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Man of the Year #1

Yours in Scandal

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A political golden boy and the woman of his dreams take the risk of their lives in a sexy romantic comedy of strange bedfellows and second chances by New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne.

Fresh off being named Citizen magazine’s Man of the Year, New York City’s youngest mayor, Robert Davenport, decides it’s time to strategize. Next move: a bid for the governor’s seat. In his way: an incumbent with a flawless reputation. He also has an Achilles’ heel: an estranged wild-child daughter with a past so scandalous it could be Robert’s ticket to victory. And a charm so irresistible it could be Robert’s downfall.

Rebellion is a thing of the past for Adeline Blake. As New York’s premier event planner, she’s all about reform and respectability. Then she’s approached by Robert to organize the party of the season. Curious, considering he’s her father’s most formidable opponent. And alarming, too. Because Addie can’t help but fall for the righteously popular candidate with the movie-star smile.

Now it’s Robert’s choice. Does he pursue a future that holds his legacy? Or the woman who holds his heart?

225 pages, Paperback

First published March 10, 2020

907 people are currently reading
3733 people want to read

About the author

Lauren Layne

61 books10.5k followers
Lauren Layne is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen novels, including Hot Asset, Hard Sell, and Huge Deal in her 21 Wall Street series, as well as her Central Park Pact series. Her books have sold more than a million copies in nine languages. Lauren’s work has been featured in Publishers Weekly, Glamour, the Wall Street Journal, and Inside Edition. She is based in New York City.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 528 reviews
Profile Image for Giorgia Reads.
1,331 reviews2,238 followers
March 11, 2020
2.5 Stars

Very boring. Just boring...
A very drawn out story where nothing happens. Nothing of the romantic or action variety. A lot of useless dialog..

Profile Image for EmBibliophile.
675 reviews2,030 followers
November 4, 2019
3.5 stars

This was such an enjoyable fun quick read.

Robert Davenport is the mayor of New York. He is planing to aim for the governor’s seat. His campaign manager advised him to go after his opponents former scandalous daughter and try to gain some secrets out of her. Adeline Blake has decided to change her life and to become more responsible. She changed her appearance, and now she’s hiding in plain sight as an event planer.

This book was really amusing. It’s that kind of book that you read in a day and it’ll brighten your mood. My only complain is that it was short and needed more depth. Other than that it was a fun book to read.

*A copy was kindly provided by Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest. Thank you.*

Song recommendation:
Dancing with our hands tied by Taylor Swift
How did we by Skyler Stecker
Profile Image for Alba and Her Secrets..♥.
947 reviews1,157 followers
March 10, 2020
4.5 'Mr. Mayor' Stars!
ARC provided by the the publisher in exchange for an honest review.


I’ll just say it: my favorite Lauren Layne is back! Maybe you are thinking: What is this girl saying? Well, it’s been about a year since my last read from LL and I was just impatiently waiting for this series. Why? Because Lauren said she was going back to her “steamy” version with these books. I totally support her sweet/no steam latest releases but I have to say they weren’t for me. I love a bit of that chemistry developed and Lauren surely did not fail with this one!

Yours in Scandal is the first installment in her Man of the Year series and it focuses on a political golden boy and his relationship with a former wild-child now event planner. Robert Davenport is NYC’s mayor, he is almost done and he wants to prepare his next move. Enter Adeline Blake. She is the daughter’s opponent for the governor seat and his ticket to victory. But what happens when they start spending time together to arrange a party and sparks start flying? Will this become Addie and Robert’s next scandal or will love win?

Interest in Adeline Blake, elite event planner, was one thing. Interest in Addie Brennan, daughter of his future primary opponent and a ticking time bomb of potential scandal, was political suicide.

I devoured this book in just a few hours so I can definitely assure my love for all things Lauren Layne has not stopped. I love her stories, with sexy, protective suits and charming heroines. And a good dose of sexual tension and burning chemistry. And some drama and all the feels. Yes, Lauren’s newest release has all of that and I am not surprised. She goes back to the romance style I love from her and Yours in Scandal was the perfect sweet and sexy read I was expecting. I loved the premise of the story, the political theme, the crew of characters and, of course, the couple.

She wanted him. She wanted Robert.
Adeline felt the last traces of her resistance crumble. She was stuck in his web. Willingly.


Robert and Addie were wonderful characters. I loved their banter, the sexual tension, the explosive chemistry and the emotions. They were amazing together and as individuals too. Their connection burned the pages and as scandalous as it was, it was oh so worth it. I mean, we all love a love story between two people who apparently are not supposed to end up together, I am right? Well, these two did and it was perfect. I loved their happy ending!

“They’ll be talking about us forever.”
“Good,” he said, pulling her in once more. “Because that’s exactly how long I’ll love you.”


