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Jade Harbour Capital #2
Going Public
“A childhood crush gets a second chance in this heartwarming gay romance.” — Publishers Weekly on Hard Sell
A boss and his employee must work together on more than just office politics in this thoughtful, sexy romance from Hudson Lin.
As an operating partner at Jade Harbour, Raymond Chao prides himself in fixing even the most disastrous of portfolio companies—no matter the cost. While his colleagues might not always like his methods, they love his results. But his latest business partner isn’t cooperating, and what’s worse, Raymond's underhanded tactics have landed him in hot water with the law.
Elvin Goh has been Raymond's assistant for years, and he's been in love with the charming, ruthless playboy for just as long. There's very little that Elvin won't do—or hasn't done—for Raymond. Impossible crush aside, it's his job. But this time, even Elvin can't see a way out.
When long nights in the office lead to whispered confessions and a newfound intimacy, it seems like a dream come true—for both of them. But with the prospect of failure on the horizon, can this dream team beat the odds and come out the victors in the office and in their hearts?
Carina Adores is home to romantic love stories where LGBTQ+ characters find their happily-ever-afters.
Jade Harbour Capital
Book 1: Hard Sell
Book 2: Going Public
A boss and his employee must work together on more than just office politics in this thoughtful, sexy romance from Hudson Lin.
As an operating partner at Jade Harbour, Raymond Chao prides himself in fixing even the most disastrous of portfolio companies—no matter the cost. While his colleagues might not always like his methods, they love his results. But his latest business partner isn’t cooperating, and what’s worse, Raymond's underhanded tactics have landed him in hot water with the law.
Elvin Goh has been Raymond's assistant for years, and he's been in love with the charming, ruthless playboy for just as long. There's very little that Elvin won't do—or hasn't done—for Raymond. Impossible crush aside, it's his job. But this time, even Elvin can't see a way out.
When long nights in the office lead to whispered confessions and a newfound intimacy, it seems like a dream come true—for both of them. But with the prospect of failure on the horizon, can this dream team beat the odds and come out the victors in the office and in their hearts?
Carina Adores is home to romantic love stories where LGBTQ+ characters find their happily-ever-afters.
Jade Harbour Capital
Book 1: Hard Sell
Book 2: Going Public
347 pages, Paperback
First published March 29, 2022
19 people are currently reading
1921 people want to read
About the author
Hudson Lin
17 books86 followersHudson Lin was raised by conservative immigrant parents and grew up straddling two cultures with oftentimes conflicting perspectives on life. Instead of conforming to either, she has sought to find a third way that brings together the positive elements of both.
Having spent much of her life on the outside looking in, Lin likes to write stories about outsiders who fight to carve out their place in society, and overcome everyday challenges to find love and happily ever afters.
When not engrossed in a story, Lin knits, drinks tea, and works the 9 to 5 in the beautiful city of Toronto, Canada.
Having spent much of her life on the outside looking in, Lin likes to write stories about outsiders who fight to carve out their place in society, and overcome everyday challenges to find love and happily ever afters.
When not engrossed in a story, Lin knits, drinks tea, and works the 9 to 5 in the beautiful city of Toronto, Canada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
July 18, 2022
I cannot overstate how disappointed I was by this book. Initially, it was a three star read: the writing style and I were not getting along, and I prefer a little more tension in my boss/employee romance. The vibe here was very much more friends-to-lovers than boss & employee.
It lost another star about halfway through the book, for plotlines that came out of nowhere and some math that just wasn't mathing. The attention to detail didn't seem like it was there to me.
And then, finally, we're down to one star at 10% left in the book, which seems pretty late to have something that egregious come up, but even if it had been a 5 star read till then we'd still be here. Ray
Unfortunately, I cannot in good conscience recommend this book. Thank you Carina and NetGalley for the ARC.
CWs:
It lost another star about halfway through the book, for plotlines that came out of nowhere and some math that just wasn't mathing. The attention to detail didn't seem like it was there to me.
And then, finally, we're down to one star at 10% left in the book, which seems pretty late to have something that egregious come up, but even if it had been a 5 star read till then we'd still be here. Ray
Unfortunately, I cannot in good conscience recommend this book. Thank you Carina and NetGalley for the ARC.
CWs:
March 23, 2022
*Thank you to NetGalley & Carina Press for an ARC of this title.*
This was a lovely MM Office Romance, Demisexual hero, slow burn, low heat, and high emotion love story. That may seem like a lot but this book really fits into so many things. It also has a bit of a feel of Friends to Lovers and "oh, you've been here all along."
