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The Billionaires Club #1
The Debt
She owes me a debt...and I'm ready to collect!
I didn't go from street fighter to billionaire by being a nice guy. Yet my fresh-faced chauffeur asks me to forgive a debt. Ellie Little needs to learn: nothing comes without a price. So I'll offer her a deal - pretend to be my girlfriend to secure a business deal and I'll delay calling in my investment. It's strictly business. Sleeping with her? Forbidden! But Ellie tempts me to break the rules...
I didn't go from street fighter to billionaire by being a nice guy. Yet my fresh-faced chauffeur asks me to forgive a debt. Ellie Little needs to learn: nothing comes without a price. So I'll offer her a deal - pretend to be my girlfriend to secure a business deal and I'll delay calling in my investment. It's strictly business. Sleeping with her? Forbidden! But Ellie tempts me to break the rules...
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2019
48 people are currently reading
197 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Ashenden
488 books977 followersJackie has been writing fiction since she was eleven years old. Mild mannered fantasy/SF/pseudo-literary writer by day, obsessive romance writer by night, she used to balance her writing with the more serious job of librarianship until a chance meeting with another romance writer prompted her to throw off the shackles of her day job and devote herself to the true love of her heart – writing romance. She particularly likes to write dark, emotional stories with alpha heroes who've just got the world to their liking only to have it blown wide apart by their kick-ass heroines.
She lives in Auckland, New Zealand with her husband, the inimitable Dr Jax, two kids, two cats and some guppies (possibly dead guppies by the time you read this). When she's not torturing alpha males and their stroppy heroines, she can be found drinking chocolate martinis, reading anything she can lay her hands on, posting random crap on her blog, or being forced to go mountain biking with her husband.
She lives in Auckland, New Zealand with her husband, the inimitable Dr Jax, two kids, two cats and some guppies (possibly dead guppies by the time you read this). When she's not torturing alpha males and their stroppy heroines, she can be found drinking chocolate martinis, reading anything she can lay her hands on, posting random crap on her blog, or being forced to go mountain biking with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
July 8, 2019
ARC received for review
3.5 stars
There was lots of steam coming from the chemistry sparks shooting between these two. Plus there was angst and pain to overcome. Their ending just lacked the fire that their relationship had. I don't really get the title with story cause the debt had to do with Ash's mom, not Ellie. I didn't like her Dad not even in the end. ... maybe it showed be 3 stars....
3.5 stars
There was lots of steam coming from the chemistry sparks shooting between these two. Plus there was angst and pain to overcome. Their ending just lacked the fire that their relationship had. I don't really get the title with story cause the debt had to do with Ash's mom, not Ellie. I didn't like her Dad not even in the end. ... maybe it showed be 3 stars....
June 12, 2019
Gah! If there is a new Jackie Ashenden story then I need to read it!! I am so obsessed with her books and The Debt was no exception. I loved Ash and Ellie and could not devour this story fast enough!
When Ellie Little asks Ash Evan's for a favor that will save her family's automotive business she had no idea that the brooding, growly former fighter would invoke such strong feelings in her. I loved how protective Ash was of Ellie and how he saw the vulnerable girl inside her looking for love and acceptance. Likewise, Ellie saw the wounded little boy in him who was always forced to fight back and go on the defensive to protect himself from feeling unworthy. They were such a perfect match!
While I loved this story I did feel that certain parts of the story were rushed. There was quite a bit of "telling" vs "showing" (his resolution with his brother for example) going on which left me feeling frustrated and wanting more. All in all this was a great read and I look forward to more from this author in the future. 4 stars! ~Ratula
When Ellie Little asks Ash Evan's for a favor that will save her family's automotive business she had no idea that the brooding, growly former fighter would invoke such strong feelings in her. I loved how protective Ash was of Ellie and how he saw the vulnerable girl inside her looking for love and acceptance. Likewise, Ellie saw the wounded little boy in him who was always forced to fight back and go on the defensive to protect himself from feeling unworthy. They were such a perfect match!
While I loved this story I did feel that certain parts of the story were rushed. There was quite a bit of "telling" vs "showing" (his resolution with his brother for example) going on which left me feeling frustrated and wanting more. All in all this was a great read and I look forward to more from this author in the future. 4 stars! ~Ratula
January 7, 2020
This is the first book I am reading by Jackie Ashenden, my fourth Dare title. This is Book One of The Billionaires Club Series.
Ellie Little works as a chauffeur for the high and mighty apart from being a designer in her father's supercar company, Australis. She's chauffeuring for Ash Evans in Paris and hoping that she could convince the billionaire property developer/investor to not pull out the venture capital he invested in her father's company.
Ash had finally reached that milestone which granted him a membership to the invitations-only The Billionaires Club. And he was there to rub it in his half-brother's face as well as to sabotage Sebastian Dumont's latest business deal.
This was so hilarious, especially with Ellie doing all the things that normally none of Ash's staff would ever dare do. Not taking his annoyance to heart, not letting anything affect her sunny disposition. Narrated in the first person alternately every chapter from his and her perspective, this made for a very entertaining read.
Ellie is a classic example of a brilliant mind not allowed to succeed in a male-dominated area, starting with her family members. I hadn't enjoyed the second book, which I read first, as much as I was enjoyed reading this one. Ellie has four brothers, Jason, Justin, Dev, and George.
Mmm...for the first time I'm reading voyeurism, not that explicit, in a Dare title. And I love the blase chats between the protagonists. Ellie's an Aussie badass, with a mouth to match it. Haha! All those car references had me laughing out loud but it was all so hot as well.
He's thirty-two to her twenty-five something. Since I read Book Two - The Risk first, all I can say is that the events in the books run parallel to each other. And I just realised that I love angsty protagonists more. Because outright I fell in love with this one. Ash and Ellie both have serious father issues and the way they resolve each other's moods is too sweet. And hot. And I said that again. The epilogue made me wonder that it is good that I read Book Two first because it didn't have one. The epilogue just completed the two brothers' stories.
Thank you to the author, Harlequin Publishers, and NetGalley for an e-ARC of the book.
My review of books in this series are as follows:
The Risk (Book Two)
Ellie Little works as a chauffeur for the high and mighty apart from being a designer in her father's supercar company, Australis. She's chauffeuring for Ash Evans in Paris and hoping that she could convince the billionaire property developer/investor to not pull out the venture capital he invested in her father's company.
Ash had finally reached that milestone which granted him a membership to the invitations-only The Billionaires Club. And he was there to rub it in his half-brother's face as well as to sabotage Sebastian Dumont's latest business deal.
This was so hilarious, especially with Ellie doing all the things that normally none of Ash's staff would ever dare do. Not taking his annoyance to heart, not letting anything affect her sunny disposition. Narrated in the first person alternately every chapter from his and her perspective, this made for a very entertaining read.
He struck me very much like a bear with a sore paw, swiping at people who came too close.
Ellie is a classic example of a brilliant mind not allowed to succeed in a male-dominated area, starting with her family members. I hadn't enjoyed the second book, which I read first, as much as I was enjoyed reading this one. Ellie has four brothers, Jason, Justin, Dev, and George.
Mmm...for the first time I'm reading voyeurism, not that explicit, in a Dare title. And I love the blase chats between the protagonists. Ellie's an Aussie badass, with a mouth to match it. Haha! All those car references had me laughing out loud but it was all so hot as well.
