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Un amor sin palabras (Bianca)
Descubrir que su jefe, el magnate Andreas Kostas, tenía intención de casarse fue un golpe devastador para Kayla. Pero entonces Andreas le propuso que fuera ella quien llevase su anillo de compromiso.
Seis años atrás, Kayla había experimentado el incandescente placer de sus caricias y había escondido su amor por él desde entonces.
Era la proposición que siempre había soñado, pero ¿se atrevería a arriesgar su corazón sabiendo que Andreas no creía en el amor?
158 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2018
102 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Monroe
605 books1,567 followersI write spicy romance books that end in an HEA. Contemporary romance, historical romance, paranormal romance…I write it all. The two things my books all have in common is lots of emotion and spice. Last year, I fell in love with a new subgenre: mafia romance. Since I write what I love to read, I started a new standalone series, Syndicate Rules where you’ll meet over the top alpha heroes in the Italian and Greek mafias as well as the Irish mob. There are arranged marriages, forced marriages, enemies to lovers, stalkers, forced proximity and lots of mafia intrigue. Morally gray is my new favorite color.
Follow me on BookBub for alerts on my next release: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lucy-...
I’ve been published a while and most of my 90+ books have hit the Nielson Bookscan bestseller list, a few ended up on the USA Today bestseller list and some even hit national bestseller lists in the UK and Australia. My books have been translated into numerous languages and are for sale in dozens of countries around the world. I’ve won awards and been published with most of the big houses in New York, but my greatest achievement is touching readers’ hearts. When I hear from a reader who got caught up in one of my books, I know I’m doing what I’m meant to do.
I love writing emotionally deep stories with snappy dialogue and solid plots. I’m more grateful than I’ll ever be able to express that so many readers have taken my stories into their hearts and put my books on their reread and keeper shelves.
Follow me on BookBub for alerts on my next release: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lucy-...
I’ve been published a while and most of my 90+ books have hit the Nielson Bookscan bestseller list, a few ended up on the USA Today bestseller list and some even hit national bestseller lists in the UK and Australia. My books have been translated into numerous languages and are for sale in dozens of countries around the world. I’ve won awards and been published with most of the big houses in New York, but my greatest achievement is touching readers’ hearts. When I hear from a reader who got caught up in one of my books, I know I’m doing what I’m meant to do.
I love writing emotionally deep stories with snappy dialogue and solid plots. I’m more grateful than I’ll ever be able to express that so many readers have taken my stories into their hearts and put my books on their reread and keeper shelves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
April 15, 2018
I did not like this novel because it doesn't seem to fit the Harlequin Presents/Mills and Boon Modern category. This story was more of a chick lit type of romance - the kind written by Indie authors. I am not a great fan of chick lit stories so that's why this wasn't my thing. I really wish the editors at HP and MB would create a special category of romance for this type of story. My theory is that this novel got included in the HP/MB Modern category only because its author is a veteran of this series. I applaud the author for wanting to try out a new type of story line but I wish she had done it outside of the HP/MB Modern category, so that I could have AVOIDED it. Lucy Monroe is a very talented author and I've really enjoyed some of her previous HP novels and didn't stop for minute to think that this would be more along the chick lit lines. I am a very picky reader of romance who avoids even glancing at stuff that isn't in keeping with what I like, so I am extremely annoyed to read a Harlequin Presents novel and have it turn out to be more like chick lit. My personal grievances were:
1. The H was a whiny beta hero type.
2. The heroine was too stupid and spineless because she waited on the sidelines for 6 long years acting like the H's best friend while he banged hordes of other women. The heroine was an attractive woman who was a skilled computer programmer, with a lot going for her. She should not have been the type to act like the spineless faithful Penelope over a truly undeserving guy. This woman was LITERALLY the H's "best friend forever" ! I can't even wrap my head around how she could be his best friend for 6 long years after they'd been lovers for the 2 yrs previous to that. This might sound weird but if a manwhore H needs to go screw around after being in a relationship with the heroine, then it would have been preferable if the heroine had not been in contact with him during those years. That's why I think this story is more suitable for the chick lit category. Only in chick lit would one find a heroine being best pals with the man she loves while she sees him dating LOTS of OW. The worst part is that the heroine never once stopped wishing that he would realize how wrong he was to end their romantic relationship and give her a second chance ! This was beyond pathetic ! I have no respect for a woman who is happy to be best friends with her former lover while he breaks her heart over and over again with his many other women.
3. The MC's spent the first half of the novel acting like teenagers. If I want to read about teens in love, there are lots of other books I could have chosen.
4. The H's rationale for his arranged marriage was dumber than the usual type of reasons why H's need to find wives so suddenly.
5. The entire first part with the annoying matchmaker seemed like a waste of about 10 pages.
6. The H needed a psychiatrist to sort out his daddy issues. That's nothing new in HPlandia but at least the conventional tougher, alpha H guys don't whine like dumb bitches all the time.
I really disliked this novel. But, on a positive note: lots of people adore chick lit type of stories so this might very well be a huge winner for many other readers. As for me: I'll never again pause while reading a perfectly wonderful novel ( The Virgin's Debt to Pay ), to alleviate my curiosity about Lucy Monroe's newest story.
1. The H was a whiny beta hero type.
2. The heroine was too stupid and spineless because she waited on the sidelines for 6 long years acting like the H's best friend while he banged hordes of other women. The heroine was an attractive woman who was a skilled computer programmer, with a lot going for her. She should not have been the type to act like the spineless faithful Penelope over a truly undeserving guy. This woman was LITERALLY the H's "best friend forever" ! I can't even wrap my head around how she could be his best friend for 6 long years after they'd been lovers for the 2 yrs previous to that. This might sound weird but if a manwhore H needs to go screw around after being in a relationship with the heroine, then it would have been preferable if the heroine had not been in contact with him during those years. That's why I think this story is more suitable for the chick lit category. Only in chick lit would one find a heroine being best pals with the man she loves while she sees him dating LOTS of OW. The worst part is that the heroine never once stopped wishing that he would realize how wrong he was to end their romantic relationship and give her a second chance ! This was beyond pathetic ! I have no respect for a woman who is happy to be best friends with her former lover while he breaks her heart over and over again with his many other women.
3. The MC's spent the first half of the novel acting like teenagers. If I want to read about teens in love, there are lots of other books I could have chosen.
4. The H's rationale for his arranged marriage was dumber than the usual type of reasons why H's need to find wives so suddenly.
5. The entire first part with the annoying matchmaker seemed like a waste of about 10 pages.
6. The H needed a psychiatrist to sort out his daddy issues. That's nothing new in HPlandia but at least the conventional tougher, alpha H guys don't whine like dumb bitches all the time.
I really disliked this novel. But, on a positive note: lots of people adore chick lit type of stories so this might very well be a huge winner for many other readers. As for me: I'll never again pause while reading a perfectly wonderful novel ( The Virgin's Debt to Pay ), to alleviate my curiosity about Lucy Monroe's newest story.
April 4, 2018
Hero and heroine were NOT celibate during separation. No epilogue with babies. No chemistry. I was so glad that Lucy Monroe is writing for Harlequin Presents again because she is one of my favorite Harlequin authors but this book was disappointing.
