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Anyone But... #2
Anyone But Cade
The second novel in USA Today bestselling author Penelope Bloom’s Anyone But… series turns up the heat and hilarity with a story about second chances and promises worth breaking.
After Cade King cost me everything, I vowed I’d never fall for him again—even if he became rich and megafamous.
Now he’s back, and he’s still the embodiment of a big, shiny red button. Everybody knows you shouldn’t touch red buttons, but it’s so, so hard to resist.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it a little when I arrested him for disorderly conduct. Unfortunately, I think Cade liked it a little too. So when he asks for my help raising the son he just found out about, I know exactly what to “No, you stupidly sexy red button. I won’t touch you, even to help a cute little kid.” You’re damn right that’s what I said. Mostly.
Still, Cade doesn’t know the first thing about commitment. He lives completely in the moment. I’d need to have a recurring case of amnesia to believe he could change, even for his son. Or me.
After Cade King cost me everything, I vowed I’d never fall for him again—even if he became rich and megafamous.
Now he’s back, and he’s still the embodiment of a big, shiny red button. Everybody knows you shouldn’t touch red buttons, but it’s so, so hard to resist.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it a little when I arrested him for disorderly conduct. Unfortunately, I think Cade liked it a little too. So when he asks for my help raising the son he just found out about, I know exactly what to “No, you stupidly sexy red button. I won’t touch you, even to help a cute little kid.” You’re damn right that’s what I said. Mostly.
Still, Cade doesn’t know the first thing about commitment. He lives completely in the moment. I’d need to have a recurring case of amnesia to believe he could change, even for his son. Or me.
237 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2019
1393 people are currently reading
2075 people want to read
About the author
Penelope Bloom
69 books2,604 followersUSA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts Bestselling author Penelope Bloom is taking her first flight into romantasy—and yes, there are dragons. After years of contemporary romance, she's temporarily trading meet-cutes for magical academies and coffee shops for castles that reek of blood. She promises the banter is just as sharp, but now it comes with deadly consequences.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
Fun fact: “Penelope Bloom” started as a tongue-in-cheek tribute to the family dog, Penelope—never meant to be anything serious. But then the books took off, and the name stuck. Behind the scenes, Penelope Bloom is actually a husband-and-wife team. He handles the writing; she edits, helps with brainstorming, and runs the reader-facing side of things (like social media and messages). So if you’ve chatted with “Penelope” online, you’ve likely been talking to her—with the author chiming in whenever needed. Together, they’ve built the voice readers know and love.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
February 20, 2020
Fun and easy read with great characters!
Cade is one of those people that are always fun to be around! He is someone that can turn the most innocuous sentences into a joke or sexual innuendo, and he does it in such a deadpan way that you don’t know he’s kidding until you process what he said, and it will turn out to be something hilarious.
Cade dated Iris in high school until his irresponsibility and thoughtlessness got to be too much for her. He unintentionally did something stupid that she paid the price for and she cut him out of her life after that. Iris and her two friends (that had similar experiences with Cade’s two brothers), then made a pact never to date a King brother again. It was fairly easy to keep the pact since all three brothers moved away. After high school.
Though Cade and his brothers Rich and Nick, founded a highly successful business and retuned seven years later as billionaires To build their new company headquarters in town. Iris’s friend Kira has since then, already broken her part of the pact and is now married to Rich.
Iris had changed a lot in the seven years the King brothers were away. She has become a respectable police officer, but Cade has had no reason to really grow up much. She resents him still for what happened in high school and the fact that he hasn’t changed much is good reason to stay away.
Though Cade really has had no reason to mature and be responsible. He is a hard working adult at work, of course. But in his home life he is rich enough to have maids that clean up after him, cooks to prepare dinner for him and he doesn’t have to take care of anyone, even himself. Iris only sees the fact that he doesn’t have to do things like learn to cook, do laundry and clean up after himself.
Things change though when he gets a call from an ex-girlfriend and he is forced to grow up and change. He asks Iris for help and they grow closer. The romance is a bit of a slow burn and when they finally do get together it is hot. However, there is not enough intimacy for this book to be rated more than 3 out of 5 flames in the heat department 🔥🔥🔥.
The relationships between the characters are great though. The supporting characters are humorous and real and they add to the story, the descriptions of how certain characters act in different situations is heartwarming and fun. I thought the book was very good. Though it wasn’t quite as funny as some of Penelope Blooms other books. Even so, it was witty and I plan to read the next book in the series, Nick and Melanie’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Cade is one of those people that are always fun to be around! He is someone that can turn the most innocuous sentences into a joke or sexual innuendo, and he does it in such a deadpan way that you don’t know he’s kidding until you process what he said, and it will turn out to be something hilarious.
Cade dated Iris in high school until his irresponsibility and thoughtlessness got to be too much for her. He unintentionally did something stupid that she paid the price for and she cut him out of her life after that. Iris and her two friends (that had similar experiences with Cade’s two brothers), then made a pact never to date a King brother again. It was fairly easy to keep the pact since all three brothers moved away. After high school.
Though Cade and his brothers Rich and Nick, founded a highly successful business and retuned seven years later as billionaires To build their new company headquarters in town. Iris’s friend Kira has since then, already broken her part of the pact and is now married to Rich.
