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Vested Interest #6
Halton
A sexy, new standalone in the Vested Interest series.
When love turns to hate—that’s where I come in.
I’m Halton Andrew Smithers, attorney. Hal to my clients and friends.
Messy divorces, deadbeat dads, runaway wives, cheating partners—I handle them all.
I know the seedy side of love, and it isn’t pretty. I avoid emotional attachments—I’ve seen all too often when hot passion turns to frozen tundra.
I satisfy myself with helping people behind the scenes. It gives me a sense of satisfaction that completes my life.
Until she enters it and everything I believe is turned upside down.
She fills a void I never knew existed, and I know without her, my life will never be the same again.
For the first time, I want to try.
For her.
But am I strong enough?
258 pages, ebook
First published December 2, 2019
575 people are currently reading
1046 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Moreland
77 books5,479 followersWelcome Romance Readers!
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A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story.
Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at flavia@bookcaseagency.com
Join my newsletter for news on upcoming releases and sales CLICK HERE
Make sure to follow me on Amazon for new release alerts CLICK HERE
Join me on Facebook in my reader group CLICK HERE
Check out my excerpts on Verve Romance CLICK HERE
A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story.
Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at flavia@bookcaseagency.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 292 reviews
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June 22, 2019
Halton is book six in the Vested Interest series by Melanie Moreland. This can easily be read as a stand alone. As is normal, the characters do recur from the previous books but will not take away from this one if you haven’t read them. Thus far, I have only read the previous book, Van. I fell so in love with him and thought there was no way I could love another Hero more. Until this book, until Halton.
We first met Halton (Hal) Smithers in the previous book when he was hired as a lawyer for Van and Olivia. He is thirty six years old and has dedicated his life to his profession. He helps those that have been hurt by the one that had promised to love them forever. He sees the worst side of marriage, the ugly side. Halton doesn’t believe in love, in happy ever afters. His own past and his career have proven it doesn’t exist time and time again.
Fiona (Fee) Hutchings needs help. And she is convinced that Halton Smithers is the best person for the job. Her husband is divorcing her and has taken everything from her. Who better to represent her than her husband’s greatest adversary?
“I wanted to take away her pain and ease her stress.”
Halton has never felt an emotional connection to any woman he has dated. Especially not to any of his clients. But as soon as he met Fiona, he needed to ease her stress, take away her pain. This feeling baffled him. He had no idea what to do with these feelings.
As Halton and Fiona spend time together, their connection deepens. What Halton is feeling breaks every one of his rules. But he can’t help himself. She is so much stronger than she gives herself credit for. And somehow when she is near him, he felt peaceful for the first time in years.
As Fee’s situation escalates, she and Halton are thrown together even more. It becomes impossible not to cross that final thread they were both hanging on to. But, Halton still insists, I am not a long term man. I am only a here and now. Fee deserves her own happy ever after and he knows he will never be able to give that to her.
This book was amazing, Halton was everything. I think I started falling in love with him before the end of the first chapter. There were so many twists and turns in this. I know I gasped more than once. But, I also swooned, I sighed, and I smiled, a lot! Halton was one sexy beast. I absolutely loved the epilogue. Melanie Moreland writes the BEST epilogues.
In closing, I just want to say, “Read…This…Book!!! Halton is waiting for you! I do plan to go back and read the first four books in this series. I loved these last two so much I am going to HAVE to get the other character’s stories. I can’t wait to see what Melanie is going to do next.
“You made a dream I didn’t even know I had come true, Fee.”
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
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July 28, 2019
2.5 predictable stars
I’m really tired of reading of poor little heroines that have little to no experience, that quits college and takes 2 jobs to help support their husbands and their careers only for their husbands to turn abusive and cheaters. They can’t do anything other to get help from the so call heroes (their white knights in shining armor)
I’m tired of manwhore heroes that have FBs, that don’t want a relationship but they love to have sex with OWs. Heroes who tell the OWs that they’re only good for sex, (paraphrasing here) that they don’t want a relationship with them. That they know the score before going in. Only for the heroes to have a come to Jesus moment when they meet the Mary Sue heroine that does everything perfect even being a martyrs. Heroes that are emotionally unavailable with OWs but when the heroine enters the picture they go all “I’m in love, and I want to be their protector”, “I want to dry all of her tears”, i want to feed her and take care of her” and let’s not forget the good old one where hero never takes the OWs to his house because he values his privacy but the first thing he does when he meets the heroine is to take her to his place. And heroes who are broken and the heroines who are the perfect cure for them. Hero did fought his feelings, he sure did wanted to fuck her but he didn’t want anything else but sex, same as her at first until she started to feel more for him. He was cruel when he pushed her away, I’ll just leave it at that.
Safety: hero and heroine met once a few years back, he didn’t remember her. she was a married woman, he didn’t do married women then and now, few years forward, she goes looking for him to help her with her divorce. Hero has a FB but he break things with her before he reconnects
with the heroine again. The good old excuse of him not wanting more than a few rolls in the sheets with OWs. He’s good at sex but doesn’t want anything else until he meets the woman who will change his world. And even then he still fought his feelings.
Heroine has been celibate for 4 years! And sex with her ex has never been good. You know yada yada.
