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Midas #2

Perfect Assumption

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For the last ten years, I’ve guarded the gate to my heart.

I’ve lived under a shroud of despair after I was emotionally devastated. I isolated myself to avoid seeing my name in the media since I was thrown to the wolves.

But that was then, and this is now.

As the legal assistant for an entertainment law firm, I’m the gatekeeper into the heart of the deal. Even as I handle celebrities all day long, I try to avoid becoming the focus of the media’s attention. Because I know full well once I become their target, I can never run far enough to avoid their attention.

Ever.

I’ve struggled with fears of opening myself up to the kind of vulnerability necessary to fall in love. I had a strong conviction love was meant for someone else until one day something slipped.

Who knew dropping that cup of coffee all over my grumpy boss may have been the best thing to happen to both of us?

On the surface, Ward Burke has it all.

A handsome lawyer, I know he doesn’t need to work if the scandal sheets declaring him a billionaire are anything to go by. But he’s never noticed me before now.

Or has he?

We start to realize we’ve been making some pretty big assumptions about each other.

He’s game to taking our relationship to a different level, but I’m terrified it’s going to set off a sequence of events I’m not prepared to handle.

And quite possibly prove I’m not quite done paying for what happened in the past.

ebook

Published April 19, 2021

303 people are currently reading
384 people want to read

About the author

Tracey Jerald

41 books1,311 followers
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Tracey Jerald knew she was meant to be a writer when she would re-write the ending of books in her head on her bike when she was a young girl growing up in southern Connecticut. It wasn’t long before she was typing alternate endings and extended epilogues “just for fun.” 
After college in Florida, where she obtained a degree in Criminal Justice swearing she saw things she’ll never quite believe and never entirely forget, Tracey traded the world of law and order for IT. Her work for a global internet startup transferred her to Northern Virginia where she met her husband in what many call their own happily ever after. They have one son. 
When she’s not busy with her family or writing, Tracey can be found in her home in north Florida drinking coffee, reading, training for a runDisney event, or feeding her addiction to HGTV. 
To follow Tracey, go to her website at http://www.traceyjerald.com. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for her newsletter for up to date release information!


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5 stars
143 (52%)
4 stars
78 (28%)
3 stars
36 (13%)
2 stars
12 (4%)
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4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
Profile Image for Milica's Bookshelf.
1,103 reviews330 followers
June 7, 2021
I really like all the books I've read from Tracey, but this one... just wasn't for me.

My problem with this story is the main male character, Ward. Although I can understand him, his frequent assumptions made him look very childish, and that just annoyed hell out of me throughout the story.
I loved Angie, she's a very strong, great and lovely heroine... and all that banter between all characters is pure entertainment.

So, if you didn't like this story and it's the first one from Tracey that you've read, don't give up on her. Try one of her other stories, she is a really wonderful author. ❤
Profile Image for Simply Love Book Reviews.
7,046 reviews870 followers
August 24, 2021
Perfect Assumption is the second book in Tracey Jerald’s Midas series, but the first full length book and I enjoyed it a great deal. Both the main characters have been living in darkness in different ways, even though they work together there has been a divide between them and getting past their assumptions of one another may be one of the biggest challenges of all.

Ward Burke is a multi, multi millionaire and attorney who works with his older sister Carys working with a select list of high profile entertainment clients. Handsome, arrogant, and aloof, Ward is a good attorney but keeps everyone at arm’s length including his sister and her husband who he considers one of his best friends. Ward’s heart was broken thirteen years prior, not by a woman, but by the loss of his parents and he’s never really moved past it. Often the subject of celebrity gossip, Ward doesn’t really care what people say about him. Warned off of their assistant by his sister when he first came to work for her, Ward can’t understand why their biggest client and womanizer Bennett is good enough for Angela but he’s not. He’s purposely kept his distance from her, but when they are paired for a work assignment, he begins to realize there’s more going on with Angela than he ever expected.

Angela Fahey’s life was forever changed at a college party. Made a media scapegoat, Angie’s life has become very small. After losing both of her grandparents that sheltered her, finishing her degree elsewhere, and now working for Carys; she’s thankful for her best friend Sula, her boss who has become more of a friend, her boss’s husband who is like a big brother, and Becks the crazy rock star who props her up when she needs it. Because of them her world has expanded just a bit and while Ward confuses her with his hot/cold treatment she feels there’s more to him than meets the eye.

