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Million Dollar #2
Million Dollar Marriage
From New York Times bestselling author Katy Evans comes a hot romance about two strangers and their race to fall in love.
If someone had bet Nell a million dollars that she would be saying “I do” to a complete stranger on national television, she’d have called them crazy, but with her crushing student loan payments sending her deep into the red, she’s out of options. This should be nothing more than a business transaction—until she sets eyes on her groom, and everything changes.
The game is on the instant Luke spots Penelope “Nell” Carpenter. He’s out for the money, yes, but getting a little dirty with Nell doesn’t sound too bad either. Everyone knows he’s not the marrying kind, so it’s a good thing it’s just for show. God knows he’s the worst guy his pretty wife should pick for real.
They have nothing in common, but if they want the grand prize, they’ll have to beat out eight other couples. Proving that total opposites attract should be easy enough…as long as they don’t fall in love in the process.
If someone had bet Nell a million dollars that she would be saying “I do” to a complete stranger on national television, she’d have called them crazy, but with her crushing student loan payments sending her deep into the red, she’s out of options. This should be nothing more than a business transaction—until she sets eyes on her groom, and everything changes.
The game is on the instant Luke spots Penelope “Nell” Carpenter. He’s out for the money, yes, but getting a little dirty with Nell doesn’t sound too bad either. Everyone knows he’s not the marrying kind, so it’s a good thing it’s just for show. God knows he’s the worst guy his pretty wife should pick for real.
They have nothing in common, but if they want the grand prize, they’ll have to beat out eight other couples. Proving that total opposites attract should be easy enough…as long as they don’t fall in love in the process.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2019
1146 people are currently reading
5277 people want to read
About the author
Katy Evans
107 books17.6k followersKaty Evans is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Her debut REAL shot to the top of the bestselling lists in 2013 and since then 10 of her titles have been New York Times bestsellers. Her books have been translated into nearly a dozen languages across the world.
***Katy doesn't respond to messages on this site, but you can email her at katyevansauthor@gmail.com or look her up on Facebook, Twitter, or her website.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorKatyEvans
Twitter @authorkatyevans
Website: www.katyevans.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 681 reviews
July 23, 2019
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Penelope "Nell" Carpenter is a 25 yr. old literature major living in Atlanta, Georgia who is deeply in debt with student loans. Out of options she decides to audition for a new hit reality show where the top prize is a million dollars. This could be just what will fix all her problems. The only issue is she's a nerdy introvert who is uptight, high strung, and socially awkward. This show is totally not her scene, and she would be completely out of her comfort zone, but she's desperate. That's how she finds herself saying "I do" to a stranger on national television.
Luke Cross is a gorgeous 28 yr. old guy who grew up in downtown Atlanta, and owns a bar that's in jeopardy of closing if he doesn't find a solution soon. Broke and up for anything, he jumps at the chance to save his bar. The show is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and he's excited to play the game.
When bad boy Luke and good girl Nell meet they are complete opposites. They are about as night and day as two people can get, but they must work together and think of the situation as a business arrangement, and nothing more. They are on a crazy adventure played out on tv for the entire world to see. Soon they are in it to win it, and don't want their time to end. As brains and brawn collide the passion between them is inevitable. As he teaches her to live in the moment, what is to be for show starts to feel so very real.
-His touch has a way of setting off fireworks instantly.
-The thoughts he conjures up in my head? Beyond dirty. I can’t help it. He looks like something I’d want to eat with a spoon.
-Every part of him is so strong and masculine and begs to be adored.
-He’s the first person who gets me. The first person who took the time to take care of me. And the first person in this world I think I might actually trust.
Million Dollar Marriage (Million Dollar #2) by Katy Evans was fabulous!!! We first meet Luke as Jimmy Rowan's best friend in Million Dollar Devil. He's the hot, tattooed, sexy beast, and Nell is the prim, proper, innocent rule follower. Opposites attract in this fun, lighthearted, story about falling in love. This was like the Bachelor and the Amazing Race mixed into one show. It was extremely entertaining, and full of adventure, emotion, and amazing chemistry!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2Yb0OnR
(ARC provided by author)
Penelope "Nell" Carpenter is a 25 yr. old literature major living in Atlanta, Georgia who is deeply in debt with student loans. Out of options she decides to audition for a new hit reality show where the top prize is a million dollars. This could be just what will fix all her problems. The only issue is she's a nerdy introvert who is uptight, high strung, and socially awkward. This show is totally not her scene, and she would be completely out of her comfort zone, but she's desperate. That's how she finds herself saying "I do" to a stranger on national television.
Luke Cross is a gorgeous 28 yr. old guy who grew up in downtown Atlanta, and owns a bar that's in jeopardy of closing if he doesn't find a solution soon. Broke and up for anything, he jumps at the chance to save his bar. The show is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and he's excited to play the game.
When bad boy Luke and good girl Nell meet they are complete opposites. They are about as night and day as two people can get, but they must work together and think of the situation as a business arrangement, and nothing more. They are on a crazy adventure played out on tv for the entire world to see. Soon they are in it to win it, and don't want their time to end. As brains and brawn collide the passion between them is inevitable. As he teaches her to live in the moment, what is to be for show starts to feel so very real.
-His touch has a way of setting off fireworks instantly.
-The thoughts he conjures up in my head? Beyond dirty. I can’t help it. He looks like something I’d want to eat with a spoon.
-Every part of him is so strong and masculine and begs to be adored.
-He’s the first person who gets me. The first person who took the time to take care of me. And the first person in this world I think I might actually trust.
Million Dollar Marriage (Million Dollar #2) by Katy Evans was fabulous!!! We first meet Luke as Jimmy Rowan's best friend in Million Dollar Devil. He's the hot, tattooed, sexy beast, and Nell is the prim, proper, innocent rule follower. Opposites attract in this fun, lighthearted, story about falling in love. This was like the Bachelor and the Amazing Race mixed into one show. It was extremely entertaining, and full of adventure, emotion, and amazing chemistry!
