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Grumpy #3
Grumpy Best Friend
I’ll sacrifice everything for a second chance.
When I was young and stupid, I broke Jude’s heart. I had to escape my drunk, abusive father, but leaving her behind was the biggest mistake of my life.
Now I have another shot at making things right. Jude’s new boss wants to build a factory outside of Philadelphia, and she brings me in to help.
I’m thrust back into Jude’s world, and not much has changed.
She’s still beautiful, still hilarious, and still hates my guts.
Little by little, she’ll remember why we fell in love back in high school. I’ll make her pout, then make her laugh— then make her strip down and kiss me.
And soon I’ll have her back, all grown up and perfect.
Or else I'll lose the empire I built with my own calloused hands.
Another hot grumpy man! Watch Lady Fluke’s assistant Jude find her happily-ever-after with Bret while they both face their broken pasts and grow together. It’s steamy and fun and I think you’ll fall in love with protective, growly Bret just like I did. As always, Grumpy Best Friend is a full length standalone novel with no cheating, no cliffhanger, and a happily-ever-after guaranteed. Enjoy! XO BB
When I was young and stupid, I broke Jude’s heart. I had to escape my drunk, abusive father, but leaving her behind was the biggest mistake of my life.
Now I have another shot at making things right. Jude’s new boss wants to build a factory outside of Philadelphia, and she brings me in to help.
I’m thrust back into Jude’s world, and not much has changed.
She’s still beautiful, still hilarious, and still hates my guts.
Little by little, she’ll remember why we fell in love back in high school. I’ll make her pout, then make her laugh— then make her strip down and kiss me.
And soon I’ll have her back, all grown up and perfect.
Or else I'll lose the empire I built with my own calloused hands.
Another hot grumpy man! Watch Lady Fluke’s assistant Jude find her happily-ever-after with Bret while they both face their broken pasts and grow together. It’s steamy and fun and I think you’ll fall in love with protective, growly Bret just like I did. As always, Grumpy Best Friend is a full length standalone novel with no cheating, no cliffhanger, and a happily-ever-after guaranteed. Enjoy! XO BB
- GenresSecond Chance Romance
182 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 7, 2021
167 people are currently reading
97 people want to read
About the author
B.B. Hamel
200 books2,525 followersI'm a long time reader, writer, and lover of Romance! Writing is my dream and my passion, and I want to share my stories with you.
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
I live in the Philadelphia area with my husband and two dogs.
Website: http://www.bbhamel.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bbhamelwriter
Check out my mailing list for updates, giveaways, and more! http://bbhamel.com/signup
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 10, 2021
This was a very enjoyable second chance romance. My heart just ached for these two. I found Bret and Jude easy to root for and I really liked them. The story kept me engaged and entertained with lots of rich emotions, drama and intrigue. This is my volitional, forthright review.
April 28, 2021
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a cute story, although it wasn't a Second Chance like I'm used to reading I still really enjoyed this take on it!! The characters are gripping and their relationship really blossoms and comes together splendidly. There was a few rocky parts and would've liked some more details or suspense throughout but enjoyable all the same 😍 4 🌟
This was such a cute story, although it wasn't a Second Chance like I'm used to reading I still really enjoyed this take on it!! The characters are gripping and their relationship really blossoms and comes together splendidly. There was a few rocky parts and would've liked some more details or suspense throughout but enjoyable all the same 😍 4 🌟
April 10, 2021
Bret & Jude’s Story Is A Slow Burn About A British Biscuit Company With A Mafia Twist! Bret Shredded Jude’s Heart When He Left Home Without Her, Breaking Their Pact To Escape Their Broken Lives Together. Ten Years Later They Are Working Together To Open Up Fluke Biscuit’s American Operations, And She Isn’t Ready To Forgive Him.
Judith Pike, twenty-six, both loves and hates her job. She works for the prim and proper Lady Fluke, who runs a famed British biscuit company. The Fluke Biscuit Company makes a bland cookie that the British adore. The American office is basically Judith’s apartment, from which she works. She has spent three years working for her fickle and unpredictable boss. She is Lady Fluke’s American assistant, responsible for everything related to her boss’s American visits. In between trips Fluke assigns her odd jobs, such as research, that are more busy work than anything else. The visits have been less frequent over time, so Jude wonders about her job security.
