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The Scottish Billionaires #1
Off Limits
Alec: I’m in my thirties and life is…well not boring, but uneventful despite being CEO of the family company. Just how I like it. Then I meet Lumen, a woman who challenges everything in such an irresistible way. For once in my life I can see myself in a relationship. There’s one problem though, she’s off limits.
Lumen: Growing up in foster care wasn’t the nightmare for me as it was for some, but life hasn’t been easy. I work hard, focus on my goals, and I never let things distract me, specifically men and relationships. Until one rainy Seattle night when a gorgeous hunk walks into the spa where I work.
When billionaire Alec McCrae mistakes Lumen Browne’s workplace for a “happy ending” massage parlor, things get more complicated than he prefers. Especially when their lives become entwined in ways never imagined.
Don’t miss Off Limits, the first book in The Scottish Billionaire, M. S. Parker’s latest romance series.
Lumen: Growing up in foster care wasn’t the nightmare for me as it was for some, but life hasn’t been easy. I work hard, focus on my goals, and I never let things distract me, specifically men and relationships. Until one rainy Seattle night when a gorgeous hunk walks into the spa where I work.
When billionaire Alec McCrae mistakes Lumen Browne’s workplace for a “happy ending” massage parlor, things get more complicated than he prefers. Especially when their lives become entwined in ways never imagined.
Don’t miss Off Limits, the first book in The Scottish Billionaire, M. S. Parker’s latest romance series.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 9, 2020
6518 people are currently reading
4271 people want to read
About the author
M.S. Parker
247 books2,084 followersStep into the seductive and suspenseful world of M. S. Parker, a USA Today Bestselling author where dark romance meets thrilling suspense. If you crave stories that are both steamy and intricate, with characters that are as dangerous as they are desirable, you've found your next obsession.
M. S. Parker specializes in crafting addictive series that push boundaries and keep you guessing until the very last page. Expect to find dangerous mafia bosses and intense, grumpy billionaires clashing with smart, witty young women who, though perhaps out of their element, are quick to adapt and hold their own. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, where passion is a weapon and love is the ultimate prize. Dive into the darkness. You might just find your new favorite escape.
Connect with M. S. Parker on Facebook at http://facebook.com/msparkerauthor
M. S. Parker specializes in crafting addictive series that push boundaries and keep you guessing until the very last page. Expect to find dangerous mafia bosses and intense, grumpy billionaires clashing with smart, witty young women who, though perhaps out of their element, are quick to adapt and hold their own. Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions, where passion is a weapon and love is the ultimate prize. Dive into the darkness. You might just find your new favorite escape.
Connect with M. S. Parker on Facebook at http://facebook.com/msparkerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 351 reviews
June 17, 2021
Hmm.... Off Limits took me by surprise. I like it more than I should. I thought this book is about teacher and student's parent romance. It turned out the story is sweet. The writing does not bring so much drama. Instead it is sweet and intimate.
I do love Alex and Lumen. They both takes their time to get to know each other and their chemistry is sweet and hot. Not dirty hot, but intimate. My only complain is the narrator. He done poor job bringing the female voice to live.
Overall a sweet story.
4 stars
I do love Alex and Lumen. They both takes their time to get to know each other and their chemistry is sweet and hot. Not dirty hot, but intimate. My only complain is the narrator. He done poor job bringing the female voice to live.
Overall a sweet story.
4 stars
July 7, 2020
3 🤔🤔🤔⭐️s
My pov will be posted in the last part of the series.
My pov will be posted in the last part of the series.
June 2, 2020
I read this book right after finishing the prequel about two weeks ago. Why I did not review this book right after I reviewed the prequel will forever be a mystery LOL (because I’m extra? *shrug*)
I’m gonna keep this short and sweet because that’s what my notes say LOL I am super invested people! This is an awesome story with delicious chemistry, and it is unfolding beautifully. I say unfolding and not unfolded because we are not done yet and I can’t wait to read what’s to come! You guys, these characters this author has created are so beautiful and easy to root for and super relatable and realistic. She ticked off every single box for me!
I’m gonna keep this short and sweet because that’s what my notes say LOL I am super invested people! This is an awesome story with delicious chemistry, and it is unfolding beautifully. I say unfolding and not unfolded because we are not done yet and I can’t wait to read what’s to come! You guys, these characters this author has created are so beautiful and easy to root for and super relatable and realistic. She ticked off every single box for me!
December 28, 2021
3 stars
Was expecting a standalone, however, the story has stretched over a course of three books. I like Lumen's character. Excited to see what happens next.
Was expecting a standalone, however, the story has stretched over a course of three books. I like Lumen's character. Excited to see what happens next.