Therefore, I am rating Yours in Scandal with 4.5 STARS because I am so glad I am able to read more of these type of romances from Lauren Layne. You know how much I love many of her series and I am sure I will also love this one since it has such a great start! Opposites attracted, Robert and Addie were so good together and I loved their connection. I also loved the rest of the characters so I am quite eager to know who is next in the series! I am so ready for it!

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Profile Image for Deanna❤Pink Lady❤️.
820 reviews844 followers
February 5, 2020
4 “Gets My Vote”Stars


This was a happy one. A political enemies-ish/friends to lover story. While it was a somewhat predicable storyline, it was still a very enjoyable read. It was a witty, humorous, lighthearted, feel good story.

Robert Davenport is the mayor of NYC in his final months in office. He is charming, handsome and straight laced. Adeline Blake is the wild child who has gone off the grid for a few years of the governor of New York. Could finding her be the key to winning his next election against her father or will it backfire and leave him losing the election and the girl?

For those of you who like contemporary romances that read quick and easy, Yours in Scandal should get your vote!!

*advanced copy provided by Netgalley/Montlake Romance in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Jacob Proffitt.
3,310 reviews2,150 followers
unfinished
July 8, 2021
I try to give a book its premise. I really do. But this one I just can't. Robert is the youngest ever mayor of New York looking at a governor run because of term limits. And he's all "clean campaign" and "serve the people" and disdainful of corruption in politics. And I just can't even with that nonsense. Because it's Newfreaking York, of all things, and some political neophyte managed to become mayor with completely clean hands? Yeah, that's not a thing.

The last decades of bitter political bickering and increased partisan polarization has soured me on politicians as a class and politics as anything more than very expensive cheap entertainment. Having political convictions, let alone orthodoxy is, in practical/personal terms, simply a way to lose friends with no upside that I can see. So I gave up on that game many years ago with a hearty "pox on both your houses".

And I should have known that going in and given this a pass. So no rating because it's really not the book's fault I hate politics as a wish-fulfillment angle. I didn't realize just how much my distaste would affect me in reading. I can usually put aside personal preferences to sink into a wish-fulfillment romance. But it turns out that there's a limit on the political flavor of that subgenre.
Profile Image for Wendy'sThoughts.
2,670 reviews3,284 followers
September 1, 2020
4 Timely Stars
* * * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
Lauren Layne does not disappoint with this stand-alone. With everything being political today and no escaping tabloids, she takes a man who has done right as the Mayor of NYC with eyes for the Governorship and pairs him with a woman who could hold the keys for everything.

Excellent


Yours in Scandal (Man of the Year, #1) by Lauren Layne Yours in Scandal (Man of the Year, #1)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Yours to Keep (Man of the Year, #2) by Lauren Layne Yours to Keep (Man of the Year, #2)
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher for an honest review.

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Profile Image for MELISSA *Mel Reader*.
1,396 reviews1,506 followers
March 10, 2020
4Stars!
(ARC provided by Montlake Romance)

 photo 6B5C7DDD-0438-489E-AE86-9273C75C4A5A_zpscoly96ts.jpg

Robert Davenport is a politician who is known as the golden boy of NYC for his flawless reputation. He’s the youngest mayor in New York history and has been a well loved, popular mayor for the last two terms. His Hollywood good looks get him a lot of attention, but he tries to avoid romantic entanglements. He recently has his photo plastered on magazines across America from being named the Man of the Year. He’s a charming, powerful bachelor who appears to have it all. Those around him feel his next step in the world of politics should be a run for governor. It’s time to start thinking of the future and that includes sizing up the competition. If he’s going to get an edge on the current governor they need a great campaign. They have to strategize and figure out his weakness, and maybe dig up some dirt on him. Could his wild child estranged daughter be their ticket to success?

Adeline Blake disappeared from the public eye and reinvented herself. She was no longer the scandalous, rebellious, unpredictable, defiant girl she used to be. She’d changed her image, and now owned a premier event planning business. She wanted a fresh start where she could keep her past private. She accepts a meeting with a high profile client that could give her company amazing exposure. Working with Mayor Davenport is a great opportunity, but she hopes she can continue to stay out of the spotlight.

Robert has his own agenda when it comes to his rivals daughter, but he quickly realizes he’s extremely intrigued with the gorgeous brunette. The reformed bad girl is alluring, and there is something simmering between them they can’t deny. When real feelings develop will he be forced to choose between his career and love, or can he find a way to have both?

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-When she was around him, she kept forgetting herself.

