What do you think?
Rate this book
Due Diligence
Cass isn’t Marcus’s type. He’s definitely not her type. In fact, this unapologetically sexy analyst and this so-competent-that-it’s-hot tech founder seem to have only one thing in common: Ten years ago, they decided that they absolutely hated each other. None of that bodes well for them spending the next 60 days together, alone in a conference room…
Cass never expected that Marcus, the quiet, shy guy who dropped out of college—and her life—during their freshman year would ever become a multimillionaire and tech darling. But ten years later, he’s the strikingly handsome Chief Operating Officer of Libra, the tech juggernaut that Cass’s company has offered half a billion dollars to acquire. Now, it’s Cass’s job to lead due diligence: the two-month process to review all of Libra’s records before the deal finalizes. That would be a lot simpler if Marcus weren’t so damn annoying—or handsome…or freakishly talented at whispering filthy things in her ear.
And Marcus definitely never expected that Cass, the girl who broke him a decade ago, would be the final obstacle in the most important deal of his life. He also didn’t expect to learn that underneath her prim and perfect façade, Cass Pierson has a wild, untamable streak—one that Marcus just knows how to bring out in her. It turns out they have a lot more in common than just hating each other….
Due Diligence is a full-length enemies to lovers office/workplace romance novel about two people who are more than meets the eye. With tons of dirty dialogue, witty banter, and scalding and steamy hookups, this novel has no cheating or cliffhangers. HEA always guaranteed.
Cass never expected that Marcus, the quiet, shy guy who dropped out of college—and her life—during their freshman year would ever become a multimillionaire and tech darling. But ten years later, he’s the strikingly handsome Chief Operating Officer of Libra, the tech juggernaut that Cass’s company has offered half a billion dollars to acquire. Now, it’s Cass’s job to lead due diligence: the two-month process to review all of Libra’s records before the deal finalizes. That would be a lot simpler if Marcus weren’t so damn annoying—or handsome…or freakishly talented at whispering filthy things in her ear.
And Marcus definitely never expected that Cass, the girl who broke him a decade ago, would be the final obstacle in the most important deal of his life. He also didn’t expect to learn that underneath her prim and perfect façade, Cass Pierson has a wild, untamable streak—one that Marcus just knows how to bring out in her. It turns out they have a lot more in common than just hating each other….
Due Diligence is a full-length enemies to lovers office/workplace romance novel about two people who are more than meets the eye. With tons of dirty dialogue, witty banter, and scalding and steamy hookups, this novel has no cheating or cliffhangers. HEA always guaranteed.
471 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2021
About the author
Rebecca Kinkade
13 books328 followersRebecca Kinkade is a Mexican/Filipina-American contemporary romance author who writes competent leads who work hard and love harder. She currently lives in Los Angeles and assumes that makes her inherently interesting. She has a BA and an MBA and is 100% positive that the most valuable thing she got out of those experiences was content for her books.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
January 18, 2025
“You think you can tell me what to do? Ofcourse not, I’m not an idiot.”
“Even before I could comprehend love or companionship, I had wanted her.”
“Marcus. Sweet, selfless Marcus.”
“Look, I don’t know what to say or how to be helpful yet. But I will, before then I just want to thank you for sharing with me.”
Marcus deserves the title of Marcus F*cking Fitz!!!!! I am seated…. ;)
Sheesh….. Wow. Wow. Wow. This is actually thee best enemies to lovers I’ve ever read, I really enjoyed reading about Cass and Marcus. Their back and forth & tug and pull between each other was so intense in the beginning, as the reader I genuinely felt their angst, anger, and annoyance with one another. It was felt so deeply and so raw that I even questioned if they would ever make it to the lovers part of the trope LOLL! I thoroughly enjoyed this and ate it up so quickly! Cass and Marcus are the definition of f*ck around and find out. It was like the hate for one another was too good that the pent up frustration was well worth the wait!
Cass and Marcus are people who are truly silent forces to be reckoned with. They both have different lessons to learn and have different experiences with their parents but their connection on common ground definitely assisted with the growth between the two of them. They truly grew individually and came back stronger together as a couple that is unstoppable. I think the author did an amazing job demonstrating that and actually taking the time for Cass and Marcus to not only work out their internal / separate issues but provided them comfort within each other on their own time.
The tech/ office / scenes were top tier, I really loved this office setting of the romance, and it really was such an easy read to fully understand Due Diligence and why it was so important! I loved how Cass was such a bad a** work woman and knew her job inside out and was extremely thee best. I think it’s also important the imposter syndrome Cass & Marcus felt in some parts of the book was so valid, and so relatable, the way the author continues to humanize and make the characters relatable is something I LOVE!!!
The suspense surrounding the ledgers was done so well and I was itching / had my suspicions and i love when i’m right!
The spice scenes were top tier! Like hello?!?! It’s RK ofcourse the spice scenes were top tier!!! Hot and bothered is an understatement lol
“Even before I could comprehend love or companionship, I had wanted her.”
“Marcus. Sweet, selfless Marcus.”
“Look, I don’t know what to say or how to be helpful yet. But I will, before then I just want to thank you for sharing with me.”
Marcus deserves the title of Marcus F*cking Fitz!!!!! I am seated…. ;)
Sheesh….. Wow. Wow. Wow. This is actually thee best enemies to lovers I’ve ever read, I really enjoyed reading about Cass and Marcus. Their back and forth & tug and pull between each other was so intense in the beginning, as the reader I genuinely felt their angst, anger, and annoyance with one another. It was felt so deeply and so raw that I even questioned if they would ever make it to the lovers part of the trope LOLL! I thoroughly enjoyed this and ate it up so quickly! Cass and Marcus are the definition of f*ck around and find out. It was like the hate for one another was too good that the pent up frustration was well worth the wait!
Cass and Marcus are people who are truly silent forces to be reckoned with. They both have different lessons to learn and have different experiences with their parents but their connection on common ground definitely assisted with the growth between the two of them. They truly grew individually and came back stronger together as a couple that is unstoppable. I think the author did an amazing job demonstrating that and actually taking the time for Cass and Marcus to not only work out their internal / separate issues but provided them comfort within each other on their own time.