He was a supercar in human form. Powerful, sleek, dangerous and difficult to manage. But, oh, how I wanted to manage him.
He's thirty-two to her twenty-five something. Since I read Book Two - The Risk first, all I can say is that the events in the books run parallel to each other. And I just realised that I love angsty protagonists more. Because outright I fell in love with this one. Ash and Ellie both have serious father issues and the way they resolve each other's moods is too sweet. And hot. And I said that again. The epilogue made me wonder that it is good that I read Book Two first because it didn't have one. The epilogue just completed the two brothers' stories.
Thank you to the author, Harlequin Publishers, and NetGalley for an e-ARC of the book.
My review of books in this series are as follows:
The Risk (Book Two)
September 18, 2019
The Debt by Jackie Ashenden is a steamy, character driven romance and the first in the multi-authored Billionaires Club series.
Car designer Ellie Little needs a favour from property developer Ash Evans. Her family business Australis relies on the investments from Ash’s company and with returns lagging, they are worried that Ash plans to withdraw the funding that is keeping the business afloat. When not designing cars Ellie makes some extra money chauffeuring the rich and famous and she’s signed herself on with the company that Ash uses in hopes she’ll make it into his rotation. Sure enough, she gets the chance to drive him around Paris for two days and hopes to convince him during that time to keep his money in her family company.
Ash is impressed with his new driver, a cheerful woman who isn’t intimidated by him or his wealth and who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. When their mutual attraction leads to some back seat shenanigans, Ellie takes the opportunity to tell him her real purpose in being there. Disappointed that Ellie is more interested in his money than in him, it’s a quickly terminated association. But Ash has a problem. He needs a ‘girlfriend’ for a business venture that will help him get revenge on his half-brother and he decides to offer Ellie a deal – play at being his partner and he’ll keep her company funded. Ellie can’t refuse, and not just because her family needs the cash. She can’t stop thinking about their steamy time together. But what will happen when their fake relationship starts to feel all too real?
I loved this story! Ellie is a really enjoyable heroine. While she doesn’t always get the support she needs from her father who didn’t know how to raise a girl on his own when his wife died, she is still loyal to her family company and invested in keeping it solvent. She has design dreams with hopes to have her own electric car on the market. But she’s also an excellent driver and uses those skills to make some extra money on the side. She’s not intimidated by Ash even though she wants something from him, so she speaks her mind and it’s this honest, refreshing approach that Ash finds as attractive as her person. Their instant chemistry results in a super smoking hot car sex scene. Then when it comes time to make the deal to benefit them both, it’s no surprise that they keep up their sexual relationship.
Ash is also great hero material. He came from poor beginnings and struggled to keep things going after bad investments from his half brother Seb cost them everything. He’s held a grudge against Seb ever since, something Ellie makes him reconsider. Once Ellie shares her design ideas with Ash, he’s interested in making her dreams a reality, even if he is conflicted about entering a real partnership with her. He doesn’t think he’s worthy of her love and affection even though it’s freely given. It takes him some time to realize what his life will be like without Ellie. Their path to a happy ending takes some twists and turns but is always entertaining! Jackie Ashenden has given the series a great start, here’s hoping the other authors will continue the trend!
This review also appears at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-th...
Car designer Ellie Little needs a favour from property developer Ash Evans. Her family business Australis relies on the investments from Ash’s company and with returns lagging, they are worried that Ash plans to withdraw the funding that is keeping the business afloat. When not designing cars Ellie makes some extra money chauffeuring the rich and famous and she’s signed herself on with the company that Ash uses in hopes she’ll make it into his rotation. Sure enough, she gets the chance to drive him around Paris for two days and hopes to convince him during that time to keep his money in her family company.
Ash is impressed with his new driver, a cheerful woman who isn’t intimidated by him or his wealth and who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. When their mutual attraction leads to some back seat shenanigans, Ellie takes the opportunity to tell him her real purpose in being there. Disappointed that Ellie is more interested in his money than in him, it’s a quickly terminated association. But Ash has a problem. He needs a ‘girlfriend’ for a business venture that will help him get revenge on his half-brother and he decides to offer Ellie a deal – play at being his partner and he’ll keep her company funded. Ellie can’t refuse, and not just because her family needs the cash. She can’t stop thinking about their steamy time together. But what will happen when their fake relationship starts to feel all too real?
I loved this story! Ellie is a really enjoyable heroine. While she doesn’t always get the support she needs from her father who didn’t know how to raise a girl on his own when his wife died, she is still loyal to her family company and invested in keeping it solvent. She has design dreams with hopes to have her own electric car on the market. But she’s also an excellent driver and uses those skills to make some extra money on the side. She’s not intimidated by Ash even though she wants something from him, so she speaks her mind and it’s this honest, refreshing approach that Ash finds as attractive as her person. Their instant chemistry results in a super smoking hot car sex scene. Then when it comes time to make the deal to benefit them both, it’s no surprise that they keep up their sexual relationship.
Ash is also great hero material. He came from poor beginnings and struggled to keep things going after bad investments from his half brother Seb cost them everything. He’s held a grudge against Seb ever since, something Ellie makes him reconsider. Once Ellie shares her design ideas with Ash, he’s interested in making her dreams a reality, even if he is conflicted about entering a real partnership with her. He doesn’t think he’s worthy of her love and affection even though it’s freely given. It takes him some time to realize what his life will be like without Ellie. Their path to a happy ending takes some twists and turns but is always entertaining! Jackie Ashenden has given the series a great start, here’s hoping the other authors will continue the trend!
This review also appears at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-th...
September 4, 2019
Rating: 3.5 Stars
The Debt follows Ash (Sebastian’s brother from The Risk) and Ellie Little. I really liked this story and could have easily loved it except a few things (see Safety Info below).
Ellie has thought up the perfect plan to save her family’s company. Pose as the driver to Ash Evans, gain his trust and kindly ask that he extend his support and his investment money for a while longer, enough to give her family a chance to dig themselves out of the financial hole their in. Easy peasy right?
Wrong.
Ash Evans has had to fight for everything that he has, his reputation is ruthless and hard earned. And he makes no apologies for it. He literally put his blood and tears into making himself a success, all the while thumbing his nose at the those that looked down on him or tried to use him for their own gain. So when Ellie broaches the subject of money – after they’ve spent an explosive night together – Ash doesn’t take the news well. At all. But when a deal he desperately wants, rides on him finding the perfect fake girlfriend, Ash proposes Ellie play his girlfriend in exchange for his continued financial support.
It starts as a wild short term affair but these two are connected on a level neither saw coming. No strings isn’t an option when their hearts are already involved.
Jackie Ashenden always writes stubborn head strong alpha heroes that fall hard for their ladies and Ash and Ellie are one of my favorite couples written by this author. They were great together. Their blend of heat, passion, tenderness and raw appeal was intoxicating. I enjoyed finally getting Ash’s side of the story and was curious about him ever since reading The Risk. Both Ellie and Ash are contradictions and both carry some heavy emotional baggage but I loved how they both instinctively understood and supported the other. Their love story is definitely memorable.