-She was simply a woman who enjoyed a man, who felt both breathless and safe when she was near him.

 photo 85A978E5-2CDC-42E0-898C-F3D90BCC27AE_zpsg7405z1s.jpg

Yours in Scandal (Man of the Year, Book One) by Lauren Layne is a sexy romantic comedy about love and second chances. I really enjoyed this story, and the charming, kind, yummy Mayor Davenport. I can’t wait for more books in this new series from Lauren Layne!

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Profile Image for zae.
322 reviews151 followers
March 15, 2020
“I’ll have to marry you so I have every single day to try to convince you to love me back.”
“You convinced me. You convinced me a long time ago.”


Robert Davenport is New York’s youngest mayor and also labeled Man of the Year. His campaign manager wanted him to get the scoop on Adeline Blake, Governor Brennan’s daughter.

Adeline Blake is the reformed Addie Brennan. She “disappeared” for a few years and came back different, hoping to change her image. She’s now an event planner and has been asked to organize a party for the mayor.

Throughout their meetings, Robert finds himself getting more relaxed when he’s around her as if showing her his “real side.” He’s someone who has always put his career first. It wasn’t until he met Adeline when he started to evaluate his future, saw more jobs, more terms, more elections, only for it to feel inadequate. Suddenly he finds himself wanting someone to share it all with.

There are so many elements that make it a Lauren Layne classic - the New York setting, main leads with a successful career, a swoon-worthy romance, and good male and female friendships.
Profile Image for Carol.
1,387 reviews262 followers
February 24, 2020
4 stars.⭐⭐⭐⭐
A scandalous and amusing read from one of my favorite authors.

This is a really great start to Lauren Layne's new "Man of the Year" series. Yay!!!!
A "Politically" themed romance with the all the wit, humor and style that I have come to expect and associate with this author.
I really enjoyed this supposed bad girl?/honest politician? storyline . A very "rapid" page turner for me!!
Say no more.
Youtube Love GIF by Rosanna Pansino
I do highly recommend this humorous and smart romance to all fans and lovers of contemporary romance!!!!


Thank you Montlake Romance and Netgalley for this ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Lien.
296 reviews242 followers
April 14, 2021
When I started reading this book I really thought that this could be it, another hit by Ms. Layne. I was digging the dynamic between the main characters and I especially liked that Adeline kept Robert on his toes. After a while, it fizzled out though, and I haven’t been able to figure out why yet 🤷‍♀️
I guess one of the reasons is that there was nothing specific that made the (extremely predictable) story or couple stand out to me. Everything was only so-so.


**ARC generously provided in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Profile Image for Robin (Bridge Four).
1,942 reviews1,658 followers
March 10, 2020
Release Day!!!

This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart

Review copy was received from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

3.5 Stars

What do you do when you are getting ready to run for Governor and find the incumbent's wild child daughter hiding out in plain sight? Well, if you are Man of the Year and current Mayor of New York City, Robert Davenport, you hire her to cater an event for you to see if you can coax a few secrets out of her.

Yours in Scandal is a very quick, fun and flirty read,with a fun chemistry between the main characters. The only downfall to the story was that it was a little superficial and didn’t dig in too deep with the characters. Still I had a good time as I watched Adeline figure out that the man who might just kick her father out of the Governor's house is looking for a way to get her into his house and his bed.

Addie didn’t want to like Robert. She’s had plenty of experience with the shadier side of politics and went through a wild phase that was captured in all the tabloids. But that was the younger, carefree Addie. Now she wants nothing to do with the political world. But it is hard to remember why when the Robert version of politics seems so different from the life she has known. Still, she is the scandal that could ruin his chances if they are found out.

Lauren Layne does chick lit really well. This is the first book in the new Man of the Year series and it is short and sweet and that is about it. I enjoyed myself a lot while reading it, even though it is a bit on the predictable side. Like cotton candy, it melts in your mouth and is fun while it lasts but later you’re going to want something with a little more substance.  Still, I always have a place in my reading schedule for books like this one, especially after a really emotional or mentally taxing read.

Quotes
“You’ve never had so much as a cavity. Or been grounded. Or a gotten a pimple. Which, now that I think about it, why and how are we friends?”
“Opposites attract. Me, tiny, Asian rule follower. You, curvy, disorderly train wreck. How could we possibly resist each other?”

"I don’t understand why our best clothing has to bring out stiff behavior.”
“Strapless bras,” she said, without looking up from her notebook.
He set his water down. “Sorry?”
“The women are likely wearing strapless bras with their formal gowns. And/ or Spanx. That’s why they seem stiff.”
Profile Image for "Avonna.
1,461 reviews589 followers
March 12, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

YOURS IN SCANDAL (Man of the Year Book #1) by Lauren Layne is the first book of a new contemporary romance series by a new to me author. This is a fun and sexy, feel-good romantic comedy.