The tech/ office / scenes were top tier, I really loved this office setting of the romance, and it really was such an easy read to fully understand Due Diligence and why it was so important! I loved how Cass was such a bad a** work woman and knew her job inside out and was extremely thee best. I think it’s also important the imposter syndrome Cass & Marcus felt in some parts of the book was so valid, and so relatable, the way the author continues to humanize and make the characters relatable is something I LOVE!!!
The suspense surrounding the ledgers was done so well and I was itching / had my suspicions and i love when i’m right!
The spice scenes were top tier! Like hello?!?! It’s RK ofcourse the spice scenes were top tier!!! Hot and bothered is an understatement lol
May 2, 2025
I am of the humble opinion that Rebecca always writes incredible FMCs with MMCs that could take my rights away.
March 6, 2024
this book still lives rent free in my head
first read: oct 20, 2022-oct 22, 2022
reread: feb 22, 2024 - march 04, 2024
♾️/5 ⭐️ 3.5/5 🌶️
i completed my first ever re-read and i miss Marcus & Cass again already. 😭 this is my favorite office romance ever because it is so well written and they truly feel like real characters. Marcus is the sweetest most empathetic tech bro ever & Cass is the baddest most quick-witted data analyst ever. idk which one of them i want more 🧎🏾♀️
you know when book couples say they can’t stand each other & then their inner dialogue is them thinking about how obsessed w the other they are? yeah that’s Marcus & Cass af. their chemistry is freaking palpable, their banter has me giggling, & their relationship is really well developed! if you’re in the mood for a smutty yet SMART office romance, look no further 🫡 & support my favorite indie author!!
trope list ✧˖°🌷📎⋆ ༘🦋⋆ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
♡ enemies to lovers
♡ workplace/slightly forbidden romance
♡ forced proximity
♡ confident genius FMC x shy nerdy MMC
♡ d!rty talk asffff
♡ light exhibitionism
♡ fun piercings
♡ filming
♡ no third act break up
first read: oct 20, 2022-oct 22, 2022
reread: feb 22, 2024 - march 04, 2024
♾️/5 ⭐️ 3.5/5 🌶️
i completed my first ever re-read and i miss Marcus & Cass again already. 😭 this is my favorite office romance ever because it is so well written and they truly feel like real characters. Marcus is the sweetest most empathetic tech bro ever & Cass is the baddest most quick-witted data analyst ever. idk which one of them i want more 🧎🏾♀️
you know when book couples say they can’t stand each other & then their inner dialogue is them thinking about how obsessed w the other they are? yeah that’s Marcus & Cass af. their chemistry is freaking palpable, their banter has me giggling, & their relationship is really well developed! if you’re in the mood for a smutty yet SMART office romance, look no further 🫡 & support my favorite indie author!!
trope list ✧˖°🌷📎⋆ ༘🦋⋆ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
♡ enemies to lovers
♡ workplace/slightly forbidden romance
♡ forced proximity
♡ confident genius FMC x shy nerdy MMC
♡ d!rty talk asffff
♡ light exhibitionism
♡ fun piercings
♡ filming
♡ no third act break up
January 18, 2025
“Mine,” I informed her as I worked her. “I want you to be mine.” “No question,” she replied with a pant. “I was always yours.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
marcus mf-ing fitz.... 🧎🏽♀️🧎🏽♀️🧎🏽♀️ i stand by the hype now! i won't lie, i did not expect to like marcus because he definitely gave stick in the mud in the beginning but boy did i eat my words... because the club scene?! i said now who IS this man and where has he been??? i had such a fun time with this read and didn't want it to end.
i will say the beginning was a bit hard to push through because i didn't care too much about how due diligence worked but i understand and respect why it was crucial for the plot! i loved how cass and marcus are polar opposites but found love because their quirks were embraced by each other (marcus with his type-a personality & cass with her intelligence). along with the romance, you can see them grow into adults just trying to figure out who they are without their job titles.
miss rebecca does it for me every single time and i'm so excited to get into the rest of her books! 💗
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
marcus mf-ing fitz.... 🧎🏽♀️🧎🏽♀️🧎🏽♀️ i stand by the hype now! i won't lie, i did not expect to like marcus because he definitely gave stick in the mud in the beginning but boy did i eat my words... because the club scene?! i said now who IS this man and where has he been??? i had such a fun time with this read and didn't want it to end.
i will say the beginning was a bit hard to push through because i didn't care too much about how due diligence worked but i understand and respect why it was crucial for the plot! i loved how cass and marcus are polar opposites but found love because their quirks were embraced by each other (marcus with his type-a personality & cass with her intelligence). along with the romance, you can see them grow into adults just trying to figure out who they are without their job titles.
miss rebecca does it for me every single time and i'm so excited to get into the rest of her books! 💗
March 28, 2021
Can I give this 10 stars?
I was so burned out on romance reading. I had just reread an old favorite because everything new I picked up was boring the hell out of me. Too trite. Too rote. Too unrealistic. Not enough feels. Not enough chemistry. Bleh.
It’s like Amazon, in its omniscience, just knew I needed this book because it showed up in my feed. I’m not sure what got into me. I never download books with no reviews. Hell, less than 100 and I pass. But this one had no reviews and I thought, why not? If it’s bad, I can stop reading it easily enough.
Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
How this doesn’t have HUNDREDS of great reviews must be only a matter of this author lacking an Instagram account and funds to advertise. This author is phenomenal. Like, LJ Shen good. This story was amazing because the characters were so well written and the story was very very well developed. Their world didn’t feel made up, their problems realistic. LOVED the characters. It had ALL THE FEELS. What I truly love about the writing is how intelligent it is. This is a romance written for smart readers by a smart writer. If you are a heavy romance reader, you know how rare this is.
Oh, and can we talk about the smoking f’ing hot sex? The dirty talk set my whole underwear drawer on fire. Spontaneous combustion.
Let’s recap: brilliant writing, riveting story, smart and witty, scorching hot sex, the feels...so much feels.
I’m definitely reading the rest of this author’s books. I feel like a smug little hipster because I just discovered the next big thing before everyone else. Look at me! I’m so much cooler than you.
I was so burned out on romance reading. I had just reread an old favorite because everything new I picked up was boring the hell out of me. Too trite. Too rote. Too unrealistic. Not enough feels. Not enough chemistry. Bleh.