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://amzn.to/2Yb0OnR
July 13, 2019
*****4.5 STARS*****
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
He’s the first person who gets me. The first person who took the time to take care of me. And the first person in this world I think I might actually trust.
Katy Evans is another one of my most favorite authors. Ever since reading ”REAL” I have been a huge fan. She writes stories that I can’t help but devour. ”MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE” takes us on a fun and steamy adventure with two people who at first, seem to be so completely opposite that I have to admit, I had a hard time believing they could have real chemistry. Luke Cross is the filthy talking sexy bar owner who dropped out of high school at sixteen. Penelope Carpenter comes from an affluent family, has her Ph.D., and is lacking in interpersonal skills. They do have one thing in common—they’re each in serious financial debt. When a commercial announces an audition for a new reality show that promises a prize of a million dollars, both Luke and Penny are eager to sign up. No one knows what the show’s premise is but that prize is too enticing to pass up.
”MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE” ends up being a reality game show that is a cross between ”Married at First Sight” & “The Amazing Race”. The contestants must agree to marry the person they're paired up with and then compete against eight other couples for two weeks full of crazy missions that challenge their endurance and their problem-solving skills. When the two weeks are up will Luke and Penny have found something more precious than the million-dollar jackpot or has it all been an act to win the prize?
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4.5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4
Angst: 4
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4.5
”MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE” releases on July 23rd.
#Preorder your copy of Million Dollar Marriage today!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2GSkbNv
Amazon Worldwide: mybook.to/MillionDollarMarriage
{ARC Generously Provided by Author}
He’s the first person who gets me. The first person who took the time to take care of me. And the first person in this world I think I might actually trust.
Katy Evans is another one of my most favorite authors. Ever since reading ”REAL” I have been a huge fan. She writes stories that I can’t help but devour. ”MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE” takes us on a fun and steamy adventure with two people who at first, seem to be so completely opposite that I have to admit, I had a hard time believing they could have real chemistry. Luke Cross is the filthy talking sexy bar owner who dropped out of high school at sixteen. Penelope Carpenter comes from an affluent family, has her Ph.D., and is lacking in interpersonal skills. They do have one thing in common—they’re each in serious financial debt. When a commercial announces an audition for a new reality show that promises a prize of a million dollars, both Luke and Penny are eager to sign up. No one knows what the show’s premise is but that prize is too enticing to pass up.
”MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE” ends up being a reality game show that is a cross between ”Married at First Sight” & “The Amazing Race”. The contestants must agree to marry the person they're paired up with and then compete against eight other couples for two weeks full of crazy missions that challenge their endurance and their problem-solving skills. When the two weeks are up will Luke and Penny have found something more precious than the million-dollar jackpot or has it all been an act to win the prize?
Here are my overall ratings:
Hero: 4.5
Heroine: 4
Plot: 4
Angst: 4
Steam: 4.5
Chemistry Between Hero & Heroine: 4.5
”MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE” releases on July 23rd.
#Preorder your copy of Million Dollar Marriage today!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2GSkbNv
Amazon Worldwide: mybook.to/MillionDollarMarriage
August 11, 2019
Who doesn't love a million dollars? Who doesn't love dating shows?
Well...... Lol kidding🤣
Who would fake love for money, lots of money? I could see a lot of responses with this being "Hell Yeah"
Guess you'll have to read this to find out if its love or fake love.....
I definitely enjoyed this installment a lot better than the first book in this series! Definitely worth a pick up for you adventurous readers!!!
Well...... Lol kidding🤣
Who would fake love for money, lots of money? I could see a lot of responses with this being "Hell Yeah"
Guess you'll have to read this to find out if its love or fake love.....
I definitely enjoyed this installment a lot better than the first book in this series! Definitely worth a pick up for you adventurous readers!!!
July 24, 2019
4.5 - 5 Fun Stars ⭐️
June 23, 2019
Luke and Nell are both strapped for cash so they take part in a reality tv gameshow where they compete against other couples to win a big cash prize.
She's an academic, perpetual student, an introvert who's shy with self esteem issues, drifting through life racking up student loans. He's a social animal, extrovert, rough around the edges and a reformed addict.
I had a hard time with this; I didn't feel any tension or chemistry between them either at the start when they hated one another or later when they didn't. They didn't feel authentic to me, they were too conveniently different, I wasn't buying it.
The reality gameshow plot was imaginative and original and kept me reading, but the side characters they were competing against didn't feel very real either. It all just felt kind of fake.
Sorry, I'm afraid this was a miss for me, but others enjoyed it so don't let me put you off. Complete story, can be read as a standalone.
**Thanks to the publishers via netgalley for my arc.**
She's an academic, perpetual student, an introvert who's shy with self esteem issues, drifting through life racking up student loans. He's a social animal, extrovert, rough around the edges and a reformed addict.
I had a hard time with this; I didn't feel any tension or chemistry between them either at the start when they hated one another or later when they didn't. They didn't feel authentic to me, they were too conveniently different, I wasn't buying it.
The reality gameshow plot was imaginative and original and kept me reading, but the side characters they were competing against didn't feel very real either. It all just felt kind of fake.
Sorry, I'm afraid this was a miss for me, but others enjoyed it so don't let me put you off. Complete story, can be read as a standalone.
**Thanks to the publishers via netgalley for my arc.**
July 23, 2019
We already met Luke as James's best buddy in the first book. He runs his late grandpa's bar in Atlanta. And he desperately needs money to pay for his grandma's care facility and to pay off the bar's debt.
Nell is almost done with her final degree. She has many of them - she's almost a doctor now. Not a medical one though. Not really a doctor anyone will give her much money for. She's not sure what she wants to do with all her degrees. The only thing she knows is that she needs half a million dollars to pay off her student loans.
Enter MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE.
A new and very mysterious reality tv show. The winner will get a million dollars.
