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Dynasties: Seven Sins #1
Ruthless Pride
Some men are meant to sin…
Pride made him what he is.
But desire might change him forever…
Millionaire CEO Joshua Lowell earned his icy reserve and arrogant pride through painful experience. He refuses to allow gorgeous but determined reporter Sophie Armstrong to dredge up his family’s dark past—or circulate rumors of his secret child. But Joshua’s fierce pride is at war with his heated desire for Sophie, the only woman who could ruin him…or save him from himself.
USA TODAY Bestselling Author
Pride made him what he is.
But desire might change him forever…
Millionaire CEO Joshua Lowell earned his icy reserve and arrogant pride through painful experience. He refuses to allow gorgeous but determined reporter Sophie Armstrong to dredge up his family’s dark past—or circulate rumors of his secret child. But Joshua’s fierce pride is at war with his heated desire for Sophie, the only woman who could ruin him…or save him from himself.
USA TODAY Bestselling Author
160 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 20, 2020
58 people are currently reading
229 people want to read
About the author
Naima Simone
168 books2,130 followersPublished since 2009, USA Today Bestselling author Naima Simone loves writing sizzling romances with heart, a touch of humor and snark. Her books have been featured in The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly, and described as balancing “crackling, electric love scenes with exquisitely rendered characters caught in emotional turmoil.”
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 19, 2020
This one started out SO GOOD and then sort of just fizzled out for me. I think part of it was that the couple didn't even get together until halfway through the book and I felt like I didn't really feel any sort of connection with them other than a physical connection. So it seemed very insta-love and not believable when one of them was proclaiming their love after barely knowing each other.
I also hate the trope where one of them hears something, believes it immediately, and is all, "I knew I could never trust you!" even though they spent the entire book building up that trust. That happened in here and could have completely been avoided if they had just talked about it and uncovered the truth together. The beginning seemed so promising with her writing a story about his company's bad past with the bad things his dad did before he took over, but I didn't really care for the rest of the story.
I also hate the trope where one of them hears something, believes it immediately, and is all, "I knew I could never trust you!" even though they spent the entire book building up that trust. That happened in here and could have completely been avoided if they had just talked about it and uncovered the truth together. The beginning seemed so promising with her writing a story about his company's bad past with the bad things his dad did before he took over, but I didn't really care for the rest of the story.
October 18, 2020
This one is a tricky one. It set up the stage for the series with a hero who is trying his best to save his company after his father took all the money and ran away with it. It's an enemies to lovers romance featuring the ceo and a journalist who wants the scoop. It was rushed towards the end and it left me a lot of questions as to the main plot twist (secret baby) being resolved or not. If you keep reading the series, the plot twist is still not complete.
May 5, 2020
Fifteen years ago, Vernon Lowell founder of Black Crescent Hedge Fund disappeared after stealing millions from his family and several clients. Harlequin Desire’s Dynasties: Seven Sin series deals with the fallout of his actions and how his family and the heirs of the families he stole from have been shaped by the past while dealing with the present. Ruthless Pride is the first book in the series.
Of Vernon’s three sons, Joshua was the only one to stick around their hometown of Falling Brook, New Jersey and deal with the fallout of his father’s crimes. Over the past fifteen years, Joshua has given up his passion for creating art to take over and restore Black Crescent's investment reputation. Joshua has made sure that the families his father stole from have been repaid. He’s watched his once vibrant and socialite mother lose friends, withdraw, and become a shell of the woman she once was. He’s lost the once close and tightknit relationships he shared with his brothers, as they see him being like their father. Joshua may not truly be a happy man, but he is content with his choices and the fact that he has restored his family’s name to a certain extent. Now all of this is in jeopardy when a reporter storms into his office.
Sophie Armstong is a no-nonsense investigative reporter for the Falling Brook Chronicle. She knows the story of Vernon Lowell has been told countless times before, but she’s done her research and she wants to cover the story again, this time, focusing on the past as well as the present and future. When Joshua continues to ignore her emails and phone calls, she decides to barge her way into his office to get the interview she wants. She confronts Joshua about a child he has who he isn’t supporting. When Joshua kicks her out, she has no choice but to make her own conclusions. Sophie soon realizes Joshua has no idea that he might have fathered a child. The two agree to work together to find out if her research is accurate and just who this child and mother are.
Naima Simone is one of my favorite authors. Her heroes are alpha through and through. Her heroines are smart, strong, independent women. Joshua and Sophie are no different. The attraction between these two was instant. Their passion was off the charts, with their coupling being raw and intense. I was definitely surprised to see that stiff, button-up Joshua was a dirty talker and a master of his words.
Unfortunately, I didn’t make a connection with these characters or this story. For me, the last ten percent of the book was the best, with the reemergence of Joshua possibly fathering a child. In the past, Harlequin’s miniseries have had a series arc that played out over the course of the series. “Someone is playing games. They have an endgame that I don’t know about and can’t figure out.” If the mystery of the series has to do with Joshua possibly fathering a child and someone blackmailing him, I don’t think that storyline was cemented enough to make me truly care and want to find out what happens. The next book in the series, Forbidden Lust is written by Karen Booth, another favorite author. The hero of that story has already been introduced and has said something that I’m curious about. For those reasons, I’m looking forward to reading the next book. I’m just hoping that there will be enough additional details about the mystery to make me want to continue reading the series.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“You can try to erase the past, but certain things don’t go away no matter how hard you try to bury them. The truth always finds a say of resurrecting itself.”
“Am I perfect? No. But I try to be.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
Of Vernon’s three sons, Joshua was the only one to stick around their hometown of Falling Brook, New Jersey and deal with the fallout of his father’s crimes. Over the past fifteen years, Joshua has given up his passion for creating art to take over and restore Black Crescent's investment reputation. Joshua has made sure that the families his father stole from have been repaid. He’s watched his once vibrant and socialite mother lose friends, withdraw, and become a shell of the woman she once was. He’s lost the once close and tightknit relationships he shared with his brothers, as they see him being like their father. Joshua may not truly be a happy man, but he is content with his choices and the fact that he has restored his family’s name to a certain extent. Now all of this is in jeopardy when a reporter storms into his office.
Sophie Armstong is a no-nonsense investigative reporter for the Falling Brook Chronicle. She knows the story of Vernon Lowell has been told countless times before, but she’s done her research and she wants to cover the story again, this time, focusing on the past as well as the present and future. When Joshua continues to ignore her emails and phone calls, she decides to barge her way into his office to get the interview she wants. She confronts Joshua about a child he has who he isn’t supporting. When Joshua kicks her out, she has no choice but to make her own conclusions. Sophie soon realizes Joshua has no idea that he might have fathered a child. The two agree to work together to find out if her research is accurate and just who this child and mother are.
Naima Simone is one of my favorite authors. Her heroes are alpha through and through. Her heroines are smart, strong, independent women. Joshua and Sophie are no different. The attraction between these two was instant. Their passion was off the charts, with their coupling being raw and intense. I was definitely surprised to see that stiff, button-up Joshua was a dirty talker and a master of his words.
Unfortunately, I didn’t make a connection with these characters or this story. For me, the last ten percent of the book was the best, with the reemergence of Joshua possibly fathering a child. In the past, Harlequin’s miniseries have had a series arc that played out over the course of the series. “Someone is playing games. They have an endgame that I don’t know about and can’t figure out.” If the mystery of the series has to do with Joshua possibly fathering a child and someone blackmailing him, I don’t think that storyline was cemented enough to make me truly care and want to find out what happens. The next book in the series, Forbidden Lust is written by Karen Booth, another favorite author. The hero of that story has already been introduced and has said something that I’m curious about. For those reasons, I’m looking forward to reading the next book. I’m just hoping that there will be enough additional details about the mystery to make me want to continue reading the series.