August 7, 2021
Listened on audio and I swear nothing happens in this book. I literally listened 8 plus hours of nothing! That’s how boring it is. A Scottish billionaire meets the heroine on some awkward occasions and they form a casual thing. Turns out it’s his daughter’s teacher also. Then we have some weird creepy teacher with no boundaries. For the whole time there was no plot or direction in which the book was going. I was actually surprised when it said it will continue in book 2. This is where it ends for me
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May 19, 2023I just read a review how this is a three book series? Really? I don't want a saga. 😂🤦
The beginning was honestly fun to read though. He thinks she's a masseuse who gives out special happy endings but he got the name mixed up with another place since they sound super similar 😂😂😂 she kicks his ass out and I loooooooved that. And then......I thought she was going to be his daughters nanny and I hate nanny/billionaire books so I stopped 😂😂 she apparently going to be his daughters teacher?
Anyone want to cheer me to keep going? I don't want to read three dang books of the same ol same kl 🤔🤔🤷
The beginning was honestly fun to read though. He thinks she's a masseuse who gives out special happy endings but he got the name mixed up with another place since they sound super similar 😂😂😂 she kicks his ass out and I loooooooved that. And then......I thought she was going to be his daughters nanny and I hate nanny/billionaire books so I stopped 😂😂 she apparently going to be his daughters teacher?
Anyone want to cheer me to keep going? I don't want to read three dang books of the same ol same kl 🤔🤔🤷
April 26, 2021
Not a stand-alone. Their story continues in the next one. Funny meeting, billionaire and a teacher. Scottish accent.
March 22, 2022
reading this changed my life. i would like to thank scotland and also lilya for bringing this book to me
June 30, 2020
Loved this first in triology. Lumen and Alec are just fabulous. On to the second book now...
September 2, 2025
looking forward to watching the series unfold.
May 19, 2020
4.5 Off Limits Stars 🌟
Off limits is the first book in the Scottish Billionaire series by M. S. Parker. The prequel to this story came out and I have to admit I wasn’t sure what the next book would be like or if the lack of chemistry in Prequel would extend to Off Limits🤷♀️ But I’m happy to say that I really enjoyed Alec and Lumen’s story as well as their chemistry. I was a bit disappointed that not all issues were resolved in this book but I came to realise soon after finishing that there is more to come for Alex and Lumen❣️🥳
I look forward to reading more about this couple😍 I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and I voluntarily leave my honest review.
Off limits is the first book in the Scottish Billionaire series by M. S. Parker. The prequel to this story came out and I have to admit I wasn’t sure what the next book would be like or if the lack of chemistry in Prequel would extend to Off Limits🤷♀️ But I’m happy to say that I really enjoyed Alec and Lumen’s story as well as their chemistry. I was a bit disappointed that not all issues were resolved in this book but I came to realise soon after finishing that there is more to come for Alex and Lumen❣️🥳
I look forward to reading more about this couple😍 I received an advanced copy via Booksprout and I voluntarily leave my honest review.
May 17, 2020
Very good first part
4.5
Excellent description of the feelings on the part of parents (Alec and Keli) who are not together, who had a daughter by accident, who wanted to keep her, but who ultimately want to live their lives. And in the middle is the little girl, Evanne.
After the prequel "scottish billionaire", we know Alec better and the start of the book is a direct result: he would do everything for his child and he sticks to it, even if he thinks he will never be a good father.
It's a pretty unexpected approach in a romance.
To these three characters is added Lumen, a young woman who works as a volunteer in a center which welcomes orphans that nobody has adopted. She works as a masseuse and for her last day, she meets Alec who thinks she is in a somewhat special massage parlor before being expelled by Lumen. When they meet again, they seduce themselves for one night, until they discover that Lumen is Evanne's new teacher.
Alex hesitates about his behavior, as for Lumen, her position in her school could be affected, especially since she is sexually harassed by one of her superiors.
It’s a very good first part and between the pressure of the school and Alex’s doubts about having a lasting relationship while protecting Evanne, the second part promises to be exciting.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
4.5
Excellent description of the feelings on the part of parents (Alec and Keli) who are not together, who had a daughter by accident, who wanted to keep her, but who ultimately want to live their lives. And in the middle is the little girl, Evanne.
After the prequel "scottish billionaire", we know Alec better and the start of the book is a direct result: he would do everything for his child and he sticks to it, even if he thinks he will never be a good father.
It's a pretty unexpected approach in a romance.
To these three characters is added Lumen, a young woman who works as a volunteer in a center which welcomes orphans that nobody has adopted. She works as a masseuse and for her last day, she meets Alec who thinks she is in a somewhat special massage parlor before being expelled by Lumen. When they meet again, they seduce themselves for one night, until they discover that Lumen is Evanne's new teacher.
Alex hesitates about his behavior, as for Lumen, her position in her school could be affected, especially since she is sexually harassed by one of her superiors.
It’s a very good first part and between the pressure of the school and Alex’s doubts about having a lasting relationship while protecting Evanne, the second part promises to be exciting.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2023
The story was good. The writing was choppy and quite frankly the book ended with things left undone. Lumen, just graduates and takes her first job. But as a massage therapist on her last day before teaching, she meets Alec. They do not hit it off when Alec asks for "special happy endings" at his therapy treatment. Lumen throws him out. They met again as Lumen takes new job only to become Alex's daughter's teacher. The whole vice principle being a lurch and creeper gets introduced and never finds a conclusion. But there is a sequel so I guess these stories are like a soap opera.
