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Mine to Five
'Tis the season for an office romance!
Working beyond nine to five and barely getting by, Melanie Thomas is eager to celebrate the impending holiday season and to toast the start of her dream marketing job over drinks with her boyfriend. Unfortunately, he has different plans—like seeing other women.
Indulging in a pity party with tequila, Melanie confides in a sexy stranger at the bar. It’s almost Christmas, one night of letting go won’t hurt anything, right? Turns out it just might—when the stranger is her new boss. Determined to succeed at her job, Melanie won’t be scared away. This is her chance, even if her hot boss has her feeling all merry and bright and wishing for a less than professional relationship.
Matthew Ryans is burned out and on thin ice at the company he helped build unless he gets his head back in the game. Yet, his head, both upper and lower, are quickly becoming obsessed with his new assistant. Still, he can’t seem to fully begrudge Melanie’s distracting presence and the Christmas joy she brings with it. Especially considering that her enthusiasm has him reenergized. For once, he is longing for Mondays, but with his heart and job on the line he can’t risk blurring the lines no matter how strong the lure of holiday mistletoe is.
Will their holiday passion be able to fuel mutual career success, or will it only get in their way in the New Year?
ABOUT:
-HEA (Happily Ever After) ENDING
-STANDALONE (not part of a series, no cliffhanger, fully wrapped-up novella)
-QUICK READ
-OFFICE ROMANCE
-CHRISTMAS MERRIMENT
-LOL LINES
AWARDS:
-2018 Contemporary Romance Writers Stiletto Finalist
-2018 Tampa Area Romance Writers TARA Finalist
-2018 Maine Romance Writers’ Strut Your Stuff Finalist- 2nd Place Contemporary Winner
-2017 Cleveland Rocks Romance Contest - 2nd Place Winner
Working beyond nine to five and barely getting by, Melanie Thomas is eager to celebrate the impending holiday season and to toast the start of her dream marketing job over drinks with her boyfriend. Unfortunately, he has different plans—like seeing other women.
Indulging in a pity party with tequila, Melanie confides in a sexy stranger at the bar. It’s almost Christmas, one night of letting go won’t hurt anything, right? Turns out it just might—when the stranger is her new boss. Determined to succeed at her job, Melanie won’t be scared away. This is her chance, even if her hot boss has her feeling all merry and bright and wishing for a less than professional relationship.
Matthew Ryans is burned out and on thin ice at the company he helped build unless he gets his head back in the game. Yet, his head, both upper and lower, are quickly becoming obsessed with his new assistant. Still, he can’t seem to fully begrudge Melanie’s distracting presence and the Christmas joy she brings with it. Especially considering that her enthusiasm has him reenergized. For once, he is longing for Mondays, but with his heart and job on the line he can’t risk blurring the lines no matter how strong the lure of holiday mistletoe is.
Will their holiday passion be able to fuel mutual career success, or will it only get in their way in the New Year?
ABOUT:
-HEA (Happily Ever After) ENDING
-STANDALONE (not part of a series, no cliffhanger, fully wrapped-up novella)
-QUICK READ
-OFFICE ROMANCE
-CHRISTMAS MERRIMENT
-LOL LINES
AWARDS:
-2018 Contemporary Romance Writers Stiletto Finalist
-2018 Tampa Area Romance Writers TARA Finalist
-2018 Maine Romance Writers’ Strut Your Stuff Finalist- 2nd Place Contemporary Winner
-2017 Cleveland Rocks Romance Contest - 2nd Place Winner
175 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2019
13 people are currently reading
552 people want to read
About the author
Tara September
18 books284 followersBestselling, multi-award-winning romance author of steamy & sassy contemporary & new adult stories that will leave you "grinning like a Cheshire Cat"
Holding a master’s degree in journalism from NYU, Tara previously was the PR Manager for The Walt Disney Company. She also blogs over at When Tara Met Blog @tarametblog, a lifestyle, travel, and parenting blog of 18 years. Tara currently resides in Southwest Florida and NYC with her husband, their twin boys and four distractions, I mean cats.
Free bonus chapter available at http://bit.ly/taraseptemberbonus
Let's connect! www.instagram.com/taraseptemberauthor
www.facebook.com/taraseptemberauthor
Holding a master’s degree in journalism from NYU, Tara previously was the PR Manager for The Walt Disney Company. She also blogs over at When Tara Met Blog @tarametblog, a lifestyle, travel, and parenting blog of 18 years. Tara currently resides in Southwest Florida and NYC with her husband, their twin boys and four distractions, I mean cats.
Free bonus chapter available at http://bit.ly/taraseptemberbonus
Let's connect! www.instagram.com/taraseptemberauthor
www.facebook.com/taraseptemberauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
January 8, 2020
Mine to five has everything I look for in a book. Melaine and Matthew have great chemistry. The romance started with a bang and the love grew. Plus the ended was totally swoon-worthy. Sigh. I listened to this via audible and the narrator is great.
Melanie has been given her big break at last. Her dream job is only a day away. Unfortnelty her love life is about to take a dive. The professor she's dating has a thing about dating his students. Unknown to Melanie she isn't the only one catching his eye. When her boyfriend misses their date she doesn't expect someone else to answer his phone. After confiding to a sexy stranger in a bar Melaine's night takes a heated turn. Little does she know the guy he went home with is her new boss.
Mine to five is an office romance set at Christmas and new year time. It isn't overly Christmasy so it can be read all year. It's available on Kindle Unlimited. I highly recommend this author and will consider reading her books in the future. 5 out of 5. It's great.
