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What happens when your dad loses your hand in marriage in a poker game to the wrong man?

To rectify it, I have to marry the only guy who can save me. But my teenage crush didn’t and still doesn’t know I exist.

He’s grumpy, mysterious, and removed from the rest of the Founder’s children.
The questions in my head won't stop.

Will we clash? Can he really help me? Will our intense attraction undermine our agreement?

Yet, I’m scared to ask myself the MOST important question…What if he turns out to be the husband of my dreams?

Our marriage can either be a match made in Heaven or Hale on Earth.

264 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 8, 2020

119 people are currently reading
178 people want to read

About the author

Francesca Penn

33 books165 followers
Francesca Penn lives in Texas with her husband and son. While obtaining her Technical Writing degree, a creative writing course and play-writing elective reawakened her desire to create stories. Her brain lives in fiction; even the songs she listens to become music videos in her head.

When she is not writing, she can be found hounding her loved ones with multiple "What-if" scenarios. As a true closet romantic, she is prone to filling up her DVR with Hallmark movies. A friend once told her that she'd trained the whole 20 plus years she'd known her to write romance since her nose was always in a love story.

Francesca believes that love is colorblind and plans to provide a mix of couples of different races and ethnicities because - to her - men are like Skittles, and we all know their motto.

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5 stars
305 (59%)
4 stars
140 (27%)
3 stars
46 (8%)
2 stars
14 (2%)
1 star
9 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
Profile Image for Rosie.
1,654 reviews32 followers
May 12, 2020
This book is SO good!

Karessa LeClaire's father loses her in a poker game to a business rival and the caveat is for his daughter to marry his rival's son, Oran Hale. Neither Karessa, nor Oran want any part of the scheme. However, Karessa's hand is forced when she's financially cut off and has to go to Oran for help. He isn't thrilled, nor does he want to be married so he drops her off to a hotel. Only when he reads the pre-nup does he change his mind.

We learn once upon a time, Karessa had a crush on Oran but that died the day she went for a swim she didn't orchestrate. Oran continually grouses about her presence in his home but they slowly learn how to co-exist. The pre-nup has certain stipulations regarding consummating the marriage and so it's hands off and they have a very, very difficult time with the stipulation.

When Karessa has had just about enough of denying herself pleasure, she visits Oran at work and she has her Basic Instinct (btw ... Sharon Stone killed it) and she owns him. Unlike Ainslee and Jagger, these two together are more like kindling and fire and they have some very sexy close calls and you just want them to do the damn deed already. This story is hot and this couple is hot together. I hope we revisit this couple again as well as Ainslee and Jagger.

This series is a collaboration between King Ellie and Francesca Penn so it was fun to read a few of the same scenes from the perspective of Karessa and Oran. I'm hoping we get to read Imala (Karessa's sister) and Caerwyn's (Oran's cousin) Story soon. WARNING: Hot, Graphic Sex.

Highly, Highly Recommended: Read It!
Profile Image for Kashi Ashley-Ann Lowe.
484 reviews6 followers
May 11, 2020
Hell and Trophy

Lol what a fantastic book, I enjoyed this book just as much as I enjoyed the first one in the series, right now I’m just anticipating the arrangement for the others. This book was definitely 5+stars worthy
Profile Image for Jae Juice.
90 reviews
October 21, 2020
Let’s just say.. put me on an air mattress and call me Trophy! The 2nd installment to The Arrangement Series honey Oran can be my Hale on Earth any day of the week! Poor Karessa got put in a bad situation when he dad lost her hand in marriage from a card game. To be married to ur high school crush.. u would think everything thing would be peachy...or rather Hale on Earth. Another page turner and I just live the bromance between Jagger and Oran! Fabulous job Francesca!! Ooooh Oran!!
Profile Image for Cherryl.
2,163 reviews1 follower
October 2, 2020
The grump gave his Trophy hell...

...That is before he fell in love with her and changed his life. Oran may have won Karessa in a poker game that ended in an arranged marriage. He married her to keep her safe. Her father Dondi LeClaire worked hard to make sure his daughter had an out from the marriage if it was not consummated for six months, the couple could get an annulment. Oran tried hard to stay away from Karessa, his Trophy. He thought she deserved to get married to someone she loved. What he didn't know was that she already had a crush on Oran when she was younger but he never noticed her. They were so cute trying so hard to abstain. The Amalfi Coast did it to them, besides that, Jagger and Ainslee had them wound up tighter than a drum. Oran had to make Karessa understand that he was really in love with her and to trust him. There was one thing g she asked that he not do and that was to break her heart and he asked the same of her.