This is the second book in the Jade Harbour Capital series and it tugged at my heart in the same ways that that the first one did. It was a very pleasant read and it read quickly and easily. If you like MM Romance but don't want it too be overly spicy, this will be a great option. It is still very romantic while not being overly raunchy or exploitative.
The only downside for me, and it's the same as the first one... the background plot with the business had me skimming at times.
Still a highly enjoyable read!
4 Stars
2 on the spice scale
This was a lovely MM Office Romance, Demisexual hero, slow burn, low heat, and high emotion love story. That may seem like a lot but this book really fits into so many things. It also has a bit of a feel of Friends to Lovers and "oh, you've been here all along."
This is the second book in the Jade Harbour Capital series and it tugged at my heart in the same ways that that the first one did. It was a very pleasant read and it read quickly and easily. If you like MM Romance but don't want it too be overly spicy, this will be a great option. It is still very romantic while not being overly raunchy or exploitative.
The only downside for me, and it's the same as the first one... the background plot with the business had me skimming at times.
Still a highly enjoyable read!
4 Stars
2 on the spice scale
April 9, 2022
I didn't think at first that I was going to like the book as well as the first one in the series. Then Ray, Elvin and Ming are sent to take account of a paper company Jade Harbor owns and things begin to pick up. I didn't especially like Ming. He was conniving and underhanded always hitting on Elvin when he knew how Elvin felt about Ray. Maybe because the author and the characters are from a different culture than myself, but it was difficult for me to understand Elvin feeling that he "owed" his family the amount of concern and time, running to meet their every demand to satisfy their every whim. Also, another difference that I didn't quite get. Canadian laws are probably different that those of the U.S., but I didn't see that Ray had done anything wrong with his decision of how to protect his employer. At least not to the degree that was levied. The punishment didn't fit the crime...even if there even was a crime to begin with. I really liked and had high hopes for Ray and Elvin's budding relationship. Elvin was perfect for Ray. He understood where Ray was coming from all the time, and his desire to put Ray first in his life made him a wonderfully sweet man. It's an intriguing M/M romantic suspense novel. The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns. More than enough to keep you reading.
February 11, 2022
vague mafia-esque bosses who become a simp around their crush is my crack
March 29, 2022
Oooo a M/M office romance! And there was major auditing happening lol. You know that's what I do right. Well I don't do surprise audits. Those sound horrible. Our clients hire us and they still don't want us there so a surprise audit sounds like it's even more fun.
Raymond is wealthy, from his family, and a very smart partner at his company. He chose to work outside his family business to make a name for himself. His executive assistant Elvin goes above and beyond even coming to his house before work to shoo away his one night stands and make him the perfect cup of coffee. But Elvin has a very different homelife with his father having health issues and his mother working very hard for his younger siblings. He is very much helping to support them in any way that he can.
Loved the demisexual rep and pretty sure Ray was pansexual but I missed if they said it. Just from his preferences.
The slow burn as these two who were always around each other realized that they were actually perfect for eachother was steamy. Elvin needed that connection and he had never had any with anyone before and Ray had tons of connections but nothing ever felt right.
Though that ending jeez - Canadian Mafia!
Recommend if you like:
🔢 Slowburn
🔢 Office romance
🔢 A well balanced ledger
Thank you harlequin and netgalley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.
Raymond is wealthy, from his family, and a very smart partner at his company. He chose to work outside his family business to make a name for himself. His executive assistant Elvin goes above and beyond even coming to his house before work to shoo away his one night stands and make him the perfect cup of coffee. But Elvin has a very different homelife with his father having health issues and his mother working very hard for his younger siblings. He is very much helping to support them in any way that he can.
Loved the demisexual rep and pretty sure Ray was pansexual but I missed if they said it. Just from his preferences.
The slow burn as these two who were always around each other realized that they were actually perfect for eachother was steamy. Elvin needed that connection and he had never had any with anyone before and Ray had tons of connections but nothing ever felt right.
Though that ending jeez - Canadian Mafia!
Recommend if you like:
🔢 Slowburn
🔢 Office romance
🔢 A well balanced ledger
Thank you harlequin and netgalley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.
June 21, 2022
Thank you Harlequin Publicity Team and Carina Press for my review copy.
When I first started this book I wasn’t in the right mind frame. So I waited a few months to read and ended up really enjoying the story. Ray and Elvin had great chemistry and banter. They were so the opposite of each other, but it worked.
I also felt bad for Ray at the end and felt he got such a raw end of the deal when it came to the secondary storyline. I also would have liked an extended epilogue.
This was my first time reading Hudson Lin
and I do look forward to reading more books by her in the future.