It’s like Amazon, in its omniscience, just knew I needed this book because it showed up in my feed. I’m not sure what got into me. I never download books with no reviews. Hell, less than 100 and I pass. But this one had no reviews and I thought, why not? If it’s bad, I can stop reading it easily enough.
Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
How this doesn’t have HUNDREDS of great reviews must be only a matter of this author lacking an Instagram account and funds to advertise. This author is phenomenal. Like, LJ Shen good. This story was amazing because the characters were so well written and the story was very very well developed. Their world didn’t feel made up, their problems realistic. LOVED the characters. It had ALL THE FEELS. What I truly love about the writing is how intelligent it is. This is a romance written for smart readers by a smart writer. If you are a heavy romance reader, you know how rare this is.
Oh, and can we talk about the smoking f’ing hot sex? The dirty talk set my whole underwear drawer on fire. Spontaneous combustion.
Let’s recap: brilliant writing, riveting story, smart and witty, scorching hot sex, the feels...so much feels.
I’m definitely reading the rest of this author’s books. I feel like a smug little hipster because I just discovered the next big thing before everyone else. Look at me! I’m so much cooler than you.
November 30, 2024
This is the closest actual enemies-to-lovers or hate-to-love I’ve read in a while. At the start I was a bit worried actually that I wouldn’t like either of them or how this would play out just based on how they were with each other! Of course, I shouldn’t have worried because Rebecca is a fantastic author and this book was great.
This book had great banter and was so hot in how their relationship grew from enemies to lovers - the spicy scenes are spicing, very hot 🥵 I wouldn’t expect any less from Rebecca.
I also like how the big conflict in the book was handled just because it showed so much how things changed for them from the start to the end - can’t say more than that without giving too much away.
Their connection once they got over themselves is so good and I loved how much they just “got” each other as masking highly-efficient high-achievers that need to let go sometimes and they could be that space for each other. I see bits of myself in their type (Cass especially) so I think I kind of connected in with that as well. I also very much enjoyed Marcus “I’m a nerd in the streets and a freak in the sheets” Fitz - such a sweet and sexy combo of competent billionaire, shy slightly broken boy, and hot AF in bed. 👌🏻 👌🏻
This is a very corporate setting book with corporate stuff involved, so do be warned in case that’s not your thing. I found it really well written and a good setting for the book and plot.
Their story and how it played out just made me so happy for them and I was all warm and fuzzy by the end.
If you’re into smartie, competent, type-A people this will be your jam!
4/5 ⭐️
This book had great banter and was so hot in how their relationship grew from enemies to lovers - the spicy scenes are spicing, very hot 🥵 I wouldn’t expect any less from Rebecca.
I also like how the big conflict in the book was handled just because it showed so much how things changed for them from the start to the end - can’t say more than that without giving too much away.
Their connection once they got over themselves is so good and I loved how much they just “got” each other as masking highly-efficient high-achievers that need to let go sometimes and they could be that space for each other. I see bits of myself in their type (Cass especially) so I think I kind of connected in with that as well. I also very much enjoyed Marcus “I’m a nerd in the streets and a freak in the sheets” Fitz - such a sweet and sexy combo of competent billionaire, shy slightly broken boy, and hot AF in bed. 👌🏻 👌🏻
This is a very corporate setting book with corporate stuff involved, so do be warned in case that’s not your thing. I found it really well written and a good setting for the book and plot.
Their story and how it played out just made me so happy for them and I was all warm and fuzzy by the end.
If you’re into smartie, competent, type-A people this will be your jam!
4/5 ⭐️
Read
April 25, 2024self note: the first chapter opens with the morning after fmc had a ons with a guy. she doesn't even know his name and I'm not in mood for something like that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2024
Smashed this book out in one sitting - lots of🌶️ and enjoyed the story line
April 13, 2026
5⭐️ 3.5🔥
I’m actually convinced that it is impossible for Rebecca Kinkade to write anything other than a 5 for me.
Her characters have such depth without being unnecessarily complicated, in a very human way.
Marcus was filthy in the sweetest most attractive way. A massive green flag, all around. Cass is incredible and unapologetic. The spice was sooooo good. I can’t.
I will say, I did have to look up if the author had an MBA after this (she does 🙇♀️) because the legal/financial aspects of stuff is sophisticated, in a way that makes it a proper conflict/plot point. It was almost at the point that it might have gone over my head, but it was like a corporate drama, so well written.
I’m actually convinced that it is impossible for Rebecca Kinkade to write anything other than a 5 for me.
Her characters have such depth without being unnecessarily complicated, in a very human way.
Marcus was filthy in the sweetest most attractive way. A massive green flag, all around. Cass is incredible and unapologetic. The spice was sooooo good. I can’t.
I will say, I did have to look up if the author had an MBA after this (she does 🙇♀️) because the legal/financial aspects of stuff is sophisticated, in a way that makes it a proper conflict/plot point. It was almost at the point that it might have gone over my head, but it was like a corporate drama, so well written.
January 4, 2025
Star Rating: 5⭐️
Spice Rating: 4🌶️
Format: E-book 📱
🦋 My Review 🦋
I’m not gonna lie. Davis has been dethroned. All hail the new King Marcus fucking Fitz!!
I loved this book. I loved this man. I want to punch Alex in the face. I just. Wow. I feel like this altered my brain. My body. My everything. My heart now only beats for Marcus. Sorry other fictional men.
This man is a unicorn. A god among men. A testament that therapy works & the way he so fiercely loved Cass. Earth shattering!!
Spice Rating: 4🌶️
Format: E-book 📱
🦋 My Review 🦋
I’m not gonna lie. Davis has been dethroned. All hail the new King Marcus fucking Fitz!!
I loved this book. I loved this man. I want to punch Alex in the face. I just. Wow. I feel like this altered my brain. My body. My everything. My heart now only beats for Marcus. Sorry other fictional men.
This man is a unicorn. A god among men. A testament that therapy works & the way he so fiercely loved Cass. Earth shattering!!
December 26, 2025
This was delightfully entertaining! The hatred was palpable , the chemistry unmatched . Marcus fucking fitz is highly competent. Loved
February 25, 2026
Think I would have loved this if I read it when it came out in 2021. For me, the Streams and Schemes series is a lot more my speed.