It took me quite a while to warm up to Ward and for a good part of this book I truly began to wonder if these two were going to get together. I honestly couldn’t understand his animosity towards Beckett or why he just didn’t take Angie aside and be himself with her instead of his boorish behavior. They worked closely so honestly other than he had issues, issues which honestly he should have had therapy for and worked through in the last 13 years, he was at time very rude which was uncalled for as Angie was one of the most gentle and sweet people you could meet.

This was a slow burn romance and I did enjoy watching them both confiding in one another, peeling back the layers they had around themselves and seeing each other in a new light. They both changed quite a bit in this story, but one thing that didn’t change was Angie’s strength, even though she didn’t see herself as strong those around her did and reminded her of it always.

Jam packed with emotion as well as sweet and sexy moments Perfect Assumption was a satisfying romance.

Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Profile Image for KDRBCK.
7,402 reviews67 followers
March 31, 2021
Perfect Assumption by T. Jerald is a stand-alone in the Midas Series. The previous book is Perfect Proposal, Carys and David's story.
This is Angela and Ward's story. Ward is the little brother of Carys, Angela is friends with David and Carys, is employed by them.
Ward is a bitter young man, an entertainment lawyer like his sister with a secret crush on Angela.
She has her own issues and secrets she carries.
I liked the story and connected easily with the characters, only the anticipation and waiting for the big plotttwist made me a tiny bit impatient.
All in all a great read, can't wait for Beckett's story.
Profile Image for Jennifer Kreinbring.
278 reviews
April 19, 2021
I am loving the characters in this world that Tracey has created! I think what I love the most about her books, is she always finds really subtle ways to connect them all. characters from past books either make an appearance, are mentioned in connection to the story of play a small role in the development of the characters. this story was no exception. We get the inside scoop and dive deep into Carys's little brother Ward as he gets his own front and center story told. He's the brooding billionaire bachelor, whos all business and we love to hate the way he treats our heroine. But deep down we know there is more to the man so we keep flipping those pages to find out what really makes him tick. He has a great chemistry with Angie, even when they are fighting, its with such passion. Angie can't stop looking at her boss's little brother every time he walks through the door of the office, but when he all the sudden turns a cold shoulder to her, she cant figure out what changed and why. Ward is in the spotlight and constantly watched by the media, all while Angie is trying to stay in the shadows after an event that put her in the spotlight and changed her life for the worst. Ward and Angie both have secrets to share that will turn their world on its axis, but are too afraid to take that leap. this story is filled with small twists here and there keeping you intrigued every step of the way to find out if they reach that HEA. Throw in Carys and David's dynamic and their intense, quirky favorite client Beckett and this story has pulled you in from start to finish, as the characters take you on a ride through life in the media, defending clients behind the scenes and trying to stay away from the cameras themselves.
Profile Image for Jennifer Pierson.
11.7k reviews188 followers
April 24, 2021
I've been reading Tracey Jerald for a cool minute, and have LOVED all previous books so I know how amazingly brilliant she is, but with Perfect Assumption, she completely leveled up. This story follows Ward, a man who has been living in darkness since his parents died, even working with his sister. He still has some mean issues despite that sister loving him so much. Angie works for Ward & his sister (but mainly his sister), and her past is even worse than his, as it's taken away her ability to even live life to be honest as she stays under the radar. Ward has a secret thing from her but you wouldn't be able to tell it since he was such a jerk to her that I was calling him all sorts of names of the colorful metaphor variety but there was more to the story. Angie's past makes it impossible for her to let any man in, however, somehow Ward is finally making it past her walls. There's so much emotion to this story that at times it was hard to breathe, but then there are the twists of Angie's past that really had me on the edge of my seat as Ms. Jerald only dropped breadcrumbs along the way. Everything about this story was perfect in my eyes, even to the length being on a longer side so the story was seriously developed brilliantly for maximum enjoyment! So don't miss out on this story as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND TO ALL! 
Profile Image for Amy M. (Amy Loves Reading Blog).
740 reviews50 followers
April 29, 2021
Tracey is the author you always love to see her releasing a new book because you just know she’s got something amazing up her sleeve! I always jumped at the chance to read her books and get so giddy when I’m graced with an opportunity to review!

Angie seemed so complex under her exterior but she seemed to hide it so well that I didn’t think craziness would happen. I LOVED the way her and Beck bantered back and forth! Their relationship had me swoon all on its own let alone Ward’s attraction to her.

Ward seemed the ever present brooding man who wasn’t getting what he wanted so he simply treated everyone bad. His heartache for so much made me sick to my stomach to imagine the pain he’s been through and what I felt like he thought everyone already hated him so just let them. Such a complex man who deserves so much more than he gives himself credit for.