PS, what is with these names?
PS, what is with these names?
February 14, 2022
Really good and intriguing! I really want to know what happens. I would not have read this if I had know this was a 3 book series, but I’m really glad I didn’t know and that’s what made me read it! I feel like we’re just seeing a glimpse of their relationship. I really like both of the MCs so far. However, I do see Alec being blind to others actions/clouded by others. Like why would he not be upset that the mother of his child is basically abandoning her child to be in a relationship with someone who doesn’t like kids?!? Like why even have your partner have that as a ultimatum when you have a kid. I do not like the baby mama.
Ugh the VP of the school is disgusting🤬I really hope he gets what’s coming to him!
Ugh the VP of the school is disgusting🤬I really hope he gets what’s coming to him!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2021
Good read!
I have read “ The Dukes Virgin” by M.S. Parker, I knewI liked her,but was no hurry to read more. I will definitely be reading the next book in this series, I hope it as good as “Off Limits”, if so I won’t have any issues with finishing the “The Scottish Billionaires”.
I have read “ The Dukes Virgin” by M.S. Parker, I knewI liked her,but was no hurry to read more. I will definitely be reading the next book in this series, I hope it as good as “Off Limits”, if so I won’t have any issues with finishing the “The Scottish Billionaires”.
May 23, 2020
Not quite the "happy ending" he was expecting
Off Limits: The Scottish Billionaire is the first book in this series, but there is a Prequel before it. This book finds Alec several years after the ending of the prequel. He is a father to a beautiful and sweet eight year old daughter, Evanne. He and Keli are not together so he is a weekend dad. He has also now the CEO of McCrae International Research Institute and also has the responsibility for the family. When Keli and her boyfriend basically dump Evanne on Alec and go to Italy he suddenly becomes a full-time parent, a whole new situation and responsibilities for him.
Lumen Browns grew up as a foster child but applied herself and has just become a teacher. But before she start on her new career she has to finish a few things with her old one, as a massage therapist. Her last patient turns out to be a sexy Scottish man, Alec. He had decided to get a massage but he had the understanding that it would have a "happy ending". Not quite the massage that Lumen or the clinic gives. He does not quite die from his embarrassment but he definitely got off on the wrong foot with her. However, they both roll with it and no biggie.
Alec and Lumen continue to bump into each other when Keli leaves Evanne with him. It turns out that Evanne's new teacher is Lumen. They have a lot of chemistry which just keeps getting bigger and bigger between them until they both cannot deny it any longer. They spend a night together but it seems that just one night is not enough to extinguish the flames between them.
This is a well written and nicely developed story. The characters are nicely written as Alec has grown as a person and continues to with Evanne. Lumen is wonderful as she is a spit-fire who has made something of herself against the odds. Evanne adds to the story as she is a bridge in a way that brings Alec and Lumen together. I look forward to reading the next in this series to see what happens with Alec, Lumen and Evanne.
Off Limits: The Scottish Billionaire is the first book in this series, but there is a Prequel before it. This book finds Alec several years after the ending of the prequel. He is a father to a beautiful and sweet eight year old daughter, Evanne. He and Keli are not together so he is a weekend dad. He has also now the CEO of McCrae International Research Institute and also has the responsibility for the family. When Keli and her boyfriend basically dump Evanne on Alec and go to Italy he suddenly becomes a full-time parent, a whole new situation and responsibilities for him.
Lumen Browns grew up as a foster child but applied herself and has just become a teacher. But before she start on her new career she has to finish a few things with her old one, as a massage therapist. Her last patient turns out to be a sexy Scottish man, Alec. He had decided to get a massage but he had the understanding that it would have a "happy ending". Not quite the massage that Lumen or the clinic gives. He does not quite die from his embarrassment but he definitely got off on the wrong foot with her. However, they both roll with it and no biggie.
Alec and Lumen continue to bump into each other when Keli leaves Evanne with him. It turns out that Evanne's new teacher is Lumen. They have a lot of chemistry which just keeps getting bigger and bigger between them until they both cannot deny it any longer. They spend a night together but it seems that just one night is not enough to extinguish the flames between them.
This is a well written and nicely developed story. The characters are nicely written as Alec has grown as a person and continues to with Evanne. Lumen is wonderful as she is a spit-fire who has made something of herself against the odds. Evanne adds to the story as she is a bridge in a way that brings Alec and Lumen together. I look forward to reading the next in this series to see what happens with Alec, Lumen and Evanne.
May 16, 2020
This is a great story and leaves you wanting more.
At the ending of Prequel, Keli tells him he's going to be a father. This story takes place eight years later.