February 7, 2022
Huge disappointing second chance romance involving a coder and her billionaire best friend boss. It was so dry and boring. Our hero was a child and our heroine was a special snowflake.
April 13, 2018
ugh :(
March 7, 2021
An angst filled read with strong protagonists ( still I wish heroine wasn’t a pushover where hero was concerned) and interesting twists. Hero wasn’t celibate during separation and it was so irritating.
December 12, 2018
Andreas Kostas y Kayla Jones se conocen en la universidad, y durante dos años mantienen una amistad "con derechos".
Andreas quiere a Kayla en su vida pero, debido a su pasado, está convencido de que que si hay amor de por medio la perderá, así que le propone ser solo amigos, con el sexo fuera de la ecuación, y montar una empresa juntos.
Ella accede a regañadientes y pasados seis años todo parece funcionar entre ellos. Hasta que él decide buscar una esposa para completar su plan de vida.
Me ha gustado mucho el libro porque a pesar de ser cortito la historia no se acelera. Ellos parten de una solida amistad de más de ocho años, así que la parte de romance se sostiene sin problemas. Se agradece que la autora no se haya decantado por el amor instantáneo que tanto abunda en las novelas románticas.
Los personajes me han gustado mucho, y la autora relata de tal forma sus vivencias que entiendes su comportamientos un tanto alejados de lo habitual.
Hacía bastante tiempo que no leía nada de la autora, y ha sido un placer reencontrarme con su pluma.
El lunes tendréis la reseña completa en el blog.
Andreas quiere a Kayla en su vida pero, debido a su pasado, está convencido de que que si hay amor de por medio la perderá, así que le propone ser solo amigos, con el sexo fuera de la ecuación, y montar una empresa juntos.
Ella accede a regañadientes y pasados seis años todo parece funcionar entre ellos. Hasta que él decide buscar una esposa para completar su plan de vida.
Me ha gustado mucho el libro porque a pesar de ser cortito la historia no se acelera. Ellos parten de una solida amistad de más de ocho años, así que la parte de romance se sostiene sin problemas. Se agradece que la autora no se haya decantado por el amor instantáneo que tanto abunda en las novelas románticas.
Los personajes me han gustado mucho, y la autora relata de tal forma sus vivencias que entiendes su comportamientos un tanto alejados de lo habitual.
Hacía bastante tiempo que no leía nada de la autora, y ha sido un placer reencontrarme con su pluma.
El lunes tendréis la reseña completa en el blog.
April 22, 2018
Kostas’s Convenient Bride
Lucy Monroe
Six years ago, Andreas Kostas broke Kayla Jones’ heart. He preferred her to work for him in his new company than to warm his bed. Kayla never stopped loving him. Finally, Andreas has made some decisions, sell the company and find a wife. Kayla feels the company is like her family and heads to New York to negotiate with the man set to buy the company. Andreas follows her to New York with a plan, make Kayla his wife.
I really enjoyed this story. Andreas shows up unexpectedly and offers Kayla the opportunity to marry him. Kayla made him work for it. As much as she wanted to give in, she resisted. I was happy she didn’t cave in immediately and stuck to her guns forcing him to woo her. Kostas of course couldn’t understand this, so it made for some interesting events. There are some family issues both deal with that causes some bumps in the road to love. This book kept me interested from Chapter One until the very end. I highly recommend this book.
Lucy Monroe
Six years ago, Andreas Kostas broke Kayla Jones’ heart. He preferred her to work for him in his new company than to warm his bed. Kayla never stopped loving him. Finally, Andreas has made some decisions, sell the company and find a wife. Kayla feels the company is like her family and heads to New York to negotiate with the man set to buy the company. Andreas follows her to New York with a plan, make Kayla his wife.
I really enjoyed this story. Andreas shows up unexpectedly and offers Kayla the opportunity to marry him. Kayla made him work for it. As much as she wanted to give in, she resisted. I was happy she didn’t cave in immediately and stuck to her guns forcing him to woo her. Kostas of course couldn’t understand this, so it made for some interesting events. There are some family issues both deal with that causes some bumps in the road to love. This book kept me interested from Chapter One until the very end. I highly recommend this book.
March 31, 2024
Minus 10000. LM is able to write such wonderful romances with angst aplenty and celibate heroes, but this one was bs. Should I find it romantic that the hero had an affair with the heroine for two years, then ended it and decide to take her as his valued business employee and bff while he had sex with tons of beautiful women for six years while she basically stayed celibate? Then when she decided to leave him because he told her he was getting married he decide it was too hard to find a new employee plus bffdoormat and gave her the promotion to wife? Go to hell, honestly. This is utter sh*t.
I’m tired of azzhols who have sex with everything that moves because they’re not ready and then they take back the heroine because she is available and their lil d**k is sated enough of models and actresses so he can settle with doormat heroine. Please, authors, this is not romantic. And we’re in 2000 and counting, not 1700 ( and if you read dangerous liaisons you may well see that things were more open and fair than now, women had plenty of sex just as men) this was awful.
I’m tired of azzhols who have sex with everything that moves because they’re not ready and then they take back the heroine because she is available and their lil d**k is sated enough of models and actresses so he can settle with doormat heroine. Please, authors, this is not romantic. And we’re in 2000 and counting, not 1700 ( and if you read dangerous liaisons you may well see that things were more open and fair than now, women had plenty of sex just as men) this was awful.
December 6, 2021
Not my kind of book. Very irritating and cannot recommend.
April 25, 2018
Probably 2.5 - a bit disappointing - I usually love Lucy Monroe books. Lots of dialogue, family background probably necessary but felt superfluous to the "romance" which was a bit lacking.
March 4, 2018
4.5 Stars! I'm so happy Lucy Monroe is back writing for HP! I love her HP couples and Andreas and Kayla are no exception. Andreas is not your typical HP Alpha bent on revenge against the heroine or her family so this was a refreshing change.
Andreas considers Kayla a close friend but unfortunately for Kayla, he's clueless when it comes to emotions. I read this is one sitting, turning pages to see what would happen next.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
Andreas considers Kayla a close friend but unfortunately for Kayla, he's clueless when it comes to emotions. I read this is one sitting, turning pages to see what would happen next.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
July 16, 2023
Normally, I like Lucy Monroe—this doesn’t work.
April 28, 2018
KOSTA'S CONVENIENT BRIDE had me on an emotional roller coaster. At first I thought Andreas was just a jerk, a cold-hearted business man, a billionaire who didn't care about anyone – but as I read on, I realized he was really socially clueless to what Kayla meant to him. His anger at his father seemed to blind him. But it was his fear of losing the only person he considered “family” that almost had just that happening. Kayla tired of waiting and knowing she had to protect herself leaves to take control of the future that she didn't know she was going to have to go it alone. It did take awhile for him to acknowledge his feelings, but the guy finally got it.
