Kiss and Makeup

Chicago CEO #3

by J.P. Comeau

I made an early New Year’s resolution.
The stakes were high…
Now, if I don’t keep it, I’ll lose everything I ever wanted.

Xavier
I found her again, my beautiful college sweetheart.
And she’s independent as ever…
But she wants our relationship to be strictly business…
I lost her once. I can’t lose her again.

Just when it seems she’s about to open up…
She pushes me away.
I know I have to prove I’ve matured…
But does she still love me?

Kristen
Nine years… It’s been nine years since I last saw him.
He gave me his heart back in college…
But I couldn’t give him mine.

Now, I think I made a mistake…
Things are different…
Because I’m not alone. I have a child to raise.
Will he accept us both? Will he give me a second chance?

Kiss and Makeup is a STEAMY romance with a guaranteed HEA, and met for an adult audience only.

Genres: Novella

139 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2018

Reviews

[Cristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Review with spoilers)


Nice romance. I loved it.

Years ago, Kristen broke Xavier's heart by rejecting his marriage proposal. She loved him, but could not marry him. He was still an immature, irresponsible boy who didn't keep his promises. Now, she discovers that she has to work with him in the midst of a professional crisis, and she also discovers that she still feels something for him, and that he has changed. He is no longer the same man he used to be.

Xavier was devastated when he lost Kristen. He couldn't find any woman who could compete with her. But he didn't grow up. He remained irresponsible, until a warning from his father made him think again. He had to change his way of life, take responsibility. And, just then, their paths cross again. At last he can show her that he has changed, and that he still loves her.

I loved Kristen. Confident of herself, she knows what she wants, she fights for it. It hasn't been easy to get where she is. It has not been easy to take responsibility for a child. She didn't feel ready, but she couldn't live without Emma. It's her life, she wants what's best for her. And, now, that also includes Xavier.

I loved Xavier. But he didn't change when he lost Kirsten. When he did, initially it was only for interest, to maintain his standard of living. Later, he discovered that he really liked his job. And then he met Kristen again. He still loved her, he never forgot her. He wanted to be with her, to be worthy of her, and also of little Emma.

I loved them together.

I recommend it.


I received an ARC from the author, and this is my honest review.

[Cathy Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristen and Xavier were college sweethearts. Kristen was real studious and Xavier was more into sports than anything else. Kristen would do things with Xavier that she wouldn't do with anyone else because she really loved Xavier but she knew that Xavier would never be serious about his work because he was too interested in sports and he had a wealthy set of parents that let him have his way. Kristen graduated and went on to join a law firm but it did not offer enough opportunity for promotion so she finally landed a job with Beauty Bee a cosmetic company and she was made head of their marketing department. She had just broke up with her boyfriend Brent, who she caught having sex with his secretary in his office. She decided that she didn't need him in her life especially because she was raising her sister's child Emma. Her sister and her husband were killed in an automobile accident. So when Xavier , whose father was CEO of Cruise Media and had given him this client that Kristen work for to see from beginning to end and make sure they succeed. Xavier finds out that Kristen is the client he will be working with so he sees this as a second chance with the love of his life. She turned down his proposal once and broke his heart and he is hoping she could draw close enough by showing her he is serious about his company to get a second chance at making her his. This second chance romance was fast paced and very good at showing that people can change but you have to give them an opportunity to have a second chance.
Read this second chance romance by J.P. Comeau, I highly recommend it.