Shy nerd Nell hates tv and people and being at the center of attention... but she has no other choice ....
Sexy tattoed Luke is alway the life of the party - he thinks it should be easy to win the money ...
LET THE FUN TIMES BEGIN ...
WHAT WiLL HAPPEN TO NELL & LUKE?
WiLL WE GET A HEA??
READ THE BOOK TO FiND OUT ☺☺☺
══════════════════
THAT WAS ADORABLE!
I just loved it.
I wasn't expecting something so fun and sparky and adventurous and sexy and travel-y.
It's a bit like The Bachelor/ette meets The Amazing Race.
We travel from one amazing place to the next to find clues and master tasks et cetera.
I loved it. I loved seeing all the places and I loved seeing Penny and Luke go from fighting constantly to falling for each other. Extremely adorable! I finished it in one day!
Really great romance!
I wouldn't mind watching this on tv one day!
Hashtag Eyecandy Deluxe! ☺
MILLION DOLLAR MARRIAGE was an adorable, sexy & fun adventure love story! Run to your nearest amazon for your own Luke! This one is mine! MINE!!! ☺
♡
♡
July 19, 2019
2.5 Stars
Somewhere along this crazy little adventure we’ve been having, played out on television for the entire world to see, I did what I told myself I’d never do.
What can I say? Million Dollar Marriage didn’t exactly light me up. I never connected with either of the main characters and the reality TV aspect didn’t provide enough drama to keep me engaged. There’s nothing wrong with this story, but in the long run, I just didn’t find enough reasons to care.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
Somewhere along this crazy little adventure we’ve been having, played out on television for the entire world to see, I did what I told myself I’d never do.
What can I say? Million Dollar Marriage didn’t exactly light me up. I never connected with either of the main characters and the reality TV aspect didn’t provide enough drama to keep me engaged. There’s nothing wrong with this story, but in the long run, I just didn’t find enough reasons to care.
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
September 2, 2025
reread 3/25/24 — 4.5 stars
The first review still holds up to how I feel about MDM the second time around 😊.
read 1/10/21 — 4.5 stars
That was really, REALLY good.
Um...well, okay then. This one kinda snuck up on me. Like I’m actually a little taken aback. Yeah, I mean obviously I decided to pick up the book. The thing is, it’s been sitting on my tbr since before it was released. I’m not quite entirely sure what the catalyst of where my hesitation came from - a bad review I suppose or maybe the premise of a game show with a bizarre angle bringing them in the other’s orbit, I really don’t remember 🤷♀️-, but I didn’t expect it. Total whim read.
Anyhoo, moving on...
Million Dollar Marriage sucked me in within a few chapters & had me happily plowing through most of it. The combination of opposites attract & adventure tropes along with probably some of KE’s most dynamic, consistent storytelling of her more recent catalog(last 2-3 years-ish) created the makings of a pretty enticing page-turner.
Now I’m not going to sit here & boast of MDM as if it’s completely flawless or the characters are utterly unique or something of that nature.
-Speaking of the latter, it’s fair enough to say neither basic character arc type for the hero or heroine is uncommon/the most original, but -BUT!- KE gives us quite believable & compelling opposites who shouldn’t make sense, yet they do. Sure, physical attraction is in play, but even with the bumps along the way, it was sweet how their connection grew into much more than what meets the eye.
-As for flaws, there weren’t many, but there was an instance early on Luke clearly owed Penny an apology & never gave it. He genuinely seemed unaware that it was poor manners. They honestly didn’t know each other yet, so I think it was much less damning than had it happened later (& I think it might have been intentional to reflect some of his troubled youth). There was a situation in the latter stages I didn’t love, but it wasn’t so out there nor did it make the story feel like it jumped the shark. Just upping the ante with a little last minute drama.
It doesn’t happen often, but it’s such a good surprise when a read exceeds expectations. MDM is a pretty good mix of bickering banter, flirty, sweet, fun & sexy read with few good tugs at the heartstrings.
The first review still holds up to how I feel about MDM the second time around 😊.
read 1/10/21 — 4.5 stars
That was really, REALLY good.
Um...well, okay then. This one kinda snuck up on me. Like I’m actually a little taken aback. Yeah, I mean obviously I decided to pick up the book. The thing is, it’s been sitting on my tbr since before it was released. I’m not quite entirely sure what the catalyst of where my hesitation came from - a bad review I suppose or maybe the premise of a game show with a bizarre angle bringing them in the other’s orbit, I really don’t remember 🤷♀️-, but I didn’t expect it. Total whim read.
Anyhoo, moving on...
Million Dollar Marriage sucked me in within a few chapters & had me happily plowing through most of it. The combination of opposites attract & adventure tropes along with probably some of KE’s most dynamic, consistent storytelling of her more recent catalog(last 2-3 years-ish) created the makings of a pretty enticing page-turner.
Now I’m not going to sit here & boast of MDM as if it’s completely flawless or the characters are utterly unique or something of that nature.
-Speaking of the latter, it’s fair enough to say neither basic character arc type for the hero or heroine is uncommon/the most original, but -BUT!- KE gives us quite believable & compelling opposites who shouldn’t make sense, yet they do. Sure, physical attraction is in play, but even with the bumps along the way, it was sweet how their connection grew into much more than what meets the eye.
-As for flaws, there weren’t many, but there was an instance early on Luke clearly owed Penny an apology & never gave it. He genuinely seemed unaware that it was poor manners. They honestly didn’t know each other yet, so I think it was much less damning than had it happened later (& I think it might have been intentional to reflect some of his troubled youth). There was a situation in the latter stages I didn’t love, but it wasn’t so out there nor did it make the story feel like it jumped the shark. Just upping the ante with a little last minute drama.
It doesn’t happen often, but it’s such a good surprise when a read exceeds expectations. MDM is a pretty good mix of bickering banter, flirty, sweet, fun & sexy read with few good tugs at the heartstrings.