Except for the blip in the beginning of the book, the story was otherwise safe. I enjoyed it and know fans will love this one.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
The Debt follows Ash (Sebastian’s brother from The Risk) and Ellie Little. I really liked this story and could have easily loved it except a few things (see Safety Info below).
Ellie has thought up the perfect plan to save her family’s company. Pose as the driver to Ash Evans, gain his trust and kindly ask that he extend his support and his investment money for a while longer, enough to give her family a chance to dig themselves out of the financial hole their in. Easy peasy right?
Wrong.
Ash Evans has had to fight for everything that he has, his reputation is ruthless and hard earned. And he makes no apologies for it. He literally put his blood and tears into making himself a success, all the while thumbing his nose at the those that looked down on him or tried to use him for their own gain. So when Ellie broaches the subject of money – after they’ve spent an explosive night together – Ash doesn’t take the news well. At all. But when a deal he desperately wants, rides on him finding the perfect fake girlfriend, Ash proposes Ellie play his girlfriend in exchange for his continued financial support.
It starts as a wild short term affair but these two are connected on a level neither saw coming. No strings isn’t an option when their hearts are already involved.
Jackie Ashenden always writes stubborn head strong alpha heroes that fall hard for their ladies and Ash and Ellie are one of my favorite couples written by this author. They were great together. Their blend of heat, passion, tenderness and raw appeal was intoxicating. I enjoyed finally getting Ash’s side of the story and was curious about him ever since reading The Risk. Both Ellie and Ash are contradictions and both carry some heavy emotional baggage but I loved how they both instinctively understood and supported the other. Their love story is definitely memorable.
Except for the blip in the beginning of the book, the story was otherwise safe. I enjoyed it and know fans will love this one.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
September 3, 2019
The Debt is the first book in The Billionaire’s Club quartet and follows the story of Ash and Ellie. Ash Evans is a nortorious investor who is know for his brash attitude and being unforgiving when it comes to debts. But, Ellie needs a favor from him, so she takes a job as his chauffer in an effort to get closer to him. However, Ellie didn’t plan on Ash being so tempting. A price will need to be paid if Ellie expects Ash to agree to her favor. Pretending to be Ash’s girlfriend is easier said then done. With so much on the line, will Ellie’s heart be put into danger as well? There’s only one way to find out….
Overall, I thought this book was a quick and enjoyable read. The story hits the ground running and the pacing never lets up. From the moment we meet up with Ellie and Ash, the chemistry between the two is instant. Ash is broody and arrogant. He’s used to being treated with the upmost respect and always getting his way. When Ellie enters the picture, all bets are off. Ellie is sassy and isn’t afraid to put Ash in his place. She challenges him in a way a woman never has before and she’s making him feel things that he’s not prepared for. Together, these two are absolutely combustible. Despite all their differences and baggage they each carry, somehow these two just click. Sure their journey won’t be an easy one. There is bound to be a little drama and heartache along the way. That being said, I had a lot of fun getting swept up in these two and their story.
If I had one complaint about this book, it would be the ending. Don’t get me wrong, the ending was great, but I just felt like it was a bit rushed. I didn’t feel like it did Ellie and Ash’s story the justice that I wanted. I wish that we could have gotten a few more chapters and that Ash would have been made to grovel a little more.
Other than that, I thought this book was a quick and fun read. You can totally read this story in a single sitting. So, if you’re looking for a quick and sexy read, look no further, The Debt might just be the book you’ve been waiting for.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Overall, I thought this book was a quick and enjoyable read. The story hits the ground running and the pacing never lets up. From the moment we meet up with Ellie and Ash, the chemistry between the two is instant. Ash is broody and arrogant. He’s used to being treated with the upmost respect and always getting his way. When Ellie enters the picture, all bets are off. Ellie is sassy and isn’t afraid to put Ash in his place. She challenges him in a way a woman never has before and she’s making him feel things that he’s not prepared for. Together, these two are absolutely combustible. Despite all their differences and baggage they each carry, somehow these two just click. Sure their journey won’t be an easy one. There is bound to be a little drama and heartache along the way. That being said, I had a lot of fun getting swept up in these two and their story.
If I had one complaint about this book, it would be the ending. Don’t get me wrong, the ending was great, but I just felt like it was a bit rushed. I didn’t feel like it did Ellie and Ash’s story the justice that I wanted. I wish that we could have gotten a few more chapters and that Ash would have been made to grovel a little more.
Other than that, I thought this book was a quick and fun read. You can totally read this story in a single sitting. So, if you’re looking for a quick and sexy read, look no further, The Debt might just be the book you’ve been waiting for.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher and NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review*
Want to read
August 6, 2019💝
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
💝
June 20, 2019
- Received an Advance Reader Copy in exchange for a fair review -
A quote (from ARC):
“With his height and his broad built, his scarred face and the electric blue of his eyes, the formality of the clothing seemed only to enhance the raw masculinity of him, a kind of untamed energy that had made my breath catch the moment I’d seen him in it.”
I usually don’t like instant attraction/love, but this was well written and intense, even if in a schematic, abbreviated way. Jackie Ashenden is so talented creating these beastly heroes who turn into big, gentle kittens when they fall for their fiercely beloved heroines.
Ash is another one of Ashenden’s grumpy males with a “fearsome reputation”, a rude “beast of a man” who goes all “fierce and passionate” and protective when he falls for the inexperienced, yet intrepid and bold, heroine.
“The Debt” is a typical Jackie Ashenden story, with lots of explicit sex, and a scarred, wounded hero, “arrogant and bossy and demanding”, whose tenderness we only get to glimpse through the privileged eyes of the heroine.
A quote (from ARC):
“With his height and his broad built, his scarred face and the electric blue of his eyes, the formality of the clothing seemed only to enhance the raw masculinity of him, a kind of untamed energy that had made my breath catch the moment I’d seen him in it.”
I usually don’t like instant attraction/love, but this was well written and intense, even if in a schematic, abbreviated way. Jackie Ashenden is so talented creating these beastly heroes who turn into big, gentle kittens when they fall for their fiercely beloved heroines.
Ash is another one of Ashenden’s grumpy males with a “fearsome reputation”, a rude “beast of a man” who goes all “fierce and passionate” and protective when he falls for the inexperienced, yet intrepid and bold, heroine.
“The Debt” is a typical Jackie Ashenden story, with lots of explicit sex, and a scarred, wounded hero, “arrogant and bossy and demanding”, whose tenderness we only get to glimpse through the privileged eyes of the heroine.
June 19, 2019
Ellie lost her mother when she was young and has lived in the shadow of her brothers. In Australia their family owns an auto business that Ash Evans a billionaire has invested in. Because an assault on Ellie her father has paid the bad guy off and put the business in financial difficulty. To safe the company Ellie tracks down Ash to beg for more time to pay on his investments. Love Ashenden's way of linking these two for romance and healing of their past struggles. "A copy of this book was provided by HARLEQUIN - Romance (U.S. & Canada) via NetGalley with no requirements for a review. Comments here are my own opinion." EVERY BOOK I SEE WRITTEN BY THIS AUTHOR I PICK UP!