Iris had changed a lot in the seven years the King brothers were away. She has become a respectable police officer, but Cade has had no reason to really grow up much. She resents him still for what happened in high school and the fact that he hasn’t changed much is good reason to stay away.
Though Cade really has had no reason to mature and be responsible. He is a hard working adult at work, of course. But in his home life he is rich enough to have maids that clean up after him, cooks to prepare dinner for him and he doesn’t have to take care of anyone, even himself. Iris only sees the fact that he doesn’t have to do things like learn to cook, do laundry and clean up after himself.
Things change though when he gets a call from an ex-girlfriend and he is forced to grow up and change. He asks Iris for help and they grow closer. The romance is a bit of a slow burn and when they finally do get together it is hot. However, there is not enough intimacy for this book to be rated more than 3 out of 5 flames in the heat department 🔥🔥🔥.
The relationships between the characters are great though. The supporting characters are humorous and real and they add to the story, the descriptions of how certain characters act in different situations is heartwarming and fun. I thought the book was very good. Though it wasn’t quite as funny as some of Penelope Blooms other books. Even so, it was witty and I plan to read the next book in the series, Nick and Melanie’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blog|Goodreads|Facebook|Amazon|Twitter|BookBub
March 7, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
ANYONE BUT CADE (Anyone But… Book #2) by Penelope Bloom is the second contemporary romance in the King Brothers trilogy. These books are an enjoyable mix of romance, laughter and smokin’ hot sex.
Cade King is the other twin, who is never serious unless it comes to negotiations for work. Seven years ago, he cost his girlfriend her soccer scholarship with a stupid prank that went wrong. Since then he has never been in a serious relationship and hides behind his money and success. He can’t be hurt, if no one really knows him, right?
Iris swore seven years ago with her two best friends to never again date a King brother. But they are back in town and already one of her friends has fallen. Iris values the success she worked hard for to become a law enforcement officer, but something is missing. Cade is still a temptation hard to resist.
Cade receives the news that he is the father of a five-year-old son that he never knew was out there. He asks Iris for her help and even though she knows she shouldn’t, she cannot resist Bear. Can Iris forgive Cade and can the two work together for Bear?
I really enjoyed this book. The dialogue was laugh out loud funny at times and ridiculously funny at others. As much as Cade and Iris were great for each other, Bear made them even better. I loved when Bear would be a mini-Cade and the action between the two throughout shows the difference, I felt realistically between how a man or a woman play with a child. Even when it seemed as though all the secondary characters were against them, Iris and Cade stayed positive and worked things out. The sex scenes were explicit, but not gratuitous. I love when I finish a romance and have a smile on my face.
I love all the brothers and I am looking forward to Nick and Miranda’s story!
ANYONE BUT CADE (Anyone But… Book #2) by Penelope Bloom is the second contemporary romance in the King Brothers trilogy. These books are an enjoyable mix of romance, laughter and smokin’ hot sex.
Cade King is the other twin, who is never serious unless it comes to negotiations for work. Seven years ago, he cost his girlfriend her soccer scholarship with a stupid prank that went wrong. Since then he has never been in a serious relationship and hides behind his money and success. He can’t be hurt, if no one really knows him, right?
Iris swore seven years ago with her two best friends to never again date a King brother. But they are back in town and already one of her friends has fallen. Iris values the success she worked hard for to become a law enforcement officer, but something is missing. Cade is still a temptation hard to resist.
Cade receives the news that he is the father of a five-year-old son that he never knew was out there. He asks Iris for her help and even though she knows she shouldn’t, she cannot resist Bear. Can Iris forgive Cade and can the two work together for Bear?
I really enjoyed this book. The dialogue was laugh out loud funny at times and ridiculously funny at others. As much as Cade and Iris were great for each other, Bear made them even better. I loved when Bear would be a mini-Cade and the action between the two throughout shows the difference, I felt realistically between how a man or a woman play with a child. Even when it seemed as though all the secondary characters were against them, Iris and Cade stayed positive and worked things out. The sex scenes were explicit, but not gratuitous. I love when I finish a romance and have a smile on my face.
I love all the brothers and I am looking forward to Nick and Miranda’s story!
October 10, 2019
I really enjoyed this second chance romance. I loved the main author Cade. He is very charming. I liked this this book was not like typical second change story. You start to get invested in the relationship between Cade and Iris. You also start to really like Bear ( Cades son) who brings Cade and Iris back together.
This book gives me the feels and i think anyone who want to read it will think its very cute.
This book gives me the feels and i think anyone who want to read it will think its very cute.
March 7, 2020
Anyone but Cade was hilariously funny! Cade is a true character. It’s difficult taking him seriously - especially with the weird things that come out of his mouth. Sometimes it’s so stupid it just kinda made sense (if you really think hard about it).
Seriously, Cade had me laughing out loud so much of the time...but even being the goof 1000% of the time, it’s clear as day he has a good, kind heart. It takes a special person to really “get him” and that person was Iris. She understood him on a level even his twin brother didn’t.