June 25, 2024
Loved every second of this
The characters are so well developed and I loved their relationship. Their banter was excellent and Marcus is one of the sweetest book boyfriends I’ve read before!
He was down so bad, which was understandable because Cass was absolutely phenomenal and I loved her from the first chapter!
The humour and the spice was combined beautifully! Also their COMMUNICATION.. I love some healthy communication between a couple! It’s one of my favourite parts
Looking forward to reading more from Rebecca Kinkade
The characters are so well developed and I loved their relationship. Their banter was excellent and Marcus is one of the sweetest book boyfriends I’ve read before!
He was down so bad, which was understandable because Cass was absolutely phenomenal and I loved her from the first chapter!
The humour and the spice was combined beautifully! Also their COMMUNICATION.. I love some healthy communication between a couple! It’s one of my favourite parts
Looking forward to reading more from Rebecca Kinkade
June 10, 2024
Gosh i truly enjoyed this book so much! Marcus Fckng Fitz is a walking green flag and i think i might love him. The plot was so interesting and the end it actually surprised me a little. I didn’t expect the full spectrum HEA that happened.
It was a good one yet again by Rebecca Kinkade. Her writing is just so brilliant and she adds all the great elements that readers love to her books. She makes it really hard to not enjoy her work.
It was a good one yet again by Rebecca Kinkade. Her writing is just so brilliant and she adds all the great elements that readers love to her books. She makes it really hard to not enjoy her work.
August 19, 2025
🤭 OK, maybe office-romances aren't so bad? 🤭 I liked this one a lot because the office/corporate angle was as important and developed as the romance. Plus, I liked that they didn't work for the same company nor was it a boss/employee relationship. If anything, there was more risk because Cassandra is auditing Marcus and Alex's company on behalf of her company. I actually enjoyed the "world building" if you could call it that because the situation/entanglement felt more real and didn't exist to drive the romance forward. When they (re)meet, the tension was thick! I bow down to how poised Cassandra was towards Marcus—biggest poker face ever. Their bickering was intense and while ridiculous didn't necessarily feel too childish. I do think Marcus' grudge over Cassandra's insult from a decade ago was crazy, but I mean I am also petty so what the hell. He really made me so nervous and antsy with the breathing technique—man was about to lose it. Marcus's emotions boiled over and I had a hard time reconciling this side of him because he was such a freak in the sheets later on.
There's a scene that reminded me of Priceless by Miranda Silver and oh my god, yeah.
Cass, my girl. She was hilarious and gave no fuuuuucksss! Nothing fazed her at least outwardly. Marcus never faulted her for her sexual endeavors or appetite, what a man?
I am surprised that Marcus and Alex made peace. The drama played out like The Social Network. For how much the two guy's personal and working relationship imploded, I would have liked to see more of the fallout of Libra and what happened afterwards. We were slammed with so much corporate jargon and the plot just kind of fell off for our love birds. How did Alex avoid jail time? As a consumer and regular-degular person I would have been so pissed that the rich can get away with such a crime. How did Alex gain Marcus's trust again? The former literally threatened Marcus (and Cassandra by way).
Some last thoughts...I like when books are therapy-positive, except it was so excessive here. I thought I was watching a BetterHelp ad for a podcast. Also, eh I didn't like how the author basically dropped Cassandra's roommate after the six-month mark...I would have liked to see them interact again :(
“You should never beg anyone, Cassie. I should be begging you.”
There's a scene that reminded me of Priceless by Miranda Silver and oh my god, yeah.
Cass, my girl. She was hilarious and gave no fuuuuucksss! Nothing fazed her at least outwardly. Marcus never faulted her for her sexual endeavors or appetite, what a man?
I am surprised that Marcus and Alex made peace. The drama played out like The Social Network. For how much the two guy's personal and working relationship imploded, I would have liked to see more of the fallout of Libra and what happened afterwards. We were slammed with so much corporate jargon and the plot just kind of fell off for our love birds. How did Alex avoid jail time? As a consumer and regular-degular person I would have been so pissed that the rich can get away with such a crime. How did Alex gain Marcus's trust again? The former literally threatened Marcus (and Cassandra by way).
I wasn’t messing with him either; there was a framed printout of the invoice that my father sent me for the three months I spent in law school. It was mounted in a sleek gold frame I bought at Michael’s, and I ran a Windex wipe over the glass every time I cleaned the bathroom.
Some last thoughts...I like when books are therapy-positive, except it was so excessive here. I thought I was watching a BetterHelp ad for a podcast. Also, eh I didn't like how the author basically dropped Cassandra's roommate after the six-month mark...I would have liked to see them interact again :(
April 25, 2026
4.5
This was a surprise.🤩
I feel like if you take the description of the plot at its bare bones, it doesn’t represent the truly great book you’re getting. It sounds boring, and I can honestly say I did not get bored. (Trust me when I say I bore easily.)
They start out as enemies, and I fucking FELT THAT HATE. I actually did not feel any chemistry or sexual tension between Cassie and Marcus for over a hundred pages, and I was wondering wtf was happening. HOWEVER, meanwhile - I was weirdly interested in the finance technology business corporate shit happening so I just kept reading. I am financially retarded and need business explained to me like I’m a child, so this is a true miracle. Anyway, I could see who the snake in the story was going to be right from the beginning, so I was bracing myself for the blowout, but when it all came out HOLY FUCKING SHIT it was so much worse than I thought. 👀
I love Marcus. He is SUCH A NERD- it’s adorable. Shy and awkwardly grumpy. My fave nerd books are the ones where young nerds stay nerds into their adulthood. Usually an author will take a former high school or college nerd and transform him into a sort of anti-nerd adult. Successful and hot, smoking bod, suddenly full of confidence and a social superstar. You can see no trace of the nerdiness, and I find it unbelievable.
I really liked how you can see the hatred turn into attraction, lust and friendship right on page. It doesn’t just suddenly flip for no good reason.
Cassie is a way more complicated and interesting character than she first appears. I ended up loving her and Marcus together. They’re hilarious.