Robert Davenport is almost at the end of his two terms as the youngest man ever elected as the mayor of New York City. Just named Citizen magazine’s Man of the Year, Robert’s campaign manager decides it is time for him to use the publicity and work towards his next goal as governor. His main competition is an incumbent with a flawless reputation who also happens to have an estranged wild-child daughter.

Adeline Blake has a scandalous past, but she is now working hard to reform. She is New York City’s premier event planner. She is curious why she is approached by her father’s most formidable opponent to organize the party of the season.

Robert feels a strong, immediate attraction to Adeline that is not part of the plan and Adeline has many reasons she should not get involved with Robert. Can Robert follow his heart over his head?

I really enjoyed this story. It was predictable, but so well written with funny banter and witty dialogue that it did not matter that I could predict the HEA. I loved Robert and Adeline’s chemistry. I felt they handled the obstacles placed in their way as mature adults which made the characters seem more realistic to me. The secondary characters are all entertaining and fully fleshed to support both main characters.

This is a very entertaining and heartfelt start to this new series and I am looking forward to reading more.
Profile Image for Jen (jenslostinthepages) ♥Star-Crossed Book Blog♥.
772 reviews391 followers
May 13, 2020
***4.5/5 Stars***

Yours in Scandal was smile inducing and so much fun! With steamy scenes, moments that made me laugh out loud and the perfect amount of angst, this book was such a big hit! The story was effortless to devour and I finished it in no time at all. If you're looking for a flirty romance story to get lost in, definitely give this one a try!
She wasn’t for him, and he wasn’t for her. Not now, not ever.

Robert Davenport was NYC youngest mayor for the last eight years, and he had just been voted Man of the Year for a magazine like People. He was a good man who wanted what was best for the people of his city, he truly cared. Robert had aspirations to be governor, and was advised that the only way would be if he knocked down the current governor a peg or two. And what better way to get the dirt on the governor than becoming close with his estranged daughter, Adeline, who'd been hiding in plain sight.
“It’s perfect,” he said quietly, meeting her eyes, his hand dropping lower, fingertips brushing teasingly over her palm before he stepped away. “Absolutely perfect.”
The butterflies were back.
But they had nothing to do with the party.

I loved Adeline Blake, who use to be known as Adeline Brennen. She was wild in her younger years and the media had a field day with her topless photos and partying. But she seemed to disappear. And years later, she'd been hiding in plain sight, with a different last name. She was an event planner and I loved how hard she worked. Adeline was quick witted, strong and definitely held her own. She said it like it was, but you could tell that she was trying to be someone more reserved. So when Adeline got invited to plan an event for the mayor of NYC, it brought her into contact with Robert. And he offered her an invitation that she couldn't refuse.
Because when he looked at Adeline, he didn’t think of himself as the mayor. Somehow he’d turned into a goddamn Hugh Grant movie, standing in front of a girl, asking her to like him.

I absolutely loved Robert! He was thoughtful, listened and felt so down to earth. And in a world where everyone tried to use him, Adeline didn't. It was refreshing and made Robert want to be around her more. But he could also be so awkward. Especially when it came to trying to make a true friend lol. Adeline tried her best to keep Robert at arms lengths, since she didn't want to be back in the world of politics. She had already been there and done that. So Adeline could be standoffish and cold to Robert, even if she liked what she saw in him.
He lifted his hand to her face and lightly dragged the tip of his finger from the base of her ear along her jawline until it rested under her chin.

I loved Robert and Adeline's interactions! I couldn't stop smiling when they were together, especially with Robert's sense of humor. But I was nervous with how the story was going to unfold. Adeline saw that Robert wasn't a typical politician, he showed emotion, was heartfelt and it was impossible for her not to like him. And Robert was pulled in by Adeline and couldn't seem to keep away from her. But ultimately he originally interacted with her to get dirt on her father. So it felt like I was waiting for the other shoe to drop and I was so nervous.
“You’re beautiful,” he said quietly.
Addie smiled in feminine pleasure that he appreciated her efforts, but her smile slipped when she realized he hadn’t even looked down yet— he was still looking into her eyes when he said it. He thought she was beautiful. Not her body, not her lingerie, not her curves.
Her . All of her.

The path this story took was emotional, and I even had tears in my eyes. But there were also moments between Robert and Adeline that were so sensual. Lauren Layne writes some of the steamiest and classiest scenes. So if you're a fan of romance, you're going to want to add this one to your tbr. Yours in Scandal was hilarious, heartwarming and scorching hot. I can't recommend it enough!

*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

For more of my reviews, please visit:
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Profile Image for Antonella.
4,121 reviews621 followers
October 30, 2019
Lauren Layne is a familiar author to me. I have read many of her books. I was very happy that I received this book as an ARC. Yours In Scandal is the first book in the upcoming series Man of the Year. It is a light, feelgood contemporary romance.