They had an incredibly special bond that withstood the seven years apart. And no matter the promise she made with her besties, like with Kira, it proved to be a promise that was difficult to keep.
Their story was a wonderful combination of a second-chance and enemies-to-lovers kind of love. The tension and passion between them was at high levels the entire time.
I can’t wait to find out how the next King brother’s story comes about. I have a feeling Miranda isn’t going to be as easily swayed as her two best friends were.
Seriously, Cade had me laughing out loud so much of the time...but even being the goof 1000% of the time, it’s clear as day he has a good, kind heart. It takes a special person to really “get him” and that person was Iris. She understood him on a level even his twin brother didn’t.
They had an incredibly special bond that withstood the seven years apart. And no matter the promise she made with her besties, like with Kira, it proved to be a promise that was difficult to keep.
Their story was a wonderful combination of a second-chance and enemies-to-lovers kind of love. The tension and passion between them was at high levels the entire time.
I can’t wait to find out how the next King brother’s story comes about. I have a feeling Miranda isn’t going to be as easily swayed as her two best friends were.
November 17, 2019
Anyone But Cade by Penelope Bloom is book Two in the Anyone But...Series. This is the story of Cade and Iris. I have read the previous books which did add to my enjoyment of this one but I do feel you could make this a standalone book if you wish to do so.
Cade left his home town along with his brothers but now he is back and learns of a child he didn't now existed. Iris and Cade were young together and of course had feeling for one another but then Cade up and left town. Now Iris and her friends have all sworn off the King brothers. So when Iris arrest him for disorderly conduct it brings them to meet again which opens the door for him to ask for her help.
Enjoyed this second chance at love story.
Cade left his home town along with his brothers but now he is back and learns of a child he didn't now existed. Iris and Cade were young together and of course had feeling for one another but then Cade up and left town. Now Iris and her friends have all sworn off the King brothers. So when Iris arrest him for disorderly conduct it brings them to meet again which opens the door for him to ask for her help.
Enjoyed this second chance at love story.
Want to read
September 1, 2019
Here is a Riddle...
Take a Smart, Funny...
But Dedicated Police Officer...
And have Her Constantly Cross Paths...
With the One Man, She Vowed...
Never, Ever to Fall for Again...
Even if He Came Back...
More Tempting...
More Manly Man than...
He had a Right to Be...
Well, This Police Officer
Has More Tricks Up Her Sleeve...
Only Trouble is Mr. No Self Control...
Seems to Like the HandCuffs...
And Bossing a Little Too Much...
Now the Tables are Turned...
And Mr. Manly Man Needs Her Help...
But She Promised Herself and Others...
She Would Be There for...
Anyone But Cade (Anyone But... #2)-November 12th 2019
Anyone But Rich (Anyone But... #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Anyone But Cade (Anyone But... #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
Take a Smart, Funny...
But Dedicated Police Officer...
And have Her Constantly Cross Paths...
With the One Man, She Vowed...
Never, Ever to Fall for Again...
Even if He Came Back...
More Tempting...
More Manly Man than...
He had a Right to Be...
Well, This Police Officer
Has More Tricks Up Her Sleeve...
Only Trouble is Mr. No Self Control...
Seems to Like the HandCuffs...
And Bossing a Little Too Much...
Now the Tables are Turned...
And Mr. Manly Man Needs Her Help...
But She Promised Herself and Others...
She Would Be There for...
Anyone But Cade (Anyone But... #2)-November 12th 2019
Anyone But Rich (Anyone But... #1) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Anyone But Cade (Anyone But... #2) https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
January 16, 2020
This is the second installment in this series and is about Cade, the other twin, and Iris, the girl from high school who now hates him and carries a gun for a living. Yea, she is a police officer in town. This starts off with Cade getting drunk and Iris ends up arresting him for punching a jukebox. Just perfect. These two are perfect together. They have a banter that is witty and sexy and once they cross that line there is no turning back. Add in the 5 year old Cade didn't realize he has but now will not give up and they are the perfect family. Cade has a mini me and it is wonderful. Definitely looking forward to the last brother and seeing how this series wraps up!
October 11, 2019
Kindly received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Actual Ratings : 4.85 hilarious stars
God I swear I hadn't laughed at a book as much as i did with this since Neanderthal Meets Human and believe me that is my favorite. From the moment Iris wanted to roll over to Cade and kick his feet under him I was laughing. Every single moment in the book was laugh out loud worthy. At some points I couldn't stop laughing for few minutes and kept remembering the moment over and over again. The moment Cade got my respect? When he punched a jukebox for Maroon 5 ruining Super Bowl. Don't we all agree with that? XD
I really wished we had more cute moments with Bear too but I have a feeling the little dude is going to come out super spoiled at the rate they are going but still they make a cute family. If you're looking for a drama free and hilarious novel, this is the perfect book for you. I am dying to see how it's gonna be between Miranda and Nick because Miranda seems to hold the biggest hatred between the girls actually.