November 17, 2022
I am surprise how much I like Million Dollar Marriage. The reality TV show with a dash of romance. I would say this is suitanle for NA audience.
I like how Miss Evans bringing her characters to life with a dash of comedy. I like the banter dan the interaction. It is quote entertaining.
4 stars
I like how Miss Evans bringing her characters to life with a dash of comedy. I like the banter dan the interaction. It is quote entertaining.
4 stars
August 12, 2019
5 ⭐'s
“Sans toi, je ne suis rien.”
"Without you, I am nothing."
To be honest, after reading Million Dollar Devil, I just wasn't interested in reading this book. The premise just didn't grab me but I couldn't let a Katy Evans' book just pass me by and I'm so happy I didn't.
I had no idea it would be about Jimmy's best friend, Luke, who owns the bar Jimmy hangs out at. Let me just say that Luke got under my skin in the best way. I loved the way he talked and how he was so unapologetic!
Penelope (aka Nell or Penny) was definitely the opposite of Luke but I loved how she stepped up to the plate.
These two meet when they both go out for a new reality show called Million Dollar Marriage. They have no clue what they're getting themselves into.
Naturally, they are paired together and I loved watching them both fall. I was NOT expecting Nell to do what she did but I loved all the angst that it brought. And I really loved how everything worked out.
I thought Luke and Nell's story was funny and sweet and even though it didn't have much angst, I still had to go with five stars just because they are sooo good together!
“Sans toi, je ne suis rien.”
"Without you, I am nothing."
To be honest, after reading Million Dollar Devil, I just wasn't interested in reading this book. The premise just didn't grab me but I couldn't let a Katy Evans' book just pass me by and I'm so happy I didn't.
I had no idea it would be about Jimmy's best friend, Luke, who owns the bar Jimmy hangs out at. Let me just say that Luke got under my skin in the best way. I loved the way he talked and how he was so unapologetic!
Penelope (aka Nell or Penny) was definitely the opposite of Luke but I loved how she stepped up to the plate.
These two meet when they both go out for a new reality show called Million Dollar Marriage. They have no clue what they're getting themselves into.
Naturally, they are paired together and I loved watching them both fall. I was NOT expecting Nell to do what she did but I loved all the angst that it brought. And I really loved how everything worked out.
I thought Luke and Nell's story was funny and sweet and even though it didn't have much angst, I still had to go with five stars just because they are sooo good together!
November 12, 2019
“Sans toi, je ne suis rien.”
"Without you, I am nothing."
📚 Series: Yes. 2nd book, but it can be read as a standalone.
📚 Genre: Contemporary romance.
📚 POV: Alternating between H and h.
📚 Cliffhanger: No.
⚠ Content Warnings: Explicit content.
⚠ Read if: you love watching reality shows.
Million Dollar Marriage tells the story of Penelope and Luke are partnered in a reality show that is a mix of The Amazing Race and Married At First Sight. As a reality show enthusiast, I loved the premise so I was attracted by the blurb right away. The question to be answered is: Will they find love in the middle of the competition?
It has been a while since I read a steamy contemporary romance, and I guess that fact has influenced how much I loved this read. I have always been a sucker for enemies to lovers stories. I enjoyed the adventures and how these events change them from fighting to falling in love.
This book had the mix of a fast-paced plot and a slow burn romance that really ignited when it burned. Though it felt that I will not connect with the characters at first, they have grown on me and I enjoyed watching them get their happy ending.
All in all, a great read. Interested to read more books from the author.
☁ THE CRITERIA ☁
🌼 Blurb:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Main Character:⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Significant Other: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Support Characters:⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🌼 Writing Style:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Character Development:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Thrill Factor: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Romance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🌼 Ending: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Unputdownability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌼 Book Cover:⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
☁FINAL VERDICT: 4.33/5 ☁
Much thanks to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for this complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and opinions are fully my own. Also, all quotes are taken from the ARC and may be different in the final published copy.
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June 24, 2019
This totally ruined The Amazing Race for me. And maybe all other reality shows, too. I found myself wanting to throw my Kindle or shout, "Pack your knives and go!" several times.
I should have loved this book: I'm a huge The Amazing Race stan and romances with brainy heroines are my total catnip. But ugh, no, Penelope "Nell" Carpenter is the worst. Nell has multiple degrees and is about to get her doctorate, but is facing $500K in student loans. For someone supposedly super brainy, Nell figures her only way out is to try out for a reality show even though she looks down on people who watch television. In fact, Nell looks down on everyone not like her French literature-reading, Baudelaire-quoting, classical music-loving self. In fact, Nell whines constantly about being dumped by her boyfriend and estranged from her parents - maybe, Nell, they were just tired of you being so judgmental?
To her horror, Nell ends up married on tv to Luke Cross, a local bar owner that she immediately deems a dirty yeti that looks like a thug. Seriously, she comments on how much he looks like a thug throughout the book. For someone so smart, Nell had a ridiculously limited vocabulary (she calls his penis a "thingy") as she whines during every stage of the competition. This is how Nell and Luke begin married-on-tv life after Luke drops a f-bomb on her:
Note: Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC to review!
I should have loved this book: I'm a huge The Amazing Race stan and romances with brainy heroines are my total catnip. But ugh, no, Penelope "Nell" Carpenter is the worst. Nell has multiple degrees and is about to get her doctorate, but is facing $500K in student loans. For someone supposedly super brainy, Nell figures her only way out is to try out for a reality show even though she looks down on people who watch television. In fact, Nell looks down on everyone not like her French literature-reading, Baudelaire-quoting, classical music-loving self. In fact, Nell whines constantly about being dumped by her boyfriend and estranged from her parents - maybe, Nell, they were just tired of you being so judgmental?