*Audiobook Tour read. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Melanie has been given her big break at last. Her dream job is only a day away. Unfortnelty her love life is about to take a dive. The professor she's dating has a thing about dating his students. Unknown to Melanie she isn't the only one catching his eye. When her boyfriend misses their date she doesn't expect someone else to answer his phone. After confiding to a sexy stranger in a bar Melaine's night takes a heated turn. Little does she know the guy he went home with is her new boss.
Mine to five is an office romance set at Christmas and new year time. It isn't overly Christmasy so it can be read all year. It's available on Kindle Unlimited. I highly recommend this author and will consider reading her books in the future. 5 out of 5. It's great.
*Audiobook Tour read. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2022
This is a Romance. I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a short book and a quick read. I won a kindle edition of this book for a goodreads giveaway, but this review is 100% my own opinion.
November 16, 2020
5☆ A Juicy Contemporary Romance filled with Lust, Stolen Moments, Drama & holiday spirit.
Mine to Five is a steamy Contemporary Romance that was short, sweet and definitely a lil bit Saucy.
Melanie finds herself alone and celebrating, when she should of been there celebrating with her so called boyfriend.....but she's about to discover he's A No Good Lying Love Rat and she's well shot of him!
Over hearing her dilemma and also drowning out his sorrows is Matthew the sexy, brooding stranger!
As the two become better acquainted, and the more the tequila flows the bigger the sexual chemistry flows.... until they end up in bed together.
If only they both knew that in the morning they would both be in for a big big shock!
Oh how I loved Melanie and Matthew's flirty banter. The more they denied the sexual tension the stronger it became until it was completely obvious what was going to happen next!
Wow there's no denying these two were meant to be together! You could feel the heat coming from the pages it was that steamy!
But is wasn't all about sex, the two just gelled not only in the bedroom but in the board room too.
There was more to this story, like how women are not treated the same in some companies, how different sexes are treated differently if they have a work relationship. It was really good to see how Matthew was going to react when he finally gets everything he ever wanted only for it to be snatched away.
Although this was a relatively short book, nothing was spared, it was a was a fun, light hearted, Steamy and Sexy read.
The plot was very well written, compelling and Entertaining, the characters were endearing and likeable.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Mine to Five it was a juicy romance filled with lust, stolen moments, drama and holiday spirit.
I can't wait to read more from Author Tara September!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
Mine to Five is a steamy Contemporary Romance that was short, sweet and definitely a lil bit Saucy.
Melanie finds herself alone and celebrating, when she should of been there celebrating with her so called boyfriend.....but she's about to discover he's A No Good Lying Love Rat and she's well shot of him!
Over hearing her dilemma and also drowning out his sorrows is Matthew the sexy, brooding stranger!
As the two become better acquainted, and the more the tequila flows the bigger the sexual chemistry flows.... until they end up in bed together.
If only they both knew that in the morning they would both be in for a big big shock!
Oh how I loved Melanie and Matthew's flirty banter. The more they denied the sexual tension the stronger it became until it was completely obvious what was going to happen next!
Wow there's no denying these two were meant to be together! You could feel the heat coming from the pages it was that steamy!
But is wasn't all about sex, the two just gelled not only in the bedroom but in the board room too.
There was more to this story, like how women are not treated the same in some companies, how different sexes are treated differently if they have a work relationship. It was really good to see how Matthew was going to react when he finally gets everything he ever wanted only for it to be snatched away.
Although this was a relatively short book, nothing was spared, it was a was a fun, light hearted, Steamy and Sexy read.
The plot was very well written, compelling and Entertaining, the characters were endearing and likeable.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Mine to Five it was a juicy romance filled with lust, stolen moments, drama and holiday spirit.
I can't wait to read more from Author Tara September!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2020/1...
October 27, 2020
A festive little gem! Four hours on audio and packed with Romance, humor, steam, and holiday cheer. Melanie is looking hot and feeling good. Her spirits are high and she’s ready to have the time of her life the night before she starts her new dream job, and then... another woman answers her boyfriend’s phone. Melanie is devastated and decides to drown her sorrows in tequila. One shot leads to another... the man next to her is buying her drinks... next thing she knows she wakes up the next morning with a raging headache in bed with the man at the bar... Melanie does the walk of shame, but no big deal she will never see him again. Well at least not for a few hours until he shows up at her new job as her new boss. Whoops 😬
This was a short, sweet, and cute story. Both Melanie and Matthew were great characters who I immediately liked. The story primarily takes place in November and December so there’s lots of holiday cheer sprinkled throughout the story. This would be the perfect book to listen to on the road two family’s for Christmas or Thanksgiving. Just make sure there’s no little ears in the vehicle there is some definite steam in the story.
This book in emojis 📱 🖍 🥃 🐛 🎄
*** Big thank you to the author for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
This was a short, sweet, and cute story. Both Melanie and Matthew were great characters who I immediately liked. The story primarily takes place in November and December so there’s lots of holiday cheer sprinkled throughout the story. This would be the perfect book to listen to on the road two family’s for Christmas or Thanksgiving. Just make sure there’s no little ears in the vehicle there is some definite steam in the story.
This book in emojis 📱 🖍 🥃 🐛 🎄
*** Big thank you to the author for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
February 5, 2020
Sometimes you just need a quick, spunky, fun audiobook to keep your reading mojo going. Mine to Five was that book for me!
Have a road trip coming up? Have rush hour commuter woes? Have no fear...your next audiobook is near! (I'm such a dork! ha)
The only thing I will say is, as a HR professional in my real life...this book would be my worst nightmare! Good thing it's fiction and I don't work for Matthew Ryans.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Tara September. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Have a road trip coming up? Have rush hour commuter woes? Have no fear...your next audiobook is near! (I'm such a dork! ha)
The only thing I will say is, as a HR professional in my real life...this book would be my worst nightmare! Good thing it's fiction and I don't work for Matthew Ryans.