Actual Ratings : 4.85 hilarious stars
God I swear I hadn't laughed at a book as much as i did with this since Neanderthal Meets Human and believe me that is my favorite. From the moment Iris wanted to roll over to Cade and kick his feet under him I was laughing. Every single moment in the book was laugh out loud worthy. At some points I couldn't stop laughing for few minutes and kept remembering the moment over and over again. The moment Cade got my respect? When he punched a jukebox for Maroon 5 ruining Super Bowl. Don't we all agree with that? XD
I really wished we had more cute moments with Bear too but I have a feeling the little dude is going to come out super spoiled at the rate they are going but still they make a cute family. If you're looking for a drama free and hilarious novel, this is the perfect book for you. I am dying to see how it's gonna be between Miranda and Nick because Miranda seems to hold the biggest hatred between the girls actually.
November 11, 2019
This is the first book by this author that I have read and I liked it. Quick, fun read. Second chance romance about Cade and Iris. They dated in high school and Cade made a huge mistake that had consequences for Iris. Fast forward 7 years later, Cade has to come back to town because he finds out that he is a father to a little boy. He turns to Iris for help and she agrees. This helps them grow closer and for him to show that he has changed.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 10, 2019
Another great instalment to this series, I loved the first book Anyone but Rich and this is just as good as the first book. We return to familiar characters and this time to Cade and Iris’s story, full of chemistry and humour, the kind of book that’s an easy read but very addictive too. It’s fun and flirty and can’t wait for the next I’m assuming anyone but nick ! A great read.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
January 2, 2025
Author: Penelope Bloom
Title: Anyone but Cade
Series: Anyone But, #2
BASIC FACTS:
Pages: 237
audiobook length (1x speed): 07:18 h
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Protagonist Ages: approximately 26-30
Pacing: slow burn
I was looking forward to listen to the second book of the Anyone But series. One of the Reasons was that the main leads did provide us with some comic relieve in the first book. And I wondered what they would do, when the story focuses on them. And they did not disappoint.
This time we do find out, what Cade did to Iris in the past. The story is funny and entertaining. The plot is there but it is not predominant
The Characters: Names and descriptions of the persons
Summery: detailed, lot’s of spoiler
Title: Anyone but Cade
Series: Anyone But, #2
BASIC FACTS:
Pages: 237
audiobook length (1x speed): 07:18 h
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Romance
Protagonist Ages: approximately 26-30
Pacing: slow burn
I was looking forward to listen to the second book of the Anyone But series. One of the Reasons was that the main leads did provide us with some comic relieve in the first book. And I wondered what they would do, when the story focuses on them. And they did not disappoint.
This time we do find out, what Cade did to Iris in the past. The story is funny and entertaining. The plot is there but it is not predominant
The Characters: Names and descriptions of the persons
Summery: detailed, lot’s of spoiler
December 10, 2019
***ARC Provided by the Publisher***
I was not able to connect with this story. It's my first by this author, and I know she is popular, so I am sure I will try another title by her, but this one wasn't a winner for me.
I didn't believe the characters, and the dialogue seemed...off. I have spent a lot of time with a lot of different people, and at first I was struck by how off the book felt...until I realized that both the women and the men seemed to have identical internal dialogue. And, the women spoke in the way I think men *think* women talk...and the men spoke in the same way.
So, this one didn't work for me.
I was not able to connect with this story. It's my first by this author, and I know she is popular, so I am sure I will try another title by her, but this one wasn't a winner for me.
I didn't believe the characters, and the dialogue seemed...off. I have spent a lot of time with a lot of different people, and at first I was struck by how off the book felt...until I realized that both the women and the men seemed to have identical internal dialogue. And, the women spoke in the way I think men *think* women talk...and the men spoke in the same way.
So, this one didn't work for me.
November 12, 2019
3.75 stars-
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2019.
After Cade King cost me everything, I vowed I’d never fall for him again—even if he became rich and megafamous.
Go figure.
Now Cade is back with his billion-dollar company…and his ability to radiate attraction like a tempting Wi-Fi hotspot. Not to mention his tendency to have worse impulse control than a chimpanzee.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it a little when I arrested him for disorderly conduct. Unfortunately, I think Cade liked it a little too. So when he asks for my help, I know exactly what I should say. But something’s fried the circuits in my brain. It doesn’t help that I can practically feel my ovaries humming to life just from standing within fifty yards of him. The bastard.
Still, Cade doesn’t know the first thing about commitment. He lives completely in the moment. I’d need to have a recurring case of amnesia to believe he could change. I guess only time will tell which one of us is the real fool in the end.
••••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars—ANYONE BUT CADE is the second instalment in Penelope Bloom’s contemporary, adult ANYONE BUT... romance series focusing on the King brothers: twins Rich and Cade, and younger brother Nick. This is twenty-five year old billionaire tech businessman Cade King, and police officer Iris Rosewood. ANYONE BUT CADE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: Seven years earlier high school friends Miranda, Kira and Iris made a promise to never date the King brothers in response to heartbreak, secret and lies that spiralled out of control. Fast forward to present day wherein the King brothers have returned to their hometown of West Valley, North Carolina in an effort to upstart a new division in their billion dollar high tech industry.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Iris and Cade) ANYONE BUT CADE follows the rebuilding relationship between billionaire tech businessman Cade King, and police officer Iris Rosewood. Seven years earlier Cade King destroyed any hopes for a future with Iris Rosewood when he shattered Iris’ chances at a scholarship in retaliation for Iris breaking his heart. Fast forward to present day and the King brothers have returned to West Valley, North Carolina, in an attempt to upstart their billion dollar tech industry. Shocking news from his past sends Cade into a tailspin landing him face to face with the woman he has never stopped loving. Enter police officer Iris Rosewood. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Iris and Case, and the potential fall-out as people behind the scenes set out to destroy their second chance romance.