This is the story of Alec & Lumen. Now, Alec has an eight year old daughter from a previous girlfriend, which is explained in the Prequel. Lumen was a foster child and volunteered in a group home with foster children. She had been in the same group home. She was a foster child herself. Lumen was starting a new job as a teacher, also. She meets Alec at Real Life Bodywork, a massage business. It is her last night here. Alec goes there as a recommendation from his brother, or so he thought. Beknown to him, he had the wrong place. There is a misunderstanding and she kicks him out. They keep meeting by chance, so they hook up. It was all supposed to be just for fun. They try to stay away from each other, but something surprising brings them together again. They decide to give their relationship a shot. There is a lot of chemistry between them. This is a great story, with a great story line. I can't wait to see what happens in their life in the next book in the series. So looking forward to it.
At the ending of Prequel, Keli tells him he's going to be a father. This story takes place eight years later.
This is the story of Alec & Lumen. Now, Alec has an eight year old daughter from a previous girlfriend, which is explained in the Prequel. Lumen was a foster child and volunteered in a group home with foster children. She had been in the same group home. She was a foster child herself. Lumen was starting a new job as a teacher, also. She meets Alec at Real Life Bodywork, a massage business. It is her last night here. Alec goes there as a recommendation from his brother, or so he thought. Beknown to him, he had the wrong place. There is a misunderstanding and she kicks him out. They keep meeting by chance, so they hook up. It was all supposed to be just for fun. They try to stay away from each other, but something surprising brings them together again. They decide to give their relationship a shot. There is a lot of chemistry between them. This is a great story, with a great story line. I can't wait to see what happens in their life in the next book in the series. So looking forward to it.
December 19, 2020
Save yourself from starting this book. This trilogy is a series of overly dramatic life events happening to self-centered characters, with an afterthought of a romance on the side. Don’t get sucked into this one - I got hooked on the drama and needed to know how everything was going to resolve itself, but it wasn’t enjoyable. In fact, I was irritated and scoffing in disbelief the whole time. Alec pulls some seriously messed up shit, and Lumen continuously lets him get away with it. Frankly, the only time Alec and Lumen spend together is spent having sex. There’s no relationship development, no banter to endear the reader to their relationship, nothing. Just loads of drama that keeps the two apart for the bulk of each book.
May 21, 2020
Alec and Lumen meet and sparks fly, it was just supposed to be for one night but they can’t seem to resist. They may have come from two different worlds but can they create a home together? Fast-paced read with plenty of drama, and steamy chemistry. I liked the characters and the story is sweet but steam. A good read.
October 18, 2021
Just okay but interesting enough to read all three...
Interesting opener with Off Limits. Hooks you into a story that might be okay. But truthfully filled with boredom & lulls. Too a many fillers of over dramatic events. Hello this guy attempted her by propositioning her for sexual release... Then they're on a date & bam they're in a hotel room -she's a virgin & waiting for this. (Far stretch there).
With zero relationship building, just at it again. But written over & over & OVER again about his daughters mother & their lack of relationship. Not the best guy & she's just wimpy. Off Limits ends with a cliffhanger, that doesn't really entice into book 2, Breaking Rules, but more of needing to be humored, I continued. Breaking Rules opens dramatically then more fillers & lulls. It's overkill with repetitive thoughts again & again. Vague way of introducing more characters. Overall Breaking Rules (book 2) annoyed more than anything. Absolutely zero relationship building, but filled with useless thoughts (on repeat). Then a few spicy scenes but zilch communication with the two. Simply Breaking Rules (book 2) was beyond boring. Now lets see where Mending Fate, book 3 wraps these up. More in-depth character building, but definitely not enough to encourage me any further. Little better on the main couple. Little more overall drama, little more encouragement, little more of everything book 2 was missing. But a decent ending that was warming & pleasing. Literally ends in a sex scene though. Overall half that was in these 3 novels is useless writing & boring. Enough where you can put the book down & not bother reading for a few days. Bored into falling asleep. Simply boring fillers. If that is removed & the relationship evolved a bit more you could potentially put together a fantastic, in-depth story of true romance with enough drama to entice a truly enjoyable novel. Personally its still missing a ton of info, what happens with her job, the school, her crazy boss, his company (why do we care about his co-workers & a paragraph or more, about them if they aren't relevant to the story) ugh mindless fillers. Useless writing not pertinent to the overall story. I'm hopeful this author progresses better with story telling further into the series. I may attempt one more novel (a stand-alone) from this author in hopes to find something amazing from her. The only reason book 3 Mending Fate appealed more, I feel the author made a much better attempt at building the story, perhaps the last chapter is still more fresh in-mind, but was a far better story than the other two.
Interesting opener with Off Limits. Hooks you into a story that might be okay. But truthfully filled with boredom & lulls. Too a many fillers of over dramatic events. Hello this guy attempted her by propositioning her for sexual release... Then they're on a date & bam they're in a hotel room -she's a virgin & waiting for this. (Far stretch there).