When I first started this book I wasn’t in the right mind frame. So I waited a few months to read and ended up really enjoying the story. Ray and Elvin had great chemistry and banter. They were so the opposite of each other, but it worked.
I also felt bad for Ray at the end and felt he got such a raw end of the deal when it came to the secondary storyline. I also would have liked an extended epilogue.
This was my first time reading Hudson Lin
and I do look forward to reading more books by her in the future.
Read
October 26, 2023
Trigger & Content Warnings
Imprisonment
Imprisonment
March 29, 2022
Raymond works for Jade Harbour, an investment firm, and is Elvin’s boss, they work just fine together. Elvin is the best assistant you could wish for. He makes breakfast for him, shoves Ray’s one-night hooks out of the door, he runs his life.
Elvin loves to work with Ray, in short, he’s been in love with Ray for years.
On an auditing job where Ray, Elvin, and colleague Ming, the job turns into something else.
We get a look in the finance world, the auditing, the run into the shady side of the business.
Ray is good at his job, Elvin trusts him, only, he hopes the decisions he takes now are the right ones.
Because dealing with the mafia isn’t something Elvin would choose.
They work closely and at some point, Ray starts to look differently at Elvin, he’s getting more and more aware of his feelings for this sweet, marvelous man.
Elvin waits for the other shoe. Ray is way out of his league, it’s probably a matter of time.
To a certain extent, I enjoyed this story but must confess I scrolled through some pages. While I enjoyed it, on the romance front it was, for me, a bit boring. I wanted more conflicts, more tension, it was way too sweet. I couldn’t feel the story at times. For me, the characters were sweet but felt emotionally flat and underdeveloped, that’s why I had trouble to connect. On the other hand, the business part was well developed and plausible. The other way around would have worked better for me. I did finish the story but was a bit disappointed.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Elvin loves to work with Ray, in short, he’s been in love with Ray for years.
On an auditing job where Ray, Elvin, and colleague Ming, the job turns into something else.
We get a look in the finance world, the auditing, the run into the shady side of the business.
Ray is good at his job, Elvin trusts him, only, he hopes the decisions he takes now are the right ones.
Because dealing with the mafia isn’t something Elvin would choose.
They work closely and at some point, Ray starts to look differently at Elvin, he’s getting more and more aware of his feelings for this sweet, marvelous man.
Elvin waits for the other shoe. Ray is way out of his league, it’s probably a matter of time.
To a certain extent, I enjoyed this story but must confess I scrolled through some pages. While I enjoyed it, on the romance front it was, for me, a bit boring. I wanted more conflicts, more tension, it was way too sweet. I couldn’t feel the story at times. For me, the characters were sweet but felt emotionally flat and underdeveloped, that’s why I had trouble to connect. On the other hand, the business part was well developed and plausible. The other way around would have worked better for me. I did finish the story but was a bit disappointed.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
May 26, 2022
I wasn't the biggest fan of Hard Sell, but I was still interested to read this one. And I'm glad I did, because I enjoyed this one much more. That is to say, I think I can safely assume this subgenre of romance isn't really for me, but I did think it was done well here. And I did really love the characters and the romance.
May 18, 2022
Caution: Do not read if you're even a tiny bit hungry. Lin's descriptions of food are mouthwatering and make me crave what the characters are eating. Short of reading a food blog or receipt book, you'll want to order in these foods.
Going Public is complex with just the right amount of twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat. Ray and Elvin are great characters. I love how neither are perfect and their flaws are dealt with head on. Elvin's family is lovely and, even with several siblings, each has a distinct personality.
If you're a fan of the opposites attract trope, you're going to love this book. Elvin and Ray's differences are a point of contention, more so for Elvin, that is just one issue these character face in their relationship.
Other tropes you'll find: one bed, forced proximity, workplace romance, boss-employee romance....Going Public has EVERYTHING. I doubt any reader won't be able to find something to love about it.
***Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.***
Going Public is complex with just the right amount of twists and turns to keep me on the edge of my seat. Ray and Elvin are great characters. I love how neither are perfect and their flaws are dealt with head on. Elvin's family is lovely and, even with several siblings, each has a distinct personality.
If you're a fan of the opposites attract trope, you're going to love this book. Elvin and Ray's differences are a point of contention, more so for Elvin, that is just one issue these character face in their relationship.
Other tropes you'll find: one bed, forced proximity, workplace romance, boss-employee romance....Going Public has EVERYTHING. I doubt any reader won't be able to find something to love about it.
***Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.***
April 10, 2022
“If you let me, I’ll take care of you.”