To her horror, Nell ends up married on tv to Luke Cross, a local bar owner that she immediately deems a dirty yeti that looks like a thug. Seriously, she comments on how much he looks like a thug throughout the book. For someone so smart, Nell had a ridiculously limited vocabulary (she calls his penis a "thingy") as she whines during every stage of the competition. This is how Nell and Luke begin married-on-tv life after Luke drops a f-bomb on her:
“I don’t approve of that kind of talk, actually. I find it low class.”Despite the fun reality tv setup with a fast pace race around the United States, Nell's attitude and neurotic hangups made the competition a slough to get through. I wanted Luke to just dump Nell at one of the elimination stages, any stage. Luke, instead, ends up completely in awe of his "wife" and it completely baffled me as to why.
“Oh. Well, I’m sorry, Mrs. Cross. I’ll try to tone it down—”
“No. Not Mrs. Cross.” He gives me a confused look, and I explain. “I’m going to keep my name when I get married. I’m not even going to hyphenate. And I earned my title. I’ll always be Dr. Carpenter, thanks.”
He squints. “You’re bullshitting me.”
I cringe again.
Only in a screwy game like this would a girl this classy, sweet, and gorgeous be wed to a bum like me.Maybe it takes a crazy reality tv show or fictional romance, but I never saw the sweet in sweet in Nell.
Note: Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing an ARC to review!
July 27, 2019
Penelope Carpenter, Ph.D. has so many degrees and been in school so long that her student loans bill has come. Now $500,000 in debt and no interest in getting a job because she is shy and has tons of fears is now due. Her vivacious roommate is going for auditions in ATL for Million Dollar Marriage a new reality show and Nell decided to go also because what other way was she going to pay her student loans off. In line waiting she runs into this hot guy that kept staring at her, which she wasn't interested in. Apparently he was with his friend Jimmy Rowan the famous youtube daredevil.
Luke Cross was about to lose his family legacy that his grandfather build, with no extra money coming in he didn't know what to do, that was until his friend Jimmy Rowan shows him a flyer for a new reality show with a Million Dollar prize. The theory of the show is to pair 9 opposite couples, marry them, send them through test according to their survey and obstacles to compete against each other (amazing race, big brother etc) to see if they will stay together. The first one to finish line first after 2 weeks obstacles/test wins. Nell was the book worm nerd and Luke was the jock, do opposites attract or do they end up hating each other before getting to the finish line?
Luke Cross was about to lose his family legacy that his grandfather build, with no extra money coming in he didn't know what to do, that was until his friend Jimmy Rowan shows him a flyer for a new reality show with a Million Dollar prize. The theory of the show is to pair 9 opposite couples, marry them, send them through test according to their survey and obstacles to compete against each other (amazing race, big brother etc) to see if they will stay together. The first one to finish line first after 2 weeks obstacles/test wins. Nell was the book worm nerd and Luke was the jock, do opposites attract or do they end up hating each other before getting to the finish line?
July 30, 2019
4.5 Stars
Million Dollar Marriage is romantically hilarious. The story is a reality game show a cross between Survivor and Amazing Race. The catch is that the contestant has to be paired and get married to their partner before the show started. A total stranger to each other both Penny and Luke up for the game since they both needed the money. For Penny to pay off her student loan and Luke, the mortgage of his bar. They accepted the challenge and now they just have to figure out how to win without killing each other first.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one from Ms. Evans. Predictable and not all at the same time. I thought I had it all figured out, you know the happy ever after, but there's a change of heart towards the end. You'll just have to read it to find out who walked away. I recommend this book if you want a feel-good romance that will make you laugh, love and swoon.
Million Dollar Marriage is romantically hilarious. The story is a reality game show a cross between Survivor and Amazing Race. The catch is that the contestant has to be paired and get married to their partner before the show started. A total stranger to each other both Penny and Luke up for the game since they both needed the money. For Penny to pay off her student loan and Luke, the mortgage of his bar. They accepted the challenge and now they just have to figure out how to win without killing each other first.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one from Ms. Evans. Predictable and not all at the same time. I thought I had it all figured out, you know the happy ever after, but there's a change of heart towards the end. You'll just have to read it to find out who walked away. I recommend this book if you want a feel-good romance that will make you laugh, love and swoon.
August 26, 2019
I'm not really a fan of reality TV shows but I picked this book up because it's a Katy Evans book. I Had to try it.
Not really a fan of the plot but I can't say I hated it.
Didn't fall madly in love with the characters and I admit It took me a while to actually enjoy the book. Million Dollar Marriage was a fun read but nothing really to 'nag' your friends into reading it.
Not really a fan of the plot but I can't say I hated it.
Didn't fall madly in love with the characters and I admit It took me a while to actually enjoy the book. Million Dollar Marriage was a fun read but nothing really to 'nag' your friends into reading it.
March 31, 2022
Nell es inteligente, estudiosa, obstinada y tiene una deuda demasiado grande debido a sus estudios. El tema de la tele y los cotilleos no la llaman para nada, pero se verá involucrada de lleno en todo este mundillo y no habrá vuelta atrás.
Luke es divertido, directo y algo brusco. Su vida no siempre ha ido por el buen camino, ahora está intentando encauzarla, pero eso requiere invertir un dinero que no tiene.
Ambos necesitan pagar sus deudas y por ello se presentan al casting de un reality, donde viajarán, superarán pruebas y, sobre todo, saltarán chispas.
Tengo que decir que yo no he terminado de conectar con los personajes, aunque también es cierto que la historia me ha parecido muy original y dinámica.
En definitiva, estamos ante una historia sencilla, entretenida, con unos diálogos bastante divertidos y cuyo cliché principal es el de amor/odio. Es un libro ligero e ideal para intercalar entre lecturas más profundas.
Luke es divertido, directo y algo brusco. Su vida no siempre ha ido por el buen camino, ahora está intentando encauzarla, pero eso requiere invertir un dinero que no tiene.
Ambos necesitan pagar sus deudas y por ello se presentan al casting de un reality, donde viajarán, superarán pruebas y, sobre todo, saltarán chispas.
