’s book next!
3.5 stars
*ARC Review*
With Parker and Kayleigh you could feel the tension between the two but I wanted more with the couple. I felt like I was told about their relationship and I wanted to see it play out as I read. I had a hard time feeling their connection. The tension was there but I needed more to get me fully invested into the story.
Overall, I did enjoy this story. The characters are engaging. The story held my attention and it was nice to see couples from prior books and catch up with everyone. I look forward to reading Max’s book next!
3.5 stars
*ARC Review*
September 1, 2019
5 Stars / 3 Steam Fans
I have had this book for some time and I am mad at myself for not reading it earlier! Kayleigh and Parker were friends during childhood but things changed causing the two to become enemies. As an adult Parker wants to prove himself to his family and to accomplish that he must purchase a building currently occupied by Kayleigh. Well, Kayleigh is still holding a grudge and has some stipulations for the sale of her building. The sexual tension jumps off the page between these two, there is heart, sweetness, and secrets that bring the angst. I really enjoyed this story and I wil be looking into reading the books that proceed this one.
This specific video review will be included in the August 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
I have had this book for some time and I am mad at myself for not reading it earlier! Kayleigh and Parker were friends during childhood but things changed causing the two to become enemies. As an adult Parker wants to prove himself to his family and to accomplish that he must purchase a building currently occupied by Kayleigh. Well, Kayleigh is still holding a grudge and has some stipulations for the sale of her building. The sexual tension jumps off the page between these two, there is heart, sweetness, and secrets that bring the angst. I really enjoyed this story and I wil be looking into reading the books that proceed this one.
This specific video review will be included in the August 2019 wrap-up.
For other video book reviews check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
April 3, 2019
Reese Ryan’s Bourbon Brothers series centers around an African-American family who builds and runs a bourbon distillery in Magnolia Lake, Tennessee. Engaging the Enemy is the third book in the series and is a standalone read.
Engaging the Enemy is a friends to enemies to lovers story over twenty years in the making. Kayleigh Jemison and Parker Abbott despite being from different socioeconomic classes were best friends as kids. This all changed when they were in middle school and Kayleigh heard Parker laughing about her and her family. Since then, the two have been at odds.
Parker is the second oldest child of Duke and Iris Abbott. As CFO of King’s Finest, he is an uptight workaholic who loves his family, but silently at times has doubts about where he fits in. He's a little of a nerd, and has an addiction to expensive watches. When Duke inform his kids what he wants to do for his and Iris’s anniversary, Parker views this as an opportunity to show his father that he has what it takes to be the next CEO of King’s Finest Distillery. In Parker's mind, all he has to do is make his nemesis an offer on her downtown building she can't refuse.
After having her heart broken seven years ago, Kayleigh retreats to Magnolia Lake and purchases a two-story building that houses her small jewelry and consignment shop. Kayleigh is a jewelry designer who makes unique one-of-a-kind pieces. She doesn't make a lot of money, but she's comfortable. Her slow work day gets interesting and bizarre when Parker shows up making her an offer to buy her building. Out of sheer stubbornness, she declines. But a phone call from her ex’s sister has her reconsidering. Kira Brennan is getting married and she wants Kayleigh to be a part of the wedding. The wedding is scheduled to take place on a Caribbean island and with all the events planned it will last a week. Kayleigh just needs a plus one. With this new development, Kayleigh comes to terms with Parker on the sell, but she also adds in the stipulation that he has to accompany her to the island wedding and pretend to be her fiancé.
Kayleigh’s best friend Savannah, who is also Parker's sister-in-law, gets involved and decides the two should spend the next ten weeks going on dates and getting to know each other again. In order for people to believe this fake engagement is real, these two need to know each other and act like they are in love. What starts out as a chore for the two becomes something they each look forward to.
I love the sweetness Kayleigh brings out in Parker. He doesn’t show that side of himself to anyone. I like that she challenges the very orderly and structured life Parker has setup for himself. She keeps him on his toes. I expected Kayleigh to give Parker a really hard time. But she didn’t. I was surprised by her vulnerability. I was equally surprised by the depth of Parker. He was truly not what I was expecting.
The Bourbon Brothers and the Abbott clan could potentially become my favorite family dynasty.
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed.**
Engaging the Enemy is a friends to enemies to lovers story over twenty years in the making. Kayleigh Jemison and Parker Abbott despite being from different socioeconomic classes were best friends as kids. This all changed when they were in middle school and Kayleigh heard Parker laughing about her and her family. Since then, the two have been at odds.