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Tara September. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
January 21, 2022
Marketing Magic
Nothing signals the end of a relationship quite like a "vivacious co-ed" answering your boyfriend's phone. That is how we meet Melanie.
For a novella, it sure did have some wild twists and turns for Matthew and Melanie. The office drama, their relationships - with each other and their various dates, and the steamy sessions make for fun listening (or reading). Add in some meddling mothers and a disliked family "friend" and you really get the full experience.
While a bit naive sometimes, which is appropriate given her age (24), Melanie isn't a shrinking violet once she learns how to stand on her own two feet without Joe. I like and appreciate that about her.
I listened to an author copy of the audio book. Verla Bond brought out all the right attitude as she gave verbal life to Melanie and she did good with the other voices. It would've been ideal to have a second, male voice for Matt but I can't always get it done my way. 😏😉🥳
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Nothing signals the end of a relationship quite like a "vivacious co-ed" answering your boyfriend's phone. That is how we meet Melanie.
For a novella, it sure did have some wild twists and turns for Matthew and Melanie. The office drama, their relationships - with each other and their various dates, and the steamy sessions make for fun listening (or reading). Add in some meddling mothers and a disliked family "friend" and you really get the full experience.
While a bit naive sometimes, which is appropriate given her age (24), Melanie isn't a shrinking violet once she learns how to stand on her own two feet without Joe. I like and appreciate that about her.
I listened to an author copy of the audio book. Verla Bond brought out all the right attitude as she gave verbal life to Melanie and she did good with the other voices. It would've been ideal to have a second, male voice for Matt but I can't always get it done my way. 😏😉🥳
Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
December 16, 2020
I am so thankful that I got a chance to read and review this one! Tara September is a new-to-me author and it’s one of my favorite experiences to read a book like this and want to start reading through an author’s other books!
Mine to Five is a shorter book, a novella, but it doesn’t fall short in quality. It is exactly the book you need in your life if you’re looking for a care-free romance featuring a couple with excellent chemistry!
This book is steamy and satisfying in so many ways! When a woman finds out her boyfriend has cheated, but ends up the winner in the end? That’s the most satisfying!
Because this is a novella, you won’t have to wait long to reach the conclusion; which, for me, was absolute perfection!
Mine to Five is a shorter book, a novella, but it doesn’t fall short in quality. It is exactly the book you need in your life if you’re looking for a care-free romance featuring a couple with excellent chemistry!
This book is steamy and satisfying in so many ways! When a woman finds out her boyfriend has cheated, but ends up the winner in the end? That’s the most satisfying!
Because this is a novella, you won’t have to wait long to reach the conclusion; which, for me, was absolute perfection!
November 11, 2019
Great story and a fun rom-com. Melanie and Matthew were such a great couple and loved them so much. So cute together. They may have met in an unconventional way but watching them realize that they were actually meant to be was so good to watch. Their chemistry was really good and the storyline was good. You won’t be disappointed in reading this book. It was a quick read with great characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 29, 2019
Mine to Five By: Tara SeptemberCan They Make It "Mine to Five," & Still Make A Living...
She's ExXxpecting a congratulatory Celebration...
But She arrives to find NO BoyFriend at the Venue of Her NOW Humiliation!
Sooo She commiserates with Her Drunken StoolMate...
Only to indulge in a ONE-NIGHT-STAND,
At least THAT'S the assumption when She wakes IN the Morning!
Well She's got NO Time for a Meet-&-Greet...
Sooo She's Outta there... Quickly beat'n Her Feet!
But She's IN for quite the Surprise,
As She greets Her NEW BOSS~
Her ONE-NIGHT-GUY...
LIVE IN Her NEW Office, look'n mighty Shocked TOO!
Sooo it'll be a Challenge mak'n IT "Mine to Five" with their Attraction running Sooo HOT,
And it's just a matter of Time before they cave...
Going from "Mine to Five" indecently!
I was granted, via B00|{$P®0UT, an ARC of Tara September's "Mine to Five." I recommend this book to others based upon its own merits. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
1🌟:Hate IT! Didn't finish; usually only given if/when some contents truly objectionable (i.e. main characters does something awful & gets away w/it!)
2🌟:Don't like IT! Rating means I felt the writing was poor, editing was bad, I don't care for characters, or book had some major flaw.
3🌟: I like IT, BUT! There are minor issues... Rating means there's editing issues, needs character development, is too unrealistic, or has issues– I do not consider it an overall bad rating.
4🌟:I like IT a lot. Great, Solid Story w/ few if any inconsistencies or errors. This is a HIGH Rating, & I rarely give OUT a Higher Rating.
5🌟: I LOVE IT! It's Spectacular, & I'll read IT Over & Over Again. Few books Receive this rating from me. HowEver, those that DO become Classics.
February 22, 2020
This was a fun read! The characters are loveable and fast paced. The characters, Melanie and Matthew, meet at a bar and the next day they find out Matthew is her boss. There's chemistry and funny dialogue, you won't be disappointed! I received this ARC in exchange for my review.
February 1, 2020
When Melanie finds out her boyfriend is fooling around on her, she heads to a local bar to drown her sorrow with tequila. She meets a gorgeous man with chocolate brown eyes and they hit it off pretty well. They both get so drunk, neither one of them remembers what happened the night before, which is good as it turns out that he is Melanie's new boss.