~ Favorite Quotes ~
“You can try to erase the past, but certain things don’t go away no matter how hard you try to bury them. The truth always finds a say of resurrecting itself.”
“Am I perfect? No. But I try to be.”
**Received a copy from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**
March 31, 2020
Ruthless Pride by Naima Simone is the first in the Harlequin multi-author continuity called the Seven Sins. Joshua Lowell is a wealthy, powerful man. He turned his back on his dreams of a career as an artist to helm the company his father attempted to bankrupt, pouring his time, energy, and self into making recompense for his father’s crimes. When reporter Sophie Armstrong requests his time for a follow up story, he refuses, but the hook has been set for them both.
Ruthless Pride is everything you want in a Desire—fierce emotions, deep passions, and a page-turning story. Joshua and Sophie don’t come to trust easily, with good reason, but Ms Simone makes every step of their journey one to follow eagerly. Seeing them slowly lower their defenses and begin to build a fragile relationship will melt your heart and also set you aflame. Ms Simone's writing completely swept me away with the power of their connection and emotions.
Naima Simone’s story is a delicious read, and a perfect way to begin this series!
Ruthless Pride is everything you want in a Desire—fierce emotions, deep passions, and a page-turning story. Joshua and Sophie don’t come to trust easily, with good reason, but Ms Simone makes every step of their journey one to follow eagerly. Seeing them slowly lower their defenses and begin to build a fragile relationship will melt your heart and also set you aflame. Ms Simone's writing completely swept me away with the power of their connection and emotions.
Naima Simone’s story is a delicious read, and a perfect way to begin this series!
March 7, 2020
Josh and Sophie are just the best! Both have a lot of pride, but also the biggest hearts! I wanted to hug Josh most of the time, for what he took on. This was just an amazing story and start to a new series!
March 30, 2020
Wow! This book is full of some smoking hot angst! Sophie and Joshua have some very explosive chemistry. I absolutely loved it!
May 3, 2020
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Joshua Lowell has worked his ass off to redeem his family's name ever since his father took off with millions of dollars of the family company's clients' money, their own family's money, and fucked off to God knows where. He's controlled, he's stoic, and he's a serious workaholic. Then a feisty woman bursts into his life and nothing is ever the same again.
Sophie is fascinated by the man she's intent on doing a feature on. She can tell there's much more to the man than just the CEO who helms the family business. She knows there's an artist in there. She knows he has a big heart, and she's determined to get him to see that it's his turn to live his dreams and leave his siblings to finally take some responsibility for their family legacy too. All she has to do is guard her own heart because Josh told her from the start that he doesn't do relationships. If she wants to have anything with the man, she'll have to settle for a no-strings attached fling. No feelings allowed. No delving deep beneath to the real Josh inside. Nothing but pleasure and fun...
I loved this start of the Dynasties: Seven Sins series. Josh and Sophie are a fascinating pair of contrasts. I love how she saw through to the real Josh and how he really was not the cold persona he presented to the rest of the world. I am so excited to get further into this world of the devastated heirs to the Lowell empire.
ARC via author for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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May 13, 2020
Ruthless Pride by Naima Simone is the start of a sexy multi-authored series, Dynasties: Seven Sins, set in Falling Brook, New Jersey where the actions of one man left seven heirs shaped by his decisions.
CEO Joshua Lowell has felt the sharp sting of betrayal more keenly than others. When his father vanished with billions of dollars invested through their family hedge fund business Black Crescent, he was left to pick up the pieces. He’d traded in his dreams and passions of an artistic career for cold hard numbers and salvaging his family’s reputation.
When Sophie Armstrong approaches him for an interview, all he can think of is the pain that resurrecting the ten year old story will bring, and he refuses. But Sophie has reasons for bringing up the past and the article she writes for the local paper has to be confronted head on. When Sophie also brings to him the shocking news that he might be a father, he reluctantly agrees that she’d be the best person to investigate the claims, since he has never been approached or blackmailed about an unknown child. Initially wary, Sophie soon realizes that Joshua isn’t the hard man he seems and that his pain and desire for restitution for the past is genuine. As they spend time together, the passion between them flares into something dangerous – because it could lead to something all too real.
I always enjoy a good Harlequin Desire by Naima Simone! She combines passion, drama and interesting characters into entertaining contemporary romances (always a little bit on the hotter side). Sophie and Josh’s tale is no exception, with the threat of another scandal making Josh very aware that Sophie could lead to more ruin, or redemption. Josh hasn’t spent years rehabilitating their company’s reputation for nothing, paying back the investors who lost fortunes and doing his fair share of philanthropic work behind the scenes. As Sophie investigates the claims of a forgotten child, she also discovers the real man behind the mask, and he’s one she can’t resist for very long.
Josh’s siblings play key roles in the story and he has a strained relationship with them due to his complete devotion to the company. I’ll be interested in reading their stories in the series. The main conflict in this story comes from Sophie’s position as a journalist and Josh’s inherent mistrust of her as a result. While they might have an easy time falling in bed together, trusting each other takes a lot more time and there are some bumps along the road to their happy ever after. But they do get a very satisfying conclusion to their romance. Ruthless Pride is a great start to what looks to be an exciting series!
This review appears at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-ru...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
CEO Joshua Lowell has felt the sharp sting of betrayal more keenly than others. When his father vanished with billions of dollars invested through their family hedge fund business Black Crescent, he was left to pick up the pieces. He’d traded in his dreams and passions of an artistic career for cold hard numbers and salvaging his family’s reputation.
When Sophie Armstrong approaches him for an interview, all he can think of is the pain that resurrecting the ten year old story will bring, and he refuses. But Sophie has reasons for bringing up the past and the article she writes for the local paper has to be confronted head on. When Sophie also brings to him the shocking news that he might be a father, he reluctantly agrees that she’d be the best person to investigate the claims, since he has never been approached or blackmailed about an unknown child. Initially wary, Sophie soon realizes that Joshua isn’t the hard man he seems and that his pain and desire for restitution for the past is genuine. As they spend time together, the passion between them flares into something dangerous – because it could lead to something all too real.
I always enjoy a good Harlequin Desire by Naima Simone! She combines passion, drama and interesting characters into entertaining contemporary romances (always a little bit on the hotter side). Sophie and Josh’s tale is no exception, with the threat of another scandal making Josh very aware that Sophie could lead to more ruin, or redemption. Josh hasn’t spent years rehabilitating their company’s reputation for nothing, paying back the investors who lost fortunes and doing his fair share of philanthropic work behind the scenes. As Sophie investigates the claims of a forgotten child, she also discovers the real man behind the mask, and he’s one she can’t resist for very long.
Josh’s siblings play key roles in the story and he has a strained relationship with them due to his complete devotion to the company. I’ll be interested in reading their stories in the series. The main conflict in this story comes from Sophie’s position as a journalist and Josh’s inherent mistrust of her as a result. While they might have an easy time falling in bed together, trusting each other takes a lot more time and there are some bumps along the road to their happy ever after. But they do get a very satisfying conclusion to their romance. Ruthless Pride is a great start to what looks to be an exciting series!
This review appears at Harlequin Junkie: https://harlequinjunkie.com/review-ru...
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher.
May 22, 2020
For the last 15 years Joshua has tried to make up for the crimes of his father and try to help their clients recoup some of the financial losses that they sustained at the cost of his own happiness. He is well aware that people hold his father’s actions against him no matter what he does but having a reporter investigating the situation again is the last thing he wants.
Sophie isn’t about to back down from anyone and that includes Vernon. He may not be happy about the article however he refused her attempts to get his side of the story. When he agrees to give her a follow-up story it results in them spending time together and feelings develop however will the trust issues of the past destroy the future they could have together?