Parker is the second oldest child of Duke and Iris Abbott. As CFO of King’s Finest, he is an uptight workaholic who loves his family, but silently at times has doubts about where he fits in. He's a little of a nerd, and has an addiction to expensive watches. When Duke inform his kids what he wants to do for his and Iris’s anniversary, Parker views this as an opportunity to show his father that he has what it takes to be the next CEO of King’s Finest Distillery. In Parker's mind, all he has to do is make his nemesis an offer on her downtown building she can't refuse.
After having her heart broken seven years ago, Kayleigh retreats to Magnolia Lake and purchases a two-story building that houses her small jewelry and consignment shop. Kayleigh is a jewelry designer who makes unique one-of-a-kind pieces. She doesn't make a lot of money, but she's comfortable. Her slow work day gets interesting and bizarre when Parker shows up making her an offer to buy her building. Out of sheer stubbornness, she declines. But a phone call from her ex’s sister has her reconsidering. Kira Brennan is getting married and she wants Kayleigh to be a part of the wedding. The wedding is scheduled to take place on a Caribbean island and with all the events planned it will last a week. Kayleigh just needs a plus one. With this new development, Kayleigh comes to terms with Parker on the sell, but she also adds in the stipulation that he has to accompany her to the island wedding and pretend to be her fiancé.
Kayleigh’s best friend Savannah, who is also Parker's sister-in-law, gets involved and decides the two should spend the next ten weeks going on dates and getting to know each other again. In order for people to believe this fake engagement is real, these two need to know each other and act like they are in love. What starts out as a chore for the two becomes something they each look forward to.
I love the sweetness Kayleigh brings out in Parker. He doesn’t show that side of himself to anyone. I like that she challenges the very orderly and structured life Parker has setup for himself. She keeps him on his toes. I expected Kayleigh to give Parker a really hard time. But she didn’t. I was surprised by her vulnerability. I was equally surprised by the depth of Parker. He was truly not what I was expecting.
The Bourbon Brothers and the Abbott clan could potentially become my favorite family dynasty.
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed.**
April 19, 2019
The concept of this series instantly caught my attention. An African American family of bourborn barons in the south! Securing the bag. Do I want to read? Hells Yeah. Insta Click. My mind immediately went to Jack Daniel's success story. Without the assistance of Nearis Green, a slave and master distiller, the world-famous brand wouldn't exist. The Abbott family, in the Bourborn Brothers series, is Green's legacy realized. Oh, and the covers are stunning.
Hero: Parker is an unlikely hero. He's slim built , wears glasses and is ambitious to a fault. He's a steampunk-reading-schedule obsessing-sticking-his-foot-in-mouth-butthole. Parker has a goal in mind and it's not finding love. Does he prove to be a worthy Hero? Yes. His journey getting there is rocky af. But he doesn't treat the heroine like trash in the process.
Heroine: Kayleigh is a jewelry-designing-bike-riding-bohemian-bad-chick-maverick. I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF THIS WOMAN. She's an entrepreneur with personal issues, wearing the mask we all wear to make it happen from day to day.
Ryan brings fabulous tension to the text with Parker and Kayleigh. Plus, Ryan makes them feel soooooo real. I've met some variation of these characters in my own life and this ultimately led to me rooting for their HEA (happily ever after).
There is one plot thread left dangling that I wanted to see resolved. Hint: CEO. Hopefully, it gets brought up in the next novel.
Reese Ryan didn't come to play with these words. Like Biggie said, "My mind's my 9, my pen's my Mac-10." Ryan don't owe me nothing.
Hero: Parker is an unlikely hero. He's slim built , wears glasses and is ambitious to a fault. He's a steampunk-reading-schedule obsessing-sticking-his-foot-in-mouth-butthole. Parker has a goal in mind and it's not finding love. Does he prove to be a worthy Hero? Yes. His journey getting there is rocky af. But he doesn't treat the heroine like trash in the process.
Heroine: Kayleigh is a jewelry-designing-bike-riding-bohemian-bad-chick-maverick. I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF THIS WOMAN. She's an entrepreneur with personal issues, wearing the mask we all wear to make it happen from day to day.
Ryan brings fabulous tension to the text with Parker and Kayleigh. Plus, Ryan makes them feel soooooo real. I've met some variation of these characters in my own life and this ultimately led to me rooting for their HEA (happily ever after).