This was a surprise.🤩
I feel like if you take the description of the plot at its bare bones, it doesn’t represent the truly great book you’re getting. It sounds boring, and I can honestly say I did not get bored. (Trust me when I say I bore easily.)
They start out as enemies, and I fucking FELT THAT HATE. I actually did not feel any chemistry or sexual tension between Cassie and Marcus for over a hundred pages, and I was wondering wtf was happening. HOWEVER, meanwhile - I was weirdly interested in the finance technology business corporate shit happening so I just kept reading. I am financially retarded and need business explained to me like I’m a child, so this is a true miracle. Anyway, I could see who the snake in the story was going to be right from the beginning, so I was bracing myself for the blowout, but when it all came out HOLY FUCKING SHIT it was so much worse than I thought. 👀
I love Marcus. He is SUCH A NERD- it’s adorable. Shy and awkwardly grumpy. My fave nerd books are the ones where young nerds stay nerds into their adulthood. Usually an author will take a former high school or college nerd and transform him into a sort of anti-nerd adult. Successful and hot, smoking bod, suddenly full of confidence and a social superstar. You can see no trace of the nerdiness, and I find it unbelievable.
I really liked how you can see the hatred turn into attraction, lust and friendship right on page. It doesn’t just suddenly flip for no good reason.
Cassie is a way more complicated and interesting character than she first appears. I ended up loving her and Marcus together. They’re hilarious.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2024
This book took me on a ride, fr.
I picked it up because I both needed a book for an enemies to lovers prompt for my romance trope reading challenge, and I absolutely adore Rebecca Kinkade.
I felt all the emotions on this one, so let's get into it.
We have Marcus, a rich college dropout who is COO for a fintech company he started with his best friend (CEO).
We have Cass, a genius analyst who gets sent to Marcus's company to facilitate a due diligence process for a ginormous buyout.
UNFORTUNATELY FOR THEM. Marcus and Cass had a very hurtful clash back in college and they are now mortal enemies.
I didn't know how I felt about these characters at first. They didn't feel very likeable and what I later came to realize was that it was because I was looking at Marcus through Cass's eyes and Cass through Marcus's eyes and they didn't much like each other.
What I thought was cool was that as the relationship progressed and as we got to dig a little deeper, my affection for them grew just as they grew affectionate of each other.
The banter in this book was hilarious, so it wasn't all serious all the time, but there was definitely some feels in here too. RK knows, since I screamed in her DMs a few times 💀
What you get:
Cat Lady but make it MMC
How to hold a grudge 101
Who can be more petty: an Olympic sport
Top tier frenemy banter
Finding what matters
Geek in the streets, freak in the sheets
Smarty pants FMC
Pierced nips (hers or his? I'm not telling.)
I picked it up because I both needed a book for an enemies to lovers prompt for my romance trope reading challenge, and I absolutely adore Rebecca Kinkade.
I felt all the emotions on this one, so let's get into it.
We have Marcus, a rich college dropout who is COO for a fintech company he started with his best friend (CEO).
We have Cass, a genius analyst who gets sent to Marcus's company to facilitate a due diligence process for a ginormous buyout.
UNFORTUNATELY FOR THEM. Marcus and Cass had a very hurtful clash back in college and they are now mortal enemies.
I didn't know how I felt about these characters at first. They didn't feel very likeable and what I later came to realize was that it was because I was looking at Marcus through Cass's eyes and Cass through Marcus's eyes and they didn't much like each other.
What I thought was cool was that as the relationship progressed and as we got to dig a little deeper, my affection for them grew just as they grew affectionate of each other.
The banter in this book was hilarious, so it wasn't all serious all the time, but there was definitely some feels in here too. RK knows, since I screamed in her DMs a few times 💀
What you get:
Cat Lady but make it MMC
How to hold a grudge 101
Who can be more petty: an Olympic sport
Top tier frenemy banter
Finding what matters
Geek in the streets, freak in the sheets
Smarty pants FMC
Pierced nips (hers or his? I'm not telling.)
January 14, 2025
Oh I was absolutely hooked straight away!
We love a man who goes to therapy, especially when he’s Marcus Fitz!! The mouth on this man and the audacity of the check he gave Cassie🤣
Honestly though, he is just the absolute sweets and just wants to be telling Cassie how he feels about her.
Cassie is such a strong FMC, I adore that shes just unapologetically herself and does what she wants when she wants.
I was obsessed with the arguments and tension between these two at the start, it was so fun to read
I really liked the fact that after Cassie says she doesn’t want a relationship it really doesnt take long for her to realise she’s wrong and tell Marcus how she feels, sometimes in books it drags on so much but this was just sorted straight away!!
Also great that there wasnt a third act breakup because there really didnt need to be one.
“There wasn’t much darkness in my world now that Marcus was a part of it”😭
Marcus and Cassie are so sweet together and I loved them
I knew that Alex was going to be an issue and i appreciated the fact that Marcus called him out, they had their issues but they took their time and found their way back to their friendship. This felt very realistic and i’m glad it was shown like this
Also… CORINNE CAMEOS!!
Can’t wait to read more of Rebeccas books🤩
We love a man who goes to therapy, especially when he’s Marcus Fitz!! The mouth on this man and the audacity of the check he gave Cassie🤣
Honestly though, he is just the absolute sweets and just wants to be telling Cassie how he feels about her.
Cassie is such a strong FMC, I adore that shes just unapologetically herself and does what she wants when she wants.
I was obsessed with the arguments and tension between these two at the start, it was so fun to read
I really liked the fact that after Cassie says she doesn’t want a relationship it really doesnt take long for her to realise she’s wrong and tell Marcus how she feels, sometimes in books it drags on so much but this was just sorted straight away!!
Also great that there wasnt a third act breakup because there really didnt need to be one.
“There wasn’t much darkness in my world now that Marcus was a part of it”😭
Marcus and Cassie are so sweet together and I loved them
I knew that Alex was going to be an issue and i appreciated the fact that Marcus called him out, they had their issues but they took their time and found their way back to their friendship. This felt very realistic and i’m glad it was shown like this
Also… CORINNE CAMEOS!!