There is so much more to the cold and controlled Joshua than first appears and not only is the attraction between them intense but she shows him that there is so much more to life than the way he has been living it.
Sophie isn’t about to back down from anyone and that includes Vernon. He may not be happy about the article however he refused her attempts to get his side of the story. When he agrees to give her a follow-up story it results in them spending time together and feelings develop however will the trust issues of the past destroy the future they could have together?
There is so much more to the cold and controlled Joshua than first appears and not only is the attraction between them intense but she shows him that there is so much more to life than the way he has been living it.
April 24, 2020
A beautiful, intensely passionate romance, perfect to get lost in and forget about reality for a while. The tough, successful CEO falls for the one woman who poses a threat to his peace of mind and challenges him to be more, and most scarily of all … to feel more. There’s a bit of a Cinderella vibe to this story, though both the prince and his true love are hard-working in this scenario. Joshua, the aloof businessman with an artist’s soul, and Sophie, the intelligent and ambitious though not ruthless reporter, are not a likely match, but they sure do have the “lust at first sight” thing down pat and sparks fly like you wouldn’t believe. There’s such animosity between Joshua and Sophie at first, fueled by pride and misconceptions, and it was wonderful to see them gradually start to understand that the other is more than they at first seemed. The vulnerable moments these two share are what’s most seductive about their entire story.
April 26, 2020
I don't have a lot of feedback to give about this book other than it's just okay. I had higher expectations based on the opening chapter, but ended up feeling like everything was a bit cookie-cutter. What I expected based on the first chapter was a ruthless, powerhouse woman who meets a classic billionaire alpha at every level. I ended up feeling like the characters were trying to be layered and nuanced but had to be rushed through the shorter format of a category romance, so their vulnerabilities weren't as believable and it didn't pay off for me. It's not a bad book--it's just not one that will jump to the top of my recommendation list.
June 6, 2020
Ruthless Pride was all alpha male with a love interest strong enough to go toe to toe with him. Joshua and Sophie have good chemistry and their attraction is instant. Basically, it's your typical millionaire romance, and it's enjoyable enough, but it's just that - typical. The characters are likable enough, Joshua is certainly alpha enough, and I did like that Sophie isn't the damsel in distress. She stands on her own two feet. But there really isn't anything here to set this story or these characters apart from any other romance like it, including the little twist toward the end. Basically, it's an okay read. I'm not disappointed, but it isn't something that will stick with me either.
October 15, 2020
4.25 Stars / 3.5 Steam Fans
Ruthless Pride is a fantastic and intriguing start to the Dynasties: Seven Sins series. Naima Simone brings the perfect amount of sexiness, intrigue, and heart to this story about the recovery of families' after corporate embezzlement.
Video review available in Week 41: Oct 4 – Oct 10 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
Ruthless Pride is a fantastic and intriguing start to the Dynasties: Seven Sins series. Naima Simone brings the perfect amount of sexiness, intrigue, and heart to this story about the recovery of families' after corporate embezzlement.
Video review available in Week 41: Oct 4 – Oct 10 weekly book reviews.
For other video book reviews, check out my YouTube Channel: Steph's Romance Book Talk.
April 21, 2020
What a fantastic start to the new Dynasties: Seven Sins series. Joshua is a shadow of his former self after his father ran off with millions of dollars that belonged to the family business and left a family in tatters. Joshua was trying to make up for all that his father did by putting his own life and desires in his past and out of his reach. In comes reporter Sophie who is investigating a rehashing of what is Joshua’s worst day of his entire life on its 15th anniversary. Sophie doesn’t want to bring the pain back into Joshua’s life but she wants to look into what he gave up. The animosity and distrust between Joshua and Sophie can be felt and yet the underlying immediate attraction is there too. And wow the chemistry was explosive between these two.
This book does end on somewhat of a cliffhanger but nothing that detracts from the story of Joshua and Sophie. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in this series.
This book does end on somewhat of a cliffhanger but nothing that detracts from the story of Joshua and Sophie. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the next one in this series.
April 19, 2020
Ruthless Pride is a heartfelt and moving read. Its a page turner and kept my interest. Its wonderful written and a good storyline. I truly enjoyed reading about these two characters.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Desire for letting me read this story.
I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are of my own.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Desire for letting me read this story.
I read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are of my own.
April 25, 2020
Ruthless Pride is riddled with scandal, secrets, betrayal, lies and sexy times. I enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series are there are unanswered questions.
Copy provided by author
Copy provided by author
April 12, 2020
The story of Joshua and Sophie begins in quite the adversarial way when Sophie, a reporter, writes a story digging up the painful past of Joshua's corrupt father from 15 years ago. It continues though with a growing attraction and deepening respect for each other. It's a well-written tale of pride and how it can wreak havoc with trust, but it's also a tale of learning that sometimes you can have both. Great job Naima!
*ARC copy for an honest review*
*ARC copy for an honest review*
May 7, 2020
I received this ARC in return for a fair and honest review.
Note: I am online friends with Naima Simone on multiple social media platforms.
This is the beginning of a 7-book continuity series called DYNASTIES: SEVEN SINS. I love the idea of this series—each book focuses on one of The Seven Deadly Sins. The sin in this book is Pride.
15 years ago, Vernon Lowell absconded with money from the hedge fund he was running and hasn’t been seen since. For the past 15 years, Vernon’s eldest son Joshua has been trying to right his father’s wrongs. He left a very promising career as a mixed media artist to take over the family run Black Crescent hedge fund. Josh has worked diligently to both repay the money his father stole from their clients; and to repair the Lowell name. But all of this comes at the cost of Josh’s happiness. There is no art, no joy in his life.
Enter investigative reporter Sophie Armstrong who is doing a 15th anniversary piece on the Black Crescent fiasco. Obviously she wants to interview Josh, and obviously the last thing he wants to do is reopen those wounds. But, she gets to him, makes him want things; feel things, again. She is threat to all he has worked for; at least that is what Josh believes. Sophie is weary of getting too close to a man, when her career is in an upswing. It didn’t go well for her mom, but Sophie can’t help what she feels for Josh. Will it work out for these two crazy kids? Of course! HEA’s are guaranteed with Harlequin.
My Thoughts:
I’ve been mulling over how I want to say, what I want to say, about this book. Then I realized, it’s not actually the book I want to talk about—it’s Harlequin continuity series’, as a whole. This is the 4th of such series from Harlequin that I have read (I’ve read two TEXAS CATTLEMAN’S RANCH series and one DYNASTIES series) and my personal observation is that they almost always feel like watered down products. Or they contain a few completely implausible plot-twists that you are required to believe in order for the series’ timeline to work (e.g. it takes a heroine 5 days to get over the break-up of a 5 year relationship, and within a week is ready to marry another man).
Also, quirky character traits are often ‘shaved off’, as these characters may be showing up in the next 6 books, and not every author can write those particular quirks for that character. The tone needs to sound similar, so in some ways, it feels as if authors are holding back some of their personal style when writing these books. My all-time favourite books from Harlequin are never found in continuity series--they are in stand-alones, or in series by the same author.
Unfortunately, I spent a lot of time reading this book and thinking of ways it would be better if Naima were writing the whole series herself. As an example, there was one pop culture reference in this book (Narnia!), while in Naima’s own books, these references are sprinkled liberally throughout the pages. It’s one of the reasons I love her writing so much. For RUTHLESS PRIDE, it feels like she had to tone this down in order to make her writing fit the vibe and mood of this multi-author continuity series.