Author Lucy Monroe weaves a well written, intriguing story of a couple of lost souls who finally find each other. She gives her readers the right amount of background so we get to know these people and really begin to feel for them, and even feel sympathetic when we first felt a bit of dislike. I read romance to escape and this was a perfect, steamy, warm flight of fantasy that I expect every time I read Ms. Monroe's books. This is in my to read again shelf and I eagerly await more by this author.
Author Lucy Monroe weaves a well written, intriguing story of a couple of lost souls who finally find each other. She gives her readers the right amount of background so we get to know these people and really begin to feel for them, and even feel sympathetic when we first felt a bit of dislike. I read romance to escape and this was a perfect, steamy, warm flight of fantasy that I expect every time I read Ms. Monroe's books. This is in my to read again shelf and I eagerly await more by this author.
July 25, 2022
Ivy’s review covers all my concerns so much better.
This did not fit into a Mills and Boon Modern storyline. There was a lack of real feeling in the story and there was so much padding about the business and other characters.
I disliked both the h/H and I hated the fact they’d been in a relationship for 2 years and then he ended it - and they were then ‘best friends’ for 6 years while he had sex with other women! What kind of doormat moron puts up with a hero doing that to her?
Also, his pet name ‘Kayla-love’ was horrible - made Kostas sound like a juvenile!
Such a terrible disappointment! Normally love LM’s books - but I was bored and hated this one.
This did not fit into a Mills and Boon Modern storyline. There was a lack of real feeling in the story and there was so much padding about the business and other characters.
I disliked both the h/H and I hated the fact they’d been in a relationship for 2 years and then he ended it - and they were then ‘best friends’ for 6 years while he had sex with other women! What kind of doormat moron puts up with a hero doing that to her?
Also, his pet name ‘Kayla-love’ was horrible - made Kostas sound like a juvenile!
Such a terrible disappointment! Normally love LM’s books - but I was bored and hated this one.
April 22, 2018
4.75 stars
Major plot spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
Welcome back to Harlequin Presents Lucy Monroe, oh how I have missed you.
I’ve been waiting for this book what seems like forever ever since I read the brief synopsis on Lucy Monroe’s website probably like two years or so ago. It has been a long time, but as soon as I read it I knew I was going to be hook and love it. Unfortunately Lucy Monroe had to take a hiatus from writing for awhile, and I wasn’t sure if she would have get around to reading this book, but it was my hope that it would come if I was just patient enough. Good things come to those who wait, right?
I have to say that this book was definitely worth the wait because this book was pretty freaking good, and everything I was expecting and ten times more. It reminded me of a combination of Lucy Monroe books that I have read in the past and absolutely loved and adored. She just sucked me in immediately as I drowned in the goodness that way Andreas and Kayla’s romantic journey. Just so much goodness.
I have to back up a bit before I go into this particular book. I was a little bit surprised that the prologue wasn’t included in this story. It was part of Lucy Monroe’s Christmas bundle that was a freebie that was published this past holiday season. I read the prologue, which of coarse whetted my appetite even more for this book and refreshed my anticipation for this story. The prologue showed Andreas and Kayla’s hot steamy friends benefit relationship, having one last time together before he ultimately broke up with her in order to go into business together with Andreas believing not to mix business and pleasure. And even though it was presented it the book through exposition, I was just surprised that the introduction to them wasn’t that prologue because if a reader didn’t know it would never have come to realize that this prologue even existed. It just really set up the angst and complication of their relationship going into it. With that being said, the fact that prologue wasn’t in this book didn’t really take anything away from the story because Lucy Monroe did a good job of setting up the story and all the emotional complications that were involved very quickly. So true it wasn’t necessary to have the prologue to the story, it just would have added a little bit more to the story if it was there.
Moving onto the story at hand of Kayla and Andreas in the present, I was immediately consumed in the story from page one and I took my time to savor this story. The tension, angst, and emotion just hit me right off the bat with a big old whack especially when told in Kayla’s point of view. It was clear that she had been in love with Andreas for years and years, even believing that he would never feel the same way for her like she did for him, but she stuck around as his confidant and friend and business partner being whatever she could be for him when he needed from her, figuring it was better than nothing. That didn’t mean she didn’t struggle being with him but not being with him, but she pushed it away just to be in his life.
The story just immediately started off with a bang when he informed her that he planned to get married and hired a matchmaker find him a bride, not only that he planned to sell the company that they had spent developing and working to bone to come to fruition and actually made it successful. This was just a crushing blow to poor Kayla because not only was she loosing the man that she loved to another woman, but the company that she had considered her safety net and home for years. She was devastated and utterly hurt that he would do something this callous to her.
This was the straw that broke the camel’s back so to speak, and she decided she was done with Andreas in every capacity, friend, confidant, and business partner. She was going to get her own life and future under her control while Andreas had no freaking clue what this was doing to her or that she planned to walk out of his life forever.
All this happened just happened in the first few chapters, and it was a lot. There was so much emotion going on especially with Kayla. The feels were in a abundance, and just continued on throughout the book. I felt so bad for Kayla. I hurt for her. I teared up for her especially to see how hard this was hitting her and just how she was internalizing so much and had for years. It was pain, and it was utterly heartbreaking. I was on team Kayla from pretty much the get go. And I loved her so much.
I loved that this was a friends to lover story. My favorite trope of all time in the romance line. I just love that Andreas and Kayla have a history together especially with Kayla in love with Andreas for years upon years and just holding it inside for fear it would get out and they would loose the him and their friendship in the process because of that love so she kept it locked up tight. But that results in a lot of suppressed emotions and lots of lovely angst to follow that just increased the anticipation between the two of them as they head down the romantic roadway when he realized that he was going to loose her, which was the last thing that he wanted.
Andreas was pretty clueless for a majority of the book especially when it came to Kayla. He never to why she was so upset with him with the revelation that he would be marrying and selling the company from under her. It didn’t even cross his mind because he had other plans of what their future would include them still friends and partners in a new business venture like they had created the current company, though he never clued her in on that fact. All he knew was that he hated seeing her upset and that he didn’t want to loose her. Ever. He wanted her to be in his life no matter what. And when she ran away to New York he followed her to convince her to come back with him and continue as they were.
There were quite few conversations from both sides that were the most illuminating. It showed how differently they viewed things and what it meant for their future. There was a lot of hurt, confusion, and just a lot going on on the emotional front, which I loved as more and more things came to the surface and the layers were finally revealed after all this time. It opened both of their eyes to certain truths, and I was so glad that they had these conversations that were honest and brutal at times, but it was needed in order for them to realize that they had this bond and they needed and wanted to be in each other lives.
That didn’t mean it was an easy battle. Kayla made him work for it and even then she was cautious of the words that he was spitting out. She didn’t believe him especially after what he did in the beginning of the book. Her trust in him a little bit and he had to earn it back.
And earn it back he did. Once he came to realize that Kayla didn’t know how important she was in his life, he pulled out all the stops. He showed in so many ways that he cared about her with some pretty good romantic gestures with little thoughtful gifts as well as experiences. He was wooing her. Romancing her. Dating her, and it was awesome the lengths he was willing to go through just to prove that he cared about her. And once he got over the fact that he couldn’t mix business and pleasure together then he really went gun ho and set about seducing her, refusing to tap down his attraction for her like he had been doing for the last six years. He let all that go and really went for it.