There is one plot thread left dangling that I wanted to see resolved. Hint: CEO. Hopefully, it gets brought up in the next novel.
Reese Ryan didn't come to play with these words. Like Biggie said, "My mind's my 9, my pen's my Mac-10." Ryan don't owe me nothing.
April 28, 2023
Wow!
Kayleigh and Parker are from two different worlds. He's wealthy, she's not. But Kayleigh feels the Abbott's robbed her mother when she sold them her land, and that's how they really made their fortune.
In addition, Kayleigh overheard Parker making fun of her alcoholic father, when they were children, and she still feels betrayed.
Now they both need a huge favor from each other. Will they be able to forget the past and work together or be enemies forever?
***e-book edition.
June 11, 2020
Engaging the Enemy is a fun and delectable story that makes top-notch use of the enemies-to-lovers and fake relationship setups, executing both in ways that deepen the plot and enrich characterization without sacrificing plausibility.
Both main characters were compelling and relatable with satisfying layers of emotional depth. The chemistry that sparkled between Kayleigh and Parker, and the conflict surrounding it, packed an addictive punch that added resonance. The secondary characters enhanced the plot exactly how they needed to, and tight prose and deft plotting made for a fast, clean, engaging read. Recommended for everyone looking for a tropetastic romance fix.
Both main characters were compelling and relatable with satisfying layers of emotional depth. The chemistry that sparkled between Kayleigh and Parker, and the conflict surrounding it, packed an addictive punch that added resonance. The secondary characters enhanced the plot exactly how they needed to, and tight prose and deft plotting made for a fast, clean, engaging read. Recommended for everyone looking for a tropetastic romance fix.
January 4, 2022
Oof! This pair is so adorably frustrating. Their story is something of a best friends to enemies to lovers kind of path. I adored watching this pair rediscover the friendship they once had, and Parker regularly broke my heart with his endearing social awkwardness. Both Kayleigh and Parker are so certain that they are right that they often forget to consider the other person when they make decisions. I loved that these two were finally able to come together in the end, but holy moly did they make me work for that ending. I can't wait to see which Abbott is up next to finally find their forever.
April 4, 2019
Old friends became enemies from a misunderstanding/betrayal in their youth. Years later they need each other and have to put aside the past and communicate for the future. Kayleigh can barely tolerate Parker but circumstances present an opportunity that will benefit them both. When start a tension filled adventure that turns into passion and romance. Pretty good story with strong likable characters. This is book three but can be read as a standalone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2019
I love Reese Ryan's writing style. I love the way she crafts her stories and pulls you into the drama from the very first page.
Parker is definitely a character you love to hate. This enemies-to-lovers story hit all the right notes for me. I also love the way Ryan writes the sometimes messy details of family drama. Such a fun book, I finished it one go!
Parker is definitely a character you love to hate. This enemies-to-lovers story hit all the right notes for me. I also love the way Ryan writes the sometimes messy details of family drama. Such a fun book, I finished it one go!
April 1, 2019
Both from different lifestyles, Parker Abbott and Kayleigh Jemison were close friends in grade school, until a foolish mistake drove a wedge between their friendship. Years later, Parker's family wants to buy Kayleigh building. She'll do it under one stipulation, Parker has to pretend to be her fiance at her ex boyfriend sister's wedding. Eventually her ex wants a second chance, and Kayleigh has to decide who will ultimately get her heart.
There were several things I enjoyed about this story. I loved the writing style of the author. She makes everything so vivid. I also enjoyed reading the scene that was dipliced on the cover. You could feel the emotions between the two characters, the happy times as well as the sad times. One thread throughout this story was that everyone needed to learn how to communicate better, which tends to happen in real life. This was a great read.
There were several things I enjoyed about this story. I loved the writing style of the author. She makes everything so vivid. I also enjoyed reading the scene that was dipliced on the cover. You could feel the emotions between the two characters, the happy times as well as the sad times. One thread throughout this story was that everyone needed to learn how to communicate better, which tends to happen in real life. This was a great read.
July 16, 2021
Parker and Kayleigh. Fake fiance trope. Kayleigh needs a plus one to attend the sister of her ex's wedding. Parker wants to buy the building Kayleigh owns to restore a family business. They scratch each others back and find out there's love where they least expected it. I liked following the ten dates along the way they went on leading up to the destination wedding.