So, fair to say, this wasn’t my favourite book of Naima’s. But, her BLACKOUT BILLIONAIRES series from Harlequin is straight-up amazing! You must read these starting with THE BILLIONAIRE’S BARGAIN (JUNE 2019 HARLEQUIN DESIRE), continuing with BLACK TIE BILLIONAIRE (SEPTEMBER 2019 HARLEQUIN DESIRE), and finishing with BLAME IT ONE THE BILLIONAIRE (JANUARY 2020 HARLEQUIN DESIRE). And then move on to her WAGS series (such tropey goodness!), and her SWEETEST TABOO series (neither are Harlquin), but I warn you, those book will scorch you with their heat, and melt you with their warmth.
Note: I am online friends with Naima Simone on multiple social media platforms.
This is the beginning of a 7-book continuity series called DYNASTIES: SEVEN SINS. I love the idea of this series—each book focuses on one of The Seven Deadly Sins. The sin in this book is Pride.
15 years ago, Vernon Lowell absconded with money from the hedge fund he was running and hasn’t been seen since. For the past 15 years, Vernon’s eldest son Joshua has been trying to right his father’s wrongs. He left a very promising career as a mixed media artist to take over the family run Black Crescent hedge fund. Josh has worked diligently to both repay the money his father stole from their clients; and to repair the Lowell name. But all of this comes at the cost of Josh’s happiness. There is no art, no joy in his life.
Enter investigative reporter Sophie Armstrong who is doing a 15th anniversary piece on the Black Crescent fiasco. Obviously she wants to interview Josh, and obviously the last thing he wants to do is reopen those wounds. But, she gets to him, makes him want things; feel things, again. She is threat to all he has worked for; at least that is what Josh believes. Sophie is weary of getting too close to a man, when her career is in an upswing. It didn’t go well for her mom, but Sophie can’t help what she feels for Josh. Will it work out for these two crazy kids? Of course! HEA’s are guaranteed with Harlequin.
My Thoughts:
I’ve been mulling over how I want to say, what I want to say, about this book. Then I realized, it’s not actually the book I want to talk about—it’s Harlequin continuity series’, as a whole. This is the 4th of such series from Harlequin that I have read (I’ve read two TEXAS CATTLEMAN’S RANCH series and one DYNASTIES series) and my personal observation is that they almost always feel like watered down products. Or they contain a few completely implausible plot-twists that you are required to believe in order for the series’ timeline to work (e.g. it takes a heroine 5 days to get over the break-up of a 5 year relationship, and within a week is ready to marry another man).
Also, quirky character traits are often ‘shaved off’, as these characters may be showing up in the next 6 books, and not every author can write those particular quirks for that character. The tone needs to sound similar, so in some ways, it feels as if authors are holding back some of their personal style when writing these books. My all-time favourite books from Harlequin are never found in continuity series--they are in stand-alones, or in series by the same author.
Unfortunately, I spent a lot of time reading this book and thinking of ways it would be better if Naima were writing the whole series herself. As an example, there was one pop culture reference in this book (Narnia!), while in Naima’s own books, these references are sprinkled liberally throughout the pages. It’s one of the reasons I love her writing so much. For RUTHLESS PRIDE, it feels like she had to tone this down in order to make her writing fit the vibe and mood of this multi-author continuity series.
So, fair to say, this wasn’t my favourite book of Naima’s. But, her BLACKOUT BILLIONAIRES series from Harlequin is straight-up amazing! You must read these starting with THE BILLIONAIRE’S BARGAIN (JUNE 2019 HARLEQUIN DESIRE), continuing with BLACK TIE BILLIONAIRE (SEPTEMBER 2019 HARLEQUIN DESIRE), and finishing with BLAME IT ONE THE BILLIONAIRE (JANUARY 2020 HARLEQUIN DESIRE). And then move on to her WAGS series (such tropey goodness!), and her SWEETEST TABOO series (neither are Harlquin), but I warn you, those book will scorch you with their heat, and melt you with their warmth.
April 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It had family deception and secrets, a hero trying to atone for the sins of his father, major trust issues, a heroine with her own baggage, and plenty of heat and chemistry between the two leads. And Naima setting these 7 book series up was a stroke of genius because now I am super invested in this family and all the siblings and I want to know what happened to their dad.
*Arc received from author; review is my own*
*Arc received from author; review is my own*
April 3, 2020
What a juicy kick off to the Dynasties: Seven Sins series. Joshua, CEO and heir to his father’s lies and deceptions and Sophie, the investigative reporter determined to revisit his past. The intensity and sparks between these two flared brightly from the first instant they met. I loved Sophie’s unwavering faith in Joshua and her steadfast determination to stay true to herself and her career. I was unable to put this down and read it in one sitting.
Ruthless Pride perfectly lays the groundwork for the remainder of this series.
Ruthless Pride perfectly lays the groundwork for the remainder of this series.
March 30, 2020
If you have not read this author, you are truly missing out. Josh and Sophia were the perfect couple. They balanced each other in a way that so sweet yet so hot. They each had their own insecurities, but together they were stronger than anything. Loved this book and LOVE this author!
May 10, 2020
Full review appeared at Reader's Edyn on 05/10/20
Sophie is one-heck of a reporter, having received accolades galore. Her latest focus is on Joshua Lowell and the devastation his father caused several members of Falling Brook fifteen years ago when he embezzled from the trust fund he ran and disappeared. Now as the anniversary of the debacle approaches, she is writing about Joshua intending to put a different spin on the story. She’s uncovered a lot of information and it would seem that the heir of the Lowell family is much more than he displays for the cameras – an altruistic side he never exposes. But Joshua refuses to participate so she runs with the story she has – and garners his attention full force. Invited behind the scenes for a follow-up story, they each glimpse a side of one other that they normally keep well protected. Sophie doesn’t have a past she is proud of either and Joshua is exactly the kind of man who will shatter her. She should stay far away, but that magnetic pull is fierce and before too long, each succumbs to the flaming desire, terrified of how their own story will end.
Joshua isn’t about to trust the head-strong reporter any farther than he can throw her. Keep your enemies closer is the old adage, so he’ll be sure to do so. And maybe the benefits that follow aren’t so bad either. But Sophie has a way of slipping right under Josh’s armor of protection and quickly has him yearning for a life that he long since left behind – scattered to the wind with his father’s betrayal – Josh, the only one to step up and right all of the wrong none of them saw coming. But with his past and people always scrutinizing him, Josh trusts no one. They always leave him anyway in one way or another. Sophie will be no different. So when she suddenly appears to have betrayed him, he is quick to lash out first, never giving her a chance to leave him. He knows it is inevitable anyway. But his mistake could cost him his perfect match in every way and a shot at a life he never dreamed he could ever get back.
I have read Ms. Simone in the past and have enjoyed her work. It’s also been a minute since I have immersed myself in some sexy Harlequin reads. When I came across a new series made up of seven books by seven authors and Ms. Simone kicking them off, I knew I had found something I wanted to dive into. At this point, I have obtained the first three books in the series, so I will be able to continue at least that far in the series. After reading this wonderful book, my excitement has jumped a notch. At just over 200 pages, this book can be devoured easily within a couple of hours. The story started off with a crazy amount of tension and sexual chemistry and kept on giving. Despite their growing feelings for one another, the mistrust lies heavy, like an elephant in the room. Once Josh and Sophie give into their undeniable, nearly tangible attraction, the sparks fly and the defenses crack even further. But the suspicion remains – at least on Josh’s part.