3.5 stars. A good office romance with a fair few bumps. In a lot of ways, I feel about this the same way I felt about Lin's last release. The romance was impeccable! It was so good! I was obsessed from almost the very beginning. On the other hands, the plot had hiccoughs and elements that I didn't absolutely love. But on the other other hand, I do think some kudos is due for the fact that the author takes on some things that not a lot of other romance writers would.
So this is a boss/employee romance between a high-powered, very wealthy executive and his long-time assistant who comes from a much more humble background. Opposites attract, and all that. Elvin is completely devoted to Ray; he loves being his assistant and he's been pining for him for years. I loooove these sort of romances where one character has been silently devoted and super loyal to another one for years without them knowing. I also enjoyed how Elvin's demisexuality played into the romance and the plot. Ray was charming; a little obnoxious, but he was supposed to be like that. They complemented each other so well.
Just as in the first book, I appreciated the fact that the wealth gap was talked about, but I wasn't really satisfied with the conversations that we had. I definitely felt like more could have been said and done, and in a less simplistic way. The plot also lost me a lot because it was definitely very frustrating seeing Ray make decisions that we already know are bad decisions. I kept thinking a lot of the time that he just wasn't acting in a way a typical romance hero would. But the more I think about that, the more I appreciate it. Especially because he makes his mistakes and then we get to see the consequences roll out and it happens in a way that you wouldn't expect from a regular contemporary romance. Or at least, I didn't, and I do appreciate that... up to a point. Some of the ways the plot fell together in the end were just kind of perfunctory and I didn't get the sense of mounting tension or expectation that I wanted, so that was a little bit of a disappointment as well.
Listened to the audiobook as read by Tyler Tetsuda and he was great again, though not super polished. Despite my complaints, I really really enjoyed the romance between Elvin and Ray. They were so so sweet together and I just wish I could have read about them in a different sort of book, with a different sort of plot. I still liked this a lot overall and I know I'll be reading from Hudson Lin again.
May 29, 2024
This started off better than I expected, but quickly went downhill. Thought the chemistry between the two characters was lacking, and I wasn't really buying the sudden epiphany that the playboy love interest was all of a sudden in love with his employee after years of not seeing him romantically. Also thought the ending was quite rushed and strange, and I really couldn't stand behind the decisions made.
April 24, 2022
This was...okay? It felt kind of flat to me, and also like no one ever had any real consequences for their actions, but given that it centers around financial crime, maybe that is actually quite accurate. It made me think of how one of my writing profs told me that you can't protect your characters. These characters felt very protected.
May 23, 2022
I enjoyed the demisexual rep, but found all the business details a bit dull and would’ve liked more focus on the romance.
April 30, 2022
I didn't get the "feels" here. The thing between the 2 MC's happened too quickly and/or too mechanically...and thus, I wasn't moved by their relationship. I didn't buy it.
(For some reason, I thought Joanna was a white woman. My bad.)
I liked #1 much more and now I don't know if I'd read #3, if there was one. I'd check out Lin's other future titles, having enjoyed several of hers already
(For some reason, I thought Joanna was a white woman. My bad.)
I liked #1 much more and now I don't know if I'd read #3, if there was one. I'd check out Lin's other future titles, having enjoyed several of hers already
May 20, 2022
*Actual rating: 2.5/5 Stars*
The second book in the Jade Harbour miniseries, the story follows one of the side characters from the first book, Raymond "Ray"Chao, and Elvin Goh, his assistnat who is devoted to him. There is no set timeline as to when the book actually takes place, but the story opens with Elivn and Ray and the lifestyle that they have set - with Ray, who identifies as pansexual, having different partners over, and Elvin, who is demisexual, coming in the morning to get Ray ready, and pretty much doing everything for him.
Ray cannot function without Elvin, and Elvin has been in love with Ray for a long time, and has never acted on those feelings, simply doing his job. After joining Ray on an assignment and spending more time with him in enclosed quarters, their feelings for each other start to come out - you get the idea. The trope here is opposties attract, and friends to lovers.
It was mid, at best. The biggest distraction for me was the power imbalance between the two of them of not only being boss and employee, but there was also the fact that in terms of wealth there was an imbalance, and how the narrative went about "rectifying" their relationship to make it balanced. There was only chapter where Ray wand concerned about Elvin falling for him as they were boss and employee - let alone the fact that Elvin (even if he had not been in love with him) literally did everything for him.), and that Elvin also did not stop and consider that he did those things as his assistant, because of his feelings towards Ray, not because they were part of the job description.