September 2, 2019
This is the first book from this author and I really did enjoy it. Ash and Ellie had such good chemistry and I really enjoyed their story. Ellie decides to pose as his driver just so she can get close to him. He decides he wants her to be more: his girlfriend for the purpose of helping with a business deal. The problem is that the longer they stay together, the more real feelings will get involved. Can they fight them or will they give in? If you want a quick read then this is for you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
January 19, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a Dare release and so was more risqué. Ellie pretends to be a chauffeur to Ash to get him into close quarters and bring up their business contract. Ellie is funny and bold and certainly not a wimp. Ash is sweet and extremely sexy when he’s playing to be in control. They barely make it to a bed in the entire book! Good for a quick pick me up.
This was a Dare release and so was more risqué. Ellie pretends to be a chauffeur to Ash to get him into close quarters and bring up their business contract. Ellie is funny and bold and certainly not a wimp. Ash is sweet and extremely sexy when he’s playing to be in control. They barely make it to a bed in the entire book! Good for a quick pick me up.
August 31, 2019
He’s a notoriously ruthless property developer who never forgives a debt. And Ellie Little has two days to convince Ash Evans not to pull his investment in her father’s company. The only way to get close to the bad-tempered billionaire is to pose as his chauffeur but Ash turns the table and soon Ellie is posing as his girlfriend.
The first book in this new billionaire romance series is an emotional, gripping and engaging read that stirs and delights the senses. The chemistry between these two strong, vivid characters sizzles with an electrical charge that singes readers with the turn of every page, but the relationship between Ellie and Ash has sparks flying and takes a lot of hard work and even that doesn’t guarantee this HEA as the past could derail it forever.
The story is fast paced and full of flying sparks, heated clashes, and super-heated passion that delights readers while the emotional angst that flows from the pages as both the hero and the heroine have some issues to resolve but the hero in this case has some anger issues that threatens the romance even though he’s show his good side. And readers can’t help but become caught up in this romance and lose their hearts as Ash finds the sexiest way possible to collect on a debt and win the heart that he doesn’t know what to do with.
The first book in this new billionaire romance series is an emotional, gripping and engaging read that stirs and delights the senses. The chemistry between these two strong, vivid characters sizzles with an electrical charge that singes readers with the turn of every page, but the relationship between Ellie and Ash has sparks flying and takes a lot of hard work and even that doesn’t guarantee this HEA as the past could derail it forever.
The story is fast paced and full of flying sparks, heated clashes, and super-heated passion that delights readers while the emotional angst that flows from the pages as both the hero and the heroine have some issues to resolve but the hero in this case has some anger issues that threatens the romance even though he’s show his good side. And readers can’t help but become caught up in this romance and lose their hearts as Ash finds the sexiest way possible to collect on a debt and win the heart that he doesn’t know what to do with.
July 6, 2019
This author has been a hit or miss for me, but I'm happy to say that I enjoyed Ash and Ellie's story. This couple has good chemistry, and there is a lot of steam coming off the pages. Ash and Ellie both have a bit of baggage they carry, although I think between the two Ash has more. Both characters were appealing and I liked Ellie's optimism and how she looked at life. The story is nothing new or groundbreaking, but it was enjoyable reading how these two found their way to each and got past their issues to reach their happily ever after.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
August 28, 2019
4 Stars
Reviewed by Allyson
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
The Debt by Jackie Ashenden is a story to be devoured by anyone and everyone! For a new author, I was interested in trying fresh material and I am happy I did.
The Debt revolves a girl, looking to save her family's business and asks the one man she probably shouldn't. She has no choice but to ask the overbearing, arrogant ex-fighter for help, but who would have thought their chemistry would be red hot and wild?! Get ready for a passionate ride.
As a new author for me and one to watch, I enjoyed how she wrote strong characters in their own dynamics. The details, settings, and romance were scripted perfectly... not wanting to skip a word. My only nudge is parts of the story, especially towards the end, did seem rushed. I wished Ashenden would have slowed down and truly gave these characters more time.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Allyson
Late Night Reviewer
Up All Night w/ Books Blog
The Debt by Jackie Ashenden is a story to be devoured by anyone and everyone! For a new author, I was interested in trying fresh material and I am happy I did.
The Debt revolves a girl, looking to save her family's business and asks the one man she probably shouldn't. She has no choice but to ask the overbearing, arrogant ex-fighter for help, but who would have thought their chemistry would be red hot and wild?! Get ready for a passionate ride.
As a new author for me and one to watch, I enjoyed how she wrote strong characters in their own dynamics. The details, settings, and romance were scripted perfectly... not wanting to skip a word. My only nudge is parts of the story, especially towards the end, did seem rushed. I wished Ashenden would have slowed down and truly gave these characters more time.
*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 21, 2019
The debt has been quite a ride 🛫for me ..
I meet Ellie Little and Ash Evans ...
Ellie is a daughter of an Australian businessman who makes luxury cars .
Ash is a selfmade billionaire .
They met each other for the very first time in Paris and there and then they felt a jolt of electricity that confused them ..😜💥
Aah i love those sparks ....
Ellie and Ash both have certain common things like they were passionate , honest, were deprived of affection, and their feelings for each other ...
I completely adored both of them .
The story line was fantabulous . It gives us a wonderful moral lesson that misunderstandings can only be solved when you try to bridge the gap ... love takes away all your grumpiness , anger and only gives you peace and satisfaction in return .
🌹i give it 10/10🌹
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Guys do read this book . Its amazing ..read it and spread love 💖
I meet Ellie Little and Ash Evans ...
Ellie is a daughter of an Australian businessman who makes luxury cars .
Ash is a selfmade billionaire .
They met each other for the very first time in Paris and there and then they felt a jolt of electricity that confused them ..😜💥
Aah i love those sparks ....
Ellie and Ash both have certain common things like they were passionate , honest, were deprived of affection, and their feelings for each other ...
I completely adored both of them .
The story line was fantabulous . It gives us a wonderful moral lesson that misunderstandings can only be solved when you try to bridge the gap ... love takes away all your grumpiness , anger and only gives you peace and satisfaction in return .
🌹i give it 10/10🌹
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Guys do read this book . Its amazing ..read it and spread love 💖
August 4, 2019
First let me say I love love love Jackie Ashenden and anything that she turns out usually has my vote. Now that being said, The Debt is no exception. The only thing I wasn’t crazy about was the title. I don’t really think it fit in the long run of things but that’s just my opinion.
Ash Evans is a scarred, bad boy who takes zero attitude from anyone. Most people bend to his will pretty easily and he’s earned everything he’s gotten for himself in life. Much to the chagrin of his biological father and half brother. Yes, that little tit-bit through him for a small loop, especially after becoming good friends with his brother before knowing who he was. After that though reversal of fortune, all bets were off and Ash made a name for himself without them.
Ellie Little has been trying to get her father to see her great ideas to advance their company for years. Too bad he just thinks she is a good worker and nothing more. Being the youngest and the only girl, she’s had it rough since her mom died. She decides to take matters into her own hands and go undercover as the chauffer to the bigwig looking to take over the company. She can do this, save her family’s company and maybe her dad will give her the credit she is due, finally.
Ash isn’t fooled by Ellie’s little rouse and quickly realizes he needs her help to pull off a major blindside against his brother. They are both looking to buy an island property but the seller is looking for someone to raise they family there. Not a swinging bachelor like Ash. He convinces Ellie to pose as his girlfriend to secure his purchase of the islands from out of his brother’s grasp.