Cade King made a terrible mistake the day he destroyed Iris’ future and no amount of grovelling would make up for what happened but his past is about to catch up and he is desperate for help, including help from the woman that would become his present and his future. Iris Rosewood never forgot about the horrible day when everything fell apart but a second chance with Cade meant more than anything she could have ever imagined.
The relationship between Cade and Iris is one of second chances: a rekindling romance between two people destroyed by mischief, mistakes, and childhood pranks. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Cade’s twin brother Rich and his wife Kira; their youngest brother Nick, as well as their manipulative and controlling parents Harper and Edna King; Iris’ father, and her police partner Billy, and precocious Bear.
ANYONE BUT CADE is a story of family, friendship, second chances and love; a story of secrets and lies, power and control. The premise is engaging and revealing; the characters are colorful, energetic and dynamic; the romance is seductive, captivating and hot.
Copy supplied BY NETGALLEY
www.thereadingcafe.com
ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 12, 2019.
After Cade King cost me everything, I vowed I’d never fall for him again—even if he became rich and megafamous.
Go figure.
Now Cade is back with his billion-dollar company…and his ability to radiate attraction like a tempting Wi-Fi hotspot. Not to mention his tendency to have worse impulse control than a chimpanzee.
I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it a little when I arrested him for disorderly conduct. Unfortunately, I think Cade liked it a little too. So when he asks for my help, I know exactly what I should say. But something’s fried the circuits in my brain. It doesn’t help that I can practically feel my ovaries humming to life just from standing within fifty yards of him. The bastard.
Still, Cade doesn’t know the first thing about commitment. He lives completely in the moment. I’d need to have a recurring case of amnesia to believe he could change. I guess only time will tell which one of us is the real fool in the end.
••••••••••••••
REVIEW: 3.75 stars—ANYONE BUT CADE is the second instalment in Penelope Bloom’s contemporary, adult ANYONE BUT... romance series focusing on the King brothers: twins Rich and Cade, and younger brother Nick. This is twenty-five year old billionaire tech businessman Cade King, and police officer Iris Rosewood. ANYONE BUT CADE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information is revealed where necessary.
SOME BACKGROUND: Seven years earlier high school friends Miranda, Kira and Iris made a promise to never date the King brothers in response to heartbreak, secret and lies that spiralled out of control. Fast forward to present day wherein the King brothers have returned to their hometown of West Valley, North Carolina in an effort to upstart a new division in their billion dollar high tech industry.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Iris and Cade) ANYONE BUT CADE follows the rebuilding relationship between billionaire tech businessman Cade King, and police officer Iris Rosewood. Seven years earlier Cade King destroyed any hopes for a future with Iris Rosewood when he shattered Iris’ chances at a scholarship in retaliation for Iris breaking his heart. Fast forward to present day and the King brothers have returned to West Valley, North Carolina, in an attempt to upstart their billion dollar tech industry. Shocking news from his past sends Cade into a tailspin landing him face to face with the woman he has never stopped loving. Enter police officer Iris Rosewood. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Iris and Case, and the potential fall-out as people behind the scenes set out to destroy their second chance romance.
Cade King made a terrible mistake the day he destroyed Iris’ future and no amount of grovelling would make up for what happened but his past is about to catch up and he is desperate for help, including help from the woman that would become his present and his future. Iris Rosewood never forgot about the horrible day when everything fell apart but a second chance with Cade meant more than anything she could have ever imagined.
The relationship between Cade and Iris is one of second chances: a rekindling romance between two people destroyed by mischief, mistakes, and childhood pranks. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are reintroduced to Cade’s twin brother Rich and his wife Kira; their youngest brother Nick, as well as their manipulative and controlling parents Harper and Edna King; Iris’ father, and her police partner Billy, and precocious Bear.
ANYONE BUT CADE is a story of family, friendship, second chances and love; a story of secrets and lies, power and control. The premise is engaging and revealing; the characters are colorful, energetic and dynamic; the romance is seductive, captivating and hot.
Copy supplied BY NETGALLEY
www.thereadingcafe.com
November 16, 2019
Oh my God, I had so much fun reading this book! Cade is so amazing and so crazy, in a funny way. “Anyone But Cade” is a fantastic book and believe me when I say it: you will savor every page!
Iris’ relationship with Cade cost her her future. They were good together, until he did the most stupid thing and put an end to her chances at a sports scholarship. Years later, they stand face to face, she as a police officer, and Cade as a very successful businessman. However, the most unbelievable event brings them together, with Iris trying to keep Cade out of trouble and lose … the most important person in his life.