There were some nice moments I guess, and I actually liked some of the storyline before it got lost in the Ray and Elvin angst show (which didn't make sense that Ray really did not know Elvin, and yet we are to believe the man fell in love after rutting on him?)
The second book in the Jade Harbour miniseries, the story follows one of the side characters from the first book, Raymond "Ray"Chao, and Elvin Goh, his assistnat who is devoted to him. There is no set timeline as to when the book actually takes place, but the story opens with Elivn and Ray and the lifestyle that they have set - with Ray, who identifies as pansexual, having different partners over, and Elvin, who is demisexual, coming in the morning to get Ray ready, and pretty much doing everything for him.
Ray cannot function without Elvin, and Elvin has been in love with Ray for a long time, and has never acted on those feelings, simply doing his job. After joining Ray on an assignment and spending more time with him in enclosed quarters, their feelings for each other start to come out - you get the idea. The trope here is opposties attract, and friends to lovers.
It was mid, at best. The biggest distraction for me was the power imbalance between the two of them of not only being boss and employee, but there was also the fact that in terms of wealth there was an imbalance, and how the narrative went about "rectifying" their relationship to make it balanced. There was only chapter where Ray wand concerned about Elvin falling for him as they were boss and employee - let alone the fact that Elvin (even if he had not been in love with him) literally did everything for him.), and that Elvin also did not stop and consider that he did those things as his assistant, because of his feelings towards Ray, not because they were part of the job description.
There were some nice moments I guess, and I actually liked some of the storyline before it got lost in the Ray and Elvin angst show (which didn't make sense that Ray really did not know Elvin, and yet we are to believe the man fell in love after rutting on him?)
April 4, 2022
Office romance + one bed + mafia . . . + surprise audits?! This book is as fun as it sounds, and Elvin and Ray are adorable together. Ray's the boss, and he is, in his own words, a filthy-rich, entitled bastard, but he mostly wields his powers for good. Elvin's his sweet, anxious executive assistant who juggles all the balls, including a very demanding family. We don't see much of their history, so it seems like they were quick to fall in love, but it's obvious how well-matched they are given their banter and the various ways in which they care for one another. It was exciting to watch their personalities unfold in the context of their work, to see them both complement and oppose one another until the end, where things take a scary (illegal!) turn before turning out just fine for an HEA. The sex was equal parts tender and steamy, and I loved that there was pan- and demi-sexual rep between two very different Chinese-Canadian men! The food descriptions were also drool-worthy. The book made me miss the awesome food in Barcelona! If you're looking for a fun, fast read, pick this up!
March 31, 2022
I feel like I wasted my time with this book. It wasn’t horrible but it wasn’t good. The romance was okay but underdeveloped. And then nothing really happened! After the initial action, if you can call it that, it was slow. There was nothing to draw the reader. Ray finds drugs, Ray tries to figure out where drugs come from, Ray tries to get in bed with the mafia and is found out, Ray gets mild sentence and a slap on the wrist. They live happily ever after.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 31, 2022
I don’t know precisely what was missing for me in Going Public, but I definitely went in expecting more. Typically, this author is an easy win for me with her well-detailed plots, interesting backgrounds, and polished writing. While all of those attributes are true of Going Public, I never fell for this book or couple.
Ray and Elvin have a well-oiled partnership that is evident from the start of Going Public. I found both characters with their diverse background and sexuality to be interesting and liked seeing these two men matched up considering how different they and their experiences were. I also liked watching the men develop over the course of the book. That said, I expected more push and pull in this boss-employee romance and it fell flat for me in some ways. Specifically, things between Ray and Elvin felt a little too easy and I never had that moment when I was really rooting for the couple to get their happily-ever-after.
I felt similarly indifferent about the financial scandal aspect of Going Public’s plot. While it was definitely exciting and promising at the start, it fizzled out for me. When I started Going Public, I was looking forward to the excitement of a boardroom drama and an unanticipated office place romance. Although I got a polished story with unique characters, it failed to really ignite for me...which seems to be happening more and more with this line from the publisher even when they feature authors I love (perhaps it's just a bad match for me). I would say if you enjoy stories about characters who don’t fit the mold of most contemporary romances and are looking for a quieter, well-written drama about the complex world in an investment group, Going Public may be a better fit for you than it was for me.
*eBook received via Netgalley. The publisher and author had no influence over this review*
Ray and Elvin have a well-oiled partnership that is evident from the start of Going Public. I found both characters with their diverse background and sexuality to be interesting and liked seeing these two men matched up considering how different they and their experiences were. I also liked watching the men develop over the course of the book. That said, I expected more push and pull in this boss-employee romance and it fell flat for me in some ways. Specifically, things between Ray and Elvin felt a little too easy and I never had that moment when I was really rooting for the couple to get their happily-ever-after.