The anticipation was already mighty between them but once he really pursued her on every level, it went to another level. The amount of passion, chemistry, attraction and connection between them was really incredible. From the first kiss onwards, they set the pages on the fire. It was all this pent up sexual tension between them was finally being released and it couldn’t be stopped, and it was hot. They had the sparks flying between them. Kayla might have been tried to keep him at a distance but that didn’t last long and succumbed to her desires for him. Their first love scene was hot, sexy, and very sensual. It was so good, and very much worth the wait. It was everything I expected and more. It was just this really deep and meaningful moment between both of them. It was finally the reconnection that had been missing from their relationship as of late. Finally they had that closeness again, and it was really beautiful. It just showed how well they fit together on every level, and just the importance of them as a couple. They worked, and it was so good. Once that happened, and they committed to being together then it just was sailing from there, and it was no doubter that they would get their happily ever after after all.
I do wish that he could have come to the realization that he loved her instead of her just pointing it out to him. I just think I would have like to see him come to that conclusion on his own then make his grand declaration towards her like he did all those romantic gestures throughout the book. Now, I understand it was a big deal for him to realize that he cared deeply for her and he couldn’t live without her and would make sure they would never separated ever again. That they needed to be together and nothing less would have done for him, and he showed her in so many ways that he was in love with her, but I think I would have like for him to have that lightbulb moment on his own. It would have been icing on the cake and made this book utterly perfect.
But I really did love this book and throughly enjoyed it. After the long wait for this one, it was worth it end. It was more angst and emotional than I thought it was going to be, and that was so freaking awesome. I love when I get more instead of less. My expectations were so high with this book, and I have to say that this book exceeded them in every way possible. It was amazing. Lucy Monroe was back in true form in this one. It gave me all the feels and brought back the reminder of why I love her books so much. She just has a way of writing stories and characters that really get to me. It was just a great experience and I can’t wait to see what Lucy Monroe has up her sleeve next.
Highly recommend for Presents readers, as well as readers that love angsty romance, and just Lucy Monroe in general.
Major plot spoilers ahead. Read at your own risk.
Welcome back to Harlequin Presents Lucy Monroe, oh how I have missed you.
I’ve been waiting for this book what seems like forever ever since I read the brief synopsis on Lucy Monroe’s website probably like two years or so ago. It has been a long time, but as soon as I read it I knew I was going to be hook and love it. Unfortunately Lucy Monroe had to take a hiatus from writing for awhile, and I wasn’t sure if she would have get around to reading this book, but it was my hope that it would come if I was just patient enough. Good things come to those who wait, right?
I have to say that this book was definitely worth the wait because this book was pretty freaking good, and everything I was expecting and ten times more. It reminded me of a combination of Lucy Monroe books that I have read in the past and absolutely loved and adored. She just sucked me in immediately as I drowned in the goodness that way Andreas and Kayla’s romantic journey. Just so much goodness.
I have to back up a bit before I go into this particular book. I was a little bit surprised that the prologue wasn’t included in this story. It was part of Lucy Monroe’s Christmas bundle that was a freebie that was published this past holiday season. I read the prologue, which of coarse whetted my appetite even more for this book and refreshed my anticipation for this story. The prologue showed Andreas and Kayla’s hot steamy friends benefit relationship, having one last time together before he ultimately broke up with her in order to go into business together with Andreas believing not to mix business and pleasure. And even though it was presented it the book through exposition, I was just surprised that the introduction to them wasn’t that prologue because if a reader didn’t know it would never have come to realize that this prologue even existed. It just really set up the angst and complication of their relationship going into it. With that being said, the fact that prologue wasn’t in this book didn’t really take anything away from the story because Lucy Monroe did a good job of setting up the story and all the emotional complications that were involved very quickly. So true it wasn’t necessary to have the prologue to the story, it just would have added a little bit more to the story if it was there.
Moving onto the story at hand of Kayla and Andreas in the present, I was immediately consumed in the story from page one and I took my time to savor this story. The tension, angst, and emotion just hit me right off the bat with a big old whack especially when told in Kayla’s point of view. It was clear that she had been in love with Andreas for years and years, even believing that he would never feel the same way for her like she did for him, but she stuck around as his confidant and friend and business partner being whatever she could be for him when he needed from her, figuring it was better than nothing. That didn’t mean she didn’t struggle being with him but not being with him, but she pushed it away just to be in his life.
The story just immediately started off with a bang when he informed her that he planned to get married and hired a matchmaker find him a bride, not only that he planned to sell the company that they had spent developing and working to bone to come to fruition and actually made it successful. This was just a crushing blow to poor Kayla because not only was she loosing the man that she loved to another woman, but the company that she had considered her safety net and home for years. She was devastated and utterly hurt that he would do something this callous to her.
This was the straw that broke the camel’s back so to speak, and she decided she was done with Andreas in every capacity, friend, confidant, and business partner. She was going to get her own life and future under her control while Andreas had no freaking clue what this was doing to her or that she planned to walk out of his life forever.
All this happened just happened in the first few chapters, and it was a lot. There was so much emotion going on especially with Kayla. The feels were in a abundance, and just continued on throughout the book. I felt so bad for Kayla. I hurt for her. I teared up for her especially to see how hard this was hitting her and just how she was internalizing so much and had for years. It was pain, and it was utterly heartbreaking. I was on team Kayla from pretty much the get go. And I loved her so much.
I loved that this was a friends to lover story. My favorite trope of all time in the romance line. I just love that Andreas and Kayla have a history together especially with Kayla in love with Andreas for years upon years and just holding it inside for fear it would get out and they would loose the him and their friendship in the process because of that love so she kept it locked up tight. But that results in a lot of suppressed emotions and lots of lovely angst to follow that just increased the anticipation between the two of them as they head down the romantic roadway when he realized that he was going to loose her, which was the last thing that he wanted.
Andreas was pretty clueless for a majority of the book especially when it came to Kayla. He never to why she was so upset with him with the revelation that he would be marrying and selling the company from under her. It didn’t even cross his mind because he had other plans of what their future would include them still friends and partners in a new business venture like they had created the current company, though he never clued her in on that fact. All he knew was that he hated seeing her upset and that he didn’t want to loose her. Ever. He wanted her to be in his life no matter what. And when she ran away to New York he followed her to convince her to come back with him and continue as they were.
There were quite few conversations from both sides that were the most illuminating. It showed how differently they viewed things and what it meant for their future. There was a lot of hurt, confusion, and just a lot going on on the emotional front, which I loved as more and more things came to the surface and the layers were finally revealed after all this time. It opened both of their eyes to certain truths, and I was so glad that they had these conversations that were honest and brutal at times, but it was needed in order for them to realize that they had this bond and they needed and wanted to be in each other lives.
That didn’t mean it was an easy battle. Kayla made him work for it and even then she was cautious of the words that he was spitting out. She didn’t believe him especially after what he did in the beginning of the book. Her trust in him a little bit and he had to earn it back.