This love story was so cute. It was funny how both Oran and Karessa reacted to the news of them getting married to each other. Their banter and fighting back and forth had me laughing. It was amazing to see how Oran, went from being a grump to protective in love with Karessa. With her, he saw the marriage his deceased mother wanted him to have. Thank goodness he had more of his mother's personality and not his evil father's. Oran and Jagger were perfect friends, both of them had nasty mouths and did not care where they were when conversing. It's going to be interesting to see how Oran's cousin Caerwyn handles his love interest.
Profile Image for DivasoftheSerengeti_Lioness.
569 reviews
July 15, 2020
Oran and Karessa are like oil and water, sugar and salt and anything else that is opposites, but they made it work. These two were arranged to be married because of a bet gone wrong. Oran knows he had to marry Karessa to keep her safe, but didn't like that one bit. Karessa doesn't want marriage, but doesn't have a choice. It's not 100% bad to her because it is with her childhood crush. These two were something else to read about and I loved every minute of it. The plot flows, the character interaction is good and there is so much hotness included in it. When a character tells you what they are going to do and backs it up, yeah, read that. I highly recommend this read!
Profile Image for Laverne Brewster.
1,386 reviews18 followers
July 4, 2021
2.50 Stars. (BW/WM). Kindle Unlimited Edition e-book. I learned a little more about the world this series is set in, but nothing defensive sets it as in a particular year. The inhabitants of Founders Island are composed of people from various countries who have been given or purchased this island to establish an independent country. Maybe they are trying to abolish a cast system based on racial dominance; however, they have a cast system based on wealth and the prominence granted to founding families, i.e., on page 30 of the book, Karessa relates that Oran lives on the opposite side of the island from where the Founder live. As to the protagonists, Oran Hale, mother is a white American, who his father, one of the founders, impregnated before they wed and who disowned Oran until a fraternity test proved him to be Oran’s dad. The character Jagger in book one behaves just like the hero, Oran Hale, of this book, they both verbally demean their heroines, similarly express their sexual prowess, like rough sex and both characters are suffering from the loss of a close family member who suddenly died / mostly likely murdered; but each exhibits kind and giving acts in the same manner... same character different names. The female characters aren’t too different in the way they respond to their love interest... they desire them, they swap snarky banter, excuse or dismiss their heroes insults and they too like rough sex. Karessa LeClaire is from a wealthy family but it doesn’t seem that the LeClaire family is one of the founding families. Karessa is five years younger than Oran and Jagger and two years older than Ainsley. I will see if the protagonists in HEARTBEAT, the next book in the series, continue to be carbon copies of the male and female protagonists from books one and two of this series.
Profile Image for Renita.
206 reviews2 followers
May 29, 2020
Hale on wheels!!!

This is the first time I have read a book by this author, and I was not disappointed. The story line was killer. There were some spelling errors , but that happens. Karessa grew up with the biggest crush on Oran, but he doesn't believe in happily ever after watching his parents abusive marriage. Due to a costly blunder, Oran must save Karessa , but finds love instead. This will not be my last book by Ms. Penn!🌟
Profile Image for Coco.
246 reviews10 followers
September 15, 2022
DNF with multiple attempts at reading it. This book has high ratings so I kept revisiting but I’m finally calling it quits. The way that Oran talked to Karessa was disgusting! From what I read, his personality was far from “alpha” male; he was just an piece of sh!t. He calls her names (to her face and behind her back) and even snatches her by her hair bc all while ogling and sexualizing her 😤

I couldn’t look past his behavior
Profile Image for Mspraise50.
1,597 reviews65 followers
February 26, 2024
I thought the leading man was a first-class jackass. I loved how the leading kept going and broke down his barriers. I loved that. Too much sex and not enough mafia for me though. I like that the couples are getting to know each other but there is not much action. Still a good read.
Profile Image for CLorraine.
1,773 reviews20 followers
August 18, 2020
Keressa and Oran

This story is the second one in a three part arc. All three stories are written by different authors but have overlapping characters. This story is a standalone story but it helps to have some of the background .....the best friend of our hero is the subject of the first story.

The H and h travel in the same upper class circles on Founder’s Island....not having read the first story I am not sure of the history of the Island...She has had a crush on Oran for years but he really doesn’t know her. His father is a gross nasty man who won Keressa in a card game from her naive father. Luckily for her the wager only specified that she would marry one of the Hales not which one.