I’m really tired of reading of poor little heroines that have little to no experience, that quits college and takes 2 jobs to help support their husbands and their careers only for their husbands to turn abusive and cheaters. They can’t do anything other to get help from the so call heroes (their white knights in shining armor)
I’m tired of manwhore heroes that have FBs, that don’t want a relationship but they love to have sex with OWs. Heroes who tell the OWs that they’re only good for sex, (paraphrasing here) that they don’t want a relationship with them. That they know the score before going in. Only for the heroes to have a come to Jesus moment when they meet the Mary Sue heroine that does everything perfect even being a martyrs. Heroes that are emotionally unavailable with OWs but when the heroine enters the picture they go all “I’m in love, and I want to be their protector”, “I want to dry all of her tears”, i want to feed her and take care of her” and let’s not forget the good old one where hero never takes the OWs to his house because he values his privacy but the first thing he does when he meets the heroine is to take her to his place. And heroes who are broken and the heroines who are the perfect cure for them. Hero did fought his feelings, he sure did wanted to fuck her but he didn’t want anything else but sex, same as her at first until she started to feel more for him. He was cruel when he pushed her away, I’ll just leave it at that.
Safety: hero and heroine met once a few years back, he didn’t remember her. she was a married woman, he didn’t do married women then and now, few years forward, she goes looking for him to help her with her divorce. Hero has a FB but he break things with her before he reconnects
with the heroine again. The good old excuse of him not wanting more than a few rolls in the sheets with OWs. He’s good at sex but doesn’t want anything else until he meets the woman who will change his world. And even then he still fought his feelings.
Heroine has been celibate for 4 years! And sex with her ex has never been good. You know yada yada.
June 26, 2019
Halton is the sixth novel in the Vested Interest series. It can be read as a standalone. Halton was a sweet, romantic and a little emotional novel. The epilogue was the perfect and adorable ending of this book. I really loved Halton, just like I loved every book of the Vested Interest series. The writing, the characters and the emotions in this series are so good.
Fee is smart, honest, reliable, kind hearted and lonely. She didn’t have the best marriage and she’s getting a divorce now. She had given up a lot for her husband. Fee is lost at the beginning, but she’s ready to fight. She is in need of an attorney and she thinks Halton would be perfect for that job.
Halton is determined, protective and smart. He’s an attorney. He fights hard to win for his clients. Halton is rude and driven when it’s about his clients. He never gets personal with his clients. Things are different with Fee. Halton will get personal with her. He loves spending time with Fee and taking care of her.
Halton and Fee are so good and beautiful together. They slowly grow closer to each other, but the progress was good. Fee becomes stronger because of Halton. Halton will finally find real love with Fee.
The BAM family appears sometimes. I love that family. I adore every man, woman and couple. They are all supportive. They have amazing friendships. There are some people who I would love to get their own book. I really hope the Vested Interest series is not over yet!
-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
Fee is smart, honest, reliable, kind hearted and lonely. She didn’t have the best marriage and she’s getting a divorce now. She had given up a lot for her husband. Fee is lost at the beginning, but she’s ready to fight. She is in need of an attorney and she thinks Halton would be perfect for that job.
Halton is determined, protective and smart. He’s an attorney. He fights hard to win for his clients. Halton is rude and driven when it’s about his clients. He never gets personal with his clients. Things are different with Fee. Halton will get personal with her. He loves spending time with Fee and taking care of her.
Halton and Fee are so good and beautiful together. They slowly grow closer to each other, but the progress was good. Fee becomes stronger because of Halton. Halton will finally find real love with Fee.
The BAM family appears sometimes. I love that family. I adore every man, woman and couple. They are all supportive. They have amazing friendships. There are some people who I would love to get their own book. I really hope the Vested Interest series is not over yet!
-- My honest review is based on an advanced reader copy of this book. --
December 3, 2019
Fron all the books in this series that i had listen, i still love Reid story the best. Now in Halton, it falls short. To be honest, the theme of this books is similar to Bently. I have really hard time connecting with Halton. In my mind he is sort of baby.
He feels sorry for himself way too much. I am bit disappointed that Miss Moreland can not bring more intense and complex character into Halton.
Overall i do not love this book nor hate it either.
3 stars
He feels sorry for himself way too much. I am bit disappointed that Miss Moreland can not bring more intense and complex character into Halton.
Overall i do not love this book nor hate it either.
3 stars
November 22, 2019
A ok, light read that focuses on attorney Halton (Hal) Andrew Smithers and Fiona (Fee) Hutchings. The two-meet when Fee comes to him seeking help as her husband seeks to discover her in order to appease his mistress. I have to say that I wanted more fire and oomph when it came to the heroine, there was something key missing from the contours of her personality.
The 6th novel in the Vested Interest series, this can be read as a standalone.
Potential Triggers:
Acquired via KU.
The 6th novel in the Vested Interest series, this can be read as a standalone.
Potential Triggers:
Acquired via KU.
July 3, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
I would never throw liquor in the face of a woman, no matter what she had done. I had class and manners. And I wouldn’t want to waste the scotch.
Time in the world of the law has a totally different meaning. Urgent means I’ll get to it when convenient. As soon as possible could be next week or next month. If a lawyer says he’ll “get right back to you,” grab a coffee. Maybe a sandwich. You’re going to wait a while.
I think there is good in everyone… In fact, I’d go as far as to say, there is a little bit of perfection in everyone.
My Review:
I am enamored with the sexy men of BAM, and although Halton isn’t actually part of the BAM organization, he is BAM adjacent and sexy and successful enough to be an honorary member. All of Melanie Moreland’s books are class acts with the perfect balance and emotional tone in her emotive storylines, as well as interesting and engaging character and plot development, steamy sensuality, humor, flawed yet lovable heroes, odious baddies to despise, and a heart squeezing romance. I hope she continues with BAM until the founders are old enough for retirement.