Over it all, Ellie and Ash realizes their attraction to one another. Ash figures out who she is and what her company is all about and helps her realize her dreams. They agree the arrangement is only temporary but when time is up, are they really over?
Another 5 star awesome read from Ms. Ashenden I voluntarily read and reviewed without expectations. Any and all opinions expressed, are my own.
Ash Evans is a scarred, bad boy who takes zero attitude from anyone. Most people bend to his will pretty easily and he’s earned everything he’s gotten for himself in life. Much to the chagrin of his biological father and half brother. Yes, that little tit-bit through him for a small loop, especially after becoming good friends with his brother before knowing who he was. After that though reversal of fortune, all bets were off and Ash made a name for himself without them.
Ellie Little has been trying to get her father to see her great ideas to advance their company for years. Too bad he just thinks she is a good worker and nothing more. Being the youngest and the only girl, she’s had it rough since her mom died. She decides to take matters into her own hands and go undercover as the chauffer to the bigwig looking to take over the company. She can do this, save her family’s company and maybe her dad will give her the credit she is due, finally.
Ash isn’t fooled by Ellie’s little rouse and quickly realizes he needs her help to pull off a major blindside against his brother. They are both looking to buy an island property but the seller is looking for someone to raise they family there. Not a swinging bachelor like Ash. He convinces Ellie to pose as his girlfriend to secure his purchase of the islands from out of his brother’s grasp.
Over it all, Ellie and Ash realizes their attraction to one another. Ash figures out who she is and what her company is all about and helps her realize her dreams. They agree the arrangement is only temporary but when time is up, are they really over?
Another 5 star awesome read from Ms. Ashenden I voluntarily read and reviewed without expectations. Any and all opinions expressed, are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2019
Wow!!! This book grabbed me right from the first chapter & didn’t let go. Ash & Ellie were explosive, their chemistry was so far off the charts. Author Jackie Ashden had me wondering if there were any redeeming qualities in Ash, as his fierce, angry attitude seemed to be all he was for so long. Ellie was a conundrum of sorts as I first thought her shy, but she’s also a strong willed, not afraid of much, always in the drivers seat woman as well. A favour asked after a night neither will forget, a favour returned in a week of unbridled emotions has these two opening up to each other in ways they never have before. There were so many emotions running through me while reading this book & that’s a sign of a good storyteller. I’m looking forward to reading more of this series. Definitely recommend. I received this book from the publisher through Net Galley for an honest review.
September 6, 2019
Ellie takes the chance to drive a billionaire around. He could be the key to saving her family's business. If only she knew how attracted she would be to such a man.
Ash is a take no prisoners kind of billionaire. He says it like it is and his word is his bond. He is also a special kind of man. The kind who would fall for a beauty of a driver.
This book started out slow and I wondered how it would get there. Then I got a few chapters in and the pace not only picked up, but the story just about blasted off the page. I fell for these characters and could not put it down. I am excited for the next book in the series.
***This early copy was given in exchange for an honest review, by Netgalley and its publishers.
Ash is a take no prisoners kind of billionaire. He says it like it is and his word is his bond. He is also a special kind of man. The kind who would fall for a beauty of a driver.
This book started out slow and I wondered how it would get there. Then I got a few chapters in and the pace not only picked up, but the story just about blasted off the page. I fell for these characters and could not put it down. I am excited for the next book in the series.
***This early copy was given in exchange for an honest review, by Netgalley and its publishers.
February 10, 2020
I love Jackie Ashenden’s books. I have read almost 30 of them and never found one that bored me. This is one of my favourites a strong, riveting hero matched with a sassy, intrepid heroine and prose which sparks off the page. Ash is an amazing hero and his story engaged my interest from the beginning. As always, Jackie writes superbly erotic love scenes and the ride to a happy ending is bliss! Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 10, 2019
Here's to another night's sleep lost to yet another un-put-downable novel by Jackie Ashenden, who kept me reading her latest Dare novel until 5:00 a.m., and even made me cry. I loved this novel and it's characters and it gets 5+++++ stars from this reader.
Ellie Little, an Australian twenty-something, lost her mom at a young age, and with a distant and grieving, non-demonstrative father who hates the fact that his only daughter is the spitting image of his late wife simply ignores her, as do her four brothers, so Ellie puts away her dresses, heels and make-up, and tries to become the fifth brother, sharing their love of race cars, and helping her father to design and hand-build luxury supercars, as well as race cars, seeking to rival the finest European models on the market, but their company, Australis, is in a financial crisis. Mark, their top designer made an huge mistake by grabbing and groping Ellie from behind, and, in response, Ellie kneed him in his nether regions, and her father was forced to pay him off in order to prevent him from filing assault charges against Ellie. That payoff used up much of the venture capital he'd borrowed from one of the venture capital companies owned by notably rude, impatient, and arrogant billionaire, Ash Evans, and there was little time to recoup all that payoff money before their debt was due to be paid--and if they didn't pay it back, that was the end of their company. There seemed to be no way out.
So, unbeknownst to her family, Ellie manages to get a job driving for a British limo service, and after a month of hoping she'd be assigned to Ash Evans, her wish came true as she was assigned to be his chauffeur during his trip to a gala charity event in Paris, at the rarified and elite Billionaire's Club, replacing his regular, elderly chauffeur who is ill. When Ash sees petite, spunky, cheerful Ellie, he's intrigued by her, shochked that she's not cowed by him, rude to her, annoyed with her, yet also strangely attracted to her, as she is to him. Ellie is hoping for a moment of his time to beg Ash not to call in the debt quite so soon, but her window of opportunity is very slim. After Ash leaves the event with a gorgeous blonde who is all over him in the back seat of the limo, he's more turned on by the fact that Ellie is watching him in her rear view mirror than he is by the blonde in the back seat, and Ellie is shocked when they drop off the blonde at her hotel, and Ellie and Ash, who have chemistry to burn, are soon both in the back seat of the limo, and I was surprised that the heat of their unexpected and incendiary coupling was enough to melt my e-reader. Yet, Ellie still hasn't told him why she's there and when she finally does, while driving him to the airport, he looks at her like every other gold-digger who's wanted something from him, and treats her accordingly. At least until he realizes he may need her help.
Ash wants retribution. When his mother got involved with man she didn't know was already married, resulting is her pregnancy with Ash, he spurned her, showing no interest in her or his son, and leaving her living in squalid housing and practically penniless, but she eventually convinces him to pay for their son and allow him to attend a private school. It's there that he meets his half-brother, Sebastian Dumont, and the two become fast friends and eventually business partners, at least until Sebastian betrays Ash and ends up losing not only the money Ash put in to their business, but his mother's life savings as well--and Ash wants revenge. Grappling his way from poverty to wealth, he has finally figured out a plan, a way to get back at his brother, but he'll need Ellie to pose as his serious girlfriend to accomplish his goal, and hang on to your hats, because as you probably already know, best laid plans often go awry. Ellie eventually agrees to his plan but also extracts his promise to help out her father's business, and the heat goes on.