They are great together! The banter, the contradictions and Cade’s flirtatious personality are the delight of this book. I took my time enjoying every moment and every word and now I am so sorry I missed reading book 1 (something that will be rectified in the following days!). Cade’s brothers are as well interesting characters and the same can be said about Iris’ friends. I must admit I am a little scared when it comes to the next book in the series, as I am not such a big fan of Miranda’s. But I am curious to see why she is so adamant to avoid the King brothers.
I am decreasing one start mainly because some aspects of the story felt a bit rushed and other could have been better explained, though I associate this last item to the fact that I have not read part 1 (Rich and Kira’s story).
So 4 stars for Penelope Bloom’s book and I cannot wait to discover this series and her others. She is an amazing writer! I do advise you give this book a chance and come back with your thoughts Happy Reading!
Iris’ relationship with Cade cost her her future. They were good together, until he did the most stupid thing and put an end to her chances at a sports scholarship. Years later, they stand face to face, she as a police officer, and Cade as a very successful businessman. However, the most unbelievable event brings them together, with Iris trying to keep Cade out of trouble and lose … the most important person in his life.
They are great together! The banter, the contradictions and Cade’s flirtatious personality are the delight of this book. I took my time enjoying every moment and every word and now I am so sorry I missed reading book 1 (something that will be rectified in the following days!). Cade’s brothers are as well interesting characters and the same can be said about Iris’ friends. I must admit I am a little scared when it comes to the next book in the series, as I am not such a big fan of Miranda’s. But I am curious to see why she is so adamant to avoid the King brothers.
I am decreasing one start mainly because some aspects of the story felt a bit rushed and other could have been better explained, though I associate this last item to the fact that I have not read part 1 (Rich and Kira’s story).
So 4 stars for Penelope Bloom’s book and I cannot wait to discover this series and her others. She is an amazing writer! I do advise you give this book a chance and come back with your thoughts Happy Reading!
October 3, 2019
Anyone but Cade💕
Book two in the Anyone series by Penelope Bloom is finally here and it was a great book, with great characters and a great storyline with a few twists and turns❣️
Seven years ago Cade and Iris were dating in High School but due to Cade’s actions, they break up. Iris, along with Miranda and Kira meet to make a pact that they vow to keep. Now, seven years later, the Kings are back in their small home town and Iris has done everything possible to avoid Cade. Cade however gets some news that sends him into a tailspin and indirectly gets Iris involved.
Cade certainly grew on me with his comebacks and I have to admit there were a few times I was cackling away with his antics😂 Loved the ending and super excited to see what happens for Nik next🥳
Penelope Bloom is one of my favourite authors and her stories should not be missed. I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of Anyone but Cade via Netgalley, and want to thank Montlake and Penelope for the chance to review for this series and voluntarily leave my honest review😁
Book two in the Anyone series by Penelope Bloom is finally here and it was a great book, with great characters and a great storyline with a few twists and turns❣️
Seven years ago Cade and Iris were dating in High School but due to Cade’s actions, they break up. Iris, along with Miranda and Kira meet to make a pact that they vow to keep. Now, seven years later, the Kings are back in their small home town and Iris has done everything possible to avoid Cade. Cade however gets some news that sends him into a tailspin and indirectly gets Iris involved.
Cade certainly grew on me with his comebacks and I have to admit there were a few times I was cackling away with his antics😂 Loved the ending and super excited to see what happens for Nik next🥳
Penelope Bloom is one of my favourite authors and her stories should not be missed. I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of Anyone but Cade via Netgalley, and want to thank Montlake and Penelope for the chance to review for this series and voluntarily leave my honest review😁
November 11, 2019
Cade is someone who doesn’t take much seriously and always makes light of situations to hide what he truly feels and tends to act first and think second. When he was in high school he make a mistake with Iris, his girlfriend, and years later they are still estranged.
Although Iris hasn’t had much luck with men she enjoys her career as a police officer and she has a great relationship with two best friends Kira and Miranda. Cade has returned to town after being away for years and it doesn’t take long for him to turn her life upside down once again.
When Cade finds out that he is a father Iris steps in to help both him and his son adjust to their new normal. Has Cade changed since high school and will this be their second chance or is he still the same person that doesn’t consider the consequences of his actions?
Cade and Iris are very different but balance each other perfectly. Not only will their interactions have you laughing out loud but the great ensemble of secondary characters definitely enhance the story.
Although Iris hasn’t had much luck with men she enjoys her career as a police officer and she has a great relationship with two best friends Kira and Miranda. Cade has returned to town after being away for years and it doesn’t take long for him to turn her life upside down once again.
When Cade finds out that he is a father Iris steps in to help both him and his son adjust to their new normal. Has Cade changed since high school and will this be their second chance or is he still the same person that doesn’t consider the consequences of his actions?
Cade and Iris are very different but balance each other perfectly. Not only will their interactions have you laughing out loud but the great ensemble of secondary characters definitely enhance the story.