[Heather Vandine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristin is the head of marketing department for Beauty Bee Cosmetics and has adopted her 4 year old niece after the death of her parents. She is having a very bad day. First she walked in on her boyfriend having sex with his secretary at his work then her boss tells her a marketing company, that she pushed to hire, went out of business. he told her she has an appointment with Cruise Media today and that she better fix this or else. She didn't pick them originally because that was her college boyfriend's family business. She broke Xavier's heart when he proposed to her and she turned him down. She loved him but all he ever wanted to do was workout, play football ad party with his friends. She had a goal and knew she wouldn't be able to accomplish it with him.
Xavier lived his life to party and workout, so when his dad told him he needed to work more and prove he could be the next CEO or he would appoint someone else. h also told him he would be in charge of a new marketing deal that had to be done in just a few weeks. Not wanting to disappoint his father any more, he made an early New Year resolution that he would grow up and put more effort into work.
Xavier and Kristin were both surprised to see each other at the meeting and he realized that this could be his second chance with her. This is a well written easy to read 2nd chance romance. I loved the characters and the story line.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sugan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this story! It was nice to see how Comeau made the heroine driven and goal oriented and yet not completely self-absorbed. Kristen and Xavier were college sweethearts and in many ways, opposites of each other. Kristen knew what she wanted and knew she had to work hard to get there. Xavier was born into privilege and never bothered to take life too seriously. Without giving too much away, the two parted ways after college. They meet up again nine years later. Kristen has made something of herself in the corporate world while Xavier is still floating by. His father has wanted him to take over the family company for years but recognizes that it cannot be done until Xavier shows some responsibility. Enter Kristen. Their chance meeting immediately triggers why things went wrong for them back in college. Not only does Xavier realize that Kristen made the right decision in college, but he decides to show her and his father that he is a new man and ready to take on the responsibility of both corporate executive and loving, mature boyfriend.
Kristen’s life has had some unexpected challenges that are now her priority. She is not sure if she should take a chance on starting things up with Xavier again. Can these two find their way back to each other?
P.S. You will love Emma!

[Jami · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been a fan of J P Comeau for awhile and this one just solidified my feelings for her books. What an interesting twist on a second chance story. More often than not the male character walks away from the female character for a variety of reasons, only to figure out years later that he made a mistake and wants her back. In this story Kristen walks away from Xavier at the end of college. She is smart, driven and has a life plan that she intends to make happen with hard work. Xavier comes from money and is kind of floating through life as he did through college. He lacks drive and does not embrace responsibility. When Xavier and Kristen meet up again nine years later, Xavier realizes Kristen made the right choice leaving him behind. He knows he would have dragged her down and kept her from succeeding in life the way she wanted. This pushes him to change his ways. He is on a mission to prove to Kristen and his father that he can be responsible, that he not only deserves to take over the family company but he deserves a second chance to win Kristens heart. It was nice reading a strong female character that truely builds up the guy, making him worthy of his place in business and in her life.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leigh Sonnekus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Xavier and Kristen get a second chance at love and a HEA together, when they cross paths 9 years after Kristen first walked away. Xavier is now a bit of a playboy with no ambition and an expectation that he will replace his father as CEO one day, but that all changes when his father gives him an ultimatum. Kristen, now a single mum, has focused on her career and her position as manager is now in danger; due to a bad business choice. With both focused on saving their careers, they are shocked to discover that they will have to work together.
Despite the 9 year time lapse, their chemistry is still electrifying and both can see changes in the other that they like. As the book progresses, they have to choose whether they are prepared to risk their hearts again or if they should let sleeping dogs lie.
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it if you are looking for a steamy, quick read with a HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jaclyn Amethyst Mae · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her descriptive writing drew me in!
It starts with a bang and the colorful language is certainly blush-worthy, but this book reads like a wholesome family story. She’s the one that turned him down nine years ago, and when that flame is rekindled you can’t help but root for Kristen and Xavier. She’s all business, feisty, down to earth and is raising an adorable little girl, her niece Emma, who’s turning out to be one fine young lady. I applaud Kristen’s mommy skills.
In contrast, Xavier’s very nonchalant about his future. Born with a silver spoon in his mouth, he’d rather lounge around in his PJ’s. When they meet again sparks fly and she brings out the best in him. He certainly ends up a better man because of her. A second chance at love, how awesome is that?
Loved the plot, great character development, and the HEA. I couldn't put down.
**ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!**