I felt similarly indifferent about the financial scandal aspect of Going Public’s plot. While it was definitely exciting and promising at the start, it fizzled out for me. When I started Going Public, I was looking forward to the excitement of a boardroom drama and an unanticipated office place romance. Although I got a polished story with unique characters, it failed to really ignite for me...which seems to be happening more and more with this line from the publisher even when they feature authors I love (perhaps it's just a bad match for me). I would say if you enjoy stories about characters who don’t fit the mold of most contemporary romances and are looking for a quieter, well-written drama about the complex world in an investment group, Going Public may be a better fit for you than it was for me.
*eBook received via Netgalley. The publisher and author had no influence over this review*
April 2, 2022
3.5 Stars
What I Loved: The premise, the personal assistant in love with his boss, the playboy boss who finally realizes what has been in front of his eyes the whole time. Unfortunately, the book didn't quite match the blurb.
What I Liked: I really liked Elvin, he was hard-working, responsible, a great son and brother, and a great employee. I liked Ray in those little moments in which he allowed himself to be tender and sweet to Elvin.
What I Didn't Like: I didn't quite like that Elvin would feel he was beneath Ray, not just because Ray was his boss and financially was above him, but because he was more experienced and Elvin felt that he wouldn't compare to his many flings. I felt like the romance was underdeveloped, yes, we knew from the start of Elvin's unrequited love for Ray, but Ray's realization was too sudden for me. I would've liked a smoother transition. Plus, I was a bit underwhelmed by the whole mob plotline, which is unfortunate since it took so much page time.
I didn't read book 1, but I didn't think that I was missing much plotwise, Going Public can perfectly be read as a standalone. And even if the book wasn't what I expected, it was moderately entertaining. So there's a chance you'll enjoy it more than I did.
*** Copy provided by Carina Adores through NetGalley for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
What I Loved: The premise, the personal assistant in love with his boss, the playboy boss who finally realizes what has been in front of his eyes the whole time. Unfortunately, the book didn't quite match the blurb.
What I Liked: I really liked Elvin, he was hard-working, responsible, a great son and brother, and a great employee. I liked Ray in those little moments in which he allowed himself to be tender and sweet to Elvin.
What I Didn't Like: I didn't quite like that Elvin would feel he was beneath Ray, not just because Ray was his boss and financially was above him, but because he was more experienced and Elvin felt that he wouldn't compare to his many flings. I felt like the romance was underdeveloped, yes, we knew from the start of Elvin's unrequited love for Ray, but Ray's realization was too sudden for me. I would've liked a smoother transition. Plus, I was a bit underwhelmed by the whole mob plotline, which is unfortunate since it took so much page time.
I didn't read book 1, but I didn't think that I was missing much plotwise, Going Public can perfectly be read as a standalone. And even if the book wasn't what I expected, it was moderately entertaining. So there's a chance you'll enjoy it more than I did.
*** Copy provided by Carina Adores through NetGalley for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 16, 2022
As soon as I saw this cover I realized I hadn’t read a m/m romance where both leads were Asian, so I figured now was the time!
It’s official: I am a Carina Press Adores fan!!! I love what they’re doing with own voices diverse gay romance (the first one I read was D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a wedding, which was incredible). To be clear I’ve only read two books by them, but now I will make a concerted effort to try more.
This was cute, I read it in two days. I haven’t read a business/finance focused romance in a long time (maybe ever? I’m not sure) so it was interesting seeing that side of things.
The chapter endings/transitions were quite abrupt and more time passed in between that I anticipated, I must say. Sometimes I got annoyed with the wealthy boss, but I also think that was kind of the point.
I liked the discussions of demisexuality, which I knew about from reading a review ahead of time, so I was surprised by the level of steam in the book. It’s not wild, to be clear, but more than I expected.
This didn’t gloss over the consequences to the boss’s actions or sweep the downfall under the rug which I enjoyed. Sucks to suck but also this is the real world and actions have consequences!!
This is a 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
It’s official: I am a Carina Press Adores fan!!! I love what they’re doing with own voices diverse gay romance (the first one I read was D’Vaughn and Kris Plan a wedding, which was incredible). To be clear I’ve only read two books by them, but now I will make a concerted effort to try more.
This was cute, I read it in two days. I haven’t read a business/finance focused romance in a long time (maybe ever? I’m not sure) so it was interesting seeing that side of things.