April 1, 2019
Engaging The Enemy was funny, steamy and such an enjoyable read. I loved Kayleigh and Parker's journey from friends to lovers and everything else in between. I'm so looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
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
November 25, 2019
Deliciously trope-y in all the best ways: childhood friends, enemies to lovers, fake relationship.
December 10, 2019
An amazing romance...made me cry.
April 8, 2019
Engaging the Enemy by Reese Ryan is the latest sexy romance in her Bourbon Brothers series, set in the small town of Magnolia Lake, Tennessee.
Parker Abbott is in a bind. His father wants to surprise his wife with the purchase of some property that had once belonged to her family. The trouble is that Parker’s estranged childhood friend Kayleigh Jemison owns the jewelry shop in the building he wants and she’s got no need to make life easy for him by selling to his family. Their history is complicated by mistakes he made, and also by Kayleigh’s belief that Parker’s father Duke had taken advantage of her mother years ago and bought their own land out from under them at a pittance of the real value.
Kayleigh is all set to reject Parker’s offer (even though he’s willing to shell out much more than the property is worth) when she gets a call from her old friend Kira, the sister of her ex-boyfriend Aidan. Kira wants Kayleigh to come to her island wedding and be a part of the bridal party. An all expenses paid Caribbean vacation? Kayleigh can’t turn down her friend, or the holiday. Kayleigh isn’t dating anyone at the moment but she’s not going to show up alone since she knows Aidan is now married so she makes a deal with Parker. If he agrees to be her fake fiance and join her for the week long wedding festivities, she’ll sell him the property.
Parker reluctantly agrees to Kayleigh’s bargain and with his family involved in the contract negotiations, they agree to ten ‘dates’ before the wedding to get to know each other so that they’ll be convincing as a couple. But once they start spending time together and getting to know each other as adults, it becomes harder to deny their mutual attraction. Will their fake relationship turn into a real one?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-en...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
Parker Abbott is in a bind. His father wants to surprise his wife with the purchase of some property that had once belonged to her family. The trouble is that Parker’s estranged childhood friend Kayleigh Jemison owns the jewelry shop in the building he wants and she’s got no need to make life easy for him by selling to his family. Their history is complicated by mistakes he made, and also by Kayleigh’s belief that Parker’s father Duke had taken advantage of her mother years ago and bought their own land out from under them at a pittance of the real value.
Kayleigh is all set to reject Parker’s offer (even though he’s willing to shell out much more than the property is worth) when she gets a call from her old friend Kira, the sister of her ex-boyfriend Aidan. Kira wants Kayleigh to come to her island wedding and be a part of the bridal party. An all expenses paid Caribbean vacation? Kayleigh can’t turn down her friend, or the holiday. Kayleigh isn’t dating anyone at the moment but she’s not going to show up alone since she knows Aidan is now married so she makes a deal with Parker. If he agrees to be her fake fiance and join her for the week long wedding festivities, she’ll sell him the property.
Parker reluctantly agrees to Kayleigh’s bargain and with his family involved in the contract negotiations, they agree to ten ‘dates’ before the wedding to get to know each other so that they’ll be convincing as a couple. But once they start spending time together and getting to know each other as adults, it becomes harder to deny their mutual attraction. Will their fake relationship turn into a real one?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-en...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher for review.
February 11, 2019
In her third installment of her highly-readable Bourbon Brothers series, Ryan has excelled herself. Her book more than delivers on the Desire promise of sensual glamour, heroes to fall in love with and strong capable heroines. The story and the characters will linger in your mind long after you finish the book. The story is stand-alone but for readers who started with earlier books, there is a welcome return to the Bourbon Brothers' world and a chance to catch up with characters. Savannah, the heroine of Savannah's Secrets, is in several key scenes in the early part of the book, for example.
In Parker Abbott, Ryan has taken a potentially difficult hero (he prefers data to interacting with people any day and his people skills are not the best to say the least) and created an alpha hero to really root for as he falls for his former childhood friend, Kayleigh who now despises him and his family for the wrongs she thinks they did to her family. However, Kayleigh, a woman who has made sure she can find a way to exit every relationship, needs a handsome fake fiance who knows that the relationship has an end date and Parker fits the bill.
The growth of their emotional relationship had me turning the pages long after I should have been asleep and the ending brought a huge lump to my throat.
Ryan's writing is as ever as smooth and rich as a fine glass of bourbon.