With zero relationship building, just at it again. But written over & over & OVER again about his daughters mother & their lack of relationship. Not the best guy & she's just wimpy. Off Limits ends with a cliffhanger, that doesn't really entice into book 2, Breaking Rules, but more of needing to be humored, I continued. Breaking Rules opens dramatically then more fillers & lulls. It's overkill with repetitive thoughts again & again. Vague way of introducing more characters. Overall Breaking Rules (book 2) annoyed more than anything. Absolutely zero relationship building, but filled with useless thoughts (on repeat). Then a few spicy scenes but zilch communication with the two. Simply Breaking Rules (book 2) was beyond boring. Now lets see where Mending Fate, book 3 wraps these up. More in-depth character building, but definitely not enough to encourage me any further. Little better on the main couple. Little more overall drama, little more encouragement, little more of everything book 2 was missing. But a decent ending that was warming & pleasing. Literally ends in a sex scene though. Overall half that was in these 3 novels is useless writing & boring. Enough where you can put the book down & not bother reading for a few days. Bored into falling asleep. Simply boring fillers. If that is removed & the relationship evolved a bit more you could potentially put together a fantastic, in-depth story of true romance with enough drama to entice a truly enjoyable novel. Personally its still missing a ton of info, what happens with her job, the school, her crazy boss, his company (why do we care about his co-workers & a paragraph or more, about them if they aren't relevant to the story) ugh mindless fillers. Useless writing not pertinent to the overall story. I'm hopeful this author progresses better with story telling further into the series. I may attempt one more novel (a stand-alone) from this author in hopes to find something amazing from her. The only reason book 3 Mending Fate appealed more, I feel the author made a much better attempt at building the story, perhaps the last chapter is still more fresh in-mind, but was a far better story than the other two.
August 29, 2021
I have read all three books with Alec and Lumen so I could give an adequate review. Changed names, occupations and add Scottish brogue and now you have the same regurgitated crap as all the millionaire/billionaire romances. Honestly, nothing controversial happened in this book meaning when it ends we are left with a lukewarm story and a boring couple.
Now the second story jumps right into giving our couple situations that create tension. Unfortunately these situations come off as insincere and we are given the same story. The main love interest at some point in his life stubbed his toe and this has created all these negative personality traits which of course explains all of his bad behavior and justifies his cruel and manipulative behavior. Our heroine(doormat) of course has gone through much worse and this has given her great patience and understanding. All of which gets worse in the final book.
Finally, the ending we get more problems that the characters barely work through but hey they love each other so that's okay. Nothing original really happens in this series and again Alec and Lumen are just a boring couple that has brief lackluster sex.
Now what really annoyed me about this series is the author obviously realizes that this couple she created is unhealthy and takes time to let us readers know that she agrees by making fun of her own characters/situations. However, she never actually challenges these issues or the standard romance formula. Its apparently enough that she acknowledges the ridiculousness scenarios she puts her characters through and their bad habits without actually changing anything. And everything that happens to Soleil in the last book just pissed me off. While M.S Parker gives enough about the situation to make readers aware of the real life issues happening everyday it still comes off as an insincere plot device. And both character and subject matter deserve more then that.
If you looking for a predictable book that's a super fast read then sure maybe you will love this.
Now the second story jumps right into giving our couple situations that create tension. Unfortunately these situations come off as insincere and we are given the same story. The main love interest at some point in his life stubbed his toe and this has created all these negative personality traits which of course explains all of his bad behavior and justifies his cruel and manipulative behavior. Our heroine(doormat) of course has gone through much worse and this has given her great patience and understanding. All of which gets worse in the final book.
Finally, the ending we get more problems that the characters barely work through but hey they love each other so that's okay. Nothing original really happens in this series and again Alec and Lumen are just a boring couple that has brief lackluster sex.
Now what really annoyed me about this series is the author obviously realizes that this couple she created is unhealthy and takes time to let us readers know that she agrees by making fun of her own characters/situations. However, she never actually challenges these issues or the standard romance formula. Its apparently enough that she acknowledges the ridiculousness scenarios she puts her characters through and their bad habits without actually changing anything. And everything that happens to Soleil in the last book just pissed me off. While M.S Parker gives enough about the situation to make readers aware of the real life issues happening everyday it still comes off as an insincere plot device. And both character and subject matter deserve more then that.
If you looking for a predictable book that's a super fast read then sure maybe you will love this.
January 24, 2022
The Scottish Billionaire trilogy by M.S. Parker.......grant it it is a trilogy .. but still ....... I enjoyed it for the most part. ......
this picks up after the prequel some 10 yrs later.... the story of Alec McCrae and Keli Miller ............ I was never clear if they married or just lived together to try and make things work for the baby's sake.... Alec becomes a single parent of Evanne,... as his former lover and the mother of his child has decided to leave the country with a man who does not want children in their lives, so she gives over full parental control ..... Alec meets a new woman, Lumen, the way they meet is not an ideal move into their relationship but she forgives him and they quickly move on ....she enters into his and his daughter’s life. It has amazing characters and a heartfelt and fantastic story which ends in a cliffhanger......I SO DISLIKE THESE ................There were some parts I didn't care for .......When she realized who he is and went to have dinner at his house with his daughter who is 8, which is also her student...then doing it again,and again..... then she just started cooking breakfast for three. so nonchalantly asking " How do you like your eggs" lol?? Their relationship had,.. for me .. not quite made it to the 'take charge of his kitchen' kinda place but .... oh well .....