Keressa’s father persuades Oran to marry her in name only both realizing that no one deserves the elder Hale. Lots of stuff happen....they have mad chemistry....they fall in love...Did I say Oran’s dad is crazy?
They have funny and sexy dialogue and the author did not miss a beat tying up the story in a neat/hot bow. I liked this author’s middle story sooooooooo much that I am not sure if I want to read the other two for fear that they won’t live up....but I am certainly going to read some of her other books.
Profile Image for Milica.
1,122 reviews12 followers
September 7, 2021
2.5 stars

This could have been sooo good if it was written better. There were so many typos and weirdly structured sentences, especially in the other half. And Oran very abruptly changed his mind about Karessa. He was so against the marriage and then suddenly, he's acting all attentive and caring and vulnerable. There were some good scenes, but they weren't connected properly and the story didn't flow smoothly. And I'm so sorry because this could have been amazing.
I'll say that I liked that Karessa started fighting back when Oran acted like an asshole. She didn't fight him in the beginning, but she wasn't really in the position to contradict him then, so I can understand. Also, I'm glad that she wasn't a virgin. I was afraid that she was saving herself for him (he was her teenage crush; he ignored her and pushed her in the pool), but luckily that wasn't the case.
I'd really like to read Esme's book and I think that I'll skip Imala's because she's a virgin and her love interest isn't. Oh, and I think that I'd like Mikonos' and his girl's story. (I forgot her name but I'm pretty sure it starts with G).
Profile Image for Liyah P..
406 reviews5 followers
May 28, 2020
Trophy and her Hell

This book was recommended by Unique Words. First let me state that this book it many ways fixed the issue I had with the first one. This just proves my previous statement from the first book there's nothing wrong with having a lot of sex scene in a book but if there is no story it's just porn in book form. The story in this book was way more enriching if you asked me. The first half of Karessa and Oran journey was hilarious their fighting had me smiling the whole time. Their final submission towards one another was beautiful to watch. It was also great to revisit the first couple Ainslee and Jagged as well from the first book "Free Falling. Not going to lie I would be very interested in this authors telling of their story. Lastly am going to need a Imala and Wyn story stat also Mikos and Guiny.
1,212 reviews3 followers
May 16, 2021
Hell to the no. There is no way I would’ve been with Oran based on the start as I would’ve chosen a homeless shelter than subject myself to his evilness. Karessa’s dad is 100% trash and her mom should leave the bastard


Those were my thoughts at the start of the book. If I was Karessa, I would have never far enough for those relationships to be redeemable. Yet the author was able to do it as I was rooting for Karessa and Oran by the end. Oran’s dad was a sick fuck from beginning to end though

Something is nagging me about the author. Does any of the black women in her story have dark brown or almost black eyes? The last few I remember their eyes are light brown, gray, hazel, green etc.





Profile Image for Sierra J.
24 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2020
The Evil Twins! Y’all have done it baby chile

Going from Jagger or Oran, ngl I was nervous. How could the intensity of Jagger be topped or matched? You’ve done it. Oran was the balance that I didn’t know was necessary. He was such a vibe man. His penis, it was what it is, I said what I said attitude was everything. Combined w Karessas soft but specks of fire personality 👏🏽. You and King Ellie have ruined typical pet names for me. If my man don’t call me Little Headache or something like that I don’t want him! send him back! They were so sexy. Elmer is a bloody creep man. Carewyn gave off such mild intensity I can’t wait for his story.
Profile Image for Jackie Bragg.
417 reviews12 followers
May 29, 2020
Hale to the Trophy

I have been waiting for this Book since I read about these two Karessa and Oran in King Ellie's book "Free Fall".

Oren Hale was a total douchebag With a Silverspoon in his mouth.

I have been waiting to read this book since King Ellie's "Free Fall".

Oran Hale is total Douchebag that's needs a Attitude adjustment.

Karessa LeClaire is a lone of the Founders children who has been in love with her future Husband, who didn't even notice her back in the day.


Now Karessa and Oran must get married according to thier parents.

Will these two last in Happy Everafter, or will it be like the "War of the Roses ".

This is a must read book.
Profile Image for Drinking Espressos .
263 reviews1 follower
October 30, 2023
This book has a difficult beginning. Oran is not just grumpy; he's verbally, physically, and emotionally abusive. There's a difference. I didn't expect that because this is not a dark romance or bully trope. I couldn't stand him and nearly left it on dnf because I could not see how his character could be redeemed. I kept going because I liked two of the author's previous novellas.

Thankfully, he does get better, and I went on to enjoy the book so much that I ordered the first book in the series written by King Ellie and the two parallel universe books. I'll definitely continue with this series.
Profile Image for Cammyjoe.
1,429 reviews8 followers
May 22, 2020
Mr & Ms Hale!!