My only regret at reading this so fast is that I now have to wait a long time for the next installment.
So what you are waiting for? Grab a glass of bourbon (or your favourite tipple) and treat yourself to a wonderful feel-good read.
Note: I received an early copy because I begged and pleaded with Reese Ryan to get one. Ryan was one of my big discoveries 2018 and her writing has not disappointed me yet. This one is the best to date of hers that I have read.
In Parker Abbott, Ryan has taken a potentially difficult hero (he prefers data to interacting with people any day and his people skills are not the best to say the least) and created an alpha hero to really root for as he falls for his former childhood friend, Kayleigh who now despises him and his family for the wrongs she thinks they did to her family. However, Kayleigh, a woman who has made sure she can find a way to exit every relationship, needs a handsome fake fiance who knows that the relationship has an end date and Parker fits the bill.
The growth of their emotional relationship had me turning the pages long after I should have been asleep and the ending brought a huge lump to my throat.
Ryan's writing is as ever as smooth and rich as a fine glass of bourbon.
My only regret at reading this so fast is that I now have to wait a long time for the next installment.
So what you are waiting for? Grab a glass of bourbon (or your favourite tipple) and treat yourself to a wonderful feel-good read.
Note: I received an early copy because I begged and pleaded with Reese Ryan to get one. Ryan was one of my big discoveries 2018 and her writing has not disappointed me yet. This one is the best to date of hers that I have read.
January 9, 2020
The heroine, Kayleigh, is amazing. Smart, full of life, creative, athletic, and loving. She is the reason this review is three stars. The hero does not rise to the occasion of being worthy of her. I won't put a spoiler here, but I will say that the hero takes away her agency in a way that was the last straw for me with him. What we had here was a five-star heroine paired with a one-star man.
March 31, 2019
Engaging the Enemy (The Bourbon Brothers Book 3) By: Reese RyanWho Knew "Engaging The Enemy" Could Be FUN, But They'd Best Beware Lest They Lose Their HEARTS!!
He NEEDS a Deal... Desperately!
Sooo He's "Engaging The Enemy" to make it Happen,
Only, She's stubborn to a Fault,
And cannot Forgive HIM a Past Wrong,
Sooo She's tell'n Him IN NO Uncertain Terms Sooo LONG!
Which leaves Him up Up, UPPING His Offer,
As He cannot Afford to walk Away Empty HANDED...
"Engaging The Enemy" sure is FUN,
Especially know'n your NEVER giv'n IN & Selling your Store,
But... Then you Stumble upon the Perfect idea,
To Save Face for yourself & get a bit of Payback to a Traitor...
Only... She NEVER Counted on any Sparks Fly,
Let alone Incinerating into Raging PASSION...
Now, "Engaging The Enemy" IS Tak'n ON a Whole NEW meaning,
And She's just NOT sure...
Who's gonna come ON Top of this Deal AnyMORE!!
I received Reese Ryan's "Engaging the Enemy (The Bourbon Brothers Book 3)" ARC via B00|{$P®0UT; I recommend this book to others based upon its own merits. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
February 26, 2019
A Book Bar Review: 🥃🥃🥃🥃🥃
I was giving an ARC for my unbiased review and simply put, I loved every bit of this one! We meet Parker in the previous installments of Bourbon Brothers Series. My first impression of Parker was him being a skeptic, non-trusting, and egotistical. By the end of the book my mind had completely changed and as I write this review, I can say Parker is my favorite hero of this series to date.
Parker Abbott and Kayleigh Jemison's journey had you on an emotional ride. With the both of them being a like in so many ways; driven by success, distrust and the ability to hold a grudge had you wondering if they’re relationship could be repaired.
Things start to spark when Parker the family negotiator, is tasked with making a deal by any means necessary! That is exactly what is required when he plays hardball with his childhood nemesis. Neither one of them can afford to take no for an answer, but it doesn’t stop Kayleigh from stating her list of demands and Parker countering. After a deal is struck. This contract’s nondisclosure of secrets, confidentiality clauses and friends to lover rider definitely makes this a high-stake deal.
This author brought closure to long time issues between the Jemison and Abbott families.
I recommend this to anyone who love a good friend to lover story and definitely pick it up if you like a hero that is SEXY, NERDY and has a SENSITIVE side! Worth every sip of the Abbott bourbon infused tea!