I would never throw liquor in the face of a woman, no matter what she had done. I had class and manners. And I wouldn’t want to waste the scotch.
Time in the world of the law has a totally different meaning. Urgent means I’ll get to it when convenient. As soon as possible could be next week or next month. If a lawyer says he’ll “get right back to you,” grab a coffee. Maybe a sandwich. You’re going to wait a while.
I think there is good in everyone… In fact, I’d go as far as to say, there is a little bit of perfection in everyone.
My Review:
I am enamored with the sexy men of BAM, and although Halton isn’t actually part of the BAM organization, he is BAM adjacent and sexy and successful enough to be an honorary member. All of Melanie Moreland’s books are class acts with the perfect balance and emotional tone in her emotive storylines, as well as interesting and engaging character and plot development, steamy sensuality, humor, flawed yet lovable heroes, odious baddies to despise, and a heart squeezing romance. I hope she continues with BAM until the founders are old enough for retirement.
June 27, 2019
Halton Smithers, Attorney at Law, Defender of the Defenseless, Protector of the Weak, All around Knight in Shining Armour. But also Man with the Hard Heart, Lover only for Right Now, not for Forever. His past has taught him that love only hurts and doesn't last. He only sleeps a few hours a night and throws himself into his work with long hours and working weekends. His girlfriends rarely last longer than a month and are barely noticed when they leave. His is a lonely existence.
Fiona is the wife of a lawyer with a bad reputation of doing anything to win a case. He will represent anyone and use any means, legal or not, to win. Doesn't matter if it's right or wrong, Scott has no moral compass. He has thrown Fiona out and wants a divorce, so she comes to his arch rival, Halton, to represent her. Her quiet demeanor and calm beauty fascinates Halton.
Fiona (Fee) with her long silver hair and gentle spirit, and Halton, with his hardened heart, have no idea what is about to happen. It appears everyone around them can see it except them. Rene, his flamboyant assistant, was the perfect Robin to Halton's Batman, keeping him straight and focused. He was chuckling even from the hospital! The men of BAM make their appearance and it is great to see them stepping in to gather another one into their fold. Hearing their remarks as they notice the changes in their curmudgeon of a friend.
The slow burn between Fee and Halton was so tangible, you could smell the smoke as it smoldered! Their chemistry was amazing! With her raptor purr/clicks and his Chippendale performance, I was tearing up one minute and laughing another. Melanie outdid herself with this book! I loved Van so much, but now I think Halton and Fee are my new favorite couple. I love everything this woman writes!!!
Fiona is the wife of a lawyer with a bad reputation of doing anything to win a case. He will represent anyone and use any means, legal or not, to win. Doesn't matter if it's right or wrong, Scott has no moral compass. He has thrown Fiona out and wants a divorce, so she comes to his arch rival, Halton, to represent her. Her quiet demeanor and calm beauty fascinates Halton.
Fiona (Fee) with her long silver hair and gentle spirit, and Halton, with his hardened heart, have no idea what is about to happen. It appears everyone around them can see it except them. Rene, his flamboyant assistant, was the perfect Robin to Halton's Batman, keeping him straight and focused. He was chuckling even from the hospital! The men of BAM make their appearance and it is great to see them stepping in to gather another one into their fold. Hearing their remarks as they notice the changes in their curmudgeon of a friend.
The slow burn between Fee and Halton was so tangible, you could smell the smoke as it smoldered! Their chemistry was amazing! With her raptor purr/clicks and his Chippendale performance, I was tearing up one minute and laughing another. Melanie outdid herself with this book! I loved Van so much, but now I think Halton and Fee are my new favorite couple. I love everything this woman writes!!!
how-about-never
July 1, 2019I pity all, who find disrespectful manwhores romantic. He used OWs, spoke bad about them, but miraculously changed as he met Ms Celibacy-Save-The-World-with-Kindness 🙄
I'm not a fan of BS. It's a fiction, not a sick fairytale.
Moving on away from this masterpiece.
I'm not a fan of BS. It's a fiction, not a sick fairytale.
Moving on away from this masterpiece.
nope-nope-nope
June 29, 2019Spoilers
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Sometimes when I read blurbs and details of a book I think "oh this has to be an older book" and it never is. A book released in 2019 doing the same ol misogynistic tropes, on top of that is the fact it's just all so predictable, is there no other way to write the hero but as a manwhore and the heroine as celibate?
.
.
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Sometimes when I read blurbs and details of a book I think "oh this has to be an older book" and it never is. A book released in 2019 doing the same ol misogynistic tropes, on top of that is the fact it's just all so predictable, is there no other way to write the hero but as a manwhore and the heroine as celibate?
July 4, 2019
1.5 stars, I guess. I didn't hate it, but it was just OK. I never really connected with H or h, or cared about either of them very much :(
When it got to the first sex scene, I was done. It did not like the writing style in this scene, and for me it wasn't sexy at all. So I decided to cut my losses and move on to another book.
Oh well, I tried another new-to-me author. You win some, you lose some.
DNF at 55%.
BTW, this book has a terrible cover..... Just sayin'
When it got to the first sex scene, I was done. It did not like the writing style in this scene, and for me it wasn't sexy at all. So I decided to cut my losses and move on to another book.
Oh well, I tried another new-to-me author. You win some, you lose some.