Fantabulous,...!!!!
I absolutely love this series, and so amazing about it, for two different writers ,with two different style to incorporate the series and merge the characters is WOW!!
The bromance between those two incredible ALPHAS Jagger and Oran is beautiful, and their beautiful,crazy wives...
Ladies,don't take my word for it , grab your own copies and seat with the wonderful "people" of Founder's and they will tell you all about their ARRANGEMENTS.
Love it!
Profile Image for Pirori.
340 reviews4 followers
January 14, 2022
A bit hard to read as it was long winded. Took forever for them to finally do the deed. Also a bit far-fetched. I know it's a fictional world but at times I was rolling my eyes. Also considering this is not a continuation of one storyline and that each book is a different couple. I found myself scratching my head as to who were the countless side character's in this book that were mentioned but not explained as to what their relation was to the central characters of this book. I might read one more book from this author but overall not a fan.
Profile Image for Victoria Ziglor-smith.
780 reviews5 followers
August 17, 2025
So good I had to read it again

I can’t believe this is the second time reading this in August 17, 2025. I read it when the series first came out and today. I always read a great story over, and over again. If a series then I re-read the whole series. Marry someone due to an arrange married is almost better than marry someone you think you love. My marriage lasted 30 yrs before I realize I wasn’t important at all. I’ve been divorced for 10 yrs, would love to be in a relationship like Karessa & Oran. This is truly a great read.
Profile Image for Ka-Bee Brown.
346 reviews4 followers
May 11, 2020
On His Terms!

Karessa & Oran relationship started out rocky, but along the way Oran & Karessa found a way to love each other, without killing one another other. This was a awesome read and my first time reading a novel by Francesca. I highly recommend this story and also Free Falling by King Ellie, I hope they both collaborate and bring us more of the psych characters from this story.
Profile Image for Monica.
19 reviews
May 14, 2020
Wishes do come true!

Karessa and Oran's story is about truly giving love and your heart a chance. Oran is completely different after tragedy happens in his life. Karessa has had a crush on him since teen years. When her life is turned upside down she just wants to get out of the predicament. They each learn to open their hearts and love one another. I can't wait for Ismala and Wyn story. I love how you blended seamlessly with the first story. Great job!
58 reviews1 follower
September 18, 2020
Surprised

At first, I hated this book. I was surprised because I have liked everything I've read by this author so far. But, I hated Oran at first and told myself I would stop reading the book if his hateful as didn't get better. And, Kar just seemed weak to me at first. Thank goodness both of them started showing their true colors. It's a beautiful funny sexy book and I love there story. I even liked the ending and I HATE getting to the end of a story I love.
1 review
September 26, 2024
This is my second time trying to read this book and it’s just too overly sexual for me. It’s like the main characters can’t have a single conversation without it being sexual. They are in their freaking 30s and act like horny teenagers. I feel like the plot that the author made was good and had so much potential but it’s hard to even remember the whole plot because the plot given literally just feels like sex. I’ll continue reading in hopes it’ll die down but I doubt it.
151 reviews1 follower
May 12, 2020
Oh-Run!!!

Poor Karessa! Like, how frustrating is it that you're told you will be getting married in six weeks, you're cut off from having access to your home, money and family if you refuse, and the only way for you to return to life as you know it, will be to refrain from consummating said marriage for six months with a walking Sex God for Said Husband....?
Profile Image for Shell Brown.
134 reviews4 followers
May 17, 2020
Erotic Erotic and more Erotic

I love the way this story unfolds and how Oran finally realize how much Karessa love for him was deep at an early age. Once he realizes he loves her too it's all the way explosive from their!!!! Their chemistry will have you on the edge of your seat!!! Love this series and can't wait for the third book!!!
Profile Image for stareiis.
67 reviews
May 18, 2020
🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

Y’all have me feigning for the next book. The connection between Oran and Karessa was a type of foreplay and teasefor the reader. Their interaction was intense, volatile, and somewhat cruel. All the time as a reader, I my anxiety was building as well. I really enjoyed this read. I am looking for to the next in this series.
781 reviews7 followers
May 20, 2020
Aaaw, Hale Naw!!!

Oran Hale was a di*k. He was being forced to marry sweet Karessa because her father lost a bet to Oran's and Karessa was the prize ( or Trophy, as Oran fondly referred to her). Oran the Di*k had no qualms letting his displeasure regarding his impending nuptials be known to Karessa by making her life Hale on Earth!
286 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2020
Beautiful story

I didn't like the beginning because I felt like slapping Oran but
After I got the full story. I was set for the ride. I can wait for the next book his cousin story . I do have questions is the families Mon bosses or what and where are they living and why is everyone scare of one family.
178 reviews
May 26, 2020
Betting on Love

Loving the Arrangement Series. Oran and Karessa's arrangement was due to her father trying to win a poker bet with Oran's father to get Elmer of the council but Dondi ends up losing. Elmer thought that she would end up with him but he didn't make the rules very clear and Karessa ends up marrying Oran Elmer's son and Elmer in the end, ends up losing his shit forcing Oran to take action against him. I can't wait to read about Imala and Caerwyn's relationship.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews

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