Ladies beware of the emotional connection you will have to him and his glasses😍🤓💞
I was giving an ARC for my unbiased review and simply put, I loved every bit of this one! We meet Parker in the previous installments of Bourbon Brothers Series. My first impression of Parker was him being a skeptic, non-trusting, and egotistical. By the end of the book my mind had completely changed and as I write this review, I can say Parker is my favorite hero of this series to date.
Parker Abbott and Kayleigh Jemison's journey had you on an emotional ride. With the both of them being a like in so many ways; driven by success, distrust and the ability to hold a grudge had you wondering if they’re relationship could be repaired.
Things start to spark when Parker the family negotiator, is tasked with making a deal by any means necessary! That is exactly what is required when he plays hardball with his childhood nemesis. Neither one of them can afford to take no for an answer, but it doesn’t stop Kayleigh from stating her list of demands and Parker countering. After a deal is struck. This contract’s nondisclosure of secrets, confidentiality clauses and friends to lover rider definitely makes this a high-stake deal.
This author brought closure to long time issues between the Jemison and Abbott families.
I recommend this to anyone who love a good friend to lover story and definitely pick it up if you like a hero that is SEXY, NERDY and has a SENSITIVE side! Worth every sip of the Abbott bourbon infused tea!
Ladies beware of the emotional connection you will have to him and his glasses😍🤓💞
April 1, 2019
4 1/2 STARS!
Delicious chemistry and feisty banter have this enemies to lovers story flaring to life quickly! With the next book in her Bourbon Brothers series, Reese Ryan brings us Parker's story. He did something childish that led to him losing his best friend back in school, and though life has moved on, it doesn't take much for their old friendship to come shining through with the added mix of attraction when they are forced to spend time together again. I like this family a lot and it's always fun to get updates on the past couples. Really enjoyed!
Parker Abbott wants the CEO position at King's Finest so badly he can taste it. He has nothing against his siblings and their work ethic, he just happens to think he has what it takes to be the best one for the job. One deal will give him bonus points, but it has to do with a piece of property owned by his childhood friend turned enemy. She liked him once upon a time ... maybe he can make that work in his favor?
Jewelry artist Kayleigh Jemison isn't looking to deal with the devil for any amount, but when he just keeps upping the ante, she can't help but become invested. If he's willing to pay way more than her property is worth and accompany her to an embarrassing event as her pretend fiancee, well, she can't turn that down! Spending time together to get their pretend details down pat makes them start to enjoy each other's company again. Will this fake relationship become real before they know it?
Delicious chemistry and feisty banter have this enemies to lovers story flaring to life quickly! With the next book in her Bourbon Brothers series, Reese Ryan brings us Parker's story. He did something childish that led to him losing his best friend back in school, and though life has moved on, it doesn't take much for their old friendship to come shining through with the added mix of attraction when they are forced to spend time together again. I like this family a lot and it's always fun to get updates on the past couples. Really enjoyed!
Parker Abbott wants the CEO position at King's Finest so badly he can taste it. He has nothing against his siblings and their work ethic, he just happens to think he has what it takes to be the best one for the job. One deal will give him bonus points, but it has to do with a piece of property owned by his childhood friend turned enemy. She liked him once upon a time ... maybe he can make that work in his favor?
Jewelry artist Kayleigh Jemison isn't looking to deal with the devil for any amount, but when he just keeps upping the ante, she can't help but become invested. If he's willing to pay way more than her property is worth and accompany her to an embarrassing event as her pretend fiancee, well, she can't turn that down! Spending time together to get their pretend details down pat makes them start to enjoy each other's company again. Will this fake relationship become real before they know it?
March 1, 2019
Reese Ryan returns to Magnolia, Tennessee for another Bourbon Brothers episode featuring the Abbott family, owners of King’s Finest Distillery. This time she unravels the mystery surrounding the contentious relationship between the surly all business Parker Abbott and social outcast Kaleigh Jemison. In grade school they were best friends, but Parker and Kayleigh are now bitter adversaries. An attempt by Parker to “fit-in” with the in-crowd destroyed his friendship with one of the few people who understood and tolerated his quirky nature. To add insult to injury and like her bestie Savannah from SAVANNAH’S SECRET, Kaleigh blames the Abbotts for her family’s miseries only to learn appearances can be deceiving. The frenemy-to-lovers plot of ENGAGING THE ENEMY adopts a different twist when Parker and Kayleigh put aside their feud for a lucrative business deal that includes a fake engagement. For two relationship dodgers pretending to be a couple presents many challenges. Best laid plans often go awry as Parker and Kayleigh aren’t quite prepared for the extent to which they must perpetuate this fake engagement. I received an ARC and thoroughly enjoyed this well written tale. I invite readers to sip this bourbon laced tea and enjoy Parker and Kayleigh’s journey to realizing they are “two misfit toys best suited for each other”.