Jackie Ashenden has, in this short novel, managed to deliver two fully fleshed-out, complex, broken and emotionally challenged characters, who are more alike than either of them realize at the outset, and this reader found them and their story deeply moving, searingly hot, and simply unforgettable. I think you will too, and I highly recommend it.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
Ellie Little, an Australian twenty-something, lost her mom at a young age, and with a distant and grieving, non-demonstrative father who hates the fact that his only daughter is the spitting image of his late wife simply ignores her, as do her four brothers, so Ellie puts away her dresses, heels and make-up, and tries to become the fifth brother, sharing their love of race cars, and helping her father to design and hand-build luxury supercars, as well as race cars, seeking to rival the finest European models on the market, but their company, Australis, is in a financial crisis. Mark, their top designer made an huge mistake by grabbing and groping Ellie from behind, and, in response, Ellie kneed him in his nether regions, and her father was forced to pay him off in order to prevent him from filing assault charges against Ellie. That payoff used up much of the venture capital he'd borrowed from one of the venture capital companies owned by notably rude, impatient, and arrogant billionaire, Ash Evans, and there was little time to recoup all that payoff money before their debt was due to be paid--and if they didn't pay it back, that was the end of their company. There seemed to be no way out.
So, unbeknownst to her family, Ellie manages to get a job driving for a British limo service, and after a month of hoping she'd be assigned to Ash Evans, her wish came true as she was assigned to be his chauffeur during his trip to a gala charity event in Paris, at the rarified and elite Billionaire's Club, replacing his regular, elderly chauffeur who is ill. When Ash sees petite, spunky, cheerful Ellie, he's intrigued by her, shochked that she's not cowed by him, rude to her, annoyed with her, yet also strangely attracted to her, as she is to him. Ellie is hoping for a moment of his time to beg Ash not to call in the debt quite so soon, but her window of opportunity is very slim. After Ash leaves the event with a gorgeous blonde who is all over him in the back seat of the limo, he's more turned on by the fact that Ellie is watching him in her rear view mirror than he is by the blonde in the back seat, and Ellie is shocked when they drop off the blonde at her hotel, and Ellie and Ash, who have chemistry to burn, are soon both in the back seat of the limo, and I was surprised that the heat of their unexpected and incendiary coupling was enough to melt my e-reader. Yet, Ellie still hasn't told him why she's there and when she finally does, while driving him to the airport, he looks at her like every other gold-digger who's wanted something from him, and treats her accordingly. At least until he realizes he may need her help.
Ash wants retribution. When his mother got involved with man she didn't know was already married, resulting is her pregnancy with Ash, he spurned her, showing no interest in her or his son, and leaving her living in squalid housing and practically penniless, but she eventually convinces him to pay for their son and allow him to attend a private school. It's there that he meets his half-brother, Sebastian Dumont, and the two become fast friends and eventually business partners, at least until Sebastian betrays Ash and ends up losing not only the money Ash put in to their business, but his mother's life savings as well--and Ash wants revenge. Grappling his way from poverty to wealth, he has finally figured out a plan, a way to get back at his brother, but he'll need Ellie to pose as his serious girlfriend to accomplish his goal, and hang on to your hats, because as you probably already know, best laid plans often go awry. Ellie eventually agrees to his plan but also extracts his promise to help out her father's business, and the heat goes on.
Jackie Ashenden has, in this short novel, managed to deliver two fully fleshed-out, complex, broken and emotionally challenged characters, who are more alike than either of them realize at the outset, and this reader found them and their story deeply moving, searingly hot, and simply unforgettable. I think you will too, and I highly recommend it.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this novel. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 13, 2019
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
THE DEBT is part of The Billionaires Club quartet from Harlequin Dare™ with a couple that will melt your Kindle quite easily.
Ellie has the perfect plan to ask investor Ash Evans for more time to bring her family’s company out of financial troubles, to not pull his investment in them just yet. Unfortunately, plans on paper often work out quite differently in reality. She’s taken on the job as his chauffeur in order to get close enough for that conversation, yet she never expected that the sizzling chemistry between would take over before she had the chance to put her plan into motion. Now she’s stuck with an angry Ash who feels used and lied to after their burning up the sheets night together – and she’s falling for a very bad boy with an attitude a mile long. Oh, he’ll consider her request once he gets what he needs from her short-term which is a fake girlfriend to finalize his own plan against his half-brother. Funny, how plans rarely work out as intended when emotions come into play.
I liked both Ash and Ellie. They’ve had to handle rough patches in their lives, they are both stubborn and determined, yet at their core, both Ash and Ellie are people who have been hurt and are very defensive in differing ways. Watching them enter into a sizzling hot pretend relationship that suddenly takes a turn neither expected was such an enjoyable journey.
If you enjoy a hot, sizzling, totally sex personified type of bad boy and the woman who can show him what love can be then you’ll want to pick up Ash and Ellie’s romance and get ready for a steamy ride. I would not hesitate to recommend THE DEBT to any Romance reader who enjoys their couples a bit too hot to handle.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
THE DEBT is part of The Billionaires Club quartet from Harlequin Dare™ with a couple that will melt your Kindle quite easily.
Ellie has the perfect plan to ask investor Ash Evans for more time to bring her family’s company out of financial troubles, to not pull his investment in them just yet. Unfortunately, plans on paper often work out quite differently in reality. She’s taken on the job as his chauffeur in order to get close enough for that conversation, yet she never expected that the sizzling chemistry between would take over before she had the chance to put her plan into motion. Now she’s stuck with an angry Ash who feels used and lied to after their burning up the sheets night together – and she’s falling for a very bad boy with an attitude a mile long. Oh, he’ll consider her request once he gets what he needs from her short-term which is a fake girlfriend to finalize his own plan against his half-brother. Funny, how plans rarely work out as intended when emotions come into play.
I liked both Ash and Ellie. They’ve had to handle rough patches in their lives, they are both stubborn and determined, yet at their core, both Ash and Ellie are people who have been hurt and are very defensive in differing ways. Watching them enter into a sizzling hot pretend relationship that suddenly takes a turn neither expected was such an enjoyable journey.
If you enjoy a hot, sizzling, totally sex personified type of bad boy and the woman who can show him what love can be then you’ll want to pick up Ash and Ellie’s romance and get ready for a steamy ride. I would not hesitate to recommend THE DEBT to any Romance reader who enjoys their couples a bit too hot to handle.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
June 23, 2019
Wow what a book!!!
This is a story of Ellie Little and Ash Evans.
Ellie has suppressed her feelings and girly nature her whole life surrounded only by men in her family. She walked a careful line trying not to cross in to and emotional zone and keep her fussing to a minimum for everyone around her.
Ash has built his whole life and business on anger and betrayal. He has not let go of things that happened to him from when he was a kid. Things he could of prevented and things it was impossible for him to have any chance at stopping.
Well the two of them end up meeting and from that moment on what a roller coaster of emotions it was. He was suppressing his feeling and covering it with anger and even though Ellie tried she could not hind the overwhelming feelings running through her.
I loved that they both were very head strong and accept challenges in an amazingly fun way. The story was good I actually really loved it! I don’t want to give to much away in this review but I will say that in the beginning of the book I had some trouble wanting to keep reading , I’m glad I did but it still was there.
My problem, she refers to him as a car!
To there sexual actions as driving a car. Well I’m not a huge car fan and I personally hated this and it turned me off right away. This threw my car to a halt pulled the emergency brake and skidded to a stop real quick and then got stuck in some mud lol!