Can’t wait to read more of Rebeccas books🤩
February 22, 2025
Oh sweet sensitive Marcus. He's soooo swoony and the best part is he doesn't even realise. He's a little awkward, shy and insecure but damn!!!! That man knows how to reduce you to a puddle in seconds! The dirty talk! I'm surprised I didn't spontaneously combust 🔥
I expected an absolute alphahole but Marcus surprised me and I fell for him hard! He is Marcus F**king Fitz but I'm pretty sure my reasons for hyping up this name are different 😏
Cass is a goddess! A force to be reckoned with a brilliant mind and the sass to go with it. I can honestly tell you I've never thought about piercing my nipples as much until Cass.
Rebecca you've done it again! Your writing is flawless and your characters phenomenal! Cass and Marcus are delicious. They have that enemies to lovers push and pull and it was executed perfectly. They are two emotionally damaged souls that magnetise together after all these years. The chemistry was also off the charts and as always when the spice hit I knew I was in for a good time.
I adore Rebecca's work place romances and Cass and Marcus are two highly intelligent people at times I felt like a needed to watch from the corner wearing a dunce cap of shame 😅. I always feel slightly educated after I've finished one of her books. That and horny, always horny!
Enough said.. perfection as always 💕
I expected an absolute alphahole but Marcus surprised me and I fell for him hard! He is Marcus F**king Fitz but I'm pretty sure my reasons for hyping up this name are different 😏
Cass is a goddess! A force to be reckoned with a brilliant mind and the sass to go with it. I can honestly tell you I've never thought about piercing my nipples as much until Cass.
Rebecca you've done it again! Your writing is flawless and your characters phenomenal! Cass and Marcus are delicious. They have that enemies to lovers push and pull and it was executed perfectly. They are two emotionally damaged souls that magnetise together after all these years. The chemistry was also off the charts and as always when the spice hit I knew I was in for a good time.
I adore Rebecca's work place romances and Cass and Marcus are two highly intelligent people at times I felt like a needed to watch from the corner wearing a dunce cap of shame 😅. I always feel slightly educated after I've finished one of her books. That and horny, always horny!
Enough said.. perfection as always 💕
March 7, 2025
It took me 2 full days to wrap my brain around the fact that this book was over. I am obsessed!
When Cass used sass and math to outwit Marcus at just 7% in I was in love! She is absolutly one of my all time favorite FMCs. I am a numbers and spreadsheet girly so I instantly knew we would be besties!
When she said, “So, that’s a lot of numbers, but luckily I’m good at keeping track of these kinds of things. And it seems like I wasted twenty-three minutes of your time, so I went out of my way to give you back twenty-three minutes. And from an accounting perspective, I believe that means we’re square. What do you think, Marcus?” I knew she was going to make this book. Everyone talks about Marcus Fucking Fitz but for me it was Cass and this quote lives rent free in my head. I can't get enough.
I also appreciate that mental health was a topic in this book. A lot of focus was put on putting your mental health first and being okay to ask for help.
I absolutely loved the banter, arguments, awkwardness, and heat between Marcus and Cass. They were so fun to read! They absolutely kept me on my toes.
And don't even get me started on Alex. IYKYK....
Another masterpiece from Rebecca Kinkade just like I knew it would be!
When Cass used sass and math to outwit Marcus at just 7% in I was in love! She is absolutly one of my all time favorite FMCs. I am a numbers and spreadsheet girly so I instantly knew we would be besties!
When she said, “So, that’s a lot of numbers, but luckily I’m good at keeping track of these kinds of things. And it seems like I wasted twenty-three minutes of your time, so I went out of my way to give you back twenty-three minutes. And from an accounting perspective, I believe that means we’re square. What do you think, Marcus?” I knew she was going to make this book. Everyone talks about Marcus Fucking Fitz but for me it was Cass and this quote lives rent free in my head. I can't get enough.
I also appreciate that mental health was a topic in this book. A lot of focus was put on putting your mental health first and being okay to ask for help.
I absolutely loved the banter, arguments, awkwardness, and heat between Marcus and Cass. They were so fun to read! They absolutely kept me on my toes.
And don't even get me started on Alex. IYKYK....
Another masterpiece from Rebecca Kinkade just like I knew it would be!
December 29, 2025
Marcus. Fucking. Fitz. I’m presently rewatching Suits and this hit a lot of similar elements, but better.
I really wished I’d read this first before the cam girl series. I really love Kinkade’s newer works. I think they’re clever and funny as hell. Molten lava sexy too. That’s all here, and frankly delightful. But my expectations were set unreasonably high by her later work and here we are crying because Marcus is my new favorite, but I didn’t ugly cry or nearly pee myself laughing.
Marcus and Cass shine because they’re clever and funny, sometimes checked out, but managing to hold tight to their souls in a high stakes world doing its best to crush all empathy. I adore how Kinkade manages to make characters that are simultaneously kind and generally good while also being morally… corporate... I might roll my eyes at them, but they are inherently likeable. Even the obnoxious rich boys. Sadly, I saw the scandal coming and my irrational pet peeve is being smarter than a genius MC. But everything else about Cass hit home pretty hard and Marcus is sweet, neurotic, filthy Marcus, so I’m very pleased with myself for making this my little holiday present to myself for winter break.
I really wished I’d read this first before the cam girl series. I really love Kinkade’s newer works. I think they’re clever and funny as hell. Molten lava sexy too. That’s all here, and frankly delightful. But my expectations were set unreasonably high by her later work and here we are crying because Marcus is my new favorite, but I didn’t ugly cry or nearly pee myself laughing.
Marcus and Cass shine because they’re clever and funny, sometimes checked out, but managing to hold tight to their souls in a high stakes world doing its best to crush all empathy. I adore how Kinkade manages to make characters that are simultaneously kind and generally good while also being morally… corporate... I might roll my eyes at them, but they are inherently likeable. Even the obnoxious rich boys. Sadly, I saw the scandal coming and my irrational pet peeve is being smarter than a genius MC. But everything else about Cass hit home pretty hard and Marcus is sweet, neurotic, filthy Marcus, so I’m very pleased with myself for making this my little holiday present to myself for winter break.
February 21, 2025
What can I say? Marcus F*cking Fitz is THE man!