I loved the chemistry between Melanie and Matthew. Even though things start off a bit awkward, they move beyond it to save Matthew's career and jumpstart Melanie's. Mine to Five is an office romance set at Christmas and New Year's but it can be read anytime. I read it in January and it was fine. The story is quick, fun and enjoyable. I enjoyed the witty banter between our two MCs and their personalities made me want to get to know them. There are a couple of sexy scenes that might get your heartrate up, but their relationship outside of that was what appealed to me. Of course you always have to be concerned with office romance and there are some issues because of that, but Tara September writes a great solution to the problem. I loved the ending and how this rom-com ends. A fun story that I recommend to those of you that enjoy contemporary romance.
I listened to the audiobook of Mine to Five narrated by Verla Bond, who is a new narrator to me. I enjoyed her narration. She gave voice to the characters that made them easy to identify and her speed and expression added to my enjoyment of the story. My only issue was listening to the sex scenes was a bit hard for me, I was able to skip ahead a couple of times. Overall, I enjoyed Verla Bond's narration and would listen to other books narrated by her. I received a copy of this book through Audiobookworms upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I loved the chemistry between Melanie and Matthew. Even though things start off a bit awkward, they move beyond it to save Matthew's career and jumpstart Melanie's. Mine to Five is an office romance set at Christmas and New Year's but it can be read anytime. I read it in January and it was fine. The story is quick, fun and enjoyable. I enjoyed the witty banter between our two MCs and their personalities made me want to get to know them. There are a couple of sexy scenes that might get your heartrate up, but their relationship outside of that was what appealed to me. Of course you always have to be concerned with office romance and there are some issues because of that, but Tara September writes a great solution to the problem. I loved the ending and how this rom-com ends. A fun story that I recommend to those of you that enjoy contemporary romance.
I listened to the audiobook of Mine to Five narrated by Verla Bond, who is a new narrator to me. I enjoyed her narration. She gave voice to the characters that made them easy to identify and her speed and expression added to my enjoyment of the story. My only issue was listening to the sex scenes was a bit hard for me, I was able to skip ahead a couple of times. Overall, I enjoyed Verla Bond's narration and would listen to other books narrated by her. I received a copy of this book through Audiobookworms upon my request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
February 9, 2020
Mine to Five is a steamy, sweet and quick romance. I enjoyed this author's previous book, Jesse's Girl. I am happy to say that I enjoyed this one as well. While Jesse's Girl is a slow burn, Mine to FIve is a much faster time table. Melanie and Matthew were cute together. They had an attraction that was hard to ignore. Even though they had a one night stand initially, I liked that they took their time to get to know each other before hooking up again. I listened to this on audio and enjoyed experiencing it in that format. The narrator is one I have heard before and I always enjoy her voices. I definitely recommend this one.
November 26, 2023
Quick Summary: A fast-paced ONS to office romance
My Review: Mine to Five by Tara September is a hot and bothered love story that is just right for a quick holiday read.
About the Book: After her cheating boyfriend proves to be a no show, Melanie Thomas has a one night stand with a man who absolutely gets her. Although she is unable to recall the details about her night with him, she cannot seem to forget the handsome stranger. Fate, of course, steps in and drops her perfect stranger off at her new job. And wouldn't you know it - he is her boss! What shall she do?
My Favorite Scene (coded to avoid spoilers): Meeting the moms
My Final Say: I had a great time listening to this audiobook. It was such a fun story to get lost in for a time. Melanie and Matthew were perfect for each other. They had an attraction for one another from the start. They connected beyond the obvious. Although their work situation was not ideal, they made the most of it. I was blown away by the grand gesture that shall not be named. It gets all the stars.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA/A
Status/Level: 🌶🌶
A courtesy copy of this title was made available for review by the author. I am appreciative for the opportunity to share my thoughts and opinions.
My Review: Mine to Five by Tara September is a hot and bothered love story that is just right for a quick holiday read.
About the Book: After her cheating boyfriend proves to be a no show, Melanie Thomas has a one night stand with a man who absolutely gets her. Although she is unable to recall the details about her night with him, she cannot seem to forget the handsome stranger. Fate, of course, steps in and drops her perfect stranger off at her new job. And wouldn't you know it - he is her boss! What shall she do?
My Favorite Scene (coded to avoid spoilers): Meeting the moms
My Final Say: I had a great time listening to this audiobook. It was such a fun story to get lost in for a time. Melanie and Matthew were perfect for each other. They had an attraction for one another from the start. They connected beyond the obvious. Although their work situation was not ideal, they made the most of it. I was blown away by the grand gesture that shall not be named. It gets all the stars.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: NA/A
Status/Level: 🌶🌶
A courtesy copy of this title was made available for review by the author. I am appreciative for the opportunity to share my thoughts and opinions.
November 5, 2022
This office romance had likeable characters who were so good together and for each other, I could see some things coming and others I didn't. I liked seeing these two together so much that I wanted to continue reading about them, to see how things were going for them later on down the line, both personally and professionally.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2020
A Lovely Holiday Quick Read – Smart And Steamy With A Sweet Happy Ending! In Matthew & Melanie’s Slow Burn Romance, A Has-Been Marketing Genius Finds The Inspiration He Needs In His New Young Assistant
Melanie Thomas, twenty-four, has worked tirelessly over the past months and it has finally paid off. With an MBA from NYU, she set her sights on marketing and has become an online marketing guru. She begins her dream job tomorrow at the McCain Marketing Agency as the Creative Assistant of Marketing for Mr. Ryans, Senior VP of Consumer Products and an award-winning marketing genius. As a grad student Melanie had done a case study on him and admires his brilliant campaigns. Mr. Ryans has always worked solo in the past, however. Mr. McCain himself hired Melanie, explaining that Ryans has been in a funk, and she is being assigned to team with him on a trial basis.