October 3, 2019
I was so excited to get this book. I had fell in love with the King brothers from the very first book Anyone but Rich and I liked Cade in that one, I liked Iris too so I was anxious for this book. I did enjoy it, however since I had cracked up at Cade's antics in the previous books, I was expecting more from him in this one. Please do not misunderstand and think I didn't like it, I totally did but again I was expecting more..I liked Iris but more in the first book, she wasn't as funny in this one and at times she just annoyed me- I don't think I like Miranda she is just too closed minded and too stuck up, I am hoping she can redeem herself in time for her and Nick's story..Anywhoo loved Bear, cute adorable funny kid. Wish I had more Rich and Kira-her I loved..Enjoy!
rcvd an ARc at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
rcvd an ARc at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
October 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
“𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙟𝙤𝙠𝙚, 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮, 𝙤𝙧 𝙙𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚.”
I was so excited for book 2. Cade and Iris.
They were classified as “class clowns” so their hilarious banter was top notch!
Another King brother, another stupid mistake 7 years ago, that made iris never want to see him again.
Another billionaire brother who has pined after a girl for 7 years.
I really enjoyed their story. I was unable to put it down. I laughed so much.
Excited to see the story of the 3rd King brother who crushed on his best friend 7 years ago.
Will Miranda also break the pact the girls made 3 years ago to never date the King brothers?! 😏
“𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢. 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙨, 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙟𝙤𝙠𝙚, 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙡𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮, 𝙤𝙧 𝙙𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙡𝙚𝙢 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙚.”
I was so excited for book 2. Cade and Iris.
They were classified as “class clowns” so their hilarious banter was top notch!
Another King brother, another stupid mistake 7 years ago, that made iris never want to see him again.
Another billionaire brother who has pined after a girl for 7 years.
I really enjoyed their story. I was unable to put it down. I laughed so much.
Excited to see the story of the 3rd King brother who crushed on his best friend 7 years ago.
Will Miranda also break the pact the girls made 3 years ago to never date the King brothers?! 😏
March 27, 2024
This second book in this series was quite better than the first for me. It was fun and entertaining with a second chance live trope. The characters were likable and relatable. Nicely written and kept my attention. Good audiobook for a comfy read.
October 18, 2019
Anyone But Cade by Penelope Bloom is the second book of the "Anyone But..." series. If you had read the first book in the series, Anyone But Rich, you'll know who the characters are already and the back story. Iris and her BFFs, Kira and Miranda, all vowed to never let the King brothers get in between their friendships again. Seven years ago, they sworn an oath to never date a King brother. Seven years later, the billionaire King brothers return to their small town with a new business venture.
The first book focuses on Richard King and Kira's story. This book focuses on Cade and Iris. While the series is just a huge ball of cliche and cheesy, cringe-worthy moments on paper, I do think Cade and Iris are my favorite pair. They're both the more developed characters in the series. Some of the dialogue Cade has are just "LOL" worthy. However, some of the events and motives are pretty unbelievable. Like, who agrees to care for someone else's kid by taking a week off work, especially when you "hate" that person?
The storyline is a bit dragged; could've wrapped it up in half the amount of pages. However, it is worth a read if you don't care for good writing and only looking for an easy, entertaining read.
Thank you to Netgalley, Penelope Bloom, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
The first book focuses on Richard King and Kira's story. This book focuses on Cade and Iris. While the series is just a huge ball of cliche and cheesy, cringe-worthy moments on paper, I do think Cade and Iris are my favorite pair. They're both the more developed characters in the series. Some of the dialogue Cade has are just "LOL" worthy. However, some of the events and motives are pretty unbelievable. Like, who agrees to care for someone else's kid by taking a week off work, especially when you "hate" that person?
The storyline is a bit dragged; could've wrapped it up in half the amount of pages. However, it is worth a read if you don't care for good writing and only looking for an easy, entertaining read.
Thank you to Netgalley, Penelope Bloom, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
March 31, 2022
What is this book? Like seriously, WTF is this book? Not one did Cade become a redeemable human being. He was a total unapologetic egotistical arsehole throughout the book and I could not stand him.
Iris on the other hand just practically jumped in his lap and forgave him for sabotaging her scholarship. Every word that came out of Cade's mouth was appalling, yet Iris ate it all up, and I wasn't buying it.
Do you mean to tell me that this woman, inserted herself into this man's life just because of a child? he has so much money that he can afford a caretaker and he also has his brothers to help, yet for some reason, it made sense for her to be the one to offer to help? Yeah, nope. Not buying it.
This book was a boring mess and I did not care for it.
Iris on the other hand just practically jumped in his lap and forgave him for sabotaging her scholarship. Every word that came out of Cade's mouth was appalling, yet Iris ate it all up, and I wasn't buying it.
Do you mean to tell me that this woman, inserted herself into this man's life just because of a child? he has so much money that he can afford a caretaker and he also has his brothers to help, yet for some reason, it made sense for her to be the one to offer to help? Yeah, nope. Not buying it.
This book was a boring mess and I did not care for it.
November 1, 2019
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is the second book in the series and I would recommend that you read Rich's story first, as it sets the scene, and gives you some background and insight into the men's childhood and meteoric rise. Oh my their parents were and are just horrible!
Cade is Rich's twin, he has always been the joker, and the one who avoids any seriousness he can. Even though Rich has fallen in love again with his childhood sweetheart, Kira, and moved their business HQ back to their home town, Cade continues to play the field. He is of course, confronted by Iris his own high school love. She is not just the one who got away, she is the one who had their chance at a soccer career spoiled by a drugs test failure, thanks to his pot brownies.