And earn it back he did. Once he came to realize that Kayla didn’t know how important she was in his life, he pulled out all the stops. He showed in so many ways that he cared about her with some pretty good romantic gestures with little thoughtful gifts as well as experiences. He was wooing her. Romancing her. Dating her, and it was awesome the lengths he was willing to go through just to prove that he cared about her. And once he got over the fact that he couldn’t mix business and pleasure together then he really went gun ho and set about seducing her, refusing to tap down his attraction for her like he had been doing for the last six years. He let all that go and really went for it.
The anticipation was already mighty between them but once he really pursued her on every level, it went to another level. The amount of passion, chemistry, attraction and connection between them was really incredible. From the first kiss onwards, they set the pages on the fire. It was all this pent up sexual tension between them was finally being released and it couldn’t be stopped, and it was hot. They had the sparks flying between them. Kayla might have been tried to keep him at a distance but that didn’t last long and succumbed to her desires for him. Their first love scene was hot, sexy, and very sensual. It was so good, and very much worth the wait. It was everything I expected and more. It was just this really deep and meaningful moment between both of them. It was finally the reconnection that had been missing from their relationship as of late. Finally they had that closeness again, and it was really beautiful. It just showed how well they fit together on every level, and just the importance of them as a couple. They worked, and it was so good. Once that happened, and they committed to being together then it just was sailing from there, and it was no doubter that they would get their happily ever after after all.
I do wish that he could have come to the realization that he loved her instead of her just pointing it out to him. I just think I would have like to see him come to that conclusion on his own then make his grand declaration towards her like he did all those romantic gestures throughout the book. Now, I understand it was a big deal for him to realize that he cared deeply for her and he couldn’t live without her and would make sure they would never separated ever again. That they needed to be together and nothing less would have done for him, and he showed her in so many ways that he was in love with her, but I think I would have like for him to have that lightbulb moment on his own. It would have been icing on the cake and made this book utterly perfect.
But I really did love this book and throughly enjoyed it. After the long wait for this one, it was worth it end. It was more angst and emotional than I thought it was going to be, and that was so freaking awesome. I love when I get more instead of less. My expectations were so high with this book, and I have to say that this book exceeded them in every way possible. It was amazing. Lucy Monroe was back in true form in this one. It gave me all the feels and brought back the reminder of why I love her books so much. She just has a way of writing stories and characters that really get to me. It was just a great experience and I can’t wait to see what Lucy Monroe has up her sleeve next.
Highly recommend for Presents readers, as well as readers that love angsty romance, and just Lucy Monroe in general.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 20, 2018
Kostas’s Convenient Bride by Lucy Monroe is a delightful second chance romance for a couple with a complicated past and present who finally see that they have a real future together.
Kayla Jones is devastated to discover that her boss and friend Andreas Kostas has hired a wedding planner to find himself a bride. Not only that, he plans to sell the company, a place she considers her home. As the director of research and development for their software firm, she’s devoted years of her life to their success and she’s not ready to call it quits.
Kayla and Andreas have had their share of ups and downs. They’d had a friends with benefits relationship at first, while Andreas had been conceiving of the company as a way to show his Greek relatives who’d abandoned his mother when she was pregnant that he could succeed on his own. When Andreas had broken off their bedroom activities and hired her, she’d accepted that they’d only remain friends. She’d thought he’d always confide in her, so the idea that he’d hire someone to help him find a wife not only hurts from a friendship perspective, it’s also an arrow to her heart as she’s been secretly in love with him for years. Still, Andreas is clearly ready to move on without her.
Andreas doesn’t understand why Kayla is reacting the way she is, but he knows one thing – he didn’t sacrifice their lovers relationship all those years ago so that they could remain friends for it all to get ruined now. He’s determined to have her in his life, one way or another. In fact, marrying her would be the perfect solution! They work well together – in and out of bed. Will that be enough to convince Kayla to stay?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-kos...
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
Kayla Jones is devastated to discover that her boss and friend Andreas Kostas has hired a wedding planner to find himself a bride. Not only that, he plans to sell the company, a place she considers her home. As the director of research and development for their software firm, she’s devoted years of her life to their success and she’s not ready to call it quits.
Kayla and Andreas have had their share of ups and downs. They’d had a friends with benefits relationship at first, while Andreas had been conceiving of the company as a way to show his Greek relatives who’d abandoned his mother when she was pregnant that he could succeed on his own. When Andreas had broken off their bedroom activities and hired her, she’d accepted that they’d only remain friends. She’d thought he’d always confide in her, so the idea that he’d hire someone to help him find a wife not only hurts from a friendship perspective, it’s also an arrow to her heart as she’s been secretly in love with him for years. Still, Andreas is clearly ready to move on without her.
Andreas doesn’t understand why Kayla is reacting the way she is, but he knows one thing – he didn’t sacrifice their lovers relationship all those years ago so that they could remain friends for it all to get ruined now. He’s determined to have her in his life, one way or another. In fact, marrying her would be the perfect solution! They work well together – in and out of bed. Will that be enough to convince Kayla to stay?
For more of this review please visit Harlequin Junkie: http://harlequinjunkie.com/review-kos...
A copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
May 26, 2018
I've enjoyed any Lucy Monroe novel I've ever read, some more than others, of course, but the one thing that remains constant is the deeply emotional connections between her characters. In this outing, there's no questioning Paula's devotion to Andreas Kostas, though He's remarkably blind to both Paula's love and his own need for her.
As the story progresses, Andreas begins to understand at least partially why his business partner is so important to him. It does take to the end of the book for him to learn that he's been in love for years, but with Lucy's novels, the most fun part of the journey is getting to the last pages and wanting to occasionally smack the hero upside the head to smarten him up!
Kayla is smart and determined, as well. Which makes her a great foil for the stubborn Greek hero. All in all, Ms. Monroe has written another dramatic, emotional tale that engages the heart and keeps you reading and waiting for the happy smile when love blooms and joins the hero and heroine together forever!
As the story progresses, Andreas begins to understand at least partially why his business partner is so important to him. It does take to the end of the book for him to learn that he's been in love for years, but with Lucy's novels, the most fun part of the journey is getting to the last pages and wanting to occasionally smack the hero upside the head to smarten him up!
Kayla is smart and determined, as well. Which makes her a great foil for the stubborn Greek hero. All in all, Ms. Monroe has written another dramatic, emotional tale that engages the heart and keeps you reading and waiting for the happy smile when love blooms and joins the hero and heroine together forever!
June 29, 2023
The couple: Andreas and Kayla
Romance trope: lovers to friends to lovers
Length: 193 pages
Plot: Andreas and Kayla used to be lovers but now they are business partners and friends. Kayla loves Andreas, but she won't tell him - he doesn't believe in love. But when he decides to marry and sell their company, she's devastated and decides to make a change - a change that wakes Andreas up.
Commentary: I can't even imagine thinking that getting married and having a family is a way of sticking it to your estranged father. And I also can't imagine that father thinking that the things he did show his love. What a weird family. But talk about clueless - Andreas alludes to Kayla's differences (as in, she's probably neurodivergent, most likely on the autism spectrum) but he's the one who has trouble with interpersonal relationships and emotions. She had a pretty good grasp on what she felt and why it was or wasn't a good idea. She was a likable heroine - except for her taste in clothes. What was even up with that? I'm okay with "her color" (melon), but those outfits!! Long vests, lots of knit jackets, slacks, and lots of name-dropping and stealth snobbery.