Tengo que decir que yo no he terminado de conectar con los personajes, aunque también es cierto que la historia me ha parecido muy original y dinámica.
En definitiva, estamos ante una historia sencilla, entretenida, con unos diálogos bastante divertidos y cuyo cliché principal es el de amor/odio. Es un libro ligero e ideal para intercalar entre lecturas más profundas.
June 28, 2019
Behind the scenes ⭐️
Imagine a reality show like The Bachelor combined with something like The Amazing Race. Now think if you’d be interested to know what happens behind the scenes. You are? Ok, great! Then this is a book made especially for you.
Considering I DNF-ed the first book in the Million Dollar Series, by some miracle I was granted this ARC for the second book and I actually liked it. A lot!
Our main characters are contestants in a new reality show named Million Dollar Marriage. They’re both drowning in debts, so this is they're only chance to start fresh. Polar opposites, they don’t seem to stand a chance. One is a genius Doctor and the other a former junkie, bar owner and school drop out.
What makes this story interesting is seeing how these two people form a connection, despite being so different. How your education isn’t as important as being a good person or having a beautiful soul.
I’m a fan of reality shows and it was fascinating reading about one, instead of watching it. A new experience for me.
Of course I got sucked into the actual competition, cheering for our MCs and dying to see what happens next. I gave it a 4⭐️ because of the last 15% of the book, the climax and the dénouement.
Here are my issues with this story.
The first one was our hero deciding he’s in love right after a BJ. 🤦🏼♀️🙄
The heroine starts by cringing at the f-words and being a total wallflower, but in the end she’s completely changed. When did it happen? How? Why?
Last, it was the actual climax of the story. I’m not naïve enough to believe that something like that doesn’t/couldn’t happen in the reality shows we watch on TV, but I guess i got a bit disappointed seeing it in a story, in a book I liked that much up to that point.
If you aren’t a fan of this type of TV shows, I don’t know how much you’ll enjoy this book. I think it deserves a chance, though, so go right ahead and add it to you TBR.
”ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.”
Imagine a reality show like The Bachelor combined with something like The Amazing Race. Now think if you’d be interested to know what happens behind the scenes. You are? Ok, great! Then this is a book made especially for you.
Considering I DNF-ed the first book in the Million Dollar Series, by some miracle I was granted this ARC for the second book and I actually liked it. A lot!
Our main characters are contestants in a new reality show named Million Dollar Marriage. They’re both drowning in debts, so this is they're only chance to start fresh. Polar opposites, they don’t seem to stand a chance. One is a genius Doctor and the other a former junkie, bar owner and school drop out.
What makes this story interesting is seeing how these two people form a connection, despite being so different. How your education isn’t as important as being a good person or having a beautiful soul.
I’m a fan of reality shows and it was fascinating reading about one, instead of watching it. A new experience for me.
Of course I got sucked into the actual competition, cheering for our MCs and dying to see what happens next. I gave it a 4⭐️ because of the last 15% of the book, the climax and the dénouement.
Here are my issues with this story.
The first one was our hero deciding he’s in love right after a BJ. 🤦🏼♀️🙄
The heroine starts by cringing at the f-words and being a total wallflower, but in the end she’s completely changed. When did it happen? How? Why?
Last, it was the actual climax of the story. I’m not naïve enough to believe that something like that doesn’t/couldn’t happen in the reality shows we watch on TV, but I guess i got a bit disappointed seeing it in a story, in a book I liked that much up to that point.
If you aren’t a fan of this type of TV shows, I don’t know how much you’ll enjoy this book. I think it deserves a chance, though, so go right ahead and add it to you TBR.
”ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.”
June 24, 2019
ARC received thanks to publisher & Netgalley.
superrrrr cuuuute.
superrrrr cuuuute.
July 29, 2019
A Bar owner and a Dr
Katy Evans knows how to write books. This was excellent. I loved the concept of a Game show aspect. Penny and Luke have a connection from the start. I loved the way they connected. It was unbelievably funny and a bit sad.
Katy Evans knows how to write books. This was excellent. I loved the concept of a Game show aspect. Penny and Luke have a connection from the start. I loved the way they connected. It was unbelievably funny and a bit sad.
July 22, 2019
Ever since the dawn of reality TV several decades ago, viewers have been hooked on a different varieties this genre offers. From talent-search shows to home improvement to games. Katy Evans provides a fun and exciting romance developed in a reality TV competition.
Nell Carpenter loves to study so much she’s about the finish her PhD, but focusing solely on her education while avoiding the real world has caused her to amass half a million dollars’ worth of student loans she can’t figure out how to start paying until her best friend takes her to a reality TV show audition which Nell gets. Can she accept the major twist the show requires of its contestants? Given her social awkwardness, can she find a way to win?
Luke’s bar is close to going under and the only way for him to save his family’s legacy is to get his hands on a whole lot of money. Luckily he’s charming, charismatic and easy on the eyes and the reality TV show’s producer knows he’ll bring in the ratings. Unfortunately he’s partnered with the shyest woman on earth with whom he has nothing in common. Can they find a way to beat the rest of the couples and not fall in love while doing so?
I was curious about this author, so when I got the opportunity to read Million Dollar Marriage I jumped at the chance even though I had read a very similar plot several years ago (Playing Games by Jessica Clare). The story was a fun and exciting slow burn which I enjoyed very much, particularly reading about Luke who capture my attention from the very beginning.
Katy Evans is skilled at pulling the reader into her stories, getting them hooked and wanting more. Million Dollar Marriage had a fast paced and thrilling plot combined with a slow burn enemies to lovers romance. I couldn’t wait to see what Nell and Luke would have to do next and how they would react to each of the game’s tasks and then read about the fallout during all their one-on-one time.
As I mentioned before, the plot was reminiscent of another romance based on reality TV, but the characters as very different and therein lies its own appeal. Nell and Luke would’ve never found a connection with each other under different circumstances, but having been forced to get married and endure difficult challenges helps them find an emotional connection that surprises them both.