The vice principal, her boss,and the the way he was talking to her... yet she was strong to turn him away yet at same time being naive... Unbelievable ...... now days anyone talking like this at the work place would be reported .
The h comes across as strong woman in the beginning. She had sense, goals and principles. Eventually she became the timid , shy , frail school teacher wanting to find love yet needing to stay strong ...... where and what happened to her ... besides Alec of course ... hahahahahaa ..
I kept reading and hoping that she would show some backbone. now I find I have to continue reading if I want to "know the whole story " .. did i mention I dislike cliffhangers...
this picks up after the prequel some 10 yrs later.... the story of Alec McCrae and Keli Miller ............ I was never clear if they married or just lived together to try and make things work for the baby's sake.... Alec becomes a single parent of Evanne,... as his former lover and the mother of his child has decided to leave the country with a man who does not want children in their lives, so she gives over full parental control ..... Alec meets a new woman, Lumen, the way they meet is not an ideal move into their relationship but she forgives him and they quickly move on ....she enters into his and his daughter’s life. It has amazing characters and a heartfelt and fantastic story which ends in a cliffhanger......I SO DISLIKE THESE ................There were some parts I didn't care for .......When she realized who he is and went to have dinner at his house with his daughter who is 8, which is also her student...then doing it again,and again..... then she just started cooking breakfast for three. so nonchalantly asking " How do you like your eggs" lol?? Their relationship had,.. for me .. not quite made it to the 'take charge of his kitchen' kinda place but .... oh well .....
The vice principal, her boss,and the the way he was talking to her... yet she was strong to turn him away yet at same time being naive... Unbelievable ...... now days anyone talking like this at the work place would be reported .
The h comes across as strong woman in the beginning. She had sense, goals and principles. Eventually she became the timid , shy , frail school teacher wanting to find love yet needing to stay strong ...... where and what happened to her ... besides Alec of course ... hahahahahaa ..
I kept reading and hoping that she would show some backbone. now I find I have to continue reading if I want to "know the whole story " .. did i mention I dislike cliffhangers...
May 10, 2023
I’ve never actually written a book review but I just had to speak up on this. This is a warning to save your time and energy reading this book because for someone who’s read a lot of trashy romance novels, this takes the cake. A one star review is too good for this series. The plot itself has a lot of potential but the story and characters just didn’t develop. If anything the flaws of the characters over powered some of their struggles making them very hard to like. Alec is “a right bastard” and totally undeserving of Lumen. He is literally the definition of a walking red flag. He constantly disrespected her, embarrassed her and played with her feeling while actively trying to manipulate her. WTF!! It’s actually traumatising watching her go back to this. The protagonists barely spent any meaningful time together and all he ever did was proposition her. They barely have a conversation that doesn’t end in sex so I’m still trying to understand how and when he had time to fall in love; maybe it was when he was discarding for his ex? Or just questioning her integrity, but oh well. These books were utterly disappointing. But so what? As all cheesy romance books go, he’s “in love” with her and that makes everything okay and they live happily ever after. What a load of crap.
On a more positive note, I like how she highlighted the issues with being a foster kid. It’s definitely not easy and a lot of people seem completely unaware of their struggles. It was the one thing this book got right.
On a more positive note, I like how she highlighted the issues with being a foster kid. It’s definitely not easy and a lot of people seem completely unaware of their struggles. It was the one thing this book got right.
November 10, 2020
Review Scheduled to go live on blog on December 23rd @ Naomi’s Reading Palace
Off Limits is the first book in a trilogy, so don't make the mistake that I did and jump into it, only to get to the end to realise the story continues... For the first book in a series (although there is a prequel too, which I didn't know about), it was quite a good start, as we get to know both characters.
It was interesting on how Alec and Lumen first met, and I was quite amused on how they both handled it. Alec was really just a lonely single father that didn't have time to find happiness for himself. I liked that he was dedicated to his daughter, and his work, and meeting Lumen put a bit more spark back into his life.
Lumen had come a long way in life and had finally landed a full-time position doing her dream job of teaching. I liked how she interacted with Evanne, Alec's daughter, and that connection continued to bring them closer. Although she had struggled a lot over the years, it was nice to see Lumen grow and find a connection with Alec.
I liked the building chemistry between both Alec and Lumen, and how they both handled the changes in their lives. For my first M.S. Parker read, it was a solid start to the series, but not the kind that blew me away. I'm unsure if I want to read more of the books, because I felt this one was a little drawn out. Maybe I'll try something else, but will have to do my research first.
Off Limits is the first book in a trilogy, so don't make the mistake that I did and jump into it, only to get to the end to realise the story continues... For the first book in a series (although there is a prequel too, which I didn't know about), it was quite a good start, as we get to know both characters.