I was consumed by this book and couldn’t put it down. Each milestone, each story, each touch, glance and even laugh made me ache for a monumental ending and while I didn’t see that ending coming, it was beyond what I imagined! I felt my heart burst with tears and it was overwhelming! I need to go back to read the first of this series and I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
Profile Image for Jinx.
879 reviews
May 5, 2021
This was my first Tracey Jerald read and it won't be my last.

A story of survival - learning how to love after trauma

-----------------

Main Characters: Angela Fahey & Ward Burke

Overview: For almost two years Angela Fahey worked for Ward Burke's sister and yet he never had time nor the inclination to talk to Angie - or so she thought. Things change when Ward sees Angela laughing with someone else... He wants to be the person making her laugh... He has all along he just couldn't let his guard down and let anyone else into his life.

Angie and Ward struggle with their demons of the past; but they can't deny their attraction. To move on they must face their demons and let go of their past. It's not that simple especially when Angie opens up to Ward and literally comes face to face with her demons realizing that a relationship with Ward may be too much for her. Can Ward show her other wise? That he's not like those from her past and he's going to be in her corner forever?

Concluding Thoughts: This was a touching story. Finding love and learning to love after trauma. As I mentioned it's a story of survival, well written, although the Male lead was a little standoffish by the end I wanted them to find their HEA.
Profile Image for Ms Cat's World.
997 reviews13 followers
June 10, 2021
Blossoming Love

The Midas Touch, based off Greek mythology, to turn everything to gold was taken for granted. Sometimes gifts, like in this case, can become a burden.

Prologue, Ward, on his seventeenth birthday, in town from prep school to spend it with his family, but the night with his friends... His parents get in a deadly accident, leaving his sister, Carys and him the youngest multimillionaires in the United States.

Thirteen years later, we meet Angela, legal assistant to Carys, sought after lawyer to entertainers. Ward also works with his sister, as a dark storm cloud in an otherwise cheerful place. Angela, Having had judgement passed on her years past, assumptions are made. Assumptions often lead to actions you can't take back.

This is truly an extremely sweet, caring, enriching read as we follow Angela blossoming due to her blooming relationship with Ward in this slow burn romance novel. The author beautifully touches on serious scenarios that the stigma behind is both highlighted and shredded away. Warm, emotion driven read.

Hoping for a more in-depth storyline and future for Sula soon, but next up is Becks!!!! Perfect Composition!
73 reviews
October 11, 2023
I DNF’d. I got pretty far too, and I kept thinking, “I’m just around the corner and the story will catch fire.” Alas.

The book needs editing, but that doesn’t normally keep me from finishing. I think I just didn’t quite vibe with the ML. I’m not quite sure what his character is supposed to be. First he’s broken and moody, then he’s just childish, then he’s like super suave and understanding. I can only assume he’s going to cycle back through these before the end, the thought of which had me pulling the plug. When you’re one of only two characters that actually gets to transition, there needs to be more establishment and linkage of these character details within the narrative.

All we get is an explanation of why he’s broken and then only brief anecdotes from there of his time developing as a person. His major development happens in big spurts after receiving sage wisdom from a side character. These completely change his personality. It’s hard to buy.

All in all, it doesn’t deserve its rating. It should be a lot better.
Profile Image for Indy VG.
59 reviews
April 16, 2024
It wasn’t bad. But it was kinda boring.
I didn’t really like it, it had so much potential but the entire book I kept yelling “ get to the point!”.
There would be something going on like a important meeting and suddenly something else not important comes up and they’d get distracted from the important thing and they would start over saying this is so important and like what??!! It was so long and very little happened. When something did happen it was resolved super fast without much thought and I was happy because it meant I was done.

It also didn’t make any sense like, the lead didn’t want attention because she was scared to be noticed but would go to a hug profile club for her friend which is very loyal and sweet of her and took a lot of guts but then they think it’s a good idea to have ward go with her? He’s a paparazzi magnet…

Another thing the betrayal of her parents is mentioned but they don’t pay any consequences for the lies they sold to her abusers.