DNF at 55%.
BTW, this book has a terrible cover..... Just sayin'
October 24, 2019
She's broken from her failed marriage, he is broken from his awful childhood. Together they will find light... Lol
Predictable
Very sweet when they finally together
Predictable
Very sweet when they finally together
December 2, 2019
5 star Review Halton (Vested Interest #6) by Melanie Moreland
This is Halton (Hal) Andrew Smithers and Fiona (Fee) Hutchings’s story and it was a great story. Being an attorney, Hal knows the good and the bad of people so he avoids emotional attachment at any cost., that is until Fee comes barreling into his life, then all bets are off.
There was humour, emotion and everything in between which I have come to expect from a Melanie Moreland book. Halton was extremely well written and had me absolutely captivated from the first to the last chapter.
Hal is determined to help Fee in her messy divorce, but he has no idea that in doing so he will open a part of himself that he had no idea needed to be opened. Will Fee convince Hal that love is worth fighting for?
It was fantastic to be back in the world of The men of BAM, they protect their own, regardless of whether they are blood or not, they stand together and are just awesome. There was suspense, drama, humour and camaraderie that I found totally heart warming.
Although easy to read as a standalone. this was a great addition to what has become one of my all time favourite series, so why not one click them all, you won’t be disappointed.
This is Halton (Hal) Andrew Smithers and Fiona (Fee) Hutchings’s story and it was a great story. Being an attorney, Hal knows the good and the bad of people so he avoids emotional attachment at any cost., that is until Fee comes barreling into his life, then all bets are off.
There was humour, emotion and everything in between which I have come to expect from a Melanie Moreland book. Halton was extremely well written and had me absolutely captivated from the first to the last chapter.
Hal is determined to help Fee in her messy divorce, but he has no idea that in doing so he will open a part of himself that he had no idea needed to be opened. Will Fee convince Hal that love is worth fighting for?
It was fantastic to be back in the world of The men of BAM, they protect their own, regardless of whether they are blood or not, they stand together and are just awesome. There was suspense, drama, humour and camaraderie that I found totally heart warming.
Although easy to read as a standalone. this was a great addition to what has become one of my all time favourite series, so why not one click them all, you won’t be disappointed.
June 29, 2019
I think Halton and Fiona’s story might be my favorite one yet of Melanie Moreland. There is something to be said about a brooding man who feels like love is a mythical creature that doesn’t exist, and a strong woman who unknowingly proves him wrong. Their story will have you cheering for them from the beginning. Halton and Fiona are two people that are honest and genuine, but can’t see in themselves what others see. Hal is like a knight in shining armor who wants to protect the innocent and right any wrongs that have been done by fighting the battles in the court room. Fiona is a woman who has been mentally defeated by someone she loves, yet still believes that there is always good in everyone. These two find themselves intwined in each others lives for what seems like the better, only time will tell if they live happily ever after!!
December 29, 2025
UDPATED
I enjoyed this book, I just wish it had some more drama. I loved the audio and can’t guarantee that it didn’t earn this at least one additional star. This book can also work as a standalone.
Halton Smithers (36, attorney) doesn't believe in love and has no desire for marriage or children. When the wife of his arch-nemesis needs a divorce attorney, Hal agrees to take the case.
Fiona Hutchings (29-ish, stay-at-home wife) was left with nothing after her husband kicked her out of their home. While she’s visiting with Hal regarding her divorce, his assistant sustains an injury, so she steps in to help. As Hal and Fee continue to spend more time together, their feelings grow.
Divorce drama, lies, drugs, velociraptors, attorney stuff, vasectomies, hot sex, “I don’t do relationships”, key splits, hearts breaking, some hard truths, realizations, and an HEA with a plus one included.
SEX: Their first time is at 54% and they use a condom. Blah. BUT…. At the 57% mark they quit using them! Yay!!! Even though the sex was over pretty quickly, the audio gave me a literal full body shiver. Damn, it was good. They have some good sex a few more times. I can’t be 100% sure my views on their sex wasn’t partially influenced by the audio.
FEE: She didn’t get on my nerves at all! Hal-lelujah. Most of the time when the FMC is just getting out of a relationship, she puts up the stupid “I need my independence and I don’t want to jump into another relationship” fight, blah blah blah. Fee doesn’t do that. She acknowledges that she and Hal have something special and she’s ready to commit to him. I loved that about her.
COPY: Hal’s issue with relationships is a copy of all the BAM guys, with the exception of Reid. Hal had a horrible childhood, and he also has the same issue with food that Aiden had. It didn’t really bother me much, but it might bother some people.
DRAMA: I think this would have benefited greatly from more drama!! I was hoping her ex would physically attack her or something. He at least should have been more threatening. There wasn’t nearly as much excitement as there could have been.
SMITHERS: Why the hell would Melanie Moreland give Halton that last name?!?! That’s probably the least sexy name on the planet!!! LOL
PLUS ONE: It comes at the very end, almost the epilogue, so you really shouldn’t be that bothered by it.
AUDIO: Good lord, John Lane is so damn sexy when he growls. Like I said, he gave me a full body shudder and I’m not exaggerating! Ugh I want to listen again just for his voice. Even though Maxine Mitchell narrates, she’s not as awful as she usually is. You know she’s on my list of horrible female narrators, so for me to say I didn’t hate her really says something.
I’d recommend this book, for sure. Especially if you’re listening.
I enjoyed this book, I just wish it had some more drama. I loved the audio and can’t guarantee that it didn’t earn this at least one additional star. This book can also work as a standalone.