The chapter endings/transitions were quite abrupt and more time passed in between that I anticipated, I must say. Sometimes I got annoyed with the wealthy boss, but I also think that was kind of the point.
I liked the discussions of demisexuality, which I knew about from reading a review ahead of time, so I was surprised by the level of steam in the book. It’s not wild, to be clear, but more than I expected.
This didn’t gloss over the consequences to the boss’s actions or sweep the downfall under the rug which I enjoyed. Sucks to suck but also this is the real world and actions have consequences!!
This is a 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
July 17, 2023
My face was like :l the whole time reading. Didn't spark any joy.
The plot was as questionable as the characterizations. There was nothing to backup anyone's motivations behind their actions. Elvin and Ray seemed more fun together when they were just friends. After sort of dating, Elvin was constantly upset at Ray for being able to afford being extra about his gifts/dates like bruh what did you expect... why was he acting like he didn't know how rich Ray was. And then Ray at one point got some kind of hero complex that literally came out of nowhere and he made very stupid and delusional decisions. The way everything unfolded was so freaking weird like... I am still confused what the point was.
I think some part of this book is supposed to ~be a lesson~ about entitlement and being filthy rich and privilege but seeing as Ray still sailed by with no real consequences (something that Elvin was suddenly no longer mad about?) no lessons were actually learned.
The plot was as questionable as the characterizations. There was nothing to backup anyone's motivations behind their actions. Elvin and Ray seemed more fun together when they were just friends. After sort of dating, Elvin was constantly upset at Ray for being able to afford being extra about his gifts/dates like bruh what did you expect... why was he acting like he didn't know how rich Ray was. And then Ray at one point got some kind of hero complex that literally came out of nowhere and he made very stupid and delusional decisions. The way everything unfolded was so freaking weird like... I am still confused what the point was.
I think some part of this book is supposed to ~be a lesson~ about entitlement and being filthy rich and privilege but seeing as Ray still sailed by with no real consequences (something that Elvin was suddenly no longer mad about?) no lessons were actually learned.
March 29, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Raymond Chao is an operating partner at Jade Harbour Capital, an investment firm in Toronto, Canada. He’s a ruthless problem-solver, fixing the companies that Jade Harbour manages in order to sell them at a profit. Ray is the only son in his family, and his father is a highly esteemed businessman, managing a huge wealth portfolio company in Hong Kong. His dad wasn’t happy when Ray announced his intent to work for Jade Harbour instead of the family business, and now hardly speaks to him. Ray’s pansexual, and hates being alone, but hasn’t ever thought to settle down with anyone. Maybe, because he’s so well-cared-for by his personal assistant, Elvin Goh.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Raymond Chao is an operating partner at Jade Harbour Capital, an investment firm in Toronto, Canada. He’s a ruthless problem-solver, fixing the companies that Jade Harbour manages in order to sell them at a profit. Ray is the only son in his family, and his father is a highly esteemed businessman, managing a huge wealth portfolio company in Hong Kong. His dad wasn’t happy when Ray announced his intent to work for Jade Harbour instead of the family business, and now hardly speaks to him. Ray’s pansexual, and hates being alone, but hasn’t ever thought to settle down with anyone. Maybe, because he’s so well-cared-for by his personal assistant, Elvin Goh.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
March 1, 2022
I never felt like these types of books where for me, but I decided to try one anyway...
And I was correct! These types of books are not really for me, but that doesn't mean they are bad. This book had some good representation, especially the demi sexuality representation stood out for me because we rarely see that in books. But yeah, other than that, these kinds of books just aren't for me. Especially the whole mafia thing... It makes me so anxious while reading, so I probably won't be reading anymore books with that kind of subject. because it's just not fun for me to read.
But I'm still glad that I decided to give this book a try! It was a good way to test my reading tastes! The ending was a bit abrupt in my opinion, but the whole book felt a bit short to me so that was to be expected.
So in conclusion: not my personal taste in books, but still glad that I read it for the representation and to get to know my reading taste better.
And I was correct! These types of books are not really for me, but that doesn't mean they are bad. This book had some good representation, especially the demi sexuality representation stood out for me because we rarely see that in books. But yeah, other than that, these kinds of books just aren't for me. Especially the whole mafia thing... It makes me so anxious while reading, so I probably won't be reading anymore books with that kind of subject. because it's just not fun for me to read.
But I'm still glad that I decided to give this book a try! It was a good way to test my reading tastes! The ending was a bit abrupt in my opinion, but the whole book felt a bit short to me so that was to be expected.