Robert is New York mayor and Adeline is a party planner he hires to organize his last party as a mayor. She is also the daughter of his political opponent. Robert's political adviser wants him to use her in the battle for the governor's seat. All Adeline wants is to do her job and stay out of the spotlight.

It is very difficult to love completely this book or dislike it. I'm somewhere in between. Besides predictability, there is nothing really wrong with this book. Also, predictability can bring a certain comfort while reading. I guess I can argue both sides. Then there is a fact that I had a feeling that Lauren Layne already wrote this book. I am sure there is an entire series about wedding planners. The characters, the plotline, the upcoming series - it all feels very deja vu. Maybe if I cared more for these characters I would love it more.

This a well-written book, with great pace and it is really easy to get into it and finish reading it. But I wish I loved it more. Nothing really stood out. A solid read that I am sure many readers will enjoy.
I would recommend this book to all the readers who enjoy cute, comforting and light contemporary romance books.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me this book copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Syndi.
3,710 reviews1,038 followers
March 29, 2020
OK read. It is also a short read. Usually there is some humor from Miss Layne book. But this one the humor is flat.

The character has OK chemistry to make the story going. There is insta lust. Amd suddenly both of them fall in love. The story is also standar. Choose between ur career or ypur heart. No major drama/ twist.

It is for a light reading to end my weekend.

3 stars
Profile Image for Caitlin Reads.
178 reviews69 followers
November 20, 2019
4 Stars!

This was my first book by Lauren Layne and I really enjoyed it! Adeline is a party planner hired to plan Robert, the NY mayor’s last party as mayor. She also happens to be the daughter of his biggest opponent. Robert was really charming and a great new book boyfriend. Addie was a lot of fun and is just trying to stay under the radar and put her past behind her. Yours in Scandal was just the slow burn I needed. Robert and Adeline had great chemistry and I really liked the romance between the two of them. This book was well written with good pacing and character development. I also loved the supporting characters and am excited to read follow up books featuring them. My only complaint would be it was too predictable with no real twists or turns but it was still a light and enjoyable read. I devoured it in one night and can’t wait to read more from Lauren Layne.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Profile Image for Dali.
2,087 reviews591 followers
March 15, 2020
Lauren Layne launches her Man of the Year series with the story of New York City’s youngest mayor Robert Davenport, and the only woman who can put his run for governor in jeopardy.

After his father’s death, Robert committed himself to fulfill his father’s legacy. He has served his city the best way he knew how and is now angling for the governor’s position. His opponent, the current governor, has a flawless yet manufactured reputation. Robert knows that getting his estranged daughter to spill all of her father’s heinous secrets is his guarantee to winning. But is it the right thing to do, especially when getting to know the sexy, charming and irresistible woman is dangerous for his career.

Successful event planner Adeline Blake has put her scandalous and rowdy alter ego, Addie Brennan, to rest. She has reformed from her wild teenage antics and has sworn to stay clear of all things politics. But when Citizen magazine’s Man of the Year calls her to organize his farewell party she can’t help falling for the gorgeous and upstanding man. But knowing that their lives cannot co-exist, will they be able to find happiness together?

Robert and Adeline are incredibly charming and appealing characters. They have strong and firm natures that complement their careers and each other and make them an alluring central whose witty and sexy banter had me smiling and grinning from cover to cover. I loved every single second of their romance.

Layne also creates a lovely set of supporting characters whose loyalty and friendship jumped off the pages and gave the story added layer of goodness.

Using New York as her backdrop, Lauren Layne maintains her sassy, sexy and sophisticated standard creating this wonderfully sexy story that expertly blends all the perfect elements in contemporary romance.

Yours in Scandal is book #1 of the Man of the Year series by author Lauren Layne. It a complete standalone contemporary romance. It’s told from both points of view with a HEA. Sub-genre: forbidden romance.

Amazon -> https://amzn.to/2vUWdht

* I was given an ARC of this book courtesy of the author via NetGalley. The excerpts are from that copy. I am voluntarily reviewing this title. *
Profile Image for Romance Recs.
1,062 reviews192 followers
January 17, 2022
3.75
Yours in Scandal is the first of the Man of The Year Series by Lauren Layne.

Yours in Scandal features Robert Davenport, NYC’s youngest mayor and Adeline Blake, event planner on their journey towards their HEA.

This was such a cute story that also had a touch of suspense. Adeline has a bit of a secret life. She’s happy with her independence but she’s hiding out from the world living the life of a quieted down version of who she really is.