Million Dollar Marriage is book #2 of the Million Dollar series by author Katy Evans. It is a standalone contemporary romance, told from both points of view with a HEA.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2XSfvRo
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
Nell Carpenter loves to study so much she’s about the finish her PhD, but focusing solely on her education while avoiding the real world has caused her to amass half a million dollars’ worth of student loans she can’t figure out how to start paying until her best friend takes her to a reality TV show audition which Nell gets. Can she accept the major twist the show requires of its contestants? Given her social awkwardness, can she find a way to win?
Luke’s bar is close to going under and the only way for him to save his family’s legacy is to get his hands on a whole lot of money. Luckily he’s charming, charismatic and easy on the eyes and the reality TV show’s producer knows he’ll bring in the ratings. Unfortunately he’s partnered with the shyest woman on earth with whom he has nothing in common. Can they find a way to beat the rest of the couples and not fall in love while doing so?
I was curious about this author, so when I got the opportunity to read Million Dollar Marriage I jumped at the chance even though I had read a very similar plot several years ago (Playing Games by Jessica Clare). The story was a fun and exciting slow burn which I enjoyed very much, particularly reading about Luke who capture my attention from the very beginning.
Katy Evans is skilled at pulling the reader into her stories, getting them hooked and wanting more. Million Dollar Marriage had a fast paced and thrilling plot combined with a slow burn enemies to lovers romance. I couldn’t wait to see what Nell and Luke would have to do next and how they would react to each of the game’s tasks and then read about the fallout during all their one-on-one time.
As I mentioned before, the plot was reminiscent of another romance based on reality TV, but the characters as very different and therein lies its own appeal. Nell and Luke would’ve never found a connection with each other under different circumstances, but having been forced to get married and endure difficult challenges helps them find an emotional connection that surprises them both.
Million Dollar Marriage is book #2 of the Million Dollar series by author Katy Evans. It is a standalone contemporary romance, told from both points of view with a HEA.
Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2XSfvRo
* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Stalk me on FaceBook * Instagram * More reviews
August 2, 2019
Book Playlist; https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list...
Imagine all those "Married at first sight" couples to go on "Amazing race", evil producers couple up the most unlikely couples and our couple from this book falls in love...and there you have it the premise of this book.
I like it. I think I even might give it five stars up until 80% of the book.
The ending just kind of ruined the momentum for me.
Overall it is a good romance book.
Can be read as standalone.
Imagine all those "Married at first sight" couples to go on "Amazing race", evil producers couple up the most unlikely couples and our couple from this book falls in love...and there you have it the premise of this book.
I like it. I think I even might give it five stars up until 80% of the book.
The ending just kind of ruined the momentum for me.
Overall it is a good romance book.
Can be read as standalone.
August 4, 2019
I really don't know why I picked this one up. Honestly. I am not a reality tv show type of person. I hate them. I'm totally confused why I went ahead and read this. Maybe I would change my mind? Maybe I'd really like it? Nope. Nope. Nope.
The characters I think were the biggest part of the reason I marked this down. Surprisingly they are what I liked less than the book plot. Imagine that....
I don't think these two had any chemistry, and they never got me invested in their story. That is huge for me as a reader. Other issues for me was him falling in love after getting a BJ. Seriously. I doubt it. Then there was the fact that she became a huge wallflower, and then couldn't stand the F word all of a sudden. MmmHmm. Ok. Then she just changes and evolves, but we were not shown that. Nope. Just told and was expected to believe it.
Outside of all of that, the other bigger issue was that there was no real drama. No big climax, no omg what's gonna happen moment, nothing. Not.A.Thing. Stories need that to be interesting, and they need that to hook the reader to finish the book and not drop it half way through.
I think this was just a big miss for me. Sorry.
ARC in exchange for an honest review
The characters I think were the biggest part of the reason I marked this down. Surprisingly they are what I liked less than the book plot. Imagine that....
I don't think these two had any chemistry, and they never got me invested in their story. That is huge for me as a reader. Other issues for me was him falling in love after getting a BJ. Seriously. I doubt it. Then there was the fact that she became a huge wallflower, and then couldn't stand the F word all of a sudden. MmmHmm. Ok. Then she just changes and evolves, but we were not shown that. Nope. Just told and was expected to believe it.
Outside of all of that, the other bigger issue was that there was no real drama. No big climax, no omg what's gonna happen moment, nothing. Not.A.Thing. Stories need that to be interesting, and they need that to hook the reader to finish the book and not drop it half way through.
I think this was just a big miss for me. Sorry.
ARC in exchange for an honest review
July 11, 2019
We met Luke in the previous book. I knew he will be an interesting character but now I think I love him more than Jimmy. Luke is a former screwup trying to make his grandfather happy by running his bar and taking care of his grandmother. Luke is that sexy but sweet man that everyone loves.
Nell has always been told the only thing she was good for was her brain. She has only one friend and even her parents didn't want her around. She never felt comfortable in the outside world so she stayed in school. Now the student loan are piling up. Her friend gives her a solution to her problem. She never thought the man whom she considered dirty will be the one to change her world.
This book even a reality show that is like amazing race meets survivor. Truly a book that keeps you happy, smiling and laughing while reading it. I do love Katy Evans she never disappoints me. Thanks to Netgalley for giving me this one in exchange for an honest review.
Nell has always been told the only thing she was good for was her brain. She has only one friend and even her parents didn't want her around. She never felt comfortable in the outside world so she stayed in school. Now the student loan are piling up. Her friend gives her a solution to her problem. She never thought the man whom she considered dirty will be the one to change her world.