Iris, Kira and Miranda swore to never date one of the King brothers ... Kira has failed, and Iris has to admit that Cade remains easy on the eye. However, he is still the joker he was at school - until fate provides him with a son who makes him grow up fast. As Iris appreciates his efforts and falls for Bear nearly as much as she still cares for Cade, and that promise is starting to seem to her like it needs breaking too.
I really enjoyed the banter in this book. Cade really cannot say anything serious without adding a silly remark at the end to lighten the moment. I had a bad habit of doing this myself, so it was reassuring to see it was not only me! Luckily he learns when it is a good plan, and when it really isn't. That is not to say that only Cade grows up, Iris too gets to understand that maybe her priorities were not exactly directed correctly.
A really good addition to the series, and now we need to see how the last brother, Nick and Miranda are going to resolve their issues, so I am looking forward to the next installment already.
This is the second book in the series and I would recommend that you read Rich's story first, as it sets the scene, and gives you some background and insight into the men's childhood and meteoric rise. Oh my their parents were and are just horrible!
Cade is Rich's twin, he has always been the joker, and the one who avoids any seriousness he can. Even though Rich has fallen in love again with his childhood sweetheart, Kira, and moved their business HQ back to their home town, Cade continues to play the field. He is of course, confronted by Iris his own high school love. She is not just the one who got away, she is the one who had their chance at a soccer career spoiled by a drugs test failure, thanks to his pot brownies.
Iris, Kira and Miranda swore to never date one of the King brothers ... Kira has failed, and Iris has to admit that Cade remains easy on the eye. However, he is still the joker he was at school - until fate provides him with a son who makes him grow up fast. As Iris appreciates his efforts and falls for Bear nearly as much as she still cares for Cade, and that promise is starting to seem to her like it needs breaking too.
I really enjoyed the banter in this book. Cade really cannot say anything serious without adding a silly remark at the end to lighten the moment. I had a bad habit of doing this myself, so it was reassuring to see it was not only me! Luckily he learns when it is a good plan, and when it really isn't. That is not to say that only Cade grows up, Iris too gets to understand that maybe her priorities were not exactly directed correctly.
A really good addition to the series, and now we need to see how the last brother, Nick and Miranda are going to resolve their issues, so I am looking forward to the next installment already.
October 7, 2019
“Is it weird that I just want to curl up in a ball, roll downhill at full speed, and then take out his legs?”
After reading Anyone But Rich I was really looking forward to reading Cade and Iris's story due to their witty banter and I wasn't disappointed. The pair had me chuckling at their comments but it was mainly Cade that had the banter this time. I wish we'd had a bit more of Iris's sharp wit that we saw in the first book.
Loved the story line it kept me engaged and didn't want to stop reading. My only niggle was the same as the first book. I would have liked a bit more resistance from Iris due to how much she was against the King brothers return.
Looking forward to Nicks story as I'm not liking Miranda in this one. In the first book she was the one who was a bit more forgiving about the King brothers but in this one she's so negative. Maybe it's because she's worried the girls are gonna leave her behind for their happy endings. Guess we will find out soon 🙂
After reading Anyone But Rich I was really looking forward to reading Cade and Iris's story due to their witty banter and I wasn't disappointed. The pair had me chuckling at their comments but it was mainly Cade that had the banter this time. I wish we'd had a bit more of Iris's sharp wit that we saw in the first book.
Loved the story line it kept me engaged and didn't want to stop reading. My only niggle was the same as the first book. I would have liked a bit more resistance from Iris due to how much she was against the King brothers return.
Looking forward to Nicks story as I'm not liking Miranda in this one. In the first book she was the one who was a bit more forgiving about the King brothers but in this one she's so negative. Maybe it's because she's worried the girls are gonna leave her behind for their happy endings. Guess we will find out soon 🙂
January 9, 2020
This is the second story in this series. I LOVED it. We get to dive into Cade and Iris from the beginning, through memories. Iris is now a police officer with the local department and gets to legally carry a gun and night stick that she threatens to use on the ever goofy Cade on more than one occasion.
I spent a lot of time giggling at this story, and highly recommend you get Anyone But Rich and devour it before diving into this book, just to spend time with these characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
I spent a lot of time giggling at this story, and highly recommend you get Anyone But Rich and devour it before diving into this book, just to spend time with these characters. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.
October 13, 2019
I absolutely love everything about this book. If you love a good second chance romance, then you need too read Iris & Cade’s story. Cade is very charming and absolutely hilarious. Bear omg he was adorable and completely stole the show. This book and characters had me hooked from page one. Another great read that everyone must read.
I received this Advanced Reader Copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this Advanced Reader Copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2019
2 stars
July 24, 2022
Brother 2
I liked this one more than the second. Cade was fun with his slightly off the wall personality. Same goes for Iris.
I liked this one more than the second. Cade was fun with his slightly off the wall personality. Same goes for Iris.
May 26, 2024
Another decent semi spicy romance!
February 9, 2020
Entertaining story with great banter between the hero and heroine. Iris is my kind of girl.
November 28, 2025
Iris really annoyed me in the middle, but the end saved it. Not as good as the first book though
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