Romance trope: lovers to friends to lovers
Length: 193 pages
Plot: Andreas and Kayla used to be lovers but now they are business partners and friends. Kayla loves Andreas, but she won't tell him - he doesn't believe in love. But when he decides to marry and sell their company, she's devastated and decides to make a change - a change that wakes Andreas up.
Commentary: I can't even imagine thinking that getting married and having a family is a way of sticking it to your estranged father. And I also can't imagine that father thinking that the things he did show his love. What a weird family. But talk about clueless - Andreas alludes to Kayla's differences (as in, she's probably neurodivergent, most likely on the autism spectrum) but he's the one who has trouble with interpersonal relationships and emotions. She had a pretty good grasp on what she felt and why it was or wasn't a good idea. She was a likable heroine - except for her taste in clothes. What was even up with that? I'm okay with "her color" (melon), but those outfits!! Long vests, lots of knit jackets, slacks, and lots of name-dropping and stealth snobbery.
April 4, 2019
J'aurais pu mettre 4 étoiles si l'héroïne n'avait pas été aussi patiente et le héros aussi don juan. Ca reste un bon Lucy Monroe.
April 7, 2018
Fantastic read, with great banter between characters that makes you wanting to keep the pages turning, would read this again, both Hero and heroine brought different strength to this passionate read.
May 2, 2018
“You are one clueless bastard, aren’t you?”
Oh yes, Andreas Kostas is one clueless bastard.
“What is normal?” His dark Greek brow creased. “Are we supposed to strive for average?”
Oh no, Andreas Kostas is anything but average.
On the surface, Andreas Kostas seems like your typical Harlequin Presents hero.
Rich. Powerful. Arrogant.
Sinful. Sexual. Successful.
And…of course, arrogant.
Except Andreas Kostas is not your typical Harlequin Presents hero.
He’s sweet. Subtly so.
He’s kind.
He’s generous and gentle.
He’s loving.
Best of all, he is all those things with Kayla Jones…and only Kayla Jones.
(There’s something beautiful about a man who reserves all his goodness for the woman who holds his cold heart in her warm, loving hands.)
Kayla Jones is your typical Harlequin Presents heroine.
Just kidding.
Kayla Jones couldn’t be your typical Harlequin Presents heroine, even if she tried.
She’s feisty.
She’s fun.
And funny.
She’s super funny.
Just like she’s super smart.
And I have to tell you, I love smart.
(Probably why I married smart. But that’s neither here nor there…)
More than the brains and wit, Kayla knows who she is.
She knows what she wants.
She won’t accept any less than she deserves.
And this heroine deserves a lot.
I have to say it. I just have to—I adored Kayla. Her sass was epic. Watching her give Andreas a hard time amused me to no end. Their tit-for-tat banter had me in stitches, especially when Andreas ended up befuddled. He was adorable when she befuddled him, which she did and often.
In all seriousness though, Kayla touched me. On a deep level. I understood her. Her strength. Her vulnerability. Her past. Her present. Her future. I got it all. I felt it all.
More often that not, I wanted to hug Kayla Jones. Weird, I know. She’s a character in a book. Still, I would’ve given anything to reach inside the pages and hold her in my arms and say, “It’ll be okay. Just you wait and see.” You don’t get that with every book. You’re lucky if you get that with any book.
(Though, to be perfectly honest, I always get that feeling with Lucy Monroe’s books, which is probably why I’m such a fan of hers.)
One of the things I iked best about the story is that I knew where the hero and heroine were both coming from. I knew why they were doing what they were doing and saying what they were saying. But Lucy never beat me over the head with it. Some writers (okay, a lot of writers) feel compelled to remind the reader—over and over—about the conflict between the lead characters. I don’t need nor want that. And I don’t particularly like it. I want to see an emotional tug of war. I don’t want to hear about it. Lucy, as always, found a beautiful balance between the show and tell.
I, also, want to make a special note of the fact Andreas had the cutest nickname for Kayla. Too many people use ‘baby,’ ‘honey,’ and ‘sweetheart.’ And I’m too distracted by the childish, cheesy terms of endearments like ‘babycakes’ and ‘honeybunches.’ So, when Andreas called her what he calls her, I nearly swooned!
Seriously, swooned.
Like a maiden in the 1800s.
I’m not kidding.
Even if I’d hated Andreas, which I definitely didn’t, I’d have loved him for that.
Obviously, Lucy Monroe is one of my favorite authors. I have read everything she’s ever written. And obviously, I have my favorite books by her. Kostas’s Convenient Bride is now one of those favorites.
Not because of the hero.
Not because of the heroine.
Not because of the plot.
Because of all of it.
Because this is Lucy Monroe at her best.
This is the Lucy Monroe at her finest.
I’ve come to love Lucy’s work over the years.
And I expect a lot from Lucy’s books.
Except now, she’s better.
The bar is a little higher.
As a writer, Lucy has matured. Her books are more refined. And she’s so much funnier and swoon-worthier.
If you have not read Lucy, start here.
Then, when you finish, start another.
And another.
You won’t be disappointed.
Not this time.
Not once.
Not ever.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.*
(p.s. Lucy, if you’re reading this review, feel free to write a story about Jacob. He was fabulous, and I’m dying to know about him and his 'more' girl! Just a little suggestion…)
Oh yes, Andreas Kostas is one clueless bastard.
“What is normal?” His dark Greek brow creased. “Are we supposed to strive for average?”
Oh no, Andreas Kostas is anything but average.
On the surface, Andreas Kostas seems like your typical Harlequin Presents hero.
Rich. Powerful. Arrogant.
Sinful. Sexual. Successful.
And…of course, arrogant.
Except Andreas Kostas is not your typical Harlequin Presents hero.
He’s sweet. Subtly so.
He’s kind.
He’s generous and gentle.
He’s loving.
Best of all, he is all those things with Kayla Jones…and only Kayla Jones.
(There’s something beautiful about a man who reserves all his goodness for the woman who holds his cold heart in her warm, loving hands.)
Kayla Jones is your typical Harlequin Presents heroine.
Just kidding.
Kayla Jones couldn’t be your typical Harlequin Presents heroine, even if she tried.
She’s feisty.
She’s fun.
And funny.
She’s super funny.
Just like she’s super smart.
And I have to tell you, I love smart.
(Probably why I married smart. But that’s neither here nor there…)
More than the brains and wit, Kayla knows who she is.
She knows what she wants.
She won’t accept any less than she deserves.
And this heroine deserves a lot.
I have to say it. I just have to—I adored Kayla. Her sass was epic. Watching her give Andreas a hard time amused me to no end. Their tit-for-tat banter had me in stitches, especially when Andreas ended up befuddled. He was adorable when she befuddled him, which she did and often.
In all seriousness though, Kayla touched me. On a deep level. I understood her. Her strength. Her vulnerability. Her past. Her present. Her future. I got it all. I felt it all.