Rebecca can write!! Obviously I’ve known this LC as I’ve read a few of her other amazing books, but OMG this book gives enemies to lovers personified! You can feel the anger radiating off these characters and without giving too much away to those who’ve not read this book yet (I mean what are you waiting for?!) I love how evil they were to one another, I loved the back and forth quick, snappy replies.
Then Rebecca gives us Marcus in the club, and WOW, hot, sexy, dominating and caring.
I loved the depth of the characters, their back story, how they met, how far they’ve come in 10 years and how they developed in the short time of the book, because of this you can see how far they can go in their future.
I love learning about Due Diligence, this is not a term I was familiar with, so I found it very interesting part of the plot.
What a great read!!
Rebecca can write!! Obviously I’ve known this LC as I’ve read a few of her other amazing books, but OMG this book gives enemies to lovers personified! You can feel the anger radiating off these characters and without giving too much away to those who’ve not read this book yet (I mean what are you waiting for?!) I love how evil they were to one another, I loved the back and forth quick, snappy replies.
Then Rebecca gives us Marcus in the club, and WOW, hot, sexy, dominating and caring.
I loved the depth of the characters, their back story, how they met, how far they’ve come in 10 years and how they developed in the short time of the book, because of this you can see how far they can go in their future.
I love learning about Due Diligence, this is not a term I was familiar with, so I found it very interesting part of the plot.
What a great read!!
March 7, 2022
Read for the B.A.N.G. Book Club 2022 Challenge - Standalone category
Enjoyable enemies to lovers second chance office romance. I particularly enjoyed Marcus who is a sweet, shy, nerd who happens to have a very dirty way with words. The banter between Cass and Marcus was fun. Cass is also pretty cool, although I was concerned that someone with her intelligence, in a high sensitive role relating to mergers and acquisitions, would not once but twice disclose the identity of the company she was auditing - once to a random pickup and once to her ex. It wasn’t a plot point, nothing ever happened as a result, but it sticks in my mind as an anomaly that made her character less believable. Even as the rule breaker she is, I don’t think she would have abandoned ethics so carelessly, especially as confidentiality turned out to be a big plot point for other reasons.
Enjoyable enemies to lovers second chance office romance. I particularly enjoyed Marcus who is a sweet, shy, nerd who happens to have a very dirty way with words. The banter between Cass and Marcus was fun. Cass is also pretty cool, although I was concerned that someone with her intelligence, in a high sensitive role relating to mergers and acquisitions, would not once but twice disclose the identity of the company she was auditing - once to a random pickup and once to her ex. It wasn’t a plot point, nothing ever happened as a result, but it sticks in my mind as an anomaly that made her character less believable. Even as the rule breaker she is, I don’t think she would have abandoned ethics so carelessly, especially as confidentiality turned out to be a big plot point for other reasons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2025
5/5 ⭐️ 4/5🌶️
This is the fourth book by Rebecca Kinkade that I have read, and she continues to be top of my list of favorite authors. If you haven’t read any of her books YOU ARE MISSING OUT. I don’t know how to put it more plainly than that. Go read one. Go. NOW.
Due Diligence is the story of Marcus and Cass who met briefly in college and then end up working together ten years later. It’s a true enemies (but were they really?) to lovers situation with all the feels and top notch banter.
The BANTER between these two…it’s hot, it’s funny, and it’s definitely a staple in Rebecca Kinkade’s books. She does it so well! Plus, who doesn’t love a feisty, smart FMC and a competent, golden retriever MMC? I love how Rebecca always makes her FMCs strong, capable women, and the MMCs can’t get enough and worship them for it.
One million stars - go read this now!
This is the fourth book by Rebecca Kinkade that I have read, and she continues to be top of my list of favorite authors. If you haven’t read any of her books YOU ARE MISSING OUT. I don’t know how to put it more plainly than that. Go read one. Go. NOW.
Due Diligence is the story of Marcus and Cass who met briefly in college and then end up working together ten years later. It’s a true enemies (but were they really?) to lovers situation with all the feels and top notch banter.
The BANTER between these two…it’s hot, it’s funny, and it’s definitely a staple in Rebecca Kinkade’s books. She does it so well! Plus, who doesn’t love a feisty, smart FMC and a competent, golden retriever MMC? I love how Rebecca always makes her FMCs strong, capable women, and the MMCs can’t get enough and worship them for it.
One million stars - go read this now!
February 26, 2025
Marcus FING Fitz. Evolved. Therapy going. Pet owner. COO. Sex God. Has there ever been a book boyfriend ever been more perfect than this man? Cause … holy hell.
Cass - you perfectly, imperfect messy, brilliant woman. She’s top 5 book girlfriend material too. lord have mercy.
The chemistry between these two is immediate and cataclysmic. Who knew due diligence on a business sale could be so damn hot?
From their history at Princeton to the fishbowl at Libra these two banter like it’s their ONLY job and remind me that competency is sexier than just about anything.
Like all of Rebecca Kinkaides books - come for the spice, stay for the banter and heart! Another 5 star read from one of my favorite authors.
Cass - you perfectly, imperfect messy, brilliant woman. She’s top 5 book girlfriend material too. lord have mercy.
The chemistry between these two is immediate and cataclysmic. Who knew due diligence on a business sale could be so damn hot?
From their history at Princeton to the fishbowl at Libra these two banter like it’s their ONLY job and remind me that competency is sexier than just about anything.
Like all of Rebecca Kinkaides books - come for the spice, stay for the banter and heart! Another 5 star read from one of my favorite authors.
March 9, 2026
Who knew due diligence could be so steamy!
I've been hearing so much about Marcus f*ing Fitz reading Rebecca's books and actually meeting him in this story did not disappoint! It definitely it always the quiet ones...
My favorite part about his story was definitely how open and honest he was about his mental health and how he wanted to communicate the things he was feeling, taking those resets when needed, and not shying away from who he really was.
Cass was a ton of fun and I loved how she had this other side to her when her corporate hat was off! I definitely had a little girl crush on her throughout the story.
Overall, I enjoyed the storyline and characters. I liked the way the author built up the conflicts in the book and worked to find closure and resolutions.
I've been hearing so much about Marcus f*ing Fitz reading Rebecca's books and actually meeting him in this story did not disappoint! It definitely it always the quiet ones...