April 17, 2019
I jumped into the series with this book and now I think I’ll have to go back to read the first two. The secondary characters were so engaging that I want to read their stories, too.
I really liked how much Kayleigh loved experiencing life. The saying about a woman scorned came to mind when we learned how he had hurt her when they were younger. Kayleigh was an active woman who had had to deal with a childhood that wasn’t ideal. Yet she made the most of it and became a successful jewelry maker.
Parker. Oh, my goodness, a finer nerd I have never read. He was initially stiff and unyielding. Many times I found myself shaking my head at his antics.
Fireworks exploded when these two came together. At first it was the kind that wanted to cause collateral damage, and then it became the sort that induced passion. It took a while for the chemistry to come to life between these two, but when it did, it was amazing. They brought out the best in each other and pushed each other to grow which pleased me.
There was one thing that lacked closure, and that was about Kayleigh’s sister. Maybe shell get her own story. Otherwise I was a happy romance reader with a glorious happily-ever-after that I’m still smiling about.
I really liked how much Kayleigh loved experiencing life. The saying about a woman scorned came to mind when we learned how he had hurt her when they were younger. Kayleigh was an active woman who had had to deal with a childhood that wasn’t ideal. Yet she made the most of it and became a successful jewelry maker.
Parker. Oh, my goodness, a finer nerd I have never read. He was initially stiff and unyielding. Many times I found myself shaking my head at his antics.
Fireworks exploded when these two came together. At first it was the kind that wanted to cause collateral damage, and then it became the sort that induced passion. It took a while for the chemistry to come to life between these two, but when it did, it was amazing. They brought out the best in each other and pushed each other to grow which pleased me.
There was one thing that lacked closure, and that was about Kayleigh’s sister. Maybe shell get her own story. Otherwise I was a happy romance reader with a glorious happily-ever-after that I’m still smiling about.
July 2, 2019
Some family secrets cause unnecessary harm!
Parker and Kayleigh grew up in two different economical worlds but managed to be friends until the young Parker fell into performing for the cool kids to notice him, the only problem, he used the failings of young Kayleigh's father to do so hurting Kayleigh to her core. Years later and Kayleigh saw a way to get her revenge when Parker's father wanted to buy Kayleigh's building. In order to sell Kayleigh made some really far out conditions that Parker's family met which included him playing her fiance` for a friend's wedding. As things often happen the love they always had for each other resurfaced. Parker's father told Kayleigh the pact he and her mother made when he bought her family land dispelling her mistaken belief that he had ripped her mother off. Finally everything was out in the open which paved the way for Parker and Kayleigh to pursue the love they admitted having for each other! I enjoyed this story immensely.
Parker and Kayleigh grew up in two different economical worlds but managed to be friends until the young Parker fell into performing for the cool kids to notice him, the only problem, he used the failings of young Kayleigh's father to do so hurting Kayleigh to her core. Years later and Kayleigh saw a way to get her revenge when Parker's father wanted to buy Kayleigh's building. In order to sell Kayleigh made some really far out conditions that Parker's family met which included him playing her fiance` for a friend's wedding. As things often happen the love they always had for each other resurfaced. Parker's father told Kayleigh the pact he and her mother made when he bought her family land dispelling her mistaken belief that he had ripped her mother off. Finally everything was out in the open which paved the way for Parker and Kayleigh to pursue the love they admitted having for each other! I enjoyed this story immensely.
August 27, 2021
Enemies-to-lovers and fake relationship? Possibly my two favorite tropes in one book? With the added tension of pulling off the fake relationship under the pressures of a destination wedding? Yes, please!
This was definitely my favorite of the Bourbon Brothers series so far. I had a little bit of trouble swallowing how Kayleigh and Parker got themselves into their particular pickle, but having seen glimpses of them interacting in the previous books, I was prepared to accept that they were both lying to themselves a bit about their motivations, and by the time they embarked upon their course of fake "practice" dates I was 100% all-in.
I'm not sure if Parker is intended to read as possibly not neurotypical — there is a reference to people knowing that he's not good at picking up on body language — or if that's something I bring to the character because of my own perspective, but I liked that it was a bit ambiguous.