Melanie agrees to meet her boyfriend at Surge, a hot upscale nightclub in Manhattan, in what she anticipates to be a celebration. Getting stood up is the last thing she saw coming. Professor Joseph Kinnear had been her first serious relationship. After over a year and a half together, she never thought it would end like this. All dolled up in her red dress and alone in the crowded club, she had thought he wanted to take things to the next step, not toss her away over a phone call.
Matthew Ryans, thirty-eight, knows his job is in jeopardy. He has two big pitches coming up in December, and his career depends upon them. After a decade at McCain, he had anticipated being named CEO upon McCain’s retirement. He can hardly believe it might end like this, but marketing is a fickle field. Ryans had achieved success by doing everything his way, but in the end his devotion to work may have been the cause of his burnout. Tomorrow he will have to learn to work with his new assistant, but it is probably the beginning of the end for him.
Matthew had lived a playboy lifestyle, schmoozing with the elite, which is almost a requirement for making it to the top in his field. He finally settled on Bianca, a Broadway dancer and choreographer, and they have an arrangement of sorts. She loves to be the center of attention and has many admirers, but that suits Matthew just fine. He is not the jealous type, never has been. He doesn’t understand what has overcome him and left him uninspired of late. He heads to Surge to drown his sorrows, and cannot believe his luck when the beauty in the red dress sits beside him.
Matthew and Melanie meet as strangers at Surge, but hours later they meet again under very different circumstances. As mature adults, they both agree to keep things professional and forget about the night before. Melanie takes her career seriously. She doesn’t want to risk being accused of sleeping with the boss to get ahead. Matthew never crosses the line at work and knows he needs to keep it that, even if he had met Melanie before she became his assistant. Although things are awkward at first, they agree to begin anew. They build a working relationship, but their long hours and easy comfort with one another make friendship inevitable. When jealousy enters the pictures, though, it becomes harder to deny the true nature of their feelings.
In Matthew and Melanie’s slow burn workplace romance, a has-been marketing genius finds the inspiration he needs in his new young assistant. They make a perfect team, but their story gets complicated once they mix business with pleasure. This is a lovely holiday quick read – smart and steamy with a sweet happy ending. It is nicely written and plot-driven. The characters are nicely developed given the length. The story is written in third person. The POV alternates between Matthew and Melanie. I rate this book 4.5 stars.
Melanie Thomas, twenty-four, has worked tirelessly over the past months and it has finally paid off. With an MBA from NYU, she set her sights on marketing and has become an online marketing guru. She begins her dream job tomorrow at the McCain Marketing Agency as the Creative Assistant of Marketing for Mr. Ryans, Senior VP of Consumer Products and an award-winning marketing genius. As a grad student Melanie had done a case study on him and admires his brilliant campaigns. Mr. Ryans has always worked solo in the past, however. Mr. McCain himself hired Melanie, explaining that Ryans has been in a funk, and she is being assigned to team with him on a trial basis.
Melanie agrees to meet her boyfriend at Surge, a hot upscale nightclub in Manhattan, in what she anticipates to be a celebration. Getting stood up is the last thing she saw coming. Professor Joseph Kinnear had been her first serious relationship. After over a year and a half together, she never thought it would end like this. All dolled up in her red dress and alone in the crowded club, she had thought he wanted to take things to the next step, not toss her away over a phone call.
Matthew Ryans, thirty-eight, knows his job is in jeopardy. He has two big pitches coming up in December, and his career depends upon them. After a decade at McCain, he had anticipated being named CEO upon McCain’s retirement. He can hardly believe it might end like this, but marketing is a fickle field. Ryans had achieved success by doing everything his way, but in the end his devotion to work may have been the cause of his burnout. Tomorrow he will have to learn to work with his new assistant, but it is probably the beginning of the end for him.
Matthew had lived a playboy lifestyle, schmoozing with the elite, which is almost a requirement for making it to the top in his field. He finally settled on Bianca, a Broadway dancer and choreographer, and they have an arrangement of sorts. She loves to be the center of attention and has many admirers, but that suits Matthew just fine. He is not the jealous type, never has been. He doesn’t understand what has overcome him and left him uninspired of late. He heads to Surge to drown his sorrows, and cannot believe his luck when the beauty in the red dress sits beside him.
Matthew and Melanie meet as strangers at Surge, but hours later they meet again under very different circumstances. As mature adults, they both agree to keep things professional and forget about the night before. Melanie takes her career seriously. She doesn’t want to risk being accused of sleeping with the boss to get ahead. Matthew never crosses the line at work and knows he needs to keep it that, even if he had met Melanie before she became his assistant. Although things are awkward at first, they agree to begin anew. They build a working relationship, but their long hours and easy comfort with one another make friendship inevitable. When jealousy enters the pictures, though, it becomes harder to deny the true nature of their feelings.
In Matthew and Melanie’s slow burn workplace romance, a has-been marketing genius finds the inspiration he needs in his new young assistant. They make a perfect team, but their story gets complicated once they mix business with pleasure. This is a lovely holiday quick read – smart and steamy with a sweet happy ending. It is nicely written and plot-driven. The characters are nicely developed given the length. The story is written in third person. The POV alternates between Matthew and Melanie. I rate this book 4.5 stars.
November 17, 2019
I really really liked this novella and Tara September yet again wrote a beautiful lovestory about a very swoon worthy hero, Matthew Ryans and a strong, smart woman, Melanie Thomas who in the midst of a very difficult time in their lives find friendship and love in each other.