So in conclusion: not my personal taste in books, but still glad that I read it for the representation and to get to know my reading taste better.
Read
October 7, 2022Honestly what even is this book? Why are all the romances I've been reading so mediocre? This is like part investigative mystery, part romance, and a whole lot of issues. Workplace romance books are difficult and authors have to tell a very fine line especially when there are power dynamics involved. Having an assistant who is so in love and enamored with their boss be taking advantage of over and over and over again throughout the majority of this book and then all of a sudden boss realizes that he's in love with him just doesn't really work for me. Not to mention that the boss is an arrogant asshole and he's an arrogant asshole of the entire book.
October 18, 2025
4 stars. Audiobook. Boss/employee. I liked that there was a bit more plot than a usual romance with some scheming bad guys and a swerve at the end that I wasn’t expecting. Good narration. We meet the boss/playboy in book one of this series, which isn’t really a must-read for this book. Some overlapping characters but the author does a good job of filling you in on what you need to know. A big deal was made out of certain things that had little pay out (hello, uber rich Asian family) and the playboy status was loud-and-clear in the opening chapters with obvious other bed partners.
March 20, 2022
Lin returns to the cutthroat world of Jade Harbour, a capital investment firm, in this second book in a series. Overall, I enjoyed this one quite a bit, as the author did a good job with the characters of Raymond Chao and Elvin Goh. Raymond, introduced in “Hard Sell” is Jade Harbour’s fixer and has no problem thriving in the gray zone of the corporate world, where the ethical thing to do isn’t necessarily the most profitable thing to do for your company. Elvin is Raymond’s long-time assistant, very effective at his job but also nursing an ongoing crush on his boss. Both men find themselves drawn to one another but a work assignment is the spark that pushes their relationship onto another level.
Raymond is tasked with auditing one of the companies in Jade Harbour’s portfolio, a paper company, and Elvin accompanies Ray, along with Ming, another Jade Harbour employee, on the audit. It’s here that “Going Public” shines, depicting a world of corporate misdoings and espionage that read almost like a spy thriller but come across as very believable. It’s obvious that Lin has done her research and knows the corporate finance world. And I found myself sympathizing with Raymond’s dilemma, no mean feat since Chao is not necessarily the most sympathetic of characters. And I found the moments where Lin illuminated some aspects of Asian immigrant culture interesting, with this book really focusing on family dynamics with the contrasting characters of Raymond and Elvin in both the personal and work arena.
Some drawbacks for me had mainly to do with some plot threads that were left dangling. Such as, what involvement or knowledge did Raymond’s family have on the situation he found himself in, along with an ending that seemed a bit rushed. And, of course, as with the previous book in the series, I found it difficult at times to sympathize with the characters being somewhat unlikeable.
Still, overall an interesting read with an interesting setting in the business world and worthwhile look at family dynamics. Lin’s an interesting writer and I’m curious to see where else she goes in this series.
Raymond is tasked with auditing one of the companies in Jade Harbour’s portfolio, a paper company, and Elvin accompanies Ray, along with Ming, another Jade Harbour employee, on the audit. It’s here that “Going Public” shines, depicting a world of corporate misdoings and espionage that read almost like a spy thriller but come across as very believable. It’s obvious that Lin has done her research and knows the corporate finance world. And I found myself sympathizing with Raymond’s dilemma, no mean feat since Chao is not necessarily the most sympathetic of characters. And I found the moments where Lin illuminated some aspects of Asian immigrant culture interesting, with this book really focusing on family dynamics with the contrasting characters of Raymond and Elvin in both the personal and work arena.
Some drawbacks for me had mainly to do with some plot threads that were left dangling. Such as, what involvement or knowledge did Raymond’s family have on the situation he found himself in, along with an ending that seemed a bit rushed. And, of course, as with the previous book in the series, I found it difficult at times to sympathize with the characters being somewhat unlikeable.
Still, overall an interesting read with an interesting setting in the business world and worthwhile look at family dynamics. Lin’s an interesting writer and I’m curious to see where else she goes in this series.
February 27, 2022
DNF at 50%
Going Public was promising but all the technicalities of the audit, the dull writing and 0-100 chemistry really didn't work for me
Going Public was promising but all the technicalities of the audit, the dull writing and 0-100 chemistry really didn't work for me
dnf
March 31, 2022DNF'd at 21%
I really liked the sound of this book, but for some reason it just wasn't gripping me. I didn't feel the connection between the characters and the plot wasn't grabbing my attention.
I really liked the sound of this book, but for some reason it just wasn't gripping me. I didn't feel the connection between the characters and the plot wasn't grabbing my attention.
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