I appreciated Josh’s sense of responsibility and determination to set right the mess of destruction left in his father’s wake. But this inspiring trait also becomes his crutch and greatest flaw. He has become so worried about judgment upon himself based on his father’s decimated reputation, that he loses sight of who he used to be and what he once wanted for his life – preferring to forget about that period in his life since it can never be reclaimed. But Josh isn’t doing it just for himself. He is also trying to repair his mother and brothers’ reputations through his own efforts. But for all of his attempts, he has only garnered disgust from his own siblings who see him as a copy of their traitorous father. Sophie, however, sees past all of this. In her thorough investigative journalism, she has uncovered the Josh of the past and can see the man inside, lying dormant under the tough business mogul persona he projects to the rest of the world. She also realizes that their time together is more than likely going to be limited, so she does her best to help him realize a way back to his old self; the person he lost, and who he longs to be despite his adamant claims otherwise. Sophie draws him out and gives him a kind of hope for the future he hadn’t been able to grasp since taking over the hedge fund. She also recognizes that an artist with talent that oozes out of his pores like Josh’s does isn’t one to be wasted. Unexpectedly, she is given a tool to nudge him in the right direction. If it helps create those small glimpses of happiness he keeps carefully guarded, she isn’t above making use of that tool.
What I do not understand is what happens with the DNA tests. This is the foremost reason that Sophie and Josh end up agreeing to help one another. But other than the reveal of who leaked the results to Sophie, nothing else ever comes of it. It’s revealed early on that Zane supplied a lot of Sophie’s article information, so him giving her the results is no spoiler. However, his book appears to be next, so I am hoping there is some kind of closure to this cliffhanger component. Or are we to assume it was all a ruse and never true? It’s unclear and a bit aggravating. Zane is one of the family heirs that was destroyed by Senior Lowell’s duplicity, so he’s got a chip on his shoulder the size of Texas. I am also assuming that Josh’s brothers will have a book of their own, but I could be wrong. I felt that they were left unfinished also. Their assumptions that Josh had turned into their father was cruel and unfair. Given Josh’s search he now has going on, I would say reconciliation is in the air. So there are a few things left wide open and annoyingly incomplete, but I can only guess those elements with tie-up somewhere in the next six books. I also felt the ending was a bit rushed. Granted, the book isn’t all that long anyway, but another chapter or two would have been nice. Don’t get me wrong. It was a perfectly romantic grand gesture for a billionaire romance, but it was fast. Given Sophie’s resolve in their last encounter, her rapid capitulation in that particular scenario didn’t fit and also would have likely affected her career reputation, so a bit off for this specific character.
Despite the oddities above, I found this book enjoyable and a fascinating start to a new Harlequin series. I will be jumping into the next book soon and look forward to seeing how the series progresses. Will the authors have worked together on the plots, or just written something as a stand-alone that doesn’t incorporate the previous books? I don’t know. But I will soon. I truly hope for intersecting plots. If you are looking for a quick read, enjoy millionaire romance, and crave hot and steamy, then this book will bring satisfaction. Ms. Simone did a great job in setting this series up, guaranteeing my return for the next installment.
Kindle version provided by NetGalley/Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
Sophie is one-heck of a reporter, having received accolades galore. Her latest focus is on Joshua Lowell and the devastation his father caused several members of Falling Brook fifteen years ago when he embezzled from the trust fund he ran and disappeared. Now as the anniversary of the debacle approaches, she is writing about Joshua intending to put a different spin on the story. She’s uncovered a lot of information and it would seem that the heir of the Lowell family is much more than he displays for the cameras – an altruistic side he never exposes. But Joshua refuses to participate so she runs with the story she has – and garners his attention full force. Invited behind the scenes for a follow-up story, they each glimpse a side of one other that they normally keep well protected. Sophie doesn’t have a past she is proud of either and Joshua is exactly the kind of man who will shatter her. She should stay far away, but that magnetic pull is fierce and before too long, each succumbs to the flaming desire, terrified of how their own story will end.
Joshua isn’t about to trust the head-strong reporter any farther than he can throw her. Keep your enemies closer is the old adage, so he’ll be sure to do so. And maybe the benefits that follow aren’t so bad either. But Sophie has a way of slipping right under Josh’s armor of protection and quickly has him yearning for a life that he long since left behind – scattered to the wind with his father’s betrayal – Josh, the only one to step up and right all of the wrong none of them saw coming. But with his past and people always scrutinizing him, Josh trusts no one. They always leave him anyway in one way or another. Sophie will be no different. So when she suddenly appears to have betrayed him, he is quick to lash out first, never giving her a chance to leave him. He knows it is inevitable anyway. But his mistake could cost him his perfect match in every way and a shot at a life he never dreamed he could ever get back.
I have read Ms. Simone in the past and have enjoyed her work. It’s also been a minute since I have immersed myself in some sexy Harlequin reads. When I came across a new series made up of seven books by seven authors and Ms. Simone kicking them off, I knew I had found something I wanted to dive into. At this point, I have obtained the first three books in the series, so I will be able to continue at least that far in the series. After reading this wonderful book, my excitement has jumped a notch. At just over 200 pages, this book can be devoured easily within a couple of hours. The story started off with a crazy amount of tension and sexual chemistry and kept on giving. Despite their growing feelings for one another, the mistrust lies heavy, like an elephant in the room. Once Josh and Sophie give into their undeniable, nearly tangible attraction, the sparks fly and the defenses crack even further. But the suspicion remains – at least on Josh’s part.
I appreciated Josh’s sense of responsibility and determination to set right the mess of destruction left in his father’s wake. But this inspiring trait also becomes his crutch and greatest flaw. He has become so worried about judgment upon himself based on his father’s decimated reputation, that he loses sight of who he used to be and what he once wanted for his life – preferring to forget about that period in his life since it can never be reclaimed. But Josh isn’t doing it just for himself. He is also trying to repair his mother and brothers’ reputations through his own efforts. But for all of his attempts, he has only garnered disgust from his own siblings who see him as a copy of their traitorous father. Sophie, however, sees past all of this. In her thorough investigative journalism, she has uncovered the Josh of the past and can see the man inside, lying dormant under the tough business mogul persona he projects to the rest of the world. She also realizes that their time together is more than likely going to be limited, so she does her best to help him realize a way back to his old self; the person he lost, and who he longs to be despite his adamant claims otherwise. Sophie draws him out and gives him a kind of hope for the future he hadn’t been able to grasp since taking over the hedge fund. She also recognizes that an artist with talent that oozes out of his pores like Josh’s does isn’t one to be wasted. Unexpectedly, she is given a tool to nudge him in the right direction. If it helps create those small glimpses of happiness he keeps carefully guarded, she isn’t above making use of that tool.
What I do not understand is what happens with the DNA tests. This is the foremost reason that Sophie and Josh end up agreeing to help one another. But other than the reveal of who leaked the results to Sophie, nothing else ever comes of it. It’s revealed early on that Zane supplied a lot of Sophie’s article information, so him giving her the results is no spoiler. However, his book appears to be next, so I am hoping there is some kind of closure to this cliffhanger component. Or are we to assume it was all a ruse and never true? It’s unclear and a bit aggravating. Zane is one of the family heirs that was destroyed by Senior Lowell’s duplicity, so he’s got a chip on his shoulder the size of Texas. I am also assuming that Josh’s brothers will have a book of their own, but I could be wrong. I felt that they were left unfinished also. Their assumptions that Josh had turned into their father was cruel and unfair. Given Josh’s search he now has going on, I would say reconciliation is in the air. So there are a few things left wide open and annoyingly incomplete, but I can only guess those elements with tie-up somewhere in the next six books. I also felt the ending was a bit rushed. Granted, the book isn’t all that long anyway, but another chapter or two would have been nice. Don’t get me wrong. It was a perfectly romantic grand gesture for a billionaire romance, but it was fast. Given Sophie’s resolve in their last encounter, her rapid capitulation in that particular scenario didn’t fit and also would have likely affected her career reputation, so a bit off for this specific character.