“Two strangers clinging to each other’s company and comfort—one of those New York moments.”
After a bad breakup with her boyfriend of two years and the day before she starts her dream job Melanie has a sexy hook-up with a stranger. The day after she remembers nothing except waking up in a strange apartment and that she has to start her new job with a very bad hangover. When she turns up at her new job the stranger turns out to be her new boss, Matthew Ryans and they have to work very closely together on two very big add campaigns and to help Matthew find his spark in his work again. They become really good friends and colleagues but their attraction to each other becomes stronger and stronger and at the end they can’t keep their hands of each other. But what happens when he suddenly gets a promotion and she can’t follow him in the ranks, where does she fit into his life then?
I really loved this couple and even though they can’t be together they somehow figure out how to spend every bit of time they have together as friends. On thanksgiving with their mothers or getting Christmas trees with family and friends or dobble dates or late nights working.
The only thing I didn’t like about the book was that she at the end was so quick to judge him and not letting him be able to explain what happened or that he did everything he could to fix the mistake made by his boss. The thing he had to do to prove himself to her was pretty big and life changing for him and if she had listened to him they could have talked it over without all the drama and time apart.
But it had a very sweet ending and HEA and it ended on a good note for me.
I can definitely recommend this book if you are in the mood for a very sweet and fun colleague/friends to lovers romance with great characters, holiday cheer and a very sweet HEA.
I got this book from the author Tara September in exchange for an honest review.
“Two strangers clinging to each other’s company and comfort—one of those New York moments.”
After a bad breakup with her boyfriend of two years and the day before she starts her dream job Melanie has a sexy hook-up with a stranger. The day after she remembers nothing except waking up in a strange apartment and that she has to start her new job with a very bad hangover. When she turns up at her new job the stranger turns out to be her new boss, Matthew Ryans and they have to work very closely together on two very big add campaigns and to help Matthew find his spark in his work again. They become really good friends and colleagues but their attraction to each other becomes stronger and stronger and at the end they can’t keep their hands of each other. But what happens when he suddenly gets a promotion and she can’t follow him in the ranks, where does she fit into his life then?
I really loved this couple and even though they can’t be together they somehow figure out how to spend every bit of time they have together as friends. On thanksgiving with their mothers or getting Christmas trees with family and friends or dobble dates or late nights working.
The only thing I didn’t like about the book was that she at the end was so quick to judge him and not letting him be able to explain what happened or that he did everything he could to fix the mistake made by his boss. The thing he had to do to prove himself to her was pretty big and life changing for him and if she had listened to him they could have talked it over without all the drama and time apart.
But it had a very sweet ending and HEA and it ended on a good note for me.
I can definitely recommend this book if you are in the mood for a very sweet and fun colleague/friends to lovers romance with great characters, holiday cheer and a very sweet HEA.
I got this book from the author Tara September in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2020
office romance with a twist
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
Reviewed: 02-09-20
Melanie Thomas was a woman with something to celebrate. She had finally made that transition and it was a time to be happy, excited, and preparing for the future. Not that her current boyfriend was supportive. She should have known sooner that things were not right. There were signs. She just chose to ignore them. Then it all comes to a head. Do she go back or move forward?
Matthew Ryans was a man on the fast track to being completely burned out. Lost. Drifting. He thought all may be lost until he find that one encounter makes him look forward to the new day. The new excitement working though him.
Mine to Five was not a new concept of romance, but it did give you some different ways to look at things. It allowed for a different outcome. This year the new one will start of with more in store for two souls that needed something different to their future.
Verla Bond gave a distinct portrayal of both male and female. She carried the narration with clarity.
*****
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Tara September. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 4 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
Reviewed: 02-09-20
Melanie Thomas was a woman with something to celebrate. She had finally made that transition and it was a time to be happy, excited, and preparing for the future. Not that her current boyfriend was supportive. She should have known sooner that things were not right. There were signs. She just chose to ignore them. Then it all comes to a head. Do she go back or move forward?
Matthew Ryans was a man on the fast track to being completely burned out. Lost. Drifting. He thought all may be lost until he find that one encounter makes him look forward to the new day. The new excitement working though him.
Mine to Five was not a new concept of romance, but it did give you some different ways to look at things. It allowed for a different outcome. This year the new one will start of with more in store for two souls that needed something different to their future.
Verla Bond gave a distinct portrayal of both male and female. She carried the narration with clarity.
*****
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by Tara September. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
July 15, 2020
This was one of those “you might like” suggestions from Kindle Unlimited and I’m thankful for the recommendation. At less than two hours this was a quick, sexy, easy to read yet well written story.
My first time reading Tara September, but I will definitely check out more of her work. Matthew & Melanie have an anonymous one-night-stand and find themselves new work mates the next day. I really like the way September pulled off this trope - not only with allowing Matthew & Mel the opportunity to get to really know each other but I could feel how they also click as a working team AND a couple. At 38 & 24, this also fulfills my love of May/December romance though it isn’t a huge issue or plot point in the story. There’s a lot of sexy banter, a few steamy scenes, interfering secondary characters, a misunderstanding, and a fabulous finale.
Since this isn’t part of a series... I really would have liked a little epilogue to solidify their HEA - but I felt like Matthew & Mel had all their dreams come true.
I also really loved the cover for this book.