My favorite part about his story was definitely how open and honest he was about his mental health and how he wanted to communicate the things he was feeling, taking those resets when needed, and not shying away from who he really was.
Cass was a ton of fun and I loved how she had this other side to her when her corporate hat was off! I definitely had a little girl crush on her throughout the story.
Overall, I enjoyed the storyline and characters. I liked the way the author built up the conflicts in the book and worked to find closure and resolutions.
July 16, 2024
📕Buddy Read Review📕
Cass works due diligence at Marcus’ business but they knew each other at college. Cass gave him some home truths then, which caused a rift. Fast forward to now, and he cannot stand the sight of her…until he can’t stand not being balls deep 😂😂
What Paris said:
This book was nothing short of incredible. Competence kink is a new concept to me (first introduced by Streams and Schemes), and Queen Rebecca delivered an absolute masterclass in it.
I absolutely loved Cass. I loved that she's a bit fucked up, with a lot of emotional baggage. She's a cacophony of unhealthy coping mechanisms, rebellions, and emptiness. She was raw and real and I found myself desperately wanting something good and meaningful for her.
Marcus Fucking Fitz is, quite possibly, the best book boyfriend of all time. He hits that competence kink, he's quiet and a bit of a nerd, but my god the mouth on this man. Oftentimes I find myself disappointed that the edging/ degradation hasn't gone far enough until we're offered the "good girl" instead. Not Rebecca, though. She pushed it to the absolute limit and it is one of the hottest things I've ever read. Every single spicy scene was a 10/10.
The chemistry and banter between the characters was phenomenal, and the shared history between them added layers of tension that pulled so tight right up until they snapped.
The plot was intriguing, and tapped into themes of forgiveness and growth really beautifully.
What I think:
Rebecca knows how to create outstanding characters, especially one starting with Marcus and ending in Fitz (and there’s a ‘fcuking’ in the middle). I honestly was obsessed with this book. It’s not just the spice I love but the emotions she captured and the reality that sometimes women aren’t all business. I quickly moved on to her other book, and I’m even more obsessed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Cass works due diligence at Marcus’ business but they knew each other at college. Cass gave him some home truths then, which caused a rift. Fast forward to now, and he cannot stand the sight of her…until he can’t stand not being balls deep 😂😂
What Paris said:
This book was nothing short of incredible. Competence kink is a new concept to me (first introduced by Streams and Schemes), and Queen Rebecca delivered an absolute masterclass in it.
I absolutely loved Cass. I loved that she's a bit fucked up, with a lot of emotional baggage. She's a cacophony of unhealthy coping mechanisms, rebellions, and emptiness. She was raw and real and I found myself desperately wanting something good and meaningful for her.
Marcus Fucking Fitz is, quite possibly, the best book boyfriend of all time. He hits that competence kink, he's quiet and a bit of a nerd, but my god the mouth on this man. Oftentimes I find myself disappointed that the edging/ degradation hasn't gone far enough until we're offered the "good girl" instead. Not Rebecca, though. She pushed it to the absolute limit and it is one of the hottest things I've ever read. Every single spicy scene was a 10/10.
The chemistry and banter between the characters was phenomenal, and the shared history between them added layers of tension that pulled so tight right up until they snapped.
The plot was intriguing, and tapped into themes of forgiveness and growth really beautifully.
What I think:
Rebecca knows how to create outstanding characters, especially one starting with Marcus and ending in Fitz (and there’s a ‘fcuking’ in the middle). I honestly was obsessed with this book. It’s not just the spice I love but the emotions she captured and the reality that sometimes women aren’t all business. I quickly moved on to her other book, and I’m even more obsessed.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
October 25, 2021
Good
I liked this book. It was good & decent. However, it just seemed kinda boring. Not one you're likely to remember or want to back & read again. I wish there was more background on what had happened between them in college. I mean he held a grudge over it & it just seemed like one day he decided to move in from it. Now either it wasn't that bad & he just overreacted or she was just a stuck up b*tch. So it was a good book & maybe if you're into tech savvy technology stuff, I would recommend this book to you.
I liked this book. It was good & decent. However, it just seemed kinda boring. Not one you're likely to remember or want to back & read again. I wish there was more background on what had happened between them in college. I mean he held a grudge over it & it just seemed like one day he decided to move in from it. Now either it wasn't that bad & he just overreacted or she was just a stuck up b*tch. So it was a good book & maybe if you're into tech savvy technology stuff, I would recommend this book to you.
July 13, 2024
Wow, I was completely obsessed with this book. Marcus F**king Fitz 🔥
There were so many things I loved about this book, the banter, the spice, but I loved the honesty between the characters the most. So many books have characters hiding the conflict from one another & it predictably blows up in their face. I loved how instead they were on the same team & handled the problem together.
Tropes
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤Off limits/office setting
🖤 Lady in the streets smutty in the sheets
🖤 light degragration
🖤 Dirty mouth MMC
🖤 Banter
🖤 He falls first
There were so many things I loved about this book, the banter, the spice, but I loved the honesty between the characters the most. So many books have characters hiding the conflict from one another & it predictably blows up in their face. I loved how instead they were on the same team & handled the problem together.
Tropes
🖤 Enemies to lovers
🖤Off limits/office setting
🖤 Lady in the streets smutty in the sheets
🖤 light degragration
🖤 Dirty mouth MMC
🖤 Banter
🖤 He falls first
February 3, 2025
wow!
So fucking good! I’ve read all but one of this author’s books. I’ve loved them all but this has been my favorite. While the romance and hot scenes are awesome I really love how she presented mental health, or lack thereof, in such a matter of fact healthy fashion. It wasn’t maudlin or obsessively sad which is how mental health issues and the people with those conditions are often treated. It was more, “this is what it is, this is how you can get help and this is how you thrive despite it. Thank you, Rebecca Kinkade. It was inspiring.
So fucking good! I’ve read all but one of this author’s books. I’ve loved them all but this has been my favorite. While the romance and hot scenes are awesome I really love how she presented mental health, or lack thereof, in such a matter of fact healthy fashion. It wasn’t maudlin or obsessively sad which is how mental health issues and the people with those conditions are often treated. It was more, “this is what it is, this is how you can get help and this is how you thrive despite it. Thank you, Rebecca Kinkade. It was inspiring.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews