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The Billionaire's Temptation #1
Seduction and Surrender
From USA Today Bestselling Author, Cali MacKay...
Chef Emma Sparrow has poured her heart and soul—not to mention all her money—into the restaurant of her dreams. But when Quinn Ryker, her landlord and billionaire playboy, refuses to renew her lease, her entire world and all those who depend on her, are at risk.
Quinn’s spent months trying to stifle his curiosity for the gorgeous chef who runs the kitchen of his favorite bistro like she’s a five-star general. He can’t help but want her, especially when she comes marching into his office full of fire and passion, furious with him and demanding he renew her lease. Yet he now has something she wants, and he knows just what he’ll do with that heat and anger of hers, especially once she’s in his bed.
A bargain is stuck that will save Emma’s restaurant and give Quinn what he most desires—Emma. But it turns out there’s a lot more on the line when negotiating matters involving one’s body, heart, and soul.
*** This novel contains a Happily Ever After ending. Due to the adult language and explicit sex scenes, this book is for adults only.***
Chef Emma Sparrow has poured her heart and soul—not to mention all her money—into the restaurant of her dreams. But when Quinn Ryker, her landlord and billionaire playboy, refuses to renew her lease, her entire world and all those who depend on her, are at risk.
Quinn’s spent months trying to stifle his curiosity for the gorgeous chef who runs the kitchen of his favorite bistro like she’s a five-star general. He can’t help but want her, especially when she comes marching into his office full of fire and passion, furious with him and demanding he renew her lease. Yet he now has something she wants, and he knows just what he’ll do with that heat and anger of hers, especially once she’s in his bed.
A bargain is stuck that will save Emma’s restaurant and give Quinn what he most desires—Emma. But it turns out there’s a lot more on the line when negotiating matters involving one’s body, heart, and soul.
*** This novel contains a Happily Ever After ending. Due to the adult language and explicit sex scenes, this book is for adults only.***
Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2014
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About the author
Cali MacKay
48 books321 followersCali MacKay is a NY Times and USA Today bestselling author. She lives in New England with her husband, two girls and their crazy mutt. When not tapping away on her laptop and getting her characters into trouble, she can be found designing book covers for other authors, wrangling her girls, and splicing DNA.
She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and a horrible gardener.
She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and a horrible gardener.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
November 7, 2014
Freebie on Amazon. And still I feel ripped off.
Emma is a restaurant owner whose lease hasn’t been renewed. Ryker is the rich and handsome – because of course he is – new owner of the venue.
He offers to renew her lease in exchange for sex. What the fuck! Blackmailing people into sex is not hot and/or romantic!
But, because he’s rich and handsome, this is a romance story and not a horror story about an obsessed rapist who blackmails his victim into sleeping with him.
What the fuck is this supposed to be? He not only holds her livelihood over her head, but also her dream and her future, to get her to sleep with him! And the worst part, is that he knows that she would normally say no, but he just uses her restaurant to get what he wants anyway. Regardless of what she wants or says.
Is that a threat? Because in these few pages, he has involved himself completely in her life, offered her a solution to all her problems in exchange for sleeping with him, threatened not to help her if she does not and assumed that he can get anything he wants – including sex – regardless of whether she says yes or no. And she fucking does say no!
But that doesn't mean anything to him. Because he thinks that he is entitled to have sex with her. And it's these kinds of books that promote the rape culture we live in.
DNF at 7%
Emma is a restaurant owner whose lease hasn’t been renewed. Ryker is the rich and handsome – because of course he is – new owner of the venue.
He offers to renew her lease in exchange for sex. What the fuck! Blackmailing people into sex is not hot and/or romantic!
“So, does this mean you’ll extend my lease?”
[…]
“Yes-but in exchange, I want us to get to know each other better. I’ve got several functions I need to attend, and I want you…on my arm and by my side.” And in my bed, under me, around me, any way I can have you, sweetheart. “I’ll also need you to accompany me on my trips overseas.”
But, because he’s rich and handsome, this is a romance story and not a horror story about an obsessed rapist who blackmails his victim into sleeping with him.
Though she’d likely tell him to go fuck himself under normal circumstances, he now had something she desperately wanted. He felt a bit of an ass to use her predicament to his advantage, but he’d already given her more thought than he’d given any other woman, and he certainly wouldn’t be losing sleep over is tactics if it landed her in his bed. Anything to scratch that itch and get her out of his system
What the fuck is this supposed to be? He not only holds her livelihood over her head, but also her dream and her future, to get her to sleep with him! And the worst part, is that he knows that she would normally say no, but he just uses her restaurant to get what he wants anyway. Regardless of what she wants or says.
“Wait…you think I’m going to sleep with you? To keep my restaurant? Have you lost your mind?”
“It’s a simple matte, Ms. Sparrow. These functions usually bore me to tears , and you’ll do a fine job of keeping me entertained. As for the finer details of our arrangement, I don’t think it’ll take long for you to come around.”
[…]
“There’s no way I’m sleeping with you.”
“You say that now, sweetheart. But if it makes you feel any better, then very well…we can table that for now, and revisit that clause in our agreement at a later time.” She’d come around-he’d make damn sure of it.
Is that a threat? Because in these few pages, he has involved himself completely in her life, offered her a solution to all her problems in exchange for sleeping with him, threatened not to help her if she does not and assumed that he can get anything he wants – including sex – regardless of whether she says yes or no. And she fucking does say no!
But that doesn't mean anything to him. Because he thinks that he is entitled to have sex with her. And it's these kinds of books that promote the rape culture we live in.
DNF at 7%
January 25, 2019
Well even though he was a jerk of a landlord and a bad way to try and get Emma into his bed, the way he went about it it was a hot story.
October 6, 2014
Freebie, and thank God.
Why do some women think that having a man basically force/ blackmail/ coerce a woman to have sex is romantic and hot? That's a serious question, BTW. I am genuinely stumped.
Basically, our h is a chef and restaurant-owner and our H owns the building her resto is in. He wants to shut the whole thing down, but hey! If Emma has sex with Quinn, she gets to keep her business. The one that she built up for years and invested in heavily, both financially and emotionally. She can keep it, he says! But only if she opens her legs.
She does, of course, and she loves it, naturally, because he's so damn HOT, and then it turns out our asshole H was a big, fat liar all along (no big shock), but she forgives him, of course, because she's a doormat, and that's supposed to be a HEA.
Why do some women think that having a man basically force/ blackmail/ coerce a woman to have sex is romantic and hot? That's a serious question, BTW. I am genuinely stumped.
Basically, our h is a chef and restaurant-owner and our H owns the building her resto is in. He wants to shut the whole thing down, but hey! If Emma has sex with Quinn, she gets to keep her business. The one that she built up for years and invested in heavily, both financially and emotionally. She can keep it, he says! But only if she opens her legs.
She does, of course, and she loves it, naturally, because he's so damn HOT, and then it turns out our asshole H was a big, fat liar all along (no big shock), but she forgives him, of course, because she's a doormat, and that's supposed to be a HEA.
February 19, 2015
3.75 stars...This was a good freebie for me, and I would read more of this author. Yeah, it was insta-love...at least on Quinn's side... and had a predictable flow. However, there was great chemistry between the characters and just enough angst and danger to keep things interesting. Love scenes were well done. An enjoyable, comfortable diversion.
February 28, 2015
This was...this was almost painful. The book is so incredibly short one would think I could just stick it out and bear through it...I thought so to. Man, was I wrong!
As far as I could tell this book tops out at 177 pages in length, I got to about 106 before the dry heaves ensued.
This book reeled me in with the description and beginning plot...but then, it felt incredibly like coercion...and then, a little like rape...okay, lets be honest, she's whoring herself out for a restaurant!! I don't care who you are, morals ladies, morals! Let's pretend we have some dignity. It just left a very unpleasant taste in my mouth.
This poor girl, really is just trying to get through life and then psychotic, arrogant, pushy and over bearing millionaire men try to barge in and 'make life easier' for them by being "romantic" and "taking charge". Someone gag me please!
Now, don't get me wrong! I'm all for the hardened alpha male hero in a story... and I also like a heroine I can respect, but there is a very definite line on the right way and wrong way to get men like this to come across well in books and this book was so over the "wrong way...turn back, turn back!!!" line that I just couldn't take it anymore.
The "I made my own way in this life" and "I understand your struggles" bullshit he was throwing didn't pull the wool over my eyes for him or soften my heart. I'd have told him to get lost...she should've followed her first instinct and just walked out after his ridiculous proposal, then I might still have some respect for her. There was no way this chicken of a book could ever fly in my coop. Get. Out.
Horribly done, needs a complete plotline re-haul. Eh-eh, game over and try again.
Amateur authors need to stay far, far away from writing books like this until they have the adequate writing skills to understand the correct way to bring men like this across correctly in their pages.
Don't waste your time on this one!
As far as I could tell this book tops out at 177 pages in length, I got to about 106 before the dry heaves ensued.
This book reeled me in with the description and beginning plot...but then, it felt incredibly like coercion...and then, a little like rape...okay, lets be honest, she's whoring herself out for a restaurant!! I don't care who you are, morals ladies, morals! Let's pretend we have some dignity. It just left a very unpleasant taste in my mouth.
This poor girl, really is just trying to get through life and then psychotic, arrogant, pushy and over bearing millionaire men try to barge in and 'make life easier' for them by being "romantic" and "taking charge". Someone gag me please!
Now, don't get me wrong! I'm all for the hardened alpha male hero in a story... and I also like a heroine I can respect, but there is a very definite line on the right way and wrong way to get men like this to come across well in books and this book was so over the "wrong way...turn back, turn back!!!" line that I just couldn't take it anymore.
The "I made my own way in this life" and "I understand your struggles" bullshit he was throwing didn't pull the wool over my eyes for him or soften my heart. I'd have told him to get lost...she should've followed her first instinct and just walked out after his ridiculous proposal, then I might still have some respect for her. There was no way this chicken of a book could ever fly in my coop. Get. Out.
Horribly done, needs a complete plotline re-haul. Eh-eh, game over and try again.
Amateur authors need to stay far, far away from writing books like this until they have the adequate writing skills to understand the correct way to bring men like this across correctly in their pages.
Don't waste your time on this one!
November 16, 2014
I am an adult reader very reluctant to read a NA book. I found this book thru a online party on Facebook. I decided to give it a shot and see if I would like this genre.
I look for certain things in my book. I like realistic H/h and a great story that pulls you in and give you the emotions of the characters. I also like to suspend belief for certain things if the story is good enough.
What I liked about this book:
1. Good story: Great continuing story with a little mystery and suspense.
2. Decent love story: The Hero is Alpha to the max, with a determination that makes you want to slap him at times, but the Heroine keeps him pretty much in his place with her determination to not be controlled.
3. Age of H/h: My greatest fear in this genre is that the H/h are babies. 18-19 years old. I liked that the characters were in there late 20's and not too young to even know themselves.
4. Emotions: This story pulled out all the stop in the range of emotions you caught your self feeling along with the characters.
5. Love scenes: Much more than I expected from this genre but pleasantly surprised.
6. It is part of a series: I love series. I love the continuation of the story and getting a glimpes of the H/h in the next book.
What I have issues with in this Book:
1. Although I can talk like a sailor, it just doesn't happen in the bedroom. Who wants to be told in such vulgar language what they are going to do. Just do it.
I will read book 2 in this series. I am a true fan of series and always love a continuing story. Cali MacKay
I look for certain things in my book. I like realistic H/h and a great story that pulls you in and give you the emotions of the characters. I also like to suspend belief for certain things if the story is good enough.
What I liked about this book:
1. Good story: Great continuing story with a little mystery and suspense.
2. Decent love story: The Hero is Alpha to the max, with a determination that makes you want to slap him at times, but the Heroine keeps him pretty much in his place with her determination to not be controlled.
3. Age of H/h: My greatest fear in this genre is that the H/h are babies. 18-19 years old. I liked that the characters were in there late 20's and not too young to even know themselves.
4. Emotions: This story pulled out all the stop in the range of emotions you caught your self feeling along with the characters.
5. Love scenes: Much more than I expected from this genre but pleasantly surprised.
6. It is part of a series: I love series. I love the continuation of the story and getting a glimpes of the H/h in the next book.
What I have issues with in this Book:
1. Although I can talk like a sailor, it just doesn't happen in the bedroom. Who wants to be told in such vulgar language what they are going to do. Just do it.
I will read book 2 in this series. I am a true fan of series and always love a continuing story. Cali MacKay
November 12, 2014
I don't mind a strong woman, in fact I love that. But Emma is so stubborn that she doesn't know a good man in front of her. Quinn is actually telling her how he feels about her. It's hard to find a man to do that. He is trying to take care of her, even though he got her to go out with him under an indecent proposal. That's water under the bridge!!! I love that Quinn is spontaneous and that he is willing to give up on control for Emma.
But my problem is that after he gives up the whole go out with me and I will consider renewing your lease tactic and he gave her everything she wanted she turned into a slut. She talked that whole time about getting to know him and not sleeping with him, but the first thing you do with him after the deal is off the table is sleep with him. I couldn't even call her a whore. Whores get something for their services. She is getting nothing!!! She did a whole switch up!!!
My last issue is that everything moved too fast. After 1 week Quinn wanted her move in with him? After 2 weeks they love each other? And the reasons they love each always pertain to sex. They don't anything about each other. And now someone wants to harm him!!?? I know this is fiction but it ain't realistic.
But my problem is that after he gives up the whole go out with me and I will consider renewing your lease tactic and he gave her everything she wanted she turned into a slut. She talked that whole time about getting to know him and not sleeping with him, but the first thing you do with him after the deal is off the table is sleep with him. I couldn't even call her a whore. Whores get something for their services. She is getting nothing!!! She did a whole switch up!!!
My last issue is that everything moved too fast. After 1 week Quinn wanted her move in with him? After 2 weeks they love each other? And the reasons they love each always pertain to sex. They don't anything about each other. And now someone wants to harm him!!?? I know this is fiction but it ain't realistic.
September 29, 2014
This was a freebie on Amazon. It was an ok book. The theme was pretty similar to some other books in this genre. The characters were not likeable. Quinn is a total player and basically propositions and bribes Emma to have sex with him in order to renew her lease on her restaurant. The first 25-40% is really Quinn trying to bully Emma for sex. How many times did he keep telling her that she'd be screaming his name? I think she got the point. His method seemed so sleazy so it was off putting. Then Emma gives in, they move in together, fall in love, etc., in all of what seems a week. Way too fast paced especially since Quinn really didn't redeem himself in my eyes. Plus, his brother Gabe was a total douche. He's giving his brother advice that he should just forget Emma and then screw some leggy blonde. Not really winning any awards with this family. Some parts of the book were good, but overall I felt that the characters didn't have much to base their relationship on and I had a hard time seeing any chemistry between them. Not my favorite read.
August 26, 2014
Cali Mackay has written an fantastic steamy.... hot story ..with page turning thrilling heart stopping moments written into this true love story... This first book involves the oldest Ryker brother Quinn the billionaire ..and his love for Emma who owns a restaurant.. I laughed... I cried and my heart hit the floor more than once.. .. Quinn has wanted Emma since he first saw her....he blackmails her to get her into his bed and into his life by telling her he will renew her lease on her restaurant which is her life and has taken all her money to set it up... will she do it.. or walk away...the sexual chemistry between them just made me break out in a sweat .. I fell in love with Quinn.. I would love a Quinn in my life...but he will have to remain my new book boyfriend... if you want to know what happens download the book I detest spoilers and will not give story away... I promise you you will not be disappointed
November 16, 2014
Repetitive
While this book wasn't terrible, and the characters were reasonably likable, it was very repetitive. Each chapter felt like the same scenes of Quinn crudely proposition Emma and Emma putting up token resistance but then giving in to sexual advances. She never fully stands her ground. I kept reading although I was already at the point of skimming over all the constant sex scenes. I just simply wanted to get to the ending to see what happened. Imagine my frustration when the ending is a completely abrupt cliff hanger with nothing resolved. I have no interest in reading further in this series, so I guess I will never know who was behind the attacks on Quinn's family or how anything turns out. I don't mind cliffhanger endings when I am prepared for them, but this one blindsided me.
While this book wasn't terrible, and the characters were reasonably likable, it was very repetitive. Each chapter felt like the same scenes of Quinn crudely proposition Emma and Emma putting up token resistance but then giving in to sexual advances. She never fully stands her ground. I kept reading although I was already at the point of skimming over all the constant sex scenes. I just simply wanted to get to the ending to see what happened. Imagine my frustration when the ending is a completely abrupt cliff hanger with nothing resolved. I have no interest in reading further in this series, so I guess I will never know who was behind the attacks on Quinn's family or how anything turns out. I don't mind cliffhanger endings when I am prepared for them, but this one blindsided me.
March 19, 2019
This was funny and I know it wasn't supposed to be, but some of the dirty talk made me snicker. And it was a little too insta love for me. Honestly though I just didn't see it as being that sexy.
I'm not sure if I will continue with this series. It's not likely but maybe I will if I need it for a challenge and it's free with the audible package.
I'm not sure if I will continue with this series. It's not likely but maybe I will if I need it for a challenge and it's free with the audible package.
September 10, 2014
I have a like/not-so-much-like relationship with this book (as opposed to love/hate). Good premise: restaurant owner-chef Emma is meeting the new owner of the building her restaurant is in to ask him to re-new her lease. She bumps into sexy Quinn in the elevator on the way up and come to find out he's the sexy billionaire/developer who has other plans for the building.
He offers her a deal, go out with him and he'll re-new her lease. He also tells her pretty bluntly he wants to f*** her. She tells him sex is off the table but she wants to think about his offer.
What I liked:
Quinn: He is basically perfect. He's sexy and a dirty talker. On top of that he expresses his feelings spontaneously.
The story itself: I liked the plot and it kept my interest. The love scenes were steamy and explicit.
What I not so much liked:
Emma: She irritated me. She's "feisty", BIG RED FLAG and it usually translates to B***h. From the beginning, I didn't see anything special about her. Her speech/dialogue were uncouth and she came off like a shrew instead of a strong independent woman. She would screech at Quinn then next make out with him 2 sentences later. About 1/3 into the story she improved a little and wasn't so annoying. Her reaction to Quinn's supposed "betrayal" later in the book was unreasonably dragged out and then she just did an about face.
The ending is rushed, there is an HEA but then also a cliffhanger regarding the mystery plotline.
Lastly, at the beginning of the book some expressions and slang sounded decidedly British. Like "knickers", "Bloody Hell", "Let's wrap up this service, yeah?", "his heart trounced", "Oi, Earth to Quinn", "Next time I'm going to have you properly". Then suddenly the weird slang just stopped. Odd, to say the least.
Still, I can say I enjoyed it over all.
He offers her a deal, go out with him and he'll re-new her lease. He also tells her pretty bluntly he wants to f*** her. She tells him sex is off the table but she wants to think about his offer.
What I liked:
Quinn: He is basically perfect. He's sexy and a dirty talker. On top of that he expresses his feelings spontaneously.
The story itself: I liked the plot and it kept my interest. The love scenes were steamy and explicit.
What I not so much liked:
Emma: She irritated me. She's "feisty", BIG RED FLAG and it usually translates to B***h. From the beginning, I didn't see anything special about her. Her speech/dialogue were uncouth and she came off like a shrew instead of a strong independent woman. She would screech at Quinn then next make out with him 2 sentences later. About 1/3 into the story she improved a little and wasn't so annoying. Her reaction to Quinn's supposed "betrayal" later in the book was unreasonably dragged out and then she just did an about face.
The ending is rushed, there is an HEA but then also a cliffhanger regarding the mystery plotline.
Lastly, at the beginning of the book some expressions and slang sounded decidedly British. Like "knickers", "Bloody Hell", "Let's wrap up this service, yeah?", "his heart trounced", "Oi, Earth to Quinn", "Next time I'm going to have you properly". Then suddenly the weird slang just stopped. Odd, to say the least.
Still, I can say I enjoyed it over all.
October 13, 2015
A good love story with a few blunders
Quinn and Emma met when Emma fell into his arms on the elevator. She was on her way up to meet with the man who was ending her lease to her pride and joy, her restaurant; which she had sunk everything she had into. She was desperate because she also needed to pay for her brother's physical therapy after he was hit by a drunk driver. The problem was, the hot guy in the elevator and the guy who held her future in his hands were the same, Quinn.
Now Quinn has a proposition for Emma, go out with him and end up in his bed. Well, with desperation she agreed to going out with him, but not sleep with him. However Quinn took that as a challenge and decided to do all he can to seduce her. He promises to renew her lease. However, unbeknownst to him, Gabe finalized the plans and Emma was going to lose his restaurant. Quinn plans to try to make changes but he may just have promised Emma something he couldn't deliver. What would Emma do when she finds out? Would their relationship survive this betrayal?
This is a book that will make you fan yourself it gets so hot!! It made me laugh, Quinn just made it so Emma couldn't tell him no. It was a bit predictable at times, but it still was a great story. I listened to the story on audible and it was an enjoyable story to listen to. I definitely want to continue on with the series and find out who is behind the attacks.
Quinn and Emma met when Emma fell into his arms on the elevator. She was on her way up to meet with the man who was ending her lease to her pride and joy, her restaurant; which she had sunk everything she had into. She was desperate because she also needed to pay for her brother's physical therapy after he was hit by a drunk driver. The problem was, the hot guy in the elevator and the guy who held her future in his hands were the same, Quinn.
Now Quinn has a proposition for Emma, go out with him and end up in his bed. Well, with desperation she agreed to going out with him, but not sleep with him. However Quinn took that as a challenge and decided to do all he can to seduce her. He promises to renew her lease. However, unbeknownst to him, Gabe finalized the plans and Emma was going to lose his restaurant. Quinn plans to try to make changes but he may just have promised Emma something he couldn't deliver. What would Emma do when she finds out? Would their relationship survive this betrayal?
This is a book that will make you fan yourself it gets so hot!! It made me laugh, Quinn just made it so Emma couldn't tell him no. It was a bit predictable at times, but it still was a great story. I listened to the story on audible and it was an enjoyable story to listen to. I definitely want to continue on with the series and find out who is behind the attacks.
dnf
February 11, 2018Admittedly, it might just be the mood I'm in, but I just can't tolerate reading any more of this book. I'm sure I've read similar, and had little problem with them (other than the obligatory 'huff' at the basic premise), but for some reason, this time... I CAN'T STOP THE COMMENTARY IN MY HEAD THAT HE IS DETERMINED TO TURN HER INTO A WHORE! And then move on with his accomplished self satisfied rich ass.
Maybe it's all the 'Me Too' campaign that's been going on, but even tho I do actually like both characters here, every time he opens his mouth, or thoughts, or gives her one of his dismissive looks or comments that 'of course I'm going to fuck you', I just want her to lay into him. I can no longer read the page for all the flesh stripping dialogue running through my head that she could be saying.
It helped me get a few extra pages when it became clear that it wasn't just her money and restaurant that was on the line, but her brother's health, but apparently I still can't get over the need for her to cut him down to size with a few truths... and then there's the hints that he worked his way to rich and wasn't a silver spoon, and he still thinks it's fine to turn innocent women into whores for fun.
Anyway, this plots bugged me so much I could rant for hours... so I'd best cut it short here ;)
Maybe it's all the 'Me Too' campaign that's been going on, but even tho I do actually like both characters here, every time he opens his mouth, or thoughts, or gives her one of his dismissive looks or comments that 'of course I'm going to fuck you', I just want her to lay into him. I can no longer read the page for all the flesh stripping dialogue running through my head that she could be saying.
It helped me get a few extra pages when it became clear that it wasn't just her money and restaurant that was on the line, but her brother's health, but apparently I still can't get over the need for her to cut him down to size with a few truths... and then there's the hints that he worked his way to rich and wasn't a silver spoon, and he still thinks it's fine to turn innocent women into whores for fun.
Anyway, this plots bugged me so much I could rant for hours... so I'd best cut it short here ;)
May 7, 2024
DNF @ 36% 🥘 the mmc was so dislikable in this book I just couldn’t
🥘 the fmc was a serious pushover
🥘 was quite dramatic which can be fun to read
🥘 the fmc was a serious pushover
🥘 was quite dramatic which can be fun to read
September 27, 2014
Quinn he's not one for beating around the bush, "I'm sure you'll somehow manage, and since you are the girl I want in my bed, I'll happily overlook a stumble or two, especially when I'll be the one who'll be there to catch you." He's very abrupt, "sweetheart...I'm happy to call you whatever you'd like as long as it's my name on your lips when you come." I mean the boy just doesn't have an embarrassing bone in his body, "at least you've managed to remain upright. Your abilities seem...greatly improved. And sweetheart, I'll most certainly look at your legs if you're looking at my c***." He's very protective and soothing when his girl is going through a rough patch, "we'll rebuild it, Emma. I promise. And whoever did this to you will effing pay. I swear, love, I won't rest until then." His entire body reverberated with anger as he held onto her." I'm going to like this series a lot.
November 2, 2015
DNF at 69%
I am to start this review with the writing is really great. Sadly everything else not so much. The hero Quinn is a complete d-bag jerk possessive controlling and I hate his guts. I mean I love a good alpha as much as the next girl but this book started off with the hero blackmailing the heroine to date and sleep with him. Then the author spends the rest of the book trying to redeem his character. No thanks. The heroine started off strong and feisty but then I lost all respect for her when she fell for the hero. I really don't know what the author was thinking creating a hero like this. He was a complete turn off.
I am to start this review with the writing is really great. Sadly everything else not so much. The hero Quinn is a complete d-bag jerk possessive controlling and I hate his guts. I mean I love a good alpha as much as the next girl but this book started off with the hero blackmailing the heroine to date and sleep with him. Then the author spends the rest of the book trying to redeem his character. No thanks. The heroine started off strong and feisty but then I lost all respect for her when she fell for the hero. I really don't know what the author was thinking creating a hero like this. He was a complete turn off.
November 4, 2015
Kind of weird for me.
I know, having the guy fall head over heels and the girl being cautious and reluctant isn't the normal thing. At first I was like, yeah right, this is unbelievable. Then my memory of my husband issuing the marry me or get out thing jarred my memory. Yes men can fall in love fast. It takes a special one to be willing to wait for the woman to catch up. I love the sweetness of this story. I'm getting ready to start the next book now.
I know, having the guy fall head over heels and the girl being cautious and reluctant isn't the normal thing. At first I was like, yeah right, this is unbelievable. Then my memory of my husband issuing the marry me or get out thing jarred my memory. Yes men can fall in love fast. It takes a special one to be willing to wait for the woman to catch up. I love the sweetness of this story. I'm getting ready to start the next book now.
November 13, 2015
It started with a big WOW but unfortunately it ended with a big BLAH.
Emma was not consequent in her attitude and it really rubbed me the wrong way. Quinn as usual was the typical superrich, magnificent specimen of a man and (insert your proposition here) ladies man.
It all fell into place too easily for my taste.
Emma was not consequent in her attitude and it really rubbed me the wrong way. Quinn as usual was the typical superrich, magnificent specimen of a man and (insert your proposition here) ladies man.
It all fell into place too easily for my taste.
May 26, 2016
First of all, too much language in this book. Took away from the story, in my opinion. Otherwise, good start to the series, would have liked the characters to go a little deeper in getting to know each other better though.
June 17, 2015
3.5 stars. Was a sweet quick story. I mean he was a bit of a jerk, but not so bad!
November 3, 2015
the book is very nice; i hated the girl in a way; hated gabe also
June 3, 2017
This book was awful. It wasn't a terribly romantic premise, a woman being blackmailed on dates so she doesn't lose her livelihood, and add up to the fact that Quinn never sees anything wrong with it. We're told that he has a heart of gold when he looks at Emma and her pleading with him not to put her and her employees out of a job and ignores her completely. And then he spends the next few weeks buying her job, her home and her brother's friendship in such a controlling way. He was completely unlikeable.
Emma kept apologising for being bitter about the above and I wanted to slap her and tell her she was allowed to make Quinn feel bad for blackmailing her. We're supposed to see her as stubborn because she doesn't want the guy who is blackmailing her controlling every aspect of her life and it boggled my mind how we supposed to root for the two of them as a couple.
Quinn's brother, Gabe, was right when he said Quinn in love after two weeks was ridiculous but we're supposed to dislike him for that? Not a chance.
I will say that I was pleasantly surprised when Jake, who is always in love with Emma, wasn't villainised for it, which I did think was going to happen. This one small part was the best thing about the book and that was only because I was expecting something different.
One star and definitely would not recommend.
Emma kept apologising for being bitter about the above and I wanted to slap her and tell her she was allowed to make Quinn feel bad for blackmailing her. We're supposed to see her as stubborn because she doesn't want the guy who is blackmailing her controlling every aspect of her life and it boggled my mind how we supposed to root for the two of them as a couple.
Quinn's brother, Gabe, was right when he said Quinn in love after two weeks was ridiculous but we're supposed to dislike him for that? Not a chance.
I will say that I was pleasantly surprised when Jake, who is always in love with Emma, wasn't villainised for it, which I did think was going to happen. This one small part was the best thing about the book and that was only because I was expecting something different.
One star and definitely would not recommend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2018
Halfway In...
At the moment, I'm very frustrated. This book demeans a strong woman. Many amazing qualities of Emma has not been reinforced. She seems to be all hormones. The storyline is a good one, a billionaire finding love without trying and a girl who finds her dreams in an unexpected person...yet the fact Quinn made it known to Emma that he wanted her in his bed in exchange for her to keep her restaurant, and her agreeing...that was the one and MAJOR problem. It was demeaning, especially as a hardworking female, I took that personally. When you want to have something, you will find a way to make it work. It makes me question the way the author portrays Emma, her lust for Quinn overrode her intelligence to find an alternative to keeping her restaurant?
I also noted that Quinn's character was reinforced well. His tenacity and determination.
Final note: I'm only halfway through this book even though I was discouraged from it by the end of the 2nd chapter. As a bookworm, I feel the need to always complete a book no matter how long it takes...and so far it's been a week.
At the moment, I'm very frustrated. This book demeans a strong woman. Many amazing qualities of Emma has not been reinforced. She seems to be all hormones. The storyline is a good one, a billionaire finding love without trying and a girl who finds her dreams in an unexpected person...yet the fact Quinn made it known to Emma that he wanted her in his bed in exchange for her to keep her restaurant, and her agreeing...that was the one and MAJOR problem. It was demeaning, especially as a hardworking female, I took that personally. When you want to have something, you will find a way to make it work. It makes me question the way the author portrays Emma, her lust for Quinn overrode her intelligence to find an alternative to keeping her restaurant?
I also noted that Quinn's character was reinforced well. His tenacity and determination.
Final note: I'm only halfway through this book even though I was discouraged from it by the end of the 2nd chapter. As a bookworm, I feel the need to always complete a book no matter how long it takes...and so far it's been a week.
August 9, 2022
Finished Reading October 25, 2014
2.25 stars
Okay, your going to read all these reviews about it being demeaning etc.
But I really don't remember that. I know I didn't feel that way when I read it.
The H is definitely a Rich guy that does some really jacked up things to get the h's attention in and out of the bed. And you can say he's a A-hole. But, this is Erotica and the billionaire trope. Almost all them have the same A-Hole personalities and this is no different.
The story was okay but what the real problem with this book is
Boring and extremely repetitive.
I've read a couple of this author's books and it was the same in that one.
Boring, Repetitive, Redundant.
This author ended up on my 'Author Rejected' shelf. It is not an easy shelf to get on. I've very picky about putting an author on it. But after trying a few of her books and it was the same in each, she found herself there. And this book is on my 'Book Rejected' shelf.
Purchased from Amazon October 27, 2014
2.25 stars
Okay, your going to read all these reviews about it being demeaning etc.
But I really don't remember that. I know I didn't feel that way when I read it.
The H is definitely a Rich guy that does some really jacked up things to get the h's attention in and out of the bed. And you can say he's a A-hole. But, this is Erotica and the billionaire trope. Almost all them have the same A-Hole personalities and this is no different.
The story was okay but what the real problem with this book is
Boring and extremely repetitive.
I've read a couple of this author's books and it was the same in that one.
Boring, Repetitive, Redundant.
This author ended up on my 'Author Rejected' shelf. It is not an easy shelf to get on. I've very picky about putting an author on it. But after trying a few of her books and it was the same in each, she found herself there. And this book is on my 'Book Rejected' shelf.
Purchased from Amazon October 27, 2014
September 9, 2024
Just okay
The Book started out ok, but a bit unbelievable how fast Emma fell for Ryker. I know it was a quick read but love scenes became redundant. The same words over and over "after he managed to stop kissing her, after he managed to pull away from kissing her", every time the scene started I just wanted to scream and just skip over it. But really there was nothing to this book, no story just a billionaire wanting the girl and gets the after she puts up a half hearted struggle. The other thing I hated is that it's a cliff hanger, which I don't know why. Why do you need an entire book to say who had it in for the Ryker family and why? Just glad I read this book for free, it definitely isn't good enough or that I even care enough to buy the ending in the next book. I don't recommend you waste your time.
The Book started out ok, but a bit unbelievable how fast Emma fell for Ryker. I know it was a quick read but love scenes became redundant. The same words over and over "after he managed to stop kissing her, after he managed to pull away from kissing her", every time the scene started I just wanted to scream and just skip over it. But really there was nothing to this book, no story just a billionaire wanting the girl and gets the after she puts up a half hearted struggle. The other thing I hated is that it's a cliff hanger, which I don't know why. Why do you need an entire book to say who had it in for the Ryker family and why? Just glad I read this book for free, it definitely isn't good enough or that I even care enough to buy the ending in the next book. I don't recommend you waste your time.
January 13, 2020
This book pulls you in right from the beginning. Chef Emma is about to loose her restaurant as the building she rents is being remodeled. She approaches the owner Quinn who very much wants her and makes a deal with her - she will be his escort and his goal is to get her in his bed and he will extend her lease. Someone is sabotaging Emma's restaurant and things get dangerous and her space in the building is given to someone else as Quinn's brother finished the deal on the building even though Quinn tried to change things. Quinn does everything he can to help Emma's situation but will she forgive him. This author is new to me and I really loved the book and I am now reading the second book in the series.
February 20, 2025
Emma can’t lose her restaurant, and she knows she has to go see the man that is standing between her and her losing her restaurant.
Quinn can’t believe Emma is here, she’s got a fire in her, a fire that he knows he likes.
He proposes a deal, Emma goes to certain events with him, and he’ll renew her lease. Emma won’t see him so he has to do what he can to get to know her better and her know him better.
This escalate between them with the deal they made almost forgotten, until it isn’t and Quinn can’t fix the mistake. A mistake that will most likely cost him Emma. Can he make her see that it was never what he intended, that he was a guy in love with girl trying to get her to see him, and unexpected things happened.
Quinn can’t believe Emma is here, she’s got a fire in her, a fire that he knows he likes.
He proposes a deal, Emma goes to certain events with him, and he’ll renew her lease. Emma won’t see him so he has to do what he can to get to know her better and her know him better.
This escalate between them with the deal they made almost forgotten, until it isn’t and Quinn can’t fix the mistake. A mistake that will most likely cost him Emma. Can he make her see that it was never what he intended, that he was a guy in love with girl trying to get her to see him, and unexpected things happened.
May 11, 2017
Positively surprised
I was expecting something haphazardly written with a cheesy plot line, but I was happy to find out that the author knew how to write. I didn't fall in love with the characters, but I didn't find them too annoying. The book had all the elements that many romance readers crave for: rich and handsome alpha male who gets jealous and possessive of his lady. And the best part: a grovel.
I was expecting something haphazardly written with a cheesy plot line, but I was happy to find out that the author knew how to write. I didn't fall in love with the characters, but I didn't find them too annoying. The book had all the elements that many romance readers crave for: rich and handsome alpha male who gets jealous and possessive of his lady. And the best part: a grovel.
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