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a quick 2nd chance at love story. Kristen was a serious student while in college and Xavier was a football player who took it easy. While dating Kristen was the one who keep Xavier on track and once her proposed to her she said no. Nine years later they are forced to work together to keep their jobs. Kristen is an ad executive and Xavier works for his fathers business and not giving 100% to the job. They talk, reconnect and try to figure out what each other means to one another. I loved Emma and how precious she is and how Xavier takes to her right away. Can Kristen stop looking at their relationship as business only and allow Xavier into her heart? I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am leaving a voluntarily review. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an author, J. P. Comeau knows how to deliver a romance that makes a reader's heart go pitter-patter! This story is about second chances between Xavier and Kristen, college sweethearts. She had a strong work ethic while Xavier was content to coast through college. This caused the ultimate rift between them that remained for nine years.
The plot is strong, the characters wonderful with a storyline that sucks you in from beginning to end. And, of course, the book has the HEA ending. The romance and steamy sex scenes do not overshadow the plot and are integral to the storyline. While I wouldn't classify this a clean read, it does not use offensive language and has some steamy, mostly tastefully written sex scenes. A good balance, IMHO.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Raecharmed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristen and Xavier were college sweethearts when things ended between them as they were getting ready to graduate. Kristen pushed relationship to the side and concentrated on her career. Xavier hasn't really changed from college and seems like he has no real direction. When they run into each other again Xavier knows that he was wrong to let her go and sets about showing Kristen that he can be the man for her. Will Kristen give him another chance at her heart?


This is a great story once I started it I couldn't put it down. The chemistry between them is blazing hot. This is a well written and very entertaining story. I would recommend it to any book lover.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debbie Caswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful second time love story that drew me in didn't always like the main female character but she did grow on me over the story

Kristen walked away from Xavier years ago and when a chance meeting puts them back in touch the emotion is still there Kristen needs an advertising campaign for her company bumblebee she has to be an even stronger woman now she is the sole carer for her niece after the death of her sister. Xavier never actually showe any discipline in life he is a spoilt silver spoon kid when his dad forces him to take the bumblebee account for the family advertising company he isn't happy until he realises who this will put him in contact with So begins a new life for the two of them will they finally get a HEA

[Gladys Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kiss and Makeup. I was surprised at this book! It was a sweet second chance romance story. The story was exciting and romantic showing how a man who lost the only love he knew but found himself with that second chance to get it right. So Xavier cleaned up his act to approach the girl of his dreams. At first Kristen didn't want to respond to Xavier for several reasons. One being the bad break up, and second how will he react to the new love in my life. It's a great read! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. *** I voluntarily read a Review Copy of this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else’s. ***

[Pelusa Rivera · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an ok book it was about second chances. Kristen finds her boyfriend cheating on her and feels her world crumbling because here she gave her job a lot of her time and now she has a problem to deal with and it is her responsibility to fix it or else. The company she has to go to has her exboyfriend working for it and they are pretty different she is responsible he is not. Kristen is also raising her neice emma and she is doing a good job, but now how will Xavier work into this..Kristen is exactly what he needed to get his life in order and he in turn gives her what she needs love..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leo · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was certainly a treat! Kristen and Xavier were college sweethearts until Kristen said no to marriage, and the two went their own ways. Ten years later, they are reunited when a business venture has both their careers on the line. Having to work together, the two become reacquainted and develop a bond upon the love that they still hold for one another. Bridging their past with the present, Xavier realizes that present Kristen enabled him to understand what his own father and she in their college years was just trying to make a point of in terms of his own life. Worthy!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[anita.thebookaddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC was given to me by Author through Booksprout. My review is given voluntarily.

Kiss and Makeup: A Second Chance Romance A Chicago CEO Novel by J.P. Comeau.

I gave this book 5 stars because of the multiple types of emotions it set off in me while reading it. The book isn't long, but it's impactful with its content!
The story is about forgiveness, understanding what is really important in life, growing up, becoming a successfully woman and a nurtured mom, and most importantly opening their hearts to a second chance at love, true happiness that they both deserved.
I really enjoyed Kristen and Xavier story, it was sweet with a side of HOT sauce ;-)

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

A delightful peek into the complicated lives of Kristen and Xavier. Both are juggling jobs, family entanglements, and the past. The path is not clear and they must face tangled pasts and current feelings - so much so that they incur a few bruises (metaphorically speaking) along the way. The doubts they each have are not unreasonable but find its time to approach life in a more mature way now and hang on tight to all the future holds.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a second chance romance with a strong woman and a man who has been given an ultimatum of shape up or ship out. Xavier and Kristen had a past 9 years ago and now their paths have crossed again and Xavier will do everything to make sure he doesn’t loose her again. Kristen decides to let Xavier into her life which now includes her 4 year old daughter. Can.Xavier be the man she needs and a father for Emma?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mawgan Dipple · Rating 4 out of 5]

this was a great light read of a second chance years later. the couple were college sweethearts but Kristen had her head on straight wanting to go somewhere in life where are Xavier was from money and preferred to slack off and enjoy sports and life. as they both have their futures on the line working together was going to be a struggle. but with different obstacles in the way and their past bringing forth haunting memories its doubtful if they we last together. great characters and a nice happy story for xmas and the new year.