I wanted to stop reading but I don’t leave books unfinished unless I can’t follow the story at all. So I kept with it and it paid off in the end.
The car references with the sexual activity eased up and in the end I really enjoyed this book it was great and held my attention after the brief issue.
Thanks so much to netgalley for the chance to experience this book.
This is a story of Ellie Little and Ash Evans.
Ellie has suppressed her feelings and girly nature her whole life surrounded only by men in her family. She walked a careful line trying not to cross in to and emotional zone and keep her fussing to a minimum for everyone around her.
Ash has built his whole life and business on anger and betrayal. He has not let go of things that happened to him from when he was a kid. Things he could of prevented and things it was impossible for him to have any chance at stopping.
Well the two of them end up meeting and from that moment on what a roller coaster of emotions it was. He was suppressing his feeling and covering it with anger and even though Ellie tried she could not hind the overwhelming feelings running through her.
I loved that they both were very head strong and accept challenges in an amazingly fun way. The story was good I actually really loved it! I don’t want to give to much away in this review but I will say that in the beginning of the book I had some trouble wanting to keep reading , I’m glad I did but it still was there.
My problem, she refers to him as a car!
To there sexual actions as driving a car. Well I’m not a huge car fan and I personally hated this and it turned me off right away. This threw my car to a halt pulled the emergency brake and skidded to a stop real quick and then got stuck in some mud lol!
I wanted to stop reading but I don’t leave books unfinished unless I can’t follow the story at all. So I kept with it and it paid off in the end.
The car references with the sexual activity eased up and in the end I really enjoyed this book it was great and held my attention after the brief issue.
Thanks so much to netgalley for the chance to experience this book.
July 31, 2019
A woman determined to save her family business agrees to pose as the girlfriend of a notoriously ruthless billionaire and finds herself developing real feelings for him.
Ellie Little needs a favor from Ash Evans, so she takes a job as his chauffeur in order to get close to him. Ash Evans is a ruthless billionaire who revels in his reputation as a former streetfighter.
He makes no apologies for who he is or how he acts. Ash agrees, but demands a favor in return: Ellie must pose as his girlfriend to help one of his business deals. When real feelings begin to develop, will Ellie and Ash be able to walk away unscathed?
Ashenden delivers a fun and sexy romance with two amazing and complex characters. Ash and Ellie both had their struggles but they both had an inner strength that helped them overcome their pasts. Their banter was great and natural, you could feel the connection between the two. Unfortunately, the story falls short in its development of their relationship, with the pair jumping from being in a fake relationship to being together for real rather suddenly. The storyline moved quickly and at times felt rushed. It hinted at issues between Ellie and her father but this thread is never fully developed as Ellie barely speaks with her father throughout the book. Their interactions near the end of the book felt not quite right, because there was little exploration into the relationship that could explain the change in her father.
This was my first time reading a book from this author and I found it to be an interesting and enjoyable read that could have had more to its plot. Where it lacked depth in storyline, it made up for in its deep and real hero and heroine. It is a good book that I would recommend to those who enjoy fun, quick reads.
ARC received from NetGalley.
#TheDebt #NetGalley
Ellie Little needs a favor from Ash Evans, so she takes a job as his chauffeur in order to get close to him. Ash Evans is a ruthless billionaire who revels in his reputation as a former streetfighter.
He makes no apologies for who he is or how he acts. Ash agrees, but demands a favor in return: Ellie must pose as his girlfriend to help one of his business deals. When real feelings begin to develop, will Ellie and Ash be able to walk away unscathed?
Ashenden delivers a fun and sexy romance with two amazing and complex characters. Ash and Ellie both had their struggles but they both had an inner strength that helped them overcome their pasts. Their banter was great and natural, you could feel the connection between the two. Unfortunately, the story falls short in its development of their relationship, with the pair jumping from being in a fake relationship to being together for real rather suddenly. The storyline moved quickly and at times felt rushed. It hinted at issues between Ellie and her father but this thread is never fully developed as Ellie barely speaks with her father throughout the book. Their interactions near the end of the book felt not quite right, because there was little exploration into the relationship that could explain the change in her father.
This was my first time reading a book from this author and I found it to be an interesting and enjoyable read that could have had more to its plot. Where it lacked depth in storyline, it made up for in its deep and real hero and heroine. It is a good book that I would recommend to those who enjoy fun, quick reads.
ARC received from NetGalley.
#TheDebt #NetGalley
June 19, 2019
Ellie is a young woman who is out to help her dad. He has gotten their car design business which also races in financial trouble. Her father doesn’t want her four older brothers to know out of pride. So, he has asked Elle for her help.
She has taken on a second job in order to bring in cash but also to get near the subject she needs to sweet talk into giving her father extra time to make the business what it once was. But Ash Evan’s he holds all the cards. If he pulls all his funds and calls on in his investment money they are done for.
Hence her job as a chauffeur. She has also moved from Australia to London to get into the rotation of the many drivers. Ash goes through because he is so harsh and demanding. But, remember she has four older brothers he doesn’t scare her. Not succeeding does, as well as letting her father down too!
Ash is arrogant, full of rage and revenge for his stepbrother, Sebastian Dumont. Also, his ex-best friend who together growing up in private school ruled them. They talked about going into business. How and what they would do. Until Seb stole all the ideas and money. Now Ash intends to repay the favor.
First, on the list surprising him at the exclusive Billionaire’s Club. How sweet it is. Will his stepbrother think so? The first meet with Elle sparks another connection that irritates him. Yet, it intrigues her. He is unlike any of the alphas she has been raised with. There was one quiet, two stoics, two that are cheeky, and a fun one. The dangerous of them all is the one who is pretending to be nice but is a sleaze.
Find out how two invisible children learned to cope in there worlds yet, were able to see each other clearly now. I love the passion yet gentleness of the characters in just the course of a short conversation. She brings their pains and heartache flying off the pages.
You will also fill their growing sexual intensity from each look, touch, and moment together. I give this: 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
She has taken on a second job in order to bring in cash but also to get near the subject she needs to sweet talk into giving her father extra time to make the business what it once was. But Ash Evan’s he holds all the cards. If he pulls all his funds and calls on in his investment money they are done for.
Hence her job as a chauffeur. She has also moved from Australia to London to get into the rotation of the many drivers. Ash goes through because he is so harsh and demanding. But, remember she has four older brothers he doesn’t scare her. Not succeeding does, as well as letting her father down too!
Ash is arrogant, full of rage and revenge for his stepbrother, Sebastian Dumont. Also, his ex-best friend who together growing up in private school ruled them. They talked about going into business. How and what they would do. Until Seb stole all the ideas and money. Now Ash intends to repay the favor.
First, on the list surprising him at the exclusive Billionaire’s Club. How sweet it is. Will his stepbrother think so? The first meet with Elle sparks another connection that irritates him. Yet, it intrigues her. He is unlike any of the alphas she has been raised with. There was one quiet, two stoics, two that are cheeky, and a fun one. The dangerous of them all is the one who is pretending to be nice but is a sleaze.
Find out how two invisible children learned to cope in there worlds yet, were able to see each other clearly now. I love the passion yet gentleness of the characters in just the course of a short conversation. She brings their pains and heartache flying off the pages.