Despite the oddities above, I found this book enjoyable and a fascinating start to a new Harlequin series. I will be jumping into the next book soon and look forward to seeing how the series progresses. Will the authors have worked together on the plots, or just written something as a stand-alone that doesn’t incorporate the previous books? I don’t know. But I will soon. I truly hope for intersecting plots. If you are looking for a quick read, enjoy millionaire romance, and crave hot and steamy, then this book will bring satisfaction. Ms. Simone did a great job in setting this series up, guaranteeing my return for the next installment.
Kindle version provided by NetGalley/Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.
April 17, 2024
Sophie resurrected an old scandal involving Joshua Lowell. Josh wants Sophie to see the other side and invites her in to take a peek at what others rarely have the opportunity to see…the real Josh.
The backdrop laid the foundation for a full, robust story. However, I did not enjoy this one. IMO, the author came in too hot with Josh immediately lusting after Sophie on the first meeting. It was too intense. We barely know anything about his character, then hot and heavy desire is tossed in our laps. It didn’t work as an opening for this book.
The relationship development went way too fast. Why do they like each other? Why are they willing to break their rules for each other? I don’t get it.
It was an easy read and I’ll probably try something else by this author.
The backdrop laid the foundation for a full, robust story. However, I did not enjoy this one. IMO, the author came in too hot with Josh immediately lusting after Sophie on the first meeting. It was too intense. We barely know anything about his character, then hot and heavy desire is tossed in our laps. It didn’t work as an opening for this book.
The relationship development went way too fast. Why do they like each other? Why are they willing to break their rules for each other? I don’t get it.
It was an easy read and I’ll probably try something else by this author.
April 28, 2020
This was a good read. The story was entertaining and the characters likable. Sophie and Joshua each had some baggage that weighed heavily on their story and the way their relationship evolves. I felt that this couple had a lot of appeal as a couple and I did enjoy their chemistry. That being said, I wish I could have felt a deeper and stronger connection between these two. I couldn't help feeling that the thick emotional barriers that they each had really put a damper on that ever getting a chance to show through and I truly missed it. This is my frank, freely posted review.
May 5, 2020
I’m not much of a category romance reader due to its constraints, but I couldn’t resist this one after I saw that this book was by Naima Simone and the first in a connected series. While I haven’t read her other categories, I’ve read her Sweetest Taboo series, and this book is exactly what I expected from her – tons of angst and tons of heat. It’s enemies-to-lovers with just a bit of forbidden love, considering that a relationship between a CEO and the reporter writing an article on him would definitely get them both in hot water!
After his father disappeared with millions of dollars embezzled from the family company and his clients, Josh gave up his own dreams to take over the helm in an attempt to make reparations. It’s cost him everything – his relationship with his brothers, his own art career – and the last thing he needs is another hotshot reporter who’s looking to capitalize on rehashing his family’s downfall. But something about Sophie tantalizes him, and Josh isn’t what Sophie was expecting either. Sophie’s intrigued and moved by Josh’s art and struggles to reconcile it with the cold businessman who refuses to give her the time of day. Neither can deny the instant attraction between them, but will it burn out and leave them both with nothing but ashes?
Given the title, it’s no surprise that pride plays a big part for both of the characters. For Josh, he’s proud of how he’s turned around the company and made it successful again, even if it was at his own expense. But that pride isn’t enough to compensate for the loss of his passion and the abandonment by his family. He has enough of it left, though, to know that he can’t afford to get emotionally invested in anyone, even the woman who haunts his thoughts. Sophie also had a serious case of insta-lust for Josh, though she recognizes there’s a serious conflict of interest since she’s supposed be writing an unbiased article on him and his company. Plus, after a previous boyfriend manipulated her to get more favorable coverage for a politician, she’s wary of falling into the same trap again, of compromising her career – her passion – for the sake of a relationship.
And yes, Sophie and Josh’s relationship is definitely insta-lust, which is not my favorite trope, but the author really sells it. The chemistry between them is intense, even when they’re both operating under misconceptions – the millionaire CEO who’s cut from the same cloth as his embezzler father versus the scheming reporter who won’t hesitate to dig up dirt to sell more papers. As the trust builds between them, the lust transmutes into something more emotional, though the heat level stays sky high. Both characters have some pretty angsty “oh no, not feelings!” moments which were quite fun. They also have some excellent banter, which is always a highlight for me. As for cons, there are a few loose ends – whether his father is still alive, and though it’s pretty much discounted, . I’m hoping these are things that will be picked up in the rest of the series.
Because, yes, I will definitely be reading more in this series – I’m very curious to see what happens with Josh’s brothers and if Josh’s assistant / practically sister gets her own book, as well! Overall, this is a delightfully angsty and high heat category!
I received this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
After his father disappeared with millions of dollars embezzled from the family company and his clients, Josh gave up his own dreams to take over the helm in an attempt to make reparations. It’s cost him everything – his relationship with his brothers, his own art career – and the last thing he needs is another hotshot reporter who’s looking to capitalize on rehashing his family’s downfall. But something about Sophie tantalizes him, and Josh isn’t what Sophie was expecting either. Sophie’s intrigued and moved by Josh’s art and struggles to reconcile it with the cold businessman who refuses to give her the time of day. Neither can deny the instant attraction between them, but will it burn out and leave them both with nothing but ashes?
“The whole shitfest with the hedge fund had left him with precious little—the death of his art career, the eradication of his relationships with his brothers, a ghost of a mother, an overabundance of shame and a ruined family company. But they’d been his choices.
All that had remained in the ashes after the firestorm were the ragged tatters of his pride because he’d had the strength, the character, to make those choices.
And now Sophie Armstrong sought to steal that dignity away from him, too.”
Given the title, it’s no surprise that pride plays a big part for both of the characters. For Josh, he’s proud of how he’s turned around the company and made it successful again, even if it was at his own expense. But that pride isn’t enough to compensate for the loss of his passion and the abandonment by his family. He has enough of it left, though, to know that he can’t afford to get emotionally invested in anyone, even the woman who haunts his thoughts. Sophie also had a serious case of insta-lust for Josh, though she recognizes there’s a serious conflict of interest since she’s supposed be writing an unbiased article on him and his company. Plus, after a previous boyfriend manipulated her to get more favorable coverage for a politician, she’s wary of falling into the same trap again, of compromising her career – her passion – for the sake of a relationship.
“Sheathe your sword, Sophie,” he said.
“So you finally admit that you need every bit of help you can muster when going up against me?” she challenged, amusement lighting her eyes like glittering stars.
“I never said I didn’t. Only a fool would encounter you and not be battle ready with everything in his arsenal available to him.”
She heaved an exaggerated sigh and splayed her fingers wide over her chest. “I do believe that’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me.”
And yes, Sophie and Josh’s relationship is definitely insta-lust, which is not my favorite trope, but the author really sells it. The chemistry between them is intense, even when they’re both operating under misconceptions – the millionaire CEO who’s cut from the same cloth as his embezzler father versus the scheming reporter who won’t hesitate to dig up dirt to sell more papers. As the trust builds between them, the lust transmutes into something more emotional, though the heat level stays sky high. Both characters have some pretty angsty “oh no, not feelings!” moments which were quite fun. They also have some excellent banter, which is always a highlight for me. As for cons, there are a few loose ends – whether his father is still alive, and though it’s pretty much discounted, . I’m hoping these are things that will be picked up in the rest of the series.
Because, yes, I will definitely be reading more in this series – I’m very curious to see what happens with Josh’s brothers and if Josh’s assistant / practically sister gets her own book, as well! Overall, this is a delightfully angsty and high heat category!
I received this book from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 8, 2020
The setup:
Fifteen years prior, Vernon Lowell embezzled funds from seven prominent families. When he takes the money and runs, his oldest son is left to pick up the pieces. On the anniversary of the scandal, a reporter has written a story for the local paper. She wanted Joshua Lowell's perspective, but he was too angry that the story was being drug out for public scrutiny again to give her the time of day. But...there's chemistry there!