When Robert and Adeline meet, the connection is strong. Robert has secrets of his own, and he needs to decide what is more important to him, his job or Adeline.

I liked this book, I’m glad I read it and I do recommend it if you’re looking for a cute fun read in classic LL contemporary style.
Profile Image for Lindsey  Domokur.
1,850 reviews123 followers
November 9, 2020
This book got a bad rap in some other reviews and I'm not sure if it is because I listened to it, but I actually really enjoyed it and connected with the characters. Robert and Addie gave me all the feels. I really love a good Lauren Layne romance because she just makes me feel good. If you are a fan, this book won't let you down, especially the audio.
Profile Image for m.
359 reviews49 followers
October 19, 2019
review on my blog

rep: Asian side character, half-Indian side character


Lauren Layne is a hit-or-miss author for me (often more of a hit than miss), but this one was, unfortunately, a miss. It definitely had that cute romance we know and love from the author, but the story was… underwhelming. To say the least.

After becoming the youngest mayor in the history of New York, Robert Davenport wants to relinquish his title and become a governer. His campaign manager tracks down his biggest opponent’s scandalous daughter, Addie Brennan, now Adeline Blake. After her disastrous reputation caused a ruckus in the political world, she dyes her hair a different colour, becomes a completely different girl, and disappears. Robert’s initial plan to attain secrets from Adeline is thwarted when he finds himself falling for her instead.

My review for this one might be a bit shorter than others I’ve written since this was – as I said – underwhelming. I don’t have overly positive or negative feelings about anything that happened throughout the book. While Layne’s latest releases have been more of a slow-burn with less heat and emphasis on emotions, Yours in Scandal is her return to writing smut, similar to that in the Stiletto series. Which I’m not complaining about.

I don’t want this review to be overly negative throughout so I’ll emphasise I did love the romance. They were adorable together, even if they had the “Lauren Layne’s characters who fall in love way too quickly to be conceivable” thing. I loved how Adeline’s best friends were women of colour – Rosalie is half-Indian and half-French, while Jane mentions she’s Asian (Korean American, I think? It’s never elaborated on). I’m glad she’s finally including diversity in her books, and I hope the next books in the series will follow them as leads. Especially since book two is a second chance romance between two high school sweethearts and Rosalie has been single for a while to focus on her career. Which she might be doing because something disastrous happened in her love life years earlier. Just a theory.

Furthermore, I find there’s this indescribable feeling when reading a Lauren Layne book, where it almost feels impossible to put the book down until you’ve finished. You could be reading for hours and it feels like mere minutes have passed. That’s why I enjoy picking her books up: it’s like watching a movie, but you get the depth and emotion from reading about the character’s inner thoughts and emotions.

The main reason I was disillusioned with this book was my inability to connect with or care about the main characters. Adeline/Addie changed her name too much throughout the narrative, which was the most irritating part of her character. Personally, I find it too hard to sympathise with rich, privileged characters and the fact that her life was ruined because of the media – of all things – only added to that. It was the same case for Robert, where I could barely understand the plight he endured from the comfort of his mansion while he had girls fawning over him.

In addition, the plot had the air of something written for a daytime soap opera. You fall for your opponent’s rebellious daughter for information on how to take him down, and she conveniently hands you a thumb drive full of the evidence of his wrongdoings and you don’t use it in the name of love. Need I say more? The last 30% of the book had strange pacing, where it feels like the huge climactic scene happens, but there’s still a considerable amount of time left. Then, the actual complication is underwhelming and adds no drama to the plot. However, the romantic scene where Robert tries to win Adeline back was wonderful, I’m not going to lie.

Yours in Scandal wasn’t a perfect read, but I’m holding out hope for the sequel since it contains a trope I adore. I’d still recommend if you’re a fan of this author and her Stiletto series because it has the same vibes: close female friendships, professional settings, and adorable romance.
Profile Image for Meli  .
1,315 reviews243 followers
November 23, 2021
Ihr Job als Partyplanerin ist ein Neuanfang für Adeline. In ihrer Jugend war sie das wilde Partygirl Addie, aber nun ist sie mit einem anderen Namen zurück und niemand weiß, dass sie die Tochter des Gouverneurs ist.

Bis auf Bürgermeister Robert Davenport, der bald für das Amt des Gouverneurs kandidieren möchte und der diese Information für seinen Vorteil nutzen könnte. Aber Robert ist viel zu ehrlich, um Adeline so auszunutzen und außerdem findet er die junge Frau viel zu faszinierend ... Er kann sich aber auch nicht von ihr fernhalten und engagiert sie als Eventplanerin.