You will also fill their growing sexual intensity from each look, touch, and moment together. I give this: 5++++ stars. Provided by netgalley.com. Follow us at www.1rad-readerreviews.com.
September 18, 2019
The Debt, written by Jackie Ashenden is published by the relatively new M&B imprint - Dare. This series of books are racier, steamier and the main characters aren’t necessarily the archetypal traditional M&B hero/heroine.
Ellie Little is a chauffeur who wangles a job with billionaire Ash Evans in order to persuade him not to pull his financial investment in her father’s car business. Ellie lost her mother when she was young and has always lived in her brothers’ shadows. Her father is in dire financial straits as he had to pay Ellie’s assaulter a large amount of money. Ellie has two days to persuade Ash not to pull the financial plug on her father’s business. Both of them get rather more than they bargain for when Ash convinces Ellie to masquerade as his fake girlfriend so that he can get one over on his step brother and purchase some islands that he wants. The chemistry between the pair is hot but will it last?
As an exfighter Ash is portrayed and comes across to the reader as very protective of Ellie and vice versa. I have followed Jackie’s career (via twitter) and enjoyed the books published prior to her foray in to M&B. Her heros are still slightly quirky, unusual, alpha males with a twist be it that they are broken or gritty characters shaped by past experiences. Her heroines are fiesty, independent and force to be reckoned with! Ellie’s father appears, even by the end of the novel, to be a very very unlikeable character. I always enjoy Jackie’s novels and look forward to the next one!!
I received this book via Netgalley and Mills and Boon in exchange for a honest review. I am a #MillsAndBoonInsider #netgalley
Ellie Little is a chauffeur who wangles a job with billionaire Ash Evans in order to persuade him not to pull his financial investment in her father’s car business. Ellie lost her mother when she was young and has always lived in her brothers’ shadows. Her father is in dire financial straits as he had to pay Ellie’s assaulter a large amount of money. Ellie has two days to persuade Ash not to pull the financial plug on her father’s business. Both of them get rather more than they bargain for when Ash convinces Ellie to masquerade as his fake girlfriend so that he can get one over on his step brother and purchase some islands that he wants. The chemistry between the pair is hot but will it last?
As an exfighter Ash is portrayed and comes across to the reader as very protective of Ellie and vice versa. I have followed Jackie’s career (via twitter) and enjoyed the books published prior to her foray in to M&B. Her heros are still slightly quirky, unusual, alpha males with a twist be it that they are broken or gritty characters shaped by past experiences. Her heroines are fiesty, independent and force to be reckoned with! Ellie’s father appears, even by the end of the novel, to be a very very unlikeable character. I always enjoy Jackie’s novels and look forward to the next one!!
I received this book via Netgalley and Mills and Boon in exchange for a honest review. I am a #MillsAndBoonInsider #netgalley
June 25, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I heart quick reads or as I call them 'quickies'!
I love the fake relationship troupe and grumpy (sort-of) antiheroes. The only thing that could have made this any better would be some good quality groveling. I really enjoyed the topic of a billionaire that didn't act like one per se and the exotic car aspect. I wish we had learned more about it and maybe more of a highlight on the electric car aspect. I also liked how there was eventually genuine feelings and not insta-love.
Ok so quick summation, Elle is attempting to talk one of the investors in her family's exotic car business into giving them a loan extension and set herself up as his chauffeur to do it. Ash, said investor and notorious for his gruff nature, is not happy about his new chipper fresh-faced chauffer. What they didn't expect was the instant connection between them. There were no continuous themes of deception between them (which is a total turn off for me and greatly appreciated).
As I mentioned above, this was a quick read and as much as I love a good short story with lots of heat and smolder, I kind of wish there was more story.
Definitely recommend for those that love grumpy alphas and hot saucy times, all in a quick read form!
This was an ARC generously provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love the fake relationship troupe and grumpy (sort-of) antiheroes. The only thing that could have made this any better would be some good quality groveling. I really enjoyed the topic of a billionaire that didn't act like one per se and the exotic car aspect. I wish we had learned more about it and maybe more of a highlight on the electric car aspect. I also liked how there was eventually genuine feelings and not insta-love.
Ok so quick summation, Elle is attempting to talk one of the investors in her family's exotic car business into giving them a loan extension and set herself up as his chauffeur to do it. Ash, said investor and notorious for his gruff nature, is not happy about his new chipper fresh-faced chauffer. What they didn't expect was the instant connection between them. There were no continuous themes of deception between them (which is a total turn off for me and greatly appreciated).
As I mentioned above, this was a quick read and as much as I love a good short story with lots of heat and smolder, I kind of wish there was more story.
Definitely recommend for those that love grumpy alphas and hot saucy times, all in a quick read form!
This was an ARC generously provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2019
While not normally a reader of contemporary (romantic suspense preferred), I couldn't pass this up because Jackie Ashenden is a favorite of mine. Know going in that the grammar/spelling/etc are written from the Australian perspective, but it won't hinder your enjoyment at all. Eliie is a chauffeur, a first for any heroine I've ever read. She needs something from Ash, so getting a gig driving for him seems to be the only way to get in front of him. Ash is a self made billionaire with a huge chip on his shoulder. He is not approachable, and his appearance is formidable, but Ellie is desperate. The attraction between the two was electric from the first second, but as soon as Ash discovered Ellie's real purpose, he went stone cold... At least until he found a way he could get something out of the deal. The rest you will have to read to discover. There was some subplot between Ash and his half brother and also between Ellie and her father. These storylines weren't as developed as I would have liked, but I loved the chemistry between Ash and Ellie. Ash was so sexy and the sexy scenes were both fun and hot. Ms. Ashenden had written another unforgettable alpha male.
I received an ARC from Net Galley for honest review.
I received an ARC from Net Galley for honest review.
August 8, 2019
Firstly, this is a very well written romance, as usual, by this author. There are a few erotic sex scenes described in detail - so be aware of that. I liked the connection between Ellie and Ash, as it literally sizzled at times. There was a bit of a back story (eg the reason for them getting together), but this was really about our couple and the romance. I mostly liked the characterizations, (especially that of Ash), but I wasn't convinced about Ellie's. She was written as an Australian, but to my mind her speech was a bit too 'ocker' and felt contrived at times. Some of my contemporaries talk a bit like this - I'm a Granny - and it's the sort of speech I hear from mostly older people. I've yet to hear a "G'day Mate" come out of either of my two '30 something' daughters' lips - and Ellie is only 25. I did like her plain way of talking though, quite refreshing in a romance. I recommend this steamy little book as it will take you away from reality for a few hours. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. 3.5 stars.
July 9, 2019
This was a fairly quick book and if you are familiar with Jackie's book you know that they are steamy. We meet Ash and he is an angry individual, his father never claimed him, his brother betrayed him and his mother who loves him dearly would never accept any of his gifts. On his quest for revenge he meets Ellie who is his replacement limo driver but what he doesn't know is that Ellie is there to plead for her fathers company. These two have a steamy encounter and when Ellie explains what she needs he leaves her upset that she used him, but when he needs someone to go with him to show he is in a steady relationship to take something away that his brother also wants he makes a deal with her. You know how this will work, she falls in love he gets angry because no one will truly love him and when he comes to the realization he needs to grovel.
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
Rcvd and ARC at no cost to author..(netgalley) Voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions
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