I had everything I had ever dreamed of and was too afraid to hope for. A real home, a family I adored—all because of the woman who proved to me that love didn’t always come with pain. She created a whole new world for me…. One filled with unending love. That was us. Our story—our forever. Our happily ever after.
Halton Smithers (36, attorney) doesn't believe in love and has no desire for marriage or children. When the wife of his arch-nemesis needs a divorce attorney, Hal agrees to take the case.
“Yeah, you had a shit childhood…. Your life was awful. I get it. But Halton, you are the one in control now. You are the one stopping yourself from finding happiness. There is no one to blame right now but yourself.”
Fiona Hutchings (29-ish, stay-at-home wife) was left with nothing after her husband kicked her out of their home. While she’s visiting with Hal regarding her divorce, his assistant sustains an injury, so she steps in to help. As Hal and Fee continue to spend more time together, their feelings grow.
I realized with utter clarity, I was going to lose everyone who was truly important to me. I was letting fear win. I was allowing my past to dictate my future. If I didn’t stop it now, I would regret it. I knew it with every fiber of my being.
Divorce drama, lies, drugs, velociraptors, attorney stuff, vasectomies, hot sex, “I don’t do relationships”, key splits, hearts breaking, some hard truths, realizations, and an HEA with a plus one included.
I had been fooling myself. I did love her. As terrifying as the thought was, she had become the center of my world. Her presence soothed me, her touch anchored me, and her smile lit my world ablaze.
SEX: Their first time is at 54% and they use a condom. Blah. BUT…. At the 57% mark they quit using them! Yay!!! Even though the sex was over pretty quickly, the audio gave me a literal full body shiver. Damn, it was good. They have some good sex a few more times. I can’t be 100% sure my views on their sex wasn’t partially influenced by the audio.
FEE: She didn’t get on my nerves at all! Hal-lelujah. Most of the time when the FMC is just getting out of a relationship, she puts up the stupid “I need my independence and I don’t want to jump into another relationship” fight, blah blah blah. Fee doesn’t do that. She acknowledges that she and Hal have something special and she’s ready to commit to him. I loved that about her.
COPY: Hal’s issue with relationships is a copy of all the BAM guys, with the exception of Reid. Hal had a horrible childhood, and he also has the same issue with food that Aiden had. It didn’t really bother me much, but it might bother some people.
DRAMA: I think this would have benefited greatly from more drama!! I was hoping her ex would physically attack her or something. He at least should have been more threatening. There wasn’t nearly as much excitement as there could have been.
SMITHERS: Why the hell would Melanie Moreland give Halton that last name?!?! That’s probably the least sexy name on the planet!!! LOL
PLUS ONE: It comes at the very end, almost the epilogue, so you really shouldn’t be that bothered by it.
AUDIO: Good lord, John Lane is so damn sexy when he growls. Like I said, he gave me a full body shudder and I’m not exaggerating! Ugh I want to listen again just for his voice. Even though Maxine Mitchell narrates, she’s not as awful as she usually is. You know she’s on my list of horrible female narrators, so for me to say I didn’t hate her really says something.
I’d recommend this book, for sure. Especially if you’re listening.
September 26, 2019
Melanie Moreland writes the most amazing heroes. Every book amazes me how much she taps into my brain and writes the prince charming of my dreams. Halton is no exception to the book boyfriends I now hoard away to keep for my very own.
This is a hard book to shelve because I wavier between standalone and series. Although Halton was a secondary character - WITH THE MOST EPIC LINE EVER -in Van, his and Fiona's stands alone within the Vested Interest world. I have managed to hook a few readers. Because once you catch the magic of one VI story, you'll want to gobble the rest.
Halton is one of those characters where what you see is what you get. No hidden agenda or mask. This is who he is - driven and earnest. Many find that there is a heart of gold that lies underneath those sexy suits. He just sees it as doing the right thing. Fiona could easily be a character that is a damsel in distress. But she truly shines as just someone trying to make a relationship work and unable to continue to carry it. She meets Hal not as a woman needing saving - just as a woman needing to find herself again.
I loved how imperfect these characters were. They had their faults and showed them to the world. They didn't want money or power, just to do the right thing and be happy.
Melanie Moreland hit this out of the park again for me! This series is one not to be missed!
I say: Buy it!
This is a hard book to shelve because I wavier between standalone and series. Although Halton was a secondary character - WITH THE MOST EPIC LINE EVER -in Van, his and Fiona's stands alone within the Vested Interest world. I have managed to hook a few readers. Because once you catch the magic of one VI story, you'll want to gobble the rest.
Halton is one of those characters where what you see is what you get. No hidden agenda or mask. This is who he is - driven and earnest. Many find that there is a heart of gold that lies underneath those sexy suits. He just sees it as doing the right thing. Fiona could easily be a character that is a damsel in distress. But she truly shines as just someone trying to make a relationship work and unable to continue to carry it. She meets Hal not as a woman needing saving - just as a woman needing to find herself again.
I loved how imperfect these characters were. They had their faults and showed them to the world. They didn't want money or power, just to do the right thing and be happy.
Melanie Moreland hit this out of the park again for me! This series is one not to be missed!
I say: Buy it!
June 24, 2019
Ever since we met Halton in Van's book, I was dying and hoping Melanie would write Hal's story. Low and behold, here he is and I devoured it!