This was definitely my favorite of the Bourbon Brothers series so far. I had a little bit of trouble swallowing how Kayleigh and Parker got themselves into their particular pickle, but having seen glimpses of them interacting in the previous books, I was prepared to accept that they were both lying to themselves a bit about their motivations, and by the time they embarked upon their course of fake "practice" dates I was 100% all-in.
I'm not sure if Parker is intended to read as possibly not neurotypical — there is a reference to people knowing that he's not good at picking up on body language — or if that's something I bring to the character because of my own perspective, but I liked that it was a bit ambiguous.
March 31, 2019
I just loved how feisty Kayleigh is and how lost Parker is, they were once best of friends but after Parker broke her heart humiliating her and then his Farther took advantage of her mothers frail state while selling their family land. For once in life Kayleigh has the upper hand and makes a deal with Parker that will not only make up for the money her Mum lost but also helps her save face at her friends wedding. There is plenty of awkward moments, cringe worthy encounters, frustration and both for not admitting how they really feel, hope and love for two people who deserve each other if only they can see. This is the first book I have read by Reese Ryan but I can say I will definitely be reading more as you get sucked into the world your reading about and don't want to leave.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 5, 2019
I really enjoyed this story. This is Parker and Kayleigh's story. Parker and Kayleigh were best friends when they were young. But one stupid mistake by Parker ended the friendship. Present time Parker wants to buy Kayleigh building and he'll do whatever it takes. Kayleigh still hates him but she needs a date for her ex s sisters wedding. So she makes a deal with Parker. Go with her to the wedding as her fiancée and she will sign over the property. They have some weeks to practice, to convince them that it's real. But practice makes perfect. Their attraction for each other becomes stoner each time they're together. I love how real things became to real. I could feel the fire burning between the two of them. True loe always wins. I wanted more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2019
Enemies to Lovers Story!!!
Parker and Kayleigh were childhood friends until Parker's betrayal involving her father caused their friendship to turn to bitterness and disdain on Kayleigh's part. Many years have passed since that time and now Kayleigh has something that Parker needs for his family. When Kayleigh finds out that she needs a favor in return, they strike up a bargain where Parker agrees to be Kayleigh's pretend fiancé in exchange for what Parker wants. To reacquaint themselves with each other, they decide to go on 10 dates in 10 weeks. The more time they spend together, the more emotion starts to enter their relationship. Despite stubbornness on both of their parts, they find a way to love each other despite the past. There's even a secret or two that are totally unexpected. Ms. Ryan has written an excellent enemies to lovers story that doesn't disappoint.
Parker and Kayleigh were childhood friends until Parker's betrayal involving her father caused their friendship to turn to bitterness and disdain on Kayleigh's part. Many years have passed since that time and now Kayleigh has something that Parker needs for his family. When Kayleigh finds out that she needs a favor in return, they strike up a bargain where Parker agrees to be Kayleigh's pretend fiancé in exchange for what Parker wants. To reacquaint themselves with each other, they decide to go on 10 dates in 10 weeks. The more time they spend together, the more emotion starts to enter their relationship. Despite stubbornness on both of their parts, they find a way to love each other despite the past. There's even a secret or two that are totally unexpected. Ms. Ryan has written an excellent enemies to lovers story that doesn't disappoint.
April 3, 2019
Engaging the enemy is the third book of the bourdon brothers. We finally get to read the story of Kayleigh Jamison and Paker Abbot. Let me be straight with you I didn't like Paker one bit when Reese first introduce him to us in "Savannah's secret". I couldn't wrap my mind about how his story was going to unfold. He was a jerk coming off like a know all and nobody like some like that, so I really didn't know he was going turn into a prince charming.
I love Kayleigh right away, she was strong, fierce, independent and one thing was sure: watching her falling for Parker was going to be something because that simply meant all her assumptions was going to be challenged.
This story was funny, warm, and sexy. Watching a cocky bastard and nerd like Parker being in love, with someone so fiercely and proud like Kayleigh was refreshing.
I love Kayleigh right away, she was strong, fierce, independent and one thing was sure: watching her falling for Parker was going to be something because that simply meant all her assumptions was going to be challenged.
This story was funny, warm, and sexy. Watching a cocky bastard and nerd like Parker being in love, with someone so fiercely and proud like Kayleigh was refreshing.
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