[Lynne Cuda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kristin and Xavier meet again after 9 years when the media company she originally chose/recommended for her company's (BeautyBe) huge holiday ad campaign turns up out-of-business. Kristin's job, as Head of Marketing, is on the line. Xavier's future as CEO of his family's business is also on the line if he doesn't shape-up and show an interest! Kristin and Xavier were a couple in college, but she turned down his proposal because he had no drive or ambition.

Now he says he's changed...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a delightful second chance romance. They were college sweethearts, she rejected his proposal, he never stopped loving her. When they meet again 9 years later she is marketing director for a cosmetics firm, he is heir apparent to the CEO position at his family business if he can buckle down and take business seriously. She now has a child and she recognizes that he is now the man that she needs. I really enjoyed this lighthearted story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tracey Tranter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is about second chances between the two main characters who were college sweethearts.

The story is very well written with a great plot and strong, well developed characters, and, of course, the book has the HEA ending.

The romance and steamy sex scenes do not overshadow the plot and are integral to the storyline.

This book cannot be classified as a totally clean read, it does not use offensive language and has some steamy, mostly tastefully written sex scenes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[BP34 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kristen and Xavier were an item in college and haven't seen each other for nine years. This was a steamy story that will heat up your Kindle. Emotional and heartwarming at times. He wants a second chance at love, but she's all business. Lots of twists and plenty of steam. Great characters, an entertaining story that I read as an arc via Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review. An HEA and no cliffhanger.

[Crystal ( Meeka) · Rating 5 out of 5]

J.P. Comeau has done it again!! 👏🏾 With another amazing book!!! I was hooked and couldn’t put the book down!!!! This story was so touching and sweet it almost had me in tears!! This was a great second chance to love read!!! Xavier and Kristen relationship was so passionate and sweet!! Great book and must read!!! 😊

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debra Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Absolutely Sweet Second Chance Romance! From start to finish I was captivated with the overall quality of this book, the wonderful story line that has some drama, intrigue, and very interesting strong characters. The writing is fluid, it is fast-paced and can be read in one sitting – which I guarantee you will do because once you start reading you will not stop until the end. Definitely recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great second chance romance read. The storyline is well-written, has some twists and surprises, steam, intrigue and a second shot at love and an HEA. The main characters are opposites, from different backgrounds, and must open up about their feelings for each other after a long absence. There are a few secrets, and some maturing to do before the HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Diane Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read Ms. Comeau's newest release Kiss and Makeup and enjoyed it but found it a little lacking compared to her previous book Text me a Kiss. I found the story a little slow and needed more heat. I did get involved with the characters and cared about what was happening to them. It was a unique story-line that I have not encountered before and that was a definite plus. I will recommend it to my friends but I liked Text Me more.

[Misty Goan · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intriguing interesting twist on a second chance story. This enjoyable short storyline kept me addicted from the beginning to end. The characters are wonderful an still have undeniable attraction and chemistry. A great romance and steamy sexy scenes but need to resolve what original broke them apart. A great HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Florida Debi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really fabulous book; a "you've got to read this” kind of book. I love the characters. Kristen & Xavier are totally made for each other; their chemistry is off the charts. I loved the "will they" or "won't they" and the romantic ending was fantastic. If you love these kind of books, I highly recommend this one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marcia Brodt · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s a delightful read connecting Kristen and Xavier which started in college. Kristen broke Xavier’s heart when she refused his marriage proposal. Nine years later they meet again by accident when they both are confronted on making amends n their respected jobs. Kristen adopts her sisters daughter, Emma, whose parents were killed in an accident. I don’t want to give to much away. It’s a great love story. Cudos to J.P. Comeau for another great read. Highly recommend!

[Joyce Black · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is a quick read and is what this reader considers the epitomy of a romance novel. The characters were believable. The story line was good and flowed effortlessly along. Just a lovely way to end your day with such loving warmth felt from spending time with this read.

I voluntarily received an advance review copy of this novel and I am leaving an honest and unbiased review. I have no affiliation to this author.