Main Characters:
Joshua Lowell, former artist and now millionaire CEO of the Black Crescent Hedge Fund
Sophie Armstrong, the reporter covering the anniversary of the Black Crescent Scandal
Tropes: Millionaire, Family Scandals, Just One Night, Enemies to Lovers
My thoughts:
I was thrilled to see Naima Simone take the lead book on this series, because she writes her characters in such a way that I, as a reader, cannot help but to feel for them. In the case of Ruthless Pride, my heart broke for Josh- the child of a very unhappy marriage, the young man that found his place in the world through art but wasn't taken seriously by his father, and then the young man that gave up that happiness to act as savior for his family, repairing the damage that his disapproving father had wreaked. That his family not only doesn't seem to appreciate his sacrifice, but judges him harshly for stepping in to save the company his father destroyed, is even more heartbreaking. In the case of Joshua's character, his pride stems from a need to clear the taint of his family name. His high walls are carefully built in order to protect himself from more pain, and who could blame him? As for Sophie, I loved that she saw beneath Josh's icy exterior. She never set out to change him in any way, instead recognizing what made him the man he is, while insisting that Joshua was not only NOT responsible for his father's crimes, but should he lauded for everything he'd done to help others. I also really loved that while she had feelings for him, she knew what she deserved from a relationship and wasn't willing to settle for a man that could not give her his trust. When she told him she pitied him, WOW! I cheered out loud for her!
It goes without saying, that the author also brought the heat with this book! The first half was wrought with sexual tension and the build-up to the first kiss left me breathless. Passionate, emotional, powerful. It was *chef's kiss* perfection! The consent in this book was written so well, with Josh telling Sophie SHE has all the power. Yes, yes, yes! Seriously, I could read endless books about this couple. I loved their chemistry and the way they saw each other.
Quite frankly, I didn't get ENOUGH of this couple (a drawback to these HQN series) and was left wanting to know so much more about them. Which is, in this reader's opinion, always a good thing because it means I was invested.
As for the overarching series plot-the paternity issue-I'm hooked and need to know who this mystery child is, and what does any of this have to do with the seven families. I have my suspicions and can't wait to find out if I'm on the right trail.
Favorite quote: "When do you get the chance to live in the sun in your own light?" -Sophie
Fifteen years prior, Vernon Lowell embezzled funds from seven prominent families. When he takes the money and runs, his oldest son is left to pick up the pieces. On the anniversary of the scandal, a reporter has written a story for the local paper. She wanted Joshua Lowell's perspective, but he was too angry that the story was being drug out for public scrutiny again to give her the time of day. But...there's chemistry there!
Main Characters:
Joshua Lowell, former artist and now millionaire CEO of the Black Crescent Hedge Fund
Sophie Armstrong, the reporter covering the anniversary of the Black Crescent Scandal
Tropes: Millionaire, Family Scandals, Just One Night, Enemies to Lovers
My thoughts:
I was thrilled to see Naima Simone take the lead book on this series, because she writes her characters in such a way that I, as a reader, cannot help but to feel for them. In the case of Ruthless Pride, my heart broke for Josh- the child of a very unhappy marriage, the young man that found his place in the world through art but wasn't taken seriously by his father, and then the young man that gave up that happiness to act as savior for his family, repairing the damage that his disapproving father had wreaked. That his family not only doesn't seem to appreciate his sacrifice, but judges him harshly for stepping in to save the company his father destroyed, is even more heartbreaking. In the case of Joshua's character, his pride stems from a need to clear the taint of his family name. His high walls are carefully built in order to protect himself from more pain, and who could blame him? As for Sophie, I loved that she saw beneath Josh's icy exterior. She never set out to change him in any way, instead recognizing what made him the man he is, while insisting that Joshua was not only NOT responsible for his father's crimes, but should he lauded for everything he'd done to help others. I also really loved that while she had feelings for him, she knew what she deserved from a relationship and wasn't willing to settle for a man that could not give her his trust. When she told him she pitied him, WOW! I cheered out loud for her!
It goes without saying, that the author also brought the heat with this book! The first half was wrought with sexual tension and the build-up to the first kiss left me breathless. Passionate, emotional, powerful. It was *chef's kiss* perfection! The consent in this book was written so well, with Josh telling Sophie SHE has all the power. Yes, yes, yes! Seriously, I could read endless books about this couple. I loved their chemistry and the way they saw each other.
Quite frankly, I didn't get ENOUGH of this couple (a drawback to these HQN series) and was left wanting to know so much more about them. Which is, in this reader's opinion, always a good thing because it means I was invested.
As for the overarching series plot-the paternity issue-I'm hooked and need to know who this mystery child is, and what does any of this have to do with the seven families. I have my suspicions and can't wait to find out if I'm on the right trail.
Favorite quote: "When do you get the chance to live in the sun in your own light?" -Sophie
May 2, 2020
: 3.75 stars—RUTHLESS PRIDE by Naime Simone is the first instalment in the multi-authored DYNASTIES: SEVEN SINS erotic, romance novella series focusing on the families destroyed by betrayal and greed. This is millionaire CEO Joshua Lowell, and reporter Sophie Armstrongs story line.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sophie and Joshua) RUTHLESS PRIDE introduces some of the backstory and fall-out of Vernon Lowell’s betrayal of the people who trusted him with their money and their lives. Fifteen years earlier Vernon Lowell disappeared with millions of dollars in client’s hedge fund money, and the man has not been seen or heard from since. In the ensuing years, his eldest son, Joshua Lowell, gave up his own burgeoning career as an artist, to take over as CEO in an effort to repay and repair the damage done to so many people but Joshua never expected the sins of his father to once again scandalize the family. A young reporter has set her sights on the Lowell story, and is determined to reveal the truth, as she knows it. Enter reporter Sophie Armstrong. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Sophie and Joshua, and the potential fall-out as more sins and lies come to the surface forcing Joshua to chose between Sophie and the life he has come to endure.
The relationship between Sophie and Joshua is acrimonious at best. Joshua does not trust Sophie to not report further on the Lowell family sins, and Sophie struggles between head and heart when she begins to fall for the our story line hero. Joshua hopes to keep Sophie close but never expected to fall for the woman who has stirred up a hornets nest of bad memories and sins. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters are limited but we are quickly introduced to Zane Patterson, a man who is willing to do anything to see the Lowell family further disgraced, by any means necessary, including using Sophie, our story line heroine. Zanes story is next in Forbidden Lust by Karen Booth.
RUTHLESS PRIDE is a story of secrets, lies, betrayal and revenge. The conflict resolution does not address certain aspects and revelations but I suspect the plot line will continue throughout the series. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance is seductive and steamy; the characters are energetic and dynamic.
copy supplied by Netgalley
Told from dual third person perspectives (Sophie and Joshua) RUTHLESS PRIDE introduces some of the backstory and fall-out of Vernon Lowell’s betrayal of the people who trusted him with their money and their lives. Fifteen years earlier Vernon Lowell disappeared with millions of dollars in client’s hedge fund money, and the man has not been seen or heard from since. In the ensuing years, his eldest son, Joshua Lowell, gave up his own burgeoning career as an artist, to take over as CEO in an effort to repay and repair the damage done to so many people but Joshua never expected the sins of his father to once again scandalize the family. A young reporter has set her sights on the Lowell story, and is determined to reveal the truth, as she knows it. Enter reporter Sophie Armstrong. What ensues is the building but tempestuous relationship between Sophie and Joshua, and the potential fall-out as more sins and lies come to the surface forcing Joshua to chose between Sophie and the life he has come to endure.