Ich mochte beide Protagonisten sofort. Robert ist aufrichtig, charmant und engagiert. Ein Bürgermeister, den eigentlich jeder mag und der noch gar nicht mit dem neuen Wahlkampf beginnt, solange er noch ein anderes Amt innehat, um sich nicht ablenken zu lassen. Und Adeline meint es sehr ernst mit ihrem Neuanfang, ist vorsichtig, ernst und seriös, aber unter der Oberfläche schlummert trotzdem noch die lebensfrohe Addie.

Die beiden passen so gut zusammen und es macht auch einfach Spaß, ihre vorsichtigen Annäherungen zu verfolgen. Nach all ihren Erfahrungen mit ihrem hinterhältigem Vater ist Adeline sehr beeindruckt vom attraktiven Politiker Robert, der immer wieder seine freundliche Art unter Beweis stellt, und Robert kennt zwei ganz verschiedene Seiten einer faszinierenden Frau und kriegt sie nicht aus dem Kopf, auch wenn ihr Geheimnis seiner Karriere schaden könnte.

Auch das politische Thema fand ich spannend umgesetzt, man hat zwar nicht so viel davon gesehen, aber konnte schon sehr gut fühlen, wie viel es Robert bedeutet, den Menschen auf diese Weise helfen zu können. Und es war auch eine gelungene Kulisse für die Liebesgeschichte!

Fazit
Mit Roberts Amt und Kandidatur, Adelines Geheimnis und ihrer mitreißenden Liebesgeschichte bietet "Man of the Year - Scandal Love" eine Geschichte voller Spannung und Gefühl!
Profile Image for Lana  (Bibliomedico).
308 reviews305 followers
March 22, 2020
For More Book Reviews , Recommendations and Interviews , Visit My Blog ( Bibliomedico ) :
https://bibliomedico.wordpress.com/

*****************************
Thanks To the author and the publisher for the Advance Reader Copy Through Netgalley
*****************************
If you have been following my blog for the last months , You must already know about my love for Lauren Layne Books . If not then check out these posts and you will for sure understand ;)

Book Recommendations ( Favorite Novels by Lauren Layne :

https://bibliomedico.wordpress.com/20...

Marriage On Madison Avenue By Lauren Layne { Book Review } :

https://bibliomedico.wordpress.com/20...

The Prenup By Lauren Layne : 

https://bibliomedico.wordpress.com/20...

When I received Yours in Scandal on my Kindle , I started reading it immediately and finished it in one siting.

It was a fun romantic and quick read .

The characters were really cool and the plot " Not original " but Lauren Layne wrote it beautifully  .

I gave it 3.5 , because in my opinion , it didn't live to the other fantastic books by Layne .

I wanted more details and scenes , especially between the main characters , but unfortunately it  was short and needed more depth and dive in the characters emotions .

All in all , If you are searching for a quick romantic read , this one is for you .
Profile Image for Cyndi Becker.
1,385 reviews13 followers
March 10, 2020
When I need a feel-good read, I can always count on Lauren Layne. She's been one of my go-to authors for a few years now and I don't see that changing. As expected, Yours in Scandal was exactly what I needed. I physically felt my heart and mood lightening up and I'm always grateful for that feeling.

This funny, sexy and heartfelt story includes a swoony mayor (of New York City nonetheless) Robert Davenport, and the once "ungovernable" daughter of the Governor, Addie Brennan, now reformed party girl Adeline Blake. These two are seemingly all wrong for each other, but Robert immediately feels something else and he is bound and determined to figure out what that is.

When the two meet, he feels an immediate and very deep pull to Adeline. As newly crowned Man of the year, he's every woman's dream catch. Adeline can admit to the attraction but she knows she can't get involved for a multitude of reasons. As hard as she might fight it, and notwithstanding Robert's "reason" for getting to know her, a romantic connection is inevitable. But first, they must become friends. And after some imprudent attempts to push Robert away, Adeline embraces her feelings instead of swallowing them.

This is a story is about wanting what you can't have, and the deep need to right the wrongness in that assumption. This is the story of sparks flying, only to be quickly extinguished by the nature of their relationship; she's been hired as his event planner and the very nature of his job and the future of his political career. This is the story of putting one's heart first. Taking the chance on the person you love, scandal be damned.

Like all Lauren Layne books, I simply adored this story. I adored how the author handles the messiness of relationships in the political arena. I loved how the author shows us a strong and honorable young woman who takes charge of her life, no matter the consequence. And I adored how two very likable characters found their HEA. Together.

4.5 stars and a recommendation!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for Bookgasms Book Blog.
2,863 reviews1,564 followers
January 21, 2020
I am a huge Lauren Layne fan and could not jump on this story fast enough. I love her stories because of the almost old fashioned charm, sparkling wit and banter between her characters. Robert and Adeline were engaging and compelling and I loved their banter and swoony connection!