This book even a reality show that is like amazing race meets survivor. Truly a book that keeps you happy, smiling and laughing while reading it. I do love Katy Evans she never disappoints me. Thanks to Netgalley for giving me this one in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2019
What an entertaining read this was! This was a one sitting read, which hasn’t happened in awhile for me. Nell and Luke go to a reality show audition for a new show called the “Million Dollar Marriage.” These two are complete opposites like polar opposites. He’s rough around the edges, and just had a hard life. She is innocent, hasn’t really dated, or really done anything crazy in her life. They have a rough first meet at the audition and she leaves really not liking him at all. Several months later, they find out they were both one of the chosen ones, and as fate would have it, they are paired up together on the reality show, and taken on some crazy adventures. I thought the idea was so creative and different and I LOVED every second of this book! If you like reality TV, you will love this one!
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
* ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
dnf
September 8, 2025DNFed at 2%
Sorry, I cannot connect with somebody so impractical. She's $500K in debt because she's getting degrees in philosophy and anthropology?? I'd understand her better if she had been gambling! (At least that's an addiction.)
Sorry, I cannot connect with somebody so impractical. She's $500K in debt because she's getting degrees in philosophy and anthropology?? I'd understand her better if she had been gambling! (At least that's an addiction.)
October 31, 2019
This is the second book in this series but can be read as a standalone. Really love this reality tv vibe!! Love the slow burn between Penelope AKA “Nell” and Luke! Nell was so uptight in the beginning! Loved how Luke slowly brought out her relaxed, playful side. But of course theres a little twist at the end! It had me a little worried. Absolutely love how it ended. Listened to the audiobook and the narrators an awesome job!
October 28, 2019
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the ARC in exchange for an honest review**#MillionDollarMarriage #NetGalley
4 🌟....We have already met Luke from previous book.... I really enjoyed this one it was a easy, quick read also it was a sweet, funny, romantic comedy!!! Although it was a little bit predictable ...I definitely liked it and it was really enjoyable for me!
4 🌟....We have already met Luke from previous book.... I really enjoyed this one it was a easy, quick read also it was a sweet, funny, romantic comedy!!! Although it was a little bit predictable ...I definitely liked it and it was really enjoyable for me!
July 13, 2019
HOLY CROWS FEET!
Million Dollar Marriage was off the chains AMAZING...
ADDICTING...
and EVERYTHING I NEVER KNEW I WANTED!!!
Million Dollar Marriage is the second book in Katy Evans’ Million Dollar Series. This companion novel is told from Luke and Nell’s point of view.
All Nell wanted to do was get out of her cookie cutter comfort zone and prove to her ex boyfriend that she wasn’t the frigid girl he saw her as...and the million dollars will come in handy paying off her school loans. All she has to do, is be accepted to participate in the Million Dollar Marriage reality show… There’s only one problem. Penelope Carpenter is not at all an adventurous person. What the hell, you only live once…. RIght?!
Luke’s greatest ambition in life is to live it to the fullest in a way that his grandfather and grandmother can be proud of. In the past few years his grandfather has been gone, he’s managed to single handedly find himself in a pit of debt and on the verge of losing the bar his grandfather put his everything into. When his best friend Jimmy brings up Million Dollar Marriage, Luke doesn’t see any other option but to audition and hopefully win it all.
But Luke and Nell are going to soon find out, there are more important things on the table other than money.
My Thoughts:
Ah! I can’t even begin to tell you all how much I freaking loved Luke and Nell’s story! And speaking with all honesty, I went into this book completely blind and ended up getting blindsided with complete addiction.
I was a tad bit worried on how I would feel about MDM. I didn’t really care too much for Million Dollar Devil and not liking the first book in a series can really put a damper on the rest of the series, but I put this car in drive and pushed forward. I’m so freaking thrilled I requested a copy of MDM because if I hadn't, I would have seriously missed out on all the Nell and Luke awesomeness!
I loved the concept of a reality show and watching a love come alive behind the scenes. It was fun to watch two complete opposites struggle with growing pains. The endless banter between Nell and Luke kept me on my toes during some moments and laughing hysterically during other moments. I legit love these two!
Of course, this wouldn’t be a Katy Evans novel without a little bit of angst. I’m not going to divulge any info on these angsty moments due to spoilers. Let’s just say, she definitely had me thinking these two wouldn’t be able to reconcile and settle their shit.
Overall, I’m so glad I took the chance and picked up Million Dollar Marriage. Now i’m going to settle in and binge watch the amazing race and all other reality shows. I highly recommend this one to those who are looking for something a little different with an adventurous vibe! Enjoy and Happy Reading!
________________
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The Staircase Reader
July 25, 2019
OMG I Love Katy because she can write like no ones business and she always has me on the edge of my seat wondering what is going to happen next and when I read it I talk to my kindle whether it be yelling, screaming, laughing, or crying. I get all the feels from her books and this one really did it for me. I felt like I was inside the story watching friends go through there fare share of things.
Nell and Luke are an amazing couple together. The get together on this TV reality show and they are complete opposites. They are like fire and ice and lord when they come together and have to do their challenges sparks are flying all over the place even though they both act like they hate each other.
What happens to this couple at the end will have you very surprised because I was. I was taken by surprise and that is what I love about Katy because she keep us on our toes.
So go on and one click this gem for an amazing read!
Nell and Luke are an amazing couple together. The get together on this TV reality show and they are complete opposites. They are like fire and ice and lord when they come together and have to do their challenges sparks are flying all over the place even though they both act like they hate each other.
What happens to this couple at the end will have you very surprised because I was. I was taken by surprise and that is what I love about Katy because she keep us on our toes.
So go on and one click this gem for an amazing read!
July 5, 2019
I loved this book, I couldn't put it down. The concept was really good - I would watch the TV programme if they ever made it. I loved Luke and Nell. They were so different but this books shows opposites do attract and they worked well together through the challenges. There was a little bit of angst but in general a feel good book that had you rooting for the H and h. The book left me wanting more of this couple, I had not read one and this did not detract from this book at all.
Thank you to NetGalley for the copy.
Thank you to NetGalley for the copy.
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