It was interesting on how Alec and Lumen first met, and I was quite amused on how they both handled it. Alec was really just a lonely single father that didn't have time to find happiness for himself. I liked that he was dedicated to his daughter, and his work, and meeting Lumen put a bit more spark back into his life.
Lumen had come a long way in life and had finally landed a full-time position doing her dream job of teaching. I liked how she interacted with Evanne, Alec's daughter, and that connection continued to bring them closer. Although she had struggled a lot over the years, it was nice to see Lumen grow and find a connection with Alec.
I liked the building chemistry between both Alec and Lumen, and how they both handled the changes in their lives. For my first M.S. Parker read, it was a solid start to the series, but not the kind that blew me away. I'm unsure if I want to read more of the books, because I felt this one was a little drawn out. Maybe I'll try something else, but will have to do my research first.
unfinishable
September 24, 2022How does this have 4 stars?
This is so boring, and being inside of Lumen’s head makes me want to stab something.
Very little actual interaction between the characters, by the 68% mark where I stopped. Mostly just repetitive inner monologues where we get to hear Lumen waxing poetic about how hot he is and second guessing her entire existence and everything she says and does and thinks, and Alec, who may be hot, but comes off as completely unattractive because he no bite, no oompf, no take charge-ya know, things that make a man a man.
Boring, de-virginizing sex at the 50% mark that was awkward from beginning to end, and ended with him leaving her in the hotel-still not sure what happened. I probably missed a bit of inner monologue where one of them was whining about something, but by that point I was skimming, so I may have missed it.
I get the feeling that this book will be enjoyed by women who are generally offended by the use of the word “fuck” and find it racy when they dare to read something that uses it, men who have only a small bit of actual manliness to them, and who prefer their sex-both real and in print-to be slow, awkward, and not much more than hands “gliding” all over the place, with overly-lengthy sections of telling, not showing. Oh, they probably also read the name Lumen and entertain the idea of naming their own daughter the same.
Is this me? Could be, but I don’t think so this time.
This is so boring, and being inside of Lumen’s head makes me want to stab something.
Very little actual interaction between the characters, by the 68% mark where I stopped. Mostly just repetitive inner monologues where we get to hear Lumen waxing poetic about how hot he is and second guessing her entire existence and everything she says and does and thinks, and Alec, who may be hot, but comes off as completely unattractive because he no bite, no oompf, no take charge-ya know, things that make a man a man.
Boring, de-virginizing sex at the 50% mark that was awkward from beginning to end, and ended with him leaving her in the hotel-still not sure what happened. I probably missed a bit of inner monologue where one of them was whining about something, but by that point I was skimming, so I may have missed it.
I get the feeling that this book will be enjoyed by women who are generally offended by the use of the word “fuck” and find it racy when they dare to read something that uses it, men who have only a small bit of actual manliness to them, and who prefer their sex-both real and in print-to be slow, awkward, and not much more than hands “gliding” all over the place, with overly-lengthy sections of telling, not showing. Oh, they probably also read the name Lumen and entertain the idea of naming their own daughter the same.
Is this me? Could be, but I don’t think so this time.
May 18, 2020
Set eight years after the prequel that explained Alec’s story on how a Scottish billionaire came to be the CEO of his families Seattle offices of MIRI, he is no longer with Keli but idolises and adores his daughter Evanne. He calls her ‘mo chride’ which means ’my heart’. She’s a well adjusted and adorable little girl who’s about to start a new Elementary school. When she arrives for a three day weekend stay, Keli drops a bombshell on Alec. As far as relationships have been concerned, they’ve been a no no since Keli, and ever the workaholic, Alec never has time for anything but one night stands. Even they are few and far between. After an ever so slightly embarrassing introduction to a beautiful and intelligent young woman called Lumen, fate keeps bringing them back together with interesting and entertaining results. This is a well written and welcome addition to Alec’s story. His character seems slightly gruff on the surface but deep down he’s a wonderful man who deserves every bit of happiness fate has to offer him and Lumen is just what the doctor ordered. Entertaining throughout with interesting characters, you will be left hanging and impatient to find out what’s going to happen next...Superb.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2020
This is book one in The Scottish Billionaire series. There is a Prequel that you should check out first to get a glimpse into these characters before jumping right in. We continue to follow Alec's character and see what his choices and decisions do to not only his life but to others around him. Being the CEO of the family business and a single father to his daughter, Alec does not exactly have a lot of free time but that may change when he meets Lumen. Lumen grew up in foster care and has worked very hard to get where she is today and she is a strong, independent woman. This woman challenges and frustrates Alec and she is off limits. What happens when someone tells you no, that is right, that craving intensifies and grows because you can not have it. What does it mean when Fate ever so cleverly keeps bringing that one person back into your view? What a great story, I loved reading how things have changed for Alec and how he continues to pick up, dust off and keep moving forward. I look forward to reading more. Enjoy!
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.