More often that not, I wanted to hug Kayla Jones. Weird, I know. She’s a character in a book. Still, I would’ve given anything to reach inside the pages and hold her in my arms and say, “It’ll be okay. Just you wait and see.” You don’t get that with every book. You’re lucky if you get that with any book.
(Though, to be perfectly honest, I always get that feeling with Lucy Monroe’s books, which is probably why I’m such a fan of hers.)
One of the things I iked best about the story is that I knew where the hero and heroine were both coming from. I knew why they were doing what they were doing and saying what they were saying. But Lucy never beat me over the head with it. Some writers (okay, a lot of writers) feel compelled to remind the reader—over and over—about the conflict between the lead characters. I don’t need nor want that. And I don’t particularly like it. I want to see an emotional tug of war. I don’t want to hear about it. Lucy, as always, found a beautiful balance between the show and tell.
I, also, want to make a special note of the fact Andreas had the cutest nickname for Kayla. Too many people use ‘baby,’ ‘honey,’ and ‘sweetheart.’ And I’m too distracted by the childish, cheesy terms of endearments like ‘babycakes’ and ‘honeybunches.’ So, when Andreas called her what he calls her, I nearly swooned!
Seriously, swooned.
Like a maiden in the 1800s.
I’m not kidding.
Even if I’d hated Andreas, which I definitely didn’t, I’d have loved him for that.
Obviously, Lucy Monroe is one of my favorite authors. I have read everything she’s ever written. And obviously, I have my favorite books by her. Kostas’s Convenient Bride is now one of those favorites.
Not because of the hero.
Not because of the heroine.
Not because of the plot.
Because of all of it.
Because this is Lucy Monroe at her best.
This is the Lucy Monroe at her finest.
I’ve come to love Lucy’s work over the years.
And I expect a lot from Lucy’s books.
Except now, she’s better.
The bar is a little higher.
As a writer, Lucy has matured. Her books are more refined. And she’s so much funnier and swoon-worthier.
If you have not read Lucy, start here.
Then, when you finish, start another.
And another.
You won’t be disappointed.
Not this time.
Not once.
Not ever.
*I received an ARC for an honest review.*
(p.s. Lucy, if you’re reading this review, feel free to write a story about Jacob. He was fabulous, and I’m dying to know about him and his 'more' girl! Just a little suggestion…)
April 21, 2018
As with all of the books I have read by Lucy Monroe, I loved reading this one. Her characters typically pull you in and Kayla and Andreas were no different. One of the things I like about reading HP's are the stories. How people come to fall in love. Even when one of them doesn't realize it. Especially when one of them doesn't realize it. This story was well written as Lucy Monroe's always are. Enjoy reading how Andreas has to work to show Kayla how he feels without saying the words.
Thank you Lucy for writing another wonderful love story <3
Thank you Lucy for writing another wonderful love story <3
June 10, 2018
I adore Lucy Monroe but I didn't like this book. I have to agree with other reviewers that it did not feel like a HP but rather a chick lit novel. Disappointing.
April 30, 2018
Kostas's Convenient Bride by Lucy Monroe
Contemporary Romance-April 17th, 2018
5 stars
A couple made for each other, if only one of them wasn't so pig-headed!
Kayla is a computer wiz in love with her boss. Years ago they had an affair and Kayla has always hoped that Andreas would finally 'see' her. Kayls is hopeful because Andreas has seemed distracted lately and she wants them to return to what they once had. She misses being with him and since she and he started their joint venture in business they have been strictly platonic. So Kayla is hurt and angry when Andreas invites her to a private meeting only to discover he intends to sell the company. A company she sees as her home. Plus he announces has hired a matchmaker to find him a perfect wife! Since Kayla is an orphan ,Andreas and the company have been her family and she feels betrayed. Understandably upset she takes a sudden vacation and sets out to speak with the proposed new owner and along the way meets an admirer. But what she doesn't gamble on is Andreas running after her and acting jealous with anyone around her. Maybe the reality of Kayla leaving Andreas has struck a nerve.
This passionate novel is a fantastic read. I loved how fully developed both characters are. Since they have a long history it is fascinating to read how the normally aloof and cold Andreas reacts almost violently when he sees Kayla going on a date. He practically drags her away and tries to wine and dine her. It is also hysterically funny because he doesn't realize why he wants to monopolize all her attention. Kayla just wants to keep her heart intact and make sure she has a place in the proposed new company. This read was so enjoyable because Kayla was finally getting the attention she deserves from Andreas and she was standing firm against Andreas persuasions. Andreas goes to some pretty extremes to make Kayla feels special. I liked how he pursued her and finally was able to show a vulnerable side of himself. I wish was in Kayla's shoes! This is book is definitely a keeper.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Contemporary Romance-April 17th, 2018
5 stars
A couple made for each other, if only one of them wasn't so pig-headed!
Kayla is a computer wiz in love with her boss. Years ago they had an affair and Kayla has always hoped that Andreas would finally 'see' her. Kayls is hopeful because Andreas has seemed distracted lately and she wants them to return to what they once had. She misses being with him and since she and he started their joint venture in business they have been strictly platonic. So Kayla is hurt and angry when Andreas invites her to a private meeting only to discover he intends to sell the company. A company she sees as her home. Plus he announces has hired a matchmaker to find him a perfect wife! Since Kayla is an orphan ,Andreas and the company have been her family and she feels betrayed. Understandably upset she takes a sudden vacation and sets out to speak with the proposed new owner and along the way meets an admirer. But what she doesn't gamble on is Andreas running after her and acting jealous with anyone around her. Maybe the reality of Kayla leaving Andreas has struck a nerve.
This passionate novel is a fantastic read. I loved how fully developed both characters are. Since they have a long history it is fascinating to read how the normally aloof and cold Andreas reacts almost violently when he sees Kayla going on a date. He practically drags her away and tries to wine and dine her. It is also hysterically funny because he doesn't realize why he wants to monopolize all her attention. Kayla just wants to keep her heart intact and make sure she has a place in the proposed new company. This read was so enjoyable because Kayla was finally getting the attention she deserves from Andreas and she was standing firm against Andreas persuasions. Andreas goes to some pretty extremes to make Kayla feels special. I liked how he pursued her and finally was able to show a vulnerable side of himself. I wish was in Kayla's shoes! This is book is definitely a keeper.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
March 26, 2018
I received this book in exchange of an honest review.
I've been a fan of Lucy Monroe's books for many years and was looking forward to reading this one.
Lucy writes stories with witty and/or intense dialogues, chemistry between the characters and often details in the plot that bring awareness to illnesses or conditions that are not commonly know. I had expected this book to do the same because one of the main characters displays characteristics of Autism, but unfortunately there was no mention of it in the book.
The plot was unexpected for me: Kayla and Andreas have a very unusual relationship; they have been lovers for two years and when Andreas realizes he's getting to close to Kayla he decides to become her business partner and end their physical relationship.
The strange thing for me, is that she accepts his proposition and stays in the company, and in his life as a friend, for six years.