Cheating: nope.
Triggers: dead of parents (car accident), betrayal by the other set of parents, attempted SA, bullying in the media and victim blaming..
hea: yes
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Dawn Hurst.
456 reviews13 followers
April 9, 2021
Angie and Ward are an inspiring couple.
Angie has lived life trying to hide who she is due to events many years ago that handed her a future of an almost isolation. She has few close relationships, but that handful of people she lets in are remarkable.
Ward, at first, comes off as a jerk. It takes a minute to decide if you want to like him or not. While deciding if you like him, you get glimpses of who he really is and why he behaves as he does. I gotta say- I REALLY love Ward!!.
As Ward starts to twine himself past Angie's barriers he's stunned back a few paces by her past and how he's connected. I love him even more at this point! Ward proves to be a man that will do right by a woman no matter what.
I am SO looking forward to book 3 from this series, knowing it'll update the characters from this book and book 1 as well, but also because the male character is so intertwined already and I just KNOW he's going to blow my mind!
Profile Image for Fleur.
3,731 reviews29 followers
April 19, 2021
I knew there were going to be highs and lows within this book but wow definitely get the tissues ready as there will be times you tear up and feel heartbroken and times you will be crying with laughter. The relationships between them all is amazing, Carys and Ward are not only brother and sister but also best friends, David and Carys are husband and wife but also parents and a support system, while Beck and Angie are two souls who have both been judged unfairly and worn the brunt of it, however Ward even though he is close to Carys and David still flits around the fringes never getting too close, however things are changing. There are secrets laid bare, pasts that rear their head again, emotional connections, vulnerability, love, judgement and the chance to break away the armor of not one but two hearts in order to feel what love feels like. So yeah get the tissues (the box not just a few!), chocolate, maybe a glass or wine on the ready and you are hooked from page one!!!
Profile Image for Nathathida Atirekasâra.
1,231 reviews7 followers
April 22, 2021
First of all, I am not impressed by Ward's assumption. I understand that he has his own issue and he feel guilty about his parents' death but his behavior toward everyone seems to be childish. But I like Angie. She also has her own issue but she tries to move on. And I think she is stronger than she think she is. The story is intriguing at first because I want to know what happened to Angie in the past. But Ward's behavior makes me feel struggling and want to strangle him so many times while I am reading it. It's so frustrating! The story is improved after Ward accepts his feeling and be friend with Angie. But I still can't feel their chemistry. I even think Ward's sister and her husband seem to have more chemistry than Ward and Angie though. And the plot is sooooo predictable and too cliche so I feel boring at some points and have to skim reading some so sorry, but I decide to give the book 3.5 stars.
877 reviews5 followers
April 24, 2021
Inspiring story of true friendship and love

Two tortured people find love and healing together. Ward Burke is a gorgeous, arrogant rich guy with a broken heart .... while... Angie Fahey is a beautiful tortured soul who lives in constant fear from past abuse. Most of this story takes place in the law offices of attorneys Ward and Cary Burke. They represent those in the entertainment industry and have lots of A listers in and out of their office. Angie is the assistant who handles everything for this close family office. Ward and Angie have Been dancing around each other for a couple of years and it is time to see what they can have together. Lots of sadness In this story but is very inspiring. Linda
Profile Image for Cindy Fong.
2,043 reviews
April 18, 2021
Angie and Ward's story was just WOW! I was sucked into the story very quickly and I loved the broody Ward paired with the timid Angie. it was a delight to watch her confidence grow as she realizes that instead of assuming that she is alone, that there is a ragtag family behind her supporting her. Ward realizing that he can love again and open his heart. Each victory won with Angie, opening up was that much sweeter because he earned her heart and her trust.

"She looks like a woodland nymph, something from the deepest part of my desires, rising from the forest to lead me to salvation." ~ Ward
Profile Image for Jessica.
61 reviews1 follower
April 20, 2021
I absolutely love this new book world that Tracey has created! Book two in the Midas Series, Perfect Assumption, is a billionaire workplace romance about Ward, an entertainment lawyer, and Angie, the glue that holds the office together. Ward and Angie both make assumptions about each other that only keeps them from learning about the people they truly are. This book has plenty of laughs, frustration, tragedy and romance. Tracey made me smile as she seamlessly brought in characters from her other book worlds and gives us a glimpse as what they’ve been up to since we last saw them. The end of this one will definitely leave you pestering Tracey for book three!!
Profile Image for Isabel Debono.
911 reviews14 followers
April 16, 2021
This book was amazing.
The story of Wade and Angie tore at my heart.
They are both broken and need a forever love to be truly whole again and heal.
The different traumas they had both been through was nothing compared to the trauma they put themselves through. They each held themselves accountable for things that were out of their control.
This story was well written with care and love.
The characters felt like family and I was totally invested.
Beautiful read.