The relationship between Sophie and Joshua is acrimonious at best. Joshua does not trust Sophie to not report further on the Lowell family sins, and Sophie struggles between head and heart when she begins to fall for the our story line hero. Joshua hopes to keep Sophie close but never expected to fall for the woman who has stirred up a hornets nest of bad memories and sins. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
The secondary and supporting characters are limited but we are quickly introduced to Zane Patterson, a man who is willing to do anything to see the Lowell family further disgraced, by any means necessary, including using Sophie, our story line heroine. Zanes story is next in Forbidden Lust by Karen Booth.
RUTHLESS PRIDE is a story of secrets, lies, betrayal and revenge. The conflict resolution does not address certain aspects and revelations but I suspect the plot line will continue throughout the series. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance is seductive and steamy; the characters are energetic and dynamic.
copy supplied by Netgalley
May 19, 2020
Naima Simone’s prose just does it for me, every time. I love the way she has with words, and I truly enjoy her skill with creating chemistry filled pairings and super sexy love scenes. She can bring the heat and heart like few can and I deeply appreciate this.
Josh and Sophie have crazy heat, but I also struggled with Josh’s hardcore trust issues and how long it took for him to change his mind and the time between the turn and the ending was a wee bit too quick. The timeline is condensed, so the road to an HEA feels like an expressway, not a slow and winding backroad. The overarching storyline setup was....fine, and I didn’t hate it, but I don’t know that I feel compelled to seek out the other books right away either. I typically feel this way about multi-author setups though - it usually makes characters feel less individual, and more about trying to conform to a 'verse that isn't solely their own, so I will freely admit to that bias.
But that heat! Man, the ending may be quick but it does work, so if you’re a fan of Ms. Simone and her way with words, you may enjoy this.
**ARC provided by publisher via netgalley for review**
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May 3, 2020
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a free copy of this book.
This is the first of the Dynasties: Seven Sins series, a multi-author Harlequin Desire Dynasties project of seven books involving the fallout of one man’s crimes on several high-powered families.
Millionaire Joshua Lowell has earned his place in the world, painstakingly rebuilding the hedge fund that his father destroyed by running off with his investors’ money, leaving Joshua and the rest of his family to live with the shame and scandal of his actions, as well as the enmity of those he’d betrayed. Now, years later, he’s at the top of his game. In steps Sophie Armstrong, reporter, who’s decided to do a piece on the hedge fund – and Joshua – on the anniversary of the scandal’s breaking. Revisiting the past that haunts him is the last thing Joshua wants to do, but Sophie is determined – and startlingly distracting. She might be just the person to help him focus on the future instead of the past, but first he’s going to have to deal with some unsavory rumors that Sophie’s dug up, rumors that threaten to destroy everything Joshua has been determined to become.
Ruthless Pride was an uneven beginning to what promises to be an intriguing Desire series. Simone definitely has a deft hand at developing both romantic and sexual tension, and Sophie and Joshua were delightful characters, each living and breathing on the page and enjoyable to get to know. Unfortunately, the strength of Sophie and Joshua as characters was counterbalanced by plot elements that seemed unrealistic, and some elements that were introduced but felt like they weren’t really wrapped up by the end of the story. That all said, the development of the Seven Sins world was enjoyable to watch unfold – though I’m sure there’s a lot more to the people and places readers of the series will get to know, the glimpse readers get of Falling Brook and Joshua’s family cannot fail to pique one’s curiosity. Though I wasn’t totally enthralled by this first entry in the series, it had a warm, fuzzy HEA, and in the end I did enjoy it very much, and look forward to reading more of the Seven Sins!
This is the first of the Dynasties: Seven Sins series, a multi-author Harlequin Desire Dynasties project of seven books involving the fallout of one man’s crimes on several high-powered families.
Millionaire Joshua Lowell has earned his place in the world, painstakingly rebuilding the hedge fund that his father destroyed by running off with his investors’ money, leaving Joshua and the rest of his family to live with the shame and scandal of his actions, as well as the enmity of those he’d betrayed. Now, years later, he’s at the top of his game. In steps Sophie Armstrong, reporter, who’s decided to do a piece on the hedge fund – and Joshua – on the anniversary of the scandal’s breaking. Revisiting the past that haunts him is the last thing Joshua wants to do, but Sophie is determined – and startlingly distracting. She might be just the person to help him focus on the future instead of the past, but first he’s going to have to deal with some unsavory rumors that Sophie’s dug up, rumors that threaten to destroy everything Joshua has been determined to become.
Ruthless Pride was an uneven beginning to what promises to be an intriguing Desire series. Simone definitely has a deft hand at developing both romantic and sexual tension, and Sophie and Joshua were delightful characters, each living and breathing on the page and enjoyable to get to know. Unfortunately, the strength of Sophie and Joshua as characters was counterbalanced by plot elements that seemed unrealistic, and some elements that were introduced but felt like they weren’t really wrapped up by the end of the story. That all said, the development of the Seven Sins world was enjoyable to watch unfold – though I’m sure there’s a lot more to the people and places readers of the series will get to know, the glimpse readers get of Falling Brook and Joshua’s family cannot fail to pique one’s curiosity. Though I wasn’t totally enthralled by this first entry in the series, it had a warm, fuzzy HEA, and in the end I did enjoy it very much, and look forward to reading more of the Seven Sins!
May 16, 2020
Okay, so it goes without saying this one is definitely for ADULTS ONLY. Joshua is all they say with his icy billionaire persona build to ward off the public eye more than attract it, though attract is something they can't help but be with his visual attributes and the scandalous past inherited from his father before him. He's not the bad guy, though he'll let you believe he is if it means leaving him alone, but some people simply won't take no for an answer. Enter Sophie...a headstrong reporter that inadvertently turns the public's eyes to him and his family once again, FIFTEEN YEARS after the scandal that rocked them to the core! I say inadvertently because while she was bringing it to the spotlight again, she had wanted to take a new angle...but someone was less than forthcoming with an interview, and she had a bit of anonymous inside information, so things spiraled back again. Like I said though...some don't take NO for an answer. A few more meet-not-so-cute moments later and neither one can deny there's something between them...but whether or not it burns brighter than the sun or torches them to ashes has yet to be seen. Any guesses which way it goes?
Guess away, I won't reveal the BIG TRUTH...but speaking of which, let me share MY big truth. I enjoyed the story, though I could have done with a bit less heat, but I did have one lingering question. Why introduce such a big plot point if it wasn't going to be fully explored? I mean, there was already plenty going for it without the added drama piece, but it left me pondering and feeling a little hung out to dry. However, despite that little hiccup, I still had a BLAST getting to know both characters. Joshua is so much more than he lets on, and Sophie is far more tender than her earned hardened exterior allows her to be. I can see why one of the sins is pride...the inability to accept that you're not perfect and we're always striving to better ourselves has got to be such a heavy weight! Good thing these two have each other to help carry it...at least for a little while...or maybe even more...
Recommended read for adult Contemporary Romance fans and enemies-to-lovers trope readers!
Guess away, I won't reveal the BIG TRUTH...but speaking of which, let me share MY big truth. I enjoyed the story, though I could have done with a bit less heat, but I did have one lingering question. Why introduce such a big plot point if it wasn't going to be fully explored? I mean, there was already plenty going for it without the added drama piece, but it left me pondering and feeling a little hung out to dry. However, despite that little hiccup, I still had a BLAST getting to know both characters. Joshua is so much more than he lets on, and Sophie is far more tender than her earned hardened exterior allows her to be. I can see why one of the sins is pride...the inability to accept that you're not perfect and we're always striving to better ourselves has got to be such a heavy weight! Good thing these two have each other to help carry it...at least for a little while...or maybe even more...
Recommended read for adult Contemporary Romance fans and enemies-to-lovers trope readers!
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