June 2, 2020
I loved Alec and Lumen’s courtship in Off Limits. M.S. Parker could have taken the usual trope route of making Alec ice cold after what happened in Prequel and Parker did not. Thank goodness. Instead Parker gives us two characters of strength and hard-earned growth.
Their chemistry is off the charts. Parker lives up to their reputation of writing steamy scenes and leaving readers and characters satisfied (laugh). Having read quite a few of Parker’s novels I can testify to this. No bookmark pages, but a good time read.
I have to say that the trend of the last couple of years of getting both characters point of view is beneficial here, especially since we saw the events that happened in Prequel. The book did not seem as long as it says it is, to me it seemed like a quick read.
The story ends on a happy note, but there are lots of strings hanging out of the book so to speak. I wonder which one Parker will unravel in the next book. (I have a few ideas.)
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Their chemistry is off the charts. Parker lives up to their reputation of writing steamy scenes and leaving readers and characters satisfied (laugh). Having read quite a few of Parker’s novels I can testify to this. No bookmark pages, but a good time read.
I have to say that the trend of the last couple of years of getting both characters point of view is beneficial here, especially since we saw the events that happened in Prequel. The book did not seem as long as it says it is, to me it seemed like a quick read.
The story ends on a happy note, but there are lots of strings hanging out of the book so to speak. I wonder which one Parker will unravel in the next book. (I have a few ideas.)
I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
November 17, 2022
Okay, the book, which I thought was a standalone, is part of a bigger series and it's fine. I am partial to stories that are actually drama free, or that resolve things rather quickly, speacilly misunderstandings.
The plot itself is rather enjoyable, just the way I like it to be. Although at the end it did sound a little rushed and a little bit farfetched in way....
*Spoiler*
I really thought that they took things too fast and kid just fully embraced her new teacher right away accepting her at home... And the couple just decided to, I don't know, ignore social rules regarding teacher student relationship, not even taking into consideration everyone around them. It was weird that the teacher decided to visit their house for dinner when she knew the kid for like a week. And the kid didn't mentioned anything to the other children (!?). And the creepy VP story plot just got a little lost(!?) and for a guy that didn't want to get involved with anyone he was just: have a sleepover with my kid in the other room. I mean it could have had a little more story or connection, or anything.
I'll just read the next one, even though I think it will have a lot of drama.
The plot itself is rather enjoyable, just the way I like it to be. Although at the end it did sound a little rushed and a little bit farfetched in way....
*Spoiler*
I really thought that they took things too fast and kid just fully embraced her new teacher right away accepting her at home... And the couple just decided to, I don't know, ignore social rules regarding teacher student relationship, not even taking into consideration everyone around them. It was weird that the teacher decided to visit their house for dinner when she knew the kid for like a week. And the kid didn't mentioned anything to the other children (!?). And the creepy VP story plot just got a little lost(!?) and for a guy that didn't want to get involved with anyone he was just: have a sleepover with my kid in the other room. I mean it could have had a little more story or connection, or anything.
I'll just read the next one, even though I think it will have a lot of drama.
September 13, 2023
2 Stars - DNF 75%
Maybe this story would have worked if it wasn’t a standalone. I was reading this book…and reading…and reading…and it felt like nothing was happening. There was a super quick one night stand scene, but these characters weren’t ever together. They weren’t working on a relationship. They weren’t spending time together. This was a story about Alec’s life. This was a story about Lumen’s life. Separately. Separate stories.
When I realized I was at 75% and nothing relationship-wise had happened I decided to give up. There was no steam. No tension. No angst. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Zilch.
The pacing isn’t slow burn, it’s completely barren of any burn. The one sex scene that I read was Alec taking Lumen’s virginity in a one night stand that lasted about five minutes. Then Alec rushed out as soon as he was done coming. You can have a ONS without running away as soon as you pull out. The whole thing was awkward.
At 75% they still didn’t know anything about each other besides their names. There was no chemistry, no flirting, no dates or time spent. This isn’t a romance story. It’s a weird story about their separate, respective lives.
I do not recommend.
Maybe this story would have worked if it wasn’t a standalone. I was reading this book…and reading…and reading…and it felt like nothing was happening. There was a super quick one night stand scene, but these characters weren’t ever together. They weren’t working on a relationship. They weren’t spending time together. This was a story about Alec’s life. This was a story about Lumen’s life. Separately. Separate stories.
When I realized I was at 75% and nothing relationship-wise had happened I decided to give up. There was no steam. No tension. No angst. Nothing. Nada. Zip. Zilch.
The pacing isn’t slow burn, it’s completely barren of any burn. The one sex scene that I read was Alec taking Lumen’s virginity in a one night stand that lasted about five minutes. Then Alec rushed out as soon as he was done coming. You can have a ONS without running away as soon as you pull out. The whole thing was awkward.
At 75% they still didn’t know anything about each other besides their names. There was no chemistry, no flirting, no dates or time spent. This isn’t a romance story. It’s a weird story about their separate, respective lives.
I do not recommend.
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