I was given an ARC but voluntarily chose to review

90 reviews15 followers
April 18, 2021
Perfect Assumption gives you all the feels Tracey Jerald is known for. This is the second book in the Midas
collection, workplace romance, starring Ward and Angie. At first I thought Ward was closed off and a little snooty, but he definitely comes out of his shell to be a standup guy. Angie has kept to herself after a traumatic event but becomes a bright star when she falls for Ward. I love how the author weaves characters from previous books and you also meet future stars. Perfect Assumption is a great book and I highly recommend it.
323 reviews
October 28, 2023
WOW!!!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

I have read the entire Amaryllis Series and am now reading my way through the Midas Series!! These books are very in-depth reading material! You’ll be like me and stay awake all night reading them! Each story shows a character that has endured some form of trauma that left them devastated until they were able to connect with a love interest or someone that makes them feel loved and accepted for who they are!! CANNOT RECOMMEND HIGHLY ENOUGH!!!!!!!!!!💥💥💥💥💥
Profile Image for AmyLynn.
996 reviews21 followers
April 20, 2021
What an amazing ride. This is book two in the Midas Series and we get Ward and Angie's story. This was absolutely a slow burn read that you will definitely need a box or two of tissues for. As always Tracey has such a magical way with words that keeps you coming back for more and more. There is banter and chemistry and a slew of emotions within this book. You get sucked right in and won't be able to put it down till the last word. This was definitely a 5+ Star read for me.
Profile Image for Slick.
1,380 reviews43 followers
August 20, 2021
This was a slow burn romance and I did enjoy watching them both confiding in one another, peeling back the layers they had around themselves and seeing each other in a new light. They both changed quite a bit in this story, but one thing that didn’t change was Angie’s strength, even though she didn’t see herself as strong those around her did and reminded her of it always.
Jam packed with emotion as well as sweet and sexy moments Perfect Assumption was a satisfying romance.
4,844 reviews10 followers
June 2, 2022
okay read

Like the first book it’s a bit backward and forward with lots of hints of things but no definitive picture. Individually this couple are likeable but both are caught up in the past. As a couple they work but when the past reads it’s ugly head then the relationship suffered. Wish the ending hadn’t been so rushed and I’d have liked to hear more about the criminal.Okay read,
1,814 reviews76 followers
April 10, 2021
I just have no words for this amazing book! What started out as a “typical” romance, opened up to so much more. Watching the story of ward and angela evolves in such a seamless way...and omg the emotions! A master of words - this book will tear your heart out and then left you smiling with the hea! Awesome job!
Profile Image for Carole.
380 reviews3 followers
April 12, 2021
Perfect Assumption is the perfect title for this Tracey Jerald novel. And it’s one that I couldn’t wait to read. I’ve got a thing for broody men, and Ward fits that bill to a tee! This was a slow burn but I really enjoyed the “getting to know you” phase and the build up to the happily ever after. Angie & Ward were a match made in heaven, it just took them a while to get there.
Profile Image for Michelle Myers.
152 reviews3 followers
April 21, 2021
Angela and Ward’s story was angsty, sweet, and just all over perfect. I loved seeing Angela transform from guarded and scared to open and free. These two tried to fight their attraction to each other for years, but they finally drop their assumptions of the other and find their soul mate. Perfect Assumption is the second book in the Midas series and definitely worth the read!
Profile Image for Bonnie.
978 reviews
May 5, 2021
I loved Angie and Ward. Both had painful pasts that dramatically defined their present. As they came together, and learned to love each other, they also healed. Jusf when life was looking like things would work out for them, they're thrown apart by Angie's past. Ward, however, is determined to right the wrongs that have come back to tear them apart.
Profile Image for Maria (Ri).
5,145 reviews15 followers
May 13, 2021
4 stars

I fell in love with this author and her Amaryllis series. Much like that series, this one is slowly evolving into another sleeper hit. It starts slow but it builds. Strong characters, a storyline with a hidden message, and the perfect amount of chemistry make this a great book.
Profile Image for Stephanie.
1,641 reviews
April 15, 2021
I love a great grumpy boss romance and Tracey Jerald delivered a great one with Perfect Assumption. This is the first book that I have read by this author and it definitely won’t be my last!

Angie & Ward had great banter & chemistry. I loved getting swept away with their story. I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.

I am not ready to leave these characters & their world behind. I am excited there are more stories to come in this series!

I voluntarily reviewed this book.
Profile Image for Tiffany.
635 reviews
April 19, 2021
Another amazing book in this series! This book will pull you in from the first page. The characters chemistry is phenomenal and the easy banter will make you smile. You will fall in love with these two characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews

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