When he decides to sell the company and find a wife, Kayla finally realizes that there's no hope he'll love her and decides to go to New York to make arrangements for her future in the company.
This makes Andreas follow her and 'wake up' to the fact that she's the only wife he wants and needs.
The book is, as all of Lucy's books, well written, fun to read and a bit steamy, but it's not really my favourite of hers.
What bothers me is that Kayla takes 6 years to decide to go ahead with her life and stop hopping that Andreas might love her and even when he wants to marry someone else, she still wants to keep him in her life as a friend. I could understand 6 months of hope, but no longer than that, and I certainly wouldn't want him as a friend.
Having said that, I still enjoyed reading this book and had fun with Lucy's vocabulary, which is a little unusual for me as English is my second language so, I've learned a few new words with it.
If you're a Lucy Monroe fan, you'll probably enjoy this book, even with the unexpected plot details, and you'll also like the fact that a much beloved character of hers makes a guest appearance.
I've been a fan of Lucy Monroe's books for many years and was looking forward to reading this one.
Lucy writes stories with witty and/or intense dialogues, chemistry between the characters and often details in the plot that bring awareness to illnesses or conditions that are not commonly know. I had expected this book to do the same because one of the main characters displays characteristics of Autism, but unfortunately there was no mention of it in the book.
The plot was unexpected for me: Kayla and Andreas have a very unusual relationship; they have been lovers for two years and when Andreas realizes he's getting to close to Kayla he decides to become her business partner and end their physical relationship.
The strange thing for me, is that she accepts his proposition and stays in the company, and in his life as a friend, for six years.
When he decides to sell the company and find a wife, Kayla finally realizes that there's no hope he'll love her and decides to go to New York to make arrangements for her future in the company.
This makes Andreas follow her and 'wake up' to the fact that she's the only wife he wants and needs.
The book is, as all of Lucy's books, well written, fun to read and a bit steamy, but it's not really my favourite of hers.
What bothers me is that Kayla takes 6 years to decide to go ahead with her life and stop hopping that Andreas might love her and even when he wants to marry someone else, she still wants to keep him in her life as a friend. I could understand 6 months of hope, but no longer than that, and I certainly wouldn't want him as a friend.
Having said that, I still enjoyed reading this book and had fun with Lucy's vocabulary, which is a little unusual for me as English is my second language so, I've learned a few new words with it.
If you're a Lucy Monroe fan, you'll probably enjoy this book, even with the unexpected plot details, and you'll also like the fact that a much beloved character of hers makes a guest appearance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 1, 2021
I didn’t like this book. Kayla was the most agreeable heroine ever. I hate it when heroes in the book get every single thing they wanted and the heroine abides by it.
In this case, Andreas and Kayla were friends with benefits for 2 years then he ends things cause he wants her to work for him and not to mix pleasure and business. 6 years pass and they’re “friends”. They’re with other people but it’s mentioned he’s with many (al though he says not as many as the tabloids say) and she mentions it was barely any and it wasn’t good. He does say no ones as good as her but it’s obvious his sex life was lacking.
Why I also gave it a lower rating. Why couldn’t she have more partners and a better sex life too?
He decides he wants her again, she sleeps with him, he decides he wants to marry her now, she says yes.
Kayla mentions several times how he broke her 6 years ago but this is never addressed nor brought up to him and he never finds out. She mentions how it hurt her knowing he was with OW and he never found out.
He walked on clouds throughout this whole book. I hated that she ditched the date with the hot theatre guy cause Andreas showed up. That she went along with everything she said. He never once knew how hurt she was.
And she convinced him in the end that he loves her and HEA.
I do believe he cares for her, but I hate it when a guy makes all the decisions for the woman (this includes small things throughout the whole book) and she just accepts rolling over.
No thanks.
In this case, Andreas and Kayla were friends with benefits for 2 years then he ends things cause he wants her to work for him and not to mix pleasure and business. 6 years pass and they’re “friends”. They’re with other people but it’s mentioned he’s with many (al though he says not as many as the tabloids say) and she mentions it was barely any and it wasn’t good. He does say no ones as good as her but it’s obvious his sex life was lacking.
Why I also gave it a lower rating. Why couldn’t she have more partners and a better sex life too?
He decides he wants her again, she sleeps with him, he decides he wants to marry her now, she says yes.
Kayla mentions several times how he broke her 6 years ago but this is never addressed nor brought up to him and he never finds out. She mentions how it hurt her knowing he was with OW and he never found out.
He walked on clouds throughout this whole book. I hated that she ditched the date with the hot theatre guy cause Andreas showed up. That she went along with everything she said. He never once knew how hurt she was.
And she convinced him in the end that he loves her and HEA.
I do believe he cares for her, but I hate it when a guy makes all the decisions for the woman (this includes small things throughout the whole book) and she just accepts rolling over.
No thanks.
March 31, 2024
Safety Stats
Kayla
Virgin - no
What's Your Number - no
Andreas
Playboy - yes
Sex scene with OW - no
Cheating - yes
OW drama - no
Overall, Safe with exceptions.
Kayla
Virgin - no
What's Your Number - no
Andreas
Playboy - yes
Sex scene with OW - no
Cheating - yes
OW drama - no
Overall, Safe with exceptions.
March 7, 2018
I received a ARC for a honest review of this book.
Lucy Monroe has done it again! Kostas's Convenient Bride is among my personal favorite Lucy Monroe books. Andreas and Kayla are former lovers turned best friends and business partners. Kayla has been in love with Andreas for years but has kept her feelings to herself for the sake of their friendship. Andreas gets ready to sell the company forcing them both to confront their feelings. I read Andreas and Kayla's story in 2 hours , it was gripping from the first page to the last page. I laughed, I cried and felt every emotion in between. And the chemistry between these two was off the chart HOT
Lucy Monroe has done it again! Kostas's Convenient Bride is among my personal favorite Lucy Monroe books. Andreas and Kayla are former lovers turned best friends and business partners. Kayla has been in love with Andreas for years but has kept her feelings to herself for the sake of their friendship. Andreas gets ready to sell the company forcing them both to confront their feelings. I read Andreas and Kayla's story in 2 hours , it was gripping from the first page to the last page. I laughed, I cried and felt every emotion in between. And the chemistry between these two was off the chart HOT
March 25, 2018
I had missed Ms Monroe’s stories and was thrilled to get a chance to read this one.
This is a story about two individuals who started out as lovers, then friends, and proceeded to becoming business partners. But can it become more than that? One is obviously in love, the other one has hidden his emotions so deeply, that is blind to the love that is right in front of him.
You’ll want to give Andreas a good shake for being clueless, and Kayla a good talk for allowing Andreas to not consider her feelings.
All in all, an entertaining story for an afternoon of leisure.
I was gifted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This is a story about two individuals who started out as lovers, then friends, and proceeded to becoming business partners. But can it become more than that? One is obviously in love, the other one has hidden his emotions so deeply, that is blind to the love that is right in front of him.
You’ll want to give Andreas a good shake for being clueless, and Kayla a good talk for allowing Andreas to not consider her feelings.
All in all, an entertaining story for an afternoon of leisure.
I was gifted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
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