Hal is cutthroat but for clients that are the underdogs, he tries really hard to be fair, and he is really good at what he does. Halton doesn't do relationships, because he's lived a pretty rough childhood and vows to never allow himself to be in any type of relationship to where it could potentially turn into turmoil. Until Fee shows up. He wants to fight for her freedom, her rights, her protection in divorcing her husband. Her husband is also someone he despises. The feeling is mutual. They're both lawyers and have occasionally dealt with each other before.
Hal and Fee's story is fantastic. Humorous, sweet, emotional, sexy, steamy, all of it. They share quite the connection and I'm so happy they developed these feelings that can bypass all their issues. I love the quirk of her snores, the click in his mind when he was trying to figure out what it reminded him of. He was sooooooo adorable. I loved it. I loved seeing a few of the BAM guys in the story, the Aiden moment, the laughing about Halton and his alpha ways. I just love these guys so much. What a great story for a great guy. LOVED IT!
Hal is cutthroat but for clients that are the underdogs, he tries really hard to be fair, and he is really good at what he does. Halton doesn't do relationships, because he's lived a pretty rough childhood and vows to never allow himself to be in any type of relationship to where it could potentially turn into turmoil. Until Fee shows up. He wants to fight for her freedom, her rights, her protection in divorcing her husband. Her husband is also someone he despises. The feeling is mutual. They're both lawyers and have occasionally dealt with each other before.
Hal and Fee's story is fantastic. Humorous, sweet, emotional, sexy, steamy, all of it. They share quite the connection and I'm so happy they developed these feelings that can bypass all their issues. I love the quirk of her snores, the click in his mind when he was trying to figure out what it reminded him of. He was sooooooo adorable. I loved it. I loved seeing a few of the BAM guys in the story, the Aiden moment, the laughing about Halton and his alpha ways. I just love these guys so much. What a great story for a great guy. LOVED IT!
May 25, 2023
Wow - once again Melanie Moreland adds another hot and sexy man into the Vested Interest group. We have all known Hal as the hard edged attorney who takes no prisoners and always fights to win, but we have never seen his softer side. When a brief encounter with his arch rival's wife comes into play Fiona (Fee) takes Hal into uncharted waters. But can she soften his rough exterior and grab hold of his heart? Can Hal fight for her in and out of the courtroom? Beautifully written and emotionally driven. Once I started it I could not put it down. Five stars are not enough!!
April 2, 2024
I knew i was gonna rate this a 1 star, but
The "Do you think I'm a whore" scene cemented the decision even further for me.
I don't like the pathetic, weak, unconfident, fmc.
I also didn’t the caricature that was the mmc.
The "Do you think I'm a whore" scene cemented the decision even further for me.
I don't like the pathetic, weak, unconfident, fmc.
I also didn’t the caricature that was the mmc.
February 19, 2023
I liked this one a lot. It was better than I thought it was going to be and so cute. I thought it was a fitting end for the ex-husband and a very happy ever after for Hal and Fee.
August 12, 2019
2.5 stars.. How do I feel about this book... Umm I have been waiting for Halton's story after meeting him in the story of Van. Hal is an alpha lawyer who is expert in family law.. So I am really excited to get to know him and I am really sad and disappointed when I finally meet him, he is not what I envisioned him to be..
The whole story did not make sense to me
and I am not really ok with them having a relationship at the middle of the heroine divorce case where she is still technically married. I am giving this 2.5 stars because of Rene the assistant of Halton he is such a great character and he made the story bearable for me.. I hope this is not the last book in this series.
The whole story did not make sense to me
and I am not really ok with them having a relationship at the middle of the heroine divorce case where she is still technically married. I am giving this 2.5 stars because of Rene the assistant of Halton he is such a great character and he made the story bearable for me.. I hope this is not the last book in this series.
June 22, 2019
A damaged alpha hero who thinks he’s unworthy and incapable of love? Yes, please! And Moreland gives us a beautifully broken, compelling hero in Halton. An attorney and champion of truth and justice, Hal helps those who might not get help otherwise. When someone with close ties to his biggest rival comes to Hal for help, all bets are off. He'll fight tooth and nail to get justice, but he’s not prepared for the unfamiliar feelings that are stirred up.
This author has an uncanny ability to sneak inside my heart, from the characters she makes me fall in love with to the wide array of emotions she evokes, and everything in between. Although I wanted to shake Hal a time or ten (but his assistant, Rene, and the BAM guys did that for me), I couldn’t help but admire the quality of his character and they way he loves those close to him without ever realizing it. Seems everyone but Hal can see into the depths of his heart. I adored Fiona, a character who changed and grew to a very different person by the end of the book, and the way she related to and interacted with Hal was pure perfection and exactly what he needed.
I loved every moment of this story and was held in its grip as I flew through the pages in one sitting. It’s heartfelt and a bit tragic, but also humorous and sweet, and it’s the perfect addition to this series. Don’t miss this emotional, captivating, fantastic read!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
This author has an uncanny ability to sneak inside my heart, from the characters she makes me fall in love with to the wide array of emotions she evokes, and everything in between. Although I wanted to shake Hal a time or ten (but his assistant, Rene, and the BAM guys did that for me), I couldn’t help but admire the quality of his character and they way he loves those close to him without ever realizing it. Seems everyone but Hal can see into the depths of his heart. I adored Fiona, a character who changed and grew to a very different person by the end of the book, and the way she related to and interacted with Hal was pure perfection and exactly what he needed.