My first time reading Tara September, but I will definitely check out more of her work. Matthew & Melanie have an anonymous one-night-stand and find themselves new work mates the next day. I really like the way September pulled off this trope - not only with allowing Matthew & Mel the opportunity to get to really know each other but I could feel how they also click as a working team AND a couple. At 38 & 24, this also fulfills my love of May/December romance though it isn’t a huge issue or plot point in the story. There’s a lot of sexy banter, a few steamy scenes, interfering secondary characters, a misunderstanding, and a fabulous finale.
Since this isn’t part of a series... I really would have liked a little epilogue to solidify their HEA - but I felt like Matthew & Mel had all their dreams come true.
I also really loved the cover for this book.
June 1, 2020
Any book with a well-written office romance is a win for me! ⠀
Oh my gosh, I loved this book! Everything about it. It starts with a cheating a**hole, a drunken one-night stand who turns out to be her boss, and the cutest romance ever! Honestly, I was surprised the romance took as long as it did (I mean, the book's only just over 4 hours long). ⠀
I loved the working relationship between Matt and Melanie, as well as the chemistry between them. ⠀
The narration, voiced by Verla Bond, fit the story perfectly. She was able to capture both Melanie's and Matt's personalities, as well as the supporting characters. This is a narrator I would definitely listen to again! ⠀
Disclaimer: I received this audiobook from the author/publisher in exchange for my honest review.
⠀
Checking off the letter M for the #2020AtoZReadingChallenge. Find more of our reviews on Instagram --> @gingermomreads
Oh my gosh, I loved this book! Everything about it. It starts with a cheating a**hole, a drunken one-night stand who turns out to be her boss, and the cutest romance ever! Honestly, I was surprised the romance took as long as it did (I mean, the book's only just over 4 hours long). ⠀
I loved the working relationship between Matt and Melanie, as well as the chemistry between them. ⠀
The narration, voiced by Verla Bond, fit the story perfectly. She was able to capture both Melanie's and Matt's personalities, as well as the supporting characters. This is a narrator I would definitely listen to again! ⠀
Disclaimer: I received this audiobook from the author/publisher in exchange for my honest review.
⠀
Checking off the letter M for the #2020AtoZReadingChallenge. Find more of our reviews on Instagram --> @gingermomreads
February 14, 2021
I was recently introduced to this author and after this audiobook, she definitely has been added to my must read list.
This delightful story brings us Melanie Thomas and Matthew Ryans.
One night at a bar, while Melanie , a marketing employee, was having a pity party after discovering her boyfriend was seeing other women, Matthew , a burnt out marketing executive was realizing his job was on the line. When they cross paths, they had a one stand night, neither realizing that they would ever see each other again.
Imagine their surprise when Melanie is introduced to her new boss, Matthew.
What at first was an uncomfortable arrangements , turns into a secret relationship and the best turn in events.
But what happens when Melanie is thrown a curveball? Will this be another step back in her personal and professional life, or will this holiday season become the best one ever?
This was an engaging story from start to finish and one worth your time.
This delightful story brings us Melanie Thomas and Matthew Ryans.
One night at a bar, while Melanie , a marketing employee, was having a pity party after discovering her boyfriend was seeing other women, Matthew , a burnt out marketing executive was realizing his job was on the line. When they cross paths, they had a one stand night, neither realizing that they would ever see each other again.
Imagine their surprise when Melanie is introduced to her new boss, Matthew.
What at first was an uncomfortable arrangements , turns into a secret relationship and the best turn in events.
But what happens when Melanie is thrown a curveball? Will this be another step back in her personal and professional life, or will this holiday season become the best one ever?
This was an engaging story from start to finish and one worth your time.
October 23, 2020
A well-paced sexy romance set in the workplace. With believable and relatable characters and a storyline perfect for an audiobook listen. This is the second of this author's books I've listened to by this narrator, who makes it easy to engage with the characters and the story.
Melanie and Mathew's meeting at a bar leads to complications in their work lives, even though neither can remember the details of the encounter. This is a sensual romance with passion and forbidden love which explores the dangers of workplace romance and the unfair consequences for women.
The story has a festive setting, which adds to the romance and whilst there are no real surprises, the ending is passionate and so romantic.
I received an audiobook copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Melanie and Mathew's meeting at a bar leads to complications in their work lives, even though neither can remember the details of the encounter. This is a sensual romance with passion and forbidden love which explores the dangers of workplace romance and the unfair consequences for women.
The story has a festive setting, which adds to the romance and whilst there are no real surprises, the ending is passionate and so romantic.
I received an audiobook copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
October 26, 2020
*edit to add review*
What would happen if your one night stand turns out to be your new boss!? I cant imagine walking into a new job and seeing the guy you hooked up with but that is exactly what happened between Melanie and Matthew!
The chemistry between them was undeniable and despite the initial one night together I loved how they put that to the wayside and actually took the time to get to know each other before they took that next step....again.
I listened to this and found it a fun, cozy rom-com that left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside with that swoon worthy ending!
The audio was smooth and clear and narrator did an amazing job at bringing these characters to life.
What would happen if your one night stand turns out to be your new boss!? I cant imagine walking into a new job and seeing the guy you hooked up with but that is exactly what happened between Melanie and Matthew!
The chemistry between them was undeniable and despite the initial one night together I loved how they put that to the wayside and actually took the time to get to know each other before they took that next step....again.
I listened to this and found it a fun, cozy rom-com that left me feeling all warm and fuzzy inside with that swoon worthy ending!
The audio was smooth and clear and narrator did an amazing job at bringing these characters to life.
October 29, 2020
Melanie is newly graduated. She has just found out her boyfriend of two years, Joe, has been seeing someone else and she is devastated.
The same night she found out about Joe she went to a bar, got very drunk and ended up under a hunk with chocolate eyes. It was just what she needed. She moaned about Joe, he moaned about work - perfect match.