I found this story to be adorable. Yes there were secrets and hidden agendas (my pet peeves) but I found it to be refreshing. I especially found Robert and Adeline to be endearing in their reactions to one another. This story was also a little steamier than Layne's usual stories as of late, which was an added bonus.

All in all, this was a cute read that fans of Layne's Stiletto series will love. 4 stars! ~Ratula 
Profile Image for Romancereadingaddict.
61 reviews43 followers
October 22, 2019
I Loved the romance between Robert and Adeline, A mayor and a former party girl. YES PLEASE! I have read every Lauren Layne novel and i am not disappointed. This book kept me up at night but I’d do it again. Thank you next Galley for letting me review this book. This was one that i was planning on picking up the moment it came out. Now i am going to buy it in physical form when it comes out too. It was just a really good romance. I LOVED IT!!!!!!
Profile Image for Elisa ♡.
702 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2021
3 i wish i've DNF this book ★

I don't have much to say, just that I had to read a few chapters for my biology class, and I wanted to read that instead of listening to this book.
i don't remember the characters' names, I was so bored that I was checking google classroom to see if I had something to do, so I could stop listening to this.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,577 reviews119 followers
February 25, 2020
I received a copy of this title via NetGalley. It does not impact my review.

I have been in such a reading slump lately and a new Lauren Layne book was just what I needed. I loved this book!

I must admit I was a little wary that the male lead in this book is a politician. I read to escape from politics, so I don’t generally appreciate it in my fiction. However, there actually isn’t a lot of politics involved. Yes, Robert is the Mayor, but he’s honest and doesn’t play dirty and there’s not any mention at all of Red vs. Blue nonsense. I appreciated that Layne was able to have a story about a politician without pushing any political agenda.

I loved the romance between Robert and Addie. Though I thought their relationship happened maybe a little bit fast, I definitely shipped it. They had some great banter and chemistry. There were some very sweet and romantic moments, as well. I was hoping that Layne would continue with omitting the graphic scenes, like she did in the Central Park Pact series, but I’m sure there will be others that are glad they’re included here.

I thought there was a lot of potential for some major angst when some truths are finally revealed and I was bracing myself for it, but I ended up being pleasantly surprised with how it was handled. The couple actually communicated, took responsibility for the things they did, and maturely decided how they wanted to move forward. The whole “I can’t believe you lied to me” thing is such a common plot point in Romances and I loved that Layne took a different route here, as there were plenty of other avenues for the drama to come from. To that point, though, I had a hard time understanding why Addie’s teenage behavior from a decade ago would cause such a problem for Robert’s future campaign. I think the fact that she was the opponent’s daughter would be a bigger issue in the press, but that doesn’t seem to be quite as concerning to the characters.

Overall, I loved Yours in Scandal. Lauren Layne’s books are like comfort food to me. They never fail to lift my mood and make me happy. I definitely recommend this one to fans of Contemporary Romances and longtime Layne readers won’t be disappointed.

Overall Rating (out of 5): 4 Stars
Profile Image for abire.
1,055 reviews96 followers
April 5, 2020
“We’ve gone and done it now,” she said with a laugh, when they finally pulled back for air, flashbulbs going off all around them. “They’ll be talking about us forever.”
“Good,” he said, pulling her in once more. “Because that’s exactly how long I’ll love you.”



March 2020 reread :

I requested this on Netgalley back in October as soon as it came out because.. Lauren Layne. And I remember loving it but I had trouble remembering enough to write a proper review, so I decided to reread it.

I'm happy to report that my love for this book remains the same. I honestly loved everything about it the second time around as well.
I loved Addie so much, she is an easily lovable character. She masters sarcasm in the best way, she is a badass even when she believes otherwise, she turned her entire life around while fighting tooth and nail to not lose herself, even when it felt impossible sometimes.
I also loved Robert; he is so loyal, so honest and so true to himself, it is kinda refreshing to see considering he is supposed to be a politican.

Addie and Robert's relationship, although, to be completely honest, could've used a little bit more development, was one of my favorite things in this book. Their chemistry is pretty clear from the moment they meet. Robert never once judges her for her past or what people say about her, but rather makes up his own opinion on who she is and ends up loving every part of her. Which pretty much was the selling point for me. I truly adored them.

I also loved Addie's friendship with Rosalie and Jane. As well as Robert's and Kenny's. The support and loyalty these friendships is something that is often in most of Layne's books (or at least, those I've read so far) and it's always something I find myself looking forward to.

All in all, this, once again, is a solid Lauren Layne book, and absolutely one I would recommend. And I can't wait to read the other installements in this series.

October 2019 :

4.5/5 stars
I LOVED THIS SO SO MUCH!!!!
full review to come later!

*ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
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