I loved every moment of this story and was held in its grip as I flew through the pages in one sitting. It’s heartfelt and a bit tragic, but also humorous and sweet, and it’s the perfect addition to this series. Don’t miss this emotional, captivating, fantastic read!
*I reviewed an advance copy of this book freely and voluntarily, having made no commitment to provide a review and receiving no compensation of any kind from any source for this review.
June 27, 2019
I couldn't put this book down. As usual, Melanie Moreland's writing was fantastic and it's clear why she's a NYT/USA Today bestselling author. Halton and Fiona were beautifully crafted and tragically flawed characters and I was invested in their journey from their very first meeting. Hal may have been a surly, modern-day white knight with chipped and dented armor, but Fiona wasn't your typical helpless damsel in distress, thank you very much. She was capable and tenacious and hopeful, with an amazing capacity for love, despite her painful past. This was an emotional, plot driven story about desperation, greed, worthiness, honor, acceptance, and salvation that had me on the edge of my seat until the wee hours of the morning.
Five burning hot stars for Halton!!
Five burning hot stars for Halton!!
December 16, 2019
What happens when your enemies wife comes into your law practice to get a divorce? I will tell what shoudlnt happen you dont hire her. You dont let her stay at your place. You dont sleep with her. And you sure as hell dont get the feels for her. But Halton, BAM's new lawyer does just that.
Fiona (Fee) Hutchings was left with nothing when her loser ex tells her she wants a divorce. When she 'stalks' Halton and he agrees to be her lawyer things start to look brighter. Where she could be a weak, broken character, she shines, a hard worker, a sexy lover, a fighter. These two match up well together and you root for them even when her husband becomes a threat to their HEA.
I am loving this series and especially this author. Well written Melanie Moreland.
Fiona (Fee) Hutchings was left with nothing when her loser ex tells her she wants a divorce. When she 'stalks' Halton and he agrees to be her lawyer things start to look brighter. Where she could be a weak, broken character, she shines, a hard worker, a sexy lover, a fighter. These two match up well together and you root for them even when her husband becomes a threat to their HEA.
I am loving this series and especially this author. Well written Melanie Moreland.
June 22, 2019
I adored this story. As always Moreland writes a brilliantly protective male H and another sweet but sassy heroine. Halton likes to fight for the underdog, he has his own personal insight into securing the best care for children, but is closed off to the idea of a permanent relationship himself.
I loved watching as Fiona found herself after coming out of her oppressive marriage and how she broke down Hal's barriers without him even noticing.
secondary character Rene is a total sweetheart. I love this Vested Interest world and all its lovable characters.
I loved watching as Fiona found herself after coming out of her oppressive marriage and how she broke down Hal's barriers without him even noticing.
secondary character Rene is a total sweetheart. I love this Vested Interest world and all its lovable characters.
August 12, 2019
The stars are for Rene who saved this book for me..
August 9, 2023
3.75 Star
very cute! I really enjoyed Halton and Fi. I will not lie I was confused on why he was in the story since he really didnt work for Bam butttt I got it with Rene.
very cute! I really enjoyed Halton and Fi. I will not lie I was confused on why he was in the story since he really didnt work for Bam butttt I got it with Rene.
February 20, 2024
Hal and Fee
Ahh finally.
Hal, a friend of the BAM guys, is the lawyer in the bunch. He fights for those without the voice, the money, the influence, the good. Because of his past, he tries to do what is right and fight for those that have a difficult path ahead. This is how he meets Fee.
Fee is the wife of an attorney. Unlike Hal, her husband is ruthless, underhanded, all about how he can make the next dollar. She is blindslided when he kicks her out and leaves her with nothing. She knows exactly who she needs on her side, Hal.
Hal is shocked to see Fee and more so to learn that she is getting a divorce and wants him to represent her. Her husband is Hal’s rival and he loathes him. So maybe this won’t be so bad after all. Hal wants to bury him. But the more Hal and Fee are together, Hal is confused about these unknown and different reactions and feelings he is having. He didn’t think he was capable of love but as time goes on, those feelings sure feel something like love.
So happy to see Hal and Fee get their HEA. It did take Hal though, forever, to get there..almost losing everyone in his life. I would have liked a bit more revenge for Fee’s ex lol, but overall I liked how it panned out. Loved seeing how much each person grew and both of them needed the other to move forward. Great chemistry between them also. Definitely recommend this and the whole series.
Ahh finally.
Hal, a friend of the BAM guys, is the lawyer in the bunch. He fights for those without the voice, the money, the influence, the good. Because of his past, he tries to do what is right and fight for those that have a difficult path ahead. This is how he meets Fee.
Fee is the wife of an attorney. Unlike Hal, her husband is ruthless, underhanded, all about how he can make the next dollar. She is blindslided when he kicks her out and leaves her with nothing. She knows exactly who she needs on her side, Hal.
Hal is shocked to see Fee and more so to learn that she is getting a divorce and wants him to represent her. Her husband is Hal’s rival and he loathes him. So maybe this won’t be so bad after all. Hal wants to bury him. But the more Hal and Fee are together, Hal is confused about these unknown and different reactions and feelings he is having. He didn’t think he was capable of love but as time goes on, those feelings sure feel something like love.
So happy to see Hal and Fee get their HEA. It did take Hal though, forever, to get there..almost losing everyone in his life. I would have liked a bit more revenge for Fee’s ex lol, but overall I liked how it panned out. Loved seeing how much each person grew and both of them needed the other to move forward. Great chemistry between them also. Definitely recommend this and the whole series.