The next day she starts her new job on a trial basis working with a new partner. When she meets said partner... its him, its chocolate eyes.
What builds between this new partnership is hot and steamy, passionate and romantic. It is a brilliant love story and a will they, wont they storyline.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The same night she found out about Joe she went to a bar, got very drunk and ended up under a hunk with chocolate eyes. It was just what she needed. She moaned about Joe, he moaned about work - perfect match.
The next day she starts her new job on a trial basis working with a new partner. When she meets said partner... its him, its chocolate eyes.
What builds between this new partnership is hot and steamy, passionate and romantic. It is a brilliant love story and a will they, wont they storyline.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
May 26, 2020
A well written and well narrated office romance. Sweet with heat - I loved the characters and their dynamic. I enjoyed the mom's as well as the ex's involvement too. Overall it was a really good read / listen. Melaine and Matthew are both career driven characters that both have character growth within this read. Melanie is able to take a firmer stand with the relationships and Matthew realizes that some relationships are worth more.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read.
May 29, 2020
I have read and enjoyed books by Tara September in the past and Mine to Five is no different. I loved Matthew and Melanie’s story. Their chemistry was undeniable. It was another plus for me when it was set during the Holiday season, making the romance extra magical. It was pure delightful to read. I adored it!
I am giving Mine to Five a very well deserved five plus stars. I recommend the quick read for readers who enjoy a great romance.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I am giving Mine to Five a very well deserved five plus stars. I recommend the quick read for readers who enjoy a great romance.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
November 5, 2020
After a drunken night with a stranger, Melanie Thomas starts her first day at her new job the following day…only to find out the stranger is her new boss.
Mine to Five is a fun office romance with flirty banter and great chemistry between the hero and heroine. It was a short but enjoyable read, one with good romantic tension and fun quips. I would have liked to see more sweet than spicy, but I liked the book overall. If you enjoy office romances and secret relationships, you’ll want to check out this book by Tara September.
Mine to Five is a fun office romance with flirty banter and great chemistry between the hero and heroine. It was a short but enjoyable read, one with good romantic tension and fun quips. I would have liked to see more sweet than spicy, but I liked the book overall. If you enjoy office romances and secret relationships, you’ll want to check out this book by Tara September.
July 2, 2020
I received this audiobook free for an honest review. I thought this was a great, almost simple, romance story with the boss. However, not knowing the man she went home with after a drunken breakup was going to be her boss, was dreamy. Melanie's creativity in the office speaks for herself, so this was no sleeping to get to the top scenario. The mother's touch was very cute. The narrator did an excellent job with the differing characters, their personalities and the story.
May 16, 2021
I really enjoyed Melanie and Matthew’s story. It’s a sweet and steamy romance and it held my interest all the way through. I really could feel the attraction between these two, they are a perfect match. The storyline was a good one. It has a little holiday theme and I loved the part where they went for a Christmas tree and got to meet their respective moms after that.
This review is based on the audiobook. I liked the narrator, Verla Bond. She did a pretty good job.
This review is based on the audiobook. I liked the narrator, Verla Bond. She did a pretty good job.
April 10, 2020
Melanie Thomas is dressed to kill and ready to celebrate with her boyfriend. She’s landed the job of her dreams, working at the marketing firm she’s set as her career goal. She arrives at the bar and finds—strangely, because it’s usually just the opposite—that she’s arrived first. When her phone rings she should have had a feeling of foreboding but she doesn’t. Until she answers and is told that she’ll be celebrating alone, tonight and every other night. Seems she and the boyfriend are not on the same page, despite being together years. Tears spring to her eyes, but not before she orders a stiff drink.
Melanie barely notices the man beside her except to note that he’s already had a few and that he’s movie star hot. Great, just when her face is all blotchy from crying. Turns out, he’s there drowning a few disappointments himself. He doesn’t share his troubles, but it seems he’s about to be fired. He knows his boss has lost faith in him because he’s pairing him with a new partner—some woman they’re bringing in from the outside.
Yes, you’ve guessed it.
I really enjoyed this book by a new author to me. The instant chemistry the two felt at the bar is carried through to their jobs, though they fight valiantly to hold it at bay. When they finally do give in, their relationship is all readers could want it to be. These are two characters the reader roots for, and when all works out at the end, it’s very satisfying. I give Mine to Five a big thumbs-up.
I was gifted this book by the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
Melanie barely notices the man beside her except to note that he’s already had a few and that he’s movie star hot. Great, just when her face is all blotchy from crying. Turns out, he’s there drowning a few disappointments himself. He doesn’t share his troubles, but it seems he’s about to be fired. He knows his boss has lost faith in him because he’s pairing him with a new partner—some woman they’re bringing in from the outside.
Yes, you’ve guessed it.
I really enjoyed this book by a new author to me. The instant chemistry the two felt at the bar is carried through to their jobs, though they fight valiantly to hold it at bay. When they finally do give in, their relationship is all readers could want it to be. These are two characters the reader roots for, and when all works out at the end, it’s very satisfying. I give Mine to Five a big thumbs-up.
I was gifted this book by the author in exchange for an honest and fair review.
November 8, 2022
Melanie thought she was in a wonderful relationship that was headed to marriage. When everything fell apart, she was left with a broken heart and a one night stand with a hot guy at the bar. Matthew was sitting next to Melanie listening to her conversation and was glad she was getting dumped because he thought she was hot and wanted to be with her. When they end up finding out the next day he is her boss they decide anything forward will only be work related until they realize they can't stay away from each other. But when he doesn't fight for her, her heart breaks until she does.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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