June 14, 2021
Title: Halton: Vested Interest #6
Author: Melanie Moreland
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC read in return for an honest review.
Moreland is back and this time she’s added another hot, sexy, attorney to the Vested Interest
Vested group. Halton Andrew Smithers goes by the name Hal to his friends and there’s certainly none of those in the courtroom where Halton works his magic, he’s a shark, fighting for those who need it most both inside and out of the courtroom, but not all get to know and witness his softer side. When Scott Hutchings (Hal’s nemesis) wife Fiona (Fee), well soon to be ex-wife comes to Hal seeking his services, Hal can’t wait to tear into his courtroom rival, what he didn’t expect was to feel such a connection towards Fiona herself, she’s somehow managed to work her way under the hard exterior he’s built around himself, his heart it particular, the heart he didn’t think was capable of loving. Hal’s going to fight for her, and win in the courtroom, is he willing to do the same for her outside of it?.
Join Hal and Fiona on their journey towards finding love with one another in this beautifully written, emotionally charged addition to what is a fantastic series.
📚🤓 The Book Whisperer 🤓📚
Check it out here☟
https://m.facebook.com/The-Book-Whisp...
Author: Melanie Moreland
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ARC read in return for an honest review.
Moreland is back and this time she’s added another hot, sexy, attorney to the Vested Interest
Vested group. Halton Andrew Smithers goes by the name Hal to his friends and there’s certainly none of those in the courtroom where Halton works his magic, he’s a shark, fighting for those who need it most both inside and out of the courtroom, but not all get to know and witness his softer side. When Scott Hutchings (Hal’s nemesis) wife Fiona (Fee), well soon to be ex-wife comes to Hal seeking his services, Hal can’t wait to tear into his courtroom rival, what he didn’t expect was to feel such a connection towards Fiona herself, she’s somehow managed to work her way under the hard exterior he’s built around himself, his heart it particular, the heart he didn’t think was capable of loving. Hal’s going to fight for her, and win in the courtroom, is he willing to do the same for her outside of it?.
Join Hal and Fiona on their journey towards finding love with one another in this beautifully written, emotionally charged addition to what is a fantastic series.
📚🤓 The Book Whisperer 🤓📚
Check it out here☟
https://m.facebook.com/The-Book-Whisp...
September 30, 2021
This is Book 6 of the Vested Interest Series by Melanie Moreland and let me tell you it just keeps getting better and better.
Halton and Fiona may have just taken the top spot for fave couples in the series. Both with emotional baggage the pair find friendship and a mutual understanding with each other. I love how big Fiona’s heart is as well as her patience despite al the problems she’s endured. Halton, serious and always brooding opened up to Fiona. He was sexy and sweet with a side of alpha. I love it. Oh my, that scene, you know what I’m talking about if you’ve read the book. I floved it!! Who needs a girls night out when you have Hal at home!?
I love how in each book at least 1 character from the previous series is mentioned. In this case many made a cameo and I loved every minute of it. Bravo Melanie! This book is outstanding and will have your readers falling in love!
Audiobook review:
Fee knocked Halton on his behind and I loved every minute of this audiobook. Watching him fall was the best because it took him so long to even see it. Maxine and John brought this couples story to life with another amazing performance! A must read!!
Halton and Fiona may have just taken the top spot for fave couples in the series. Both with emotional baggage the pair find friendship and a mutual understanding with each other. I love how big Fiona’s heart is as well as her patience despite al the problems she’s endured. Halton, serious and always brooding opened up to Fiona. He was sexy and sweet with a side of alpha. I love it. Oh my, that scene, you know what I’m talking about if you’ve read the book. I floved it!! Who needs a girls night out when you have Hal at home!?
I love how in each book at least 1 character from the previous series is mentioned. In this case many made a cameo and I loved every minute of it. Bravo Melanie! This book is outstanding and will have your readers falling in love!
Audiobook review:
Fee knocked Halton on his behind and I loved every minute of this audiobook. Watching him fall was the best because it took him so long to even see it. Maxine and John brought this couples story to life with another amazing performance! A must read!!
June 27, 2019
Halton has only ever seen the devastating effect of what happens when love goes wrong and the effect it has on the innocent parties, especially the children. As a result, when he decides which clients he will offer his legal services to he chooses the people who have been wronged and will fight to the end to ensure that they don’t become casualties.
Fee has been married to her husband for 10 years until he throws her out with no income or resources, and she is left stunned and reeling. As he is a lawyer, she knows that she needs to fight fire with fire and that meaning hiring his nemesis to protect her interests.
As they work together the feelings and chemistry between them ignite but is Fee ready for another man in her life and is Halton willing to leave the baggage in his past and consider letting a woman in his life and his heart permanently?
Full of heat and emotion this is a story of a man who never believed in love until he met the right woman and a woman who never stopped believing in love despite what live threw at her. This is a great series and this book is no exception.
Fee has been married to her husband for 10 years until he throws her out with no income or resources, and she is left stunned and reeling. As he is a lawyer, she knows that she needs to fight fire with fire and that meaning hiring his nemesis to protect her interests.
As they work together the feelings and chemistry between them ignite but is Fee ready for another man in her life and is Halton willing to leave the baggage in his past and consider letting a woman in his life and his heart permanently?
Full of heat and emotion this is a story of a man who never believed in love until he met the right woman and a woman who never stopped believing in love despite what live threw at her. This is a great series and this book is no exception.
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