When she gets called out of the blue to meet up with her boss, she can only expect the worst. Jude sometimes gets stuck on things, allowing them to occupy her attention and to rob her of too much of her time. It was a behavior that she learned from her mother, who had become stuck on her own dependencies. First alcohol and later pills became her obsession. Jude had become the object of her mother’s anger after her father overdosed when she was three. Later her mother turned to pills but instead of anger, Jude was largely left to her own devices. She had essentially raised herself.
She had fallen for her best friend when she was ten, who understood her brokenness. Together they commiserated and dreamed about a better future. He had made a promise that they would leave their broken homes behind together and make a better life for themselves, but instead he left her behind and broke her heart. She had been sixteen then. With his abandonment, she had nobody to turn to so she had only herself to rely upon. She made it through Drexel University, and it didn’t take long before she lucked upon being offered a job working for Lady Fluke. Ten years have passed since her best friend left. Jude has made a point of avoiding anything to do with him on social media over the years, unable to let go of her anger.
Bret Flowers, about twenty-eight, had set out to make something of himself and succeeded beyond his dreams. He left his alcoholic father behind ten years ago, escaping across the country from Levittown, a suburb of Baltimore, to the West Coast where he attended UC Berkeley. It was there that he met Neal Bull, a senior at the time. Together they started Flowers Construction, Incorporated, which was launched even before Bret finished school. With a little luck followed by some hard work, together they had built an international success story. Their talents and personalities complement one another, and they have an excellent working relationship. Neal works best behind the scenes managing numbers, while Bret works well as the face of the company, focusing more on marketing, sales, and operations. Their offices are in Baltimore, but their jobs take them across the globe. They build and refurbish old factories, and bringing jobs back to the US is particularly satisfying.
Bret had first met Lady Fluke several years ago when he had done some work for her, and the job he is about to begin has him excited for more reasons the usual. She had accepted an investment from him, something he hopes will ensure the project goes forward. Lady Fluke is notoriously flakey and prone to changing her mind. Bret is fully aware that his former best friend works for Lady Flake, and that Lady Flake plans on offering her a big promotion. With the title of Chief Consultant, Bret will be working hand in hand with Jude after so many years apart. He has always regretted how he handled things in his youth, but never knew how to fix things. A working relationship just might be the perfect opportunity to wiggle himself back into her life.
When Jude unexpectedly comes face to face Bret, she struggles to maintain her composure. She had been given no warning about him or her new job, and she seriously doubts that they can work together. They have a rather rocky start, but things really get complicated with Zeke Kettner’s appearance. Lady Fluke’s ex claims to hold the American patents to the famous biscuit recipe, and he has every intention of cashing in on the new venture. The man appears a little shady, and Lady Fluke herself confirms his ties to the Czech mafia. Their boss wants to avoid a media scandal at all costs, so she instructs them not to involve the police but rather to handle matters on their own. As Zeke’s demands threaten their ability to launch the business, Bret and Jude must work together if they have any hope of success. The couple eventually earns a happy ending.
Bret and Jude’s story is complex. It is a friends to lovers story, but it is also a second chance romance, even if not technically true. They were young when Bret left, and though they secretly had feelings for one another, they hadn’t yet crossed that line. It is also an enemies to lovers story, as Jude makes no qualms about her resentment and anger towards Bret. There is a bit of mafia thrown into the mix as well. The story is rather serious in tone, though the cover and title might give the impression that it is light and humorous. The only exception is Lady Fluke herself and the bland cookie that is such a hit in England.
Bret and Jude’s focus is largely upon opening Fluke Biscuit’s American offices in this story. Their past differences take a backseat most of the time, which builds the tension in this slow burn. Circumstances do finally bring the couple together, but it would have been nice to have seen a more meaningful discussion about the past. It is touched upon to be fair, but given how much they both suffered, it would have been nice if they went into more detail. It also would have been nice to have more of Neal in the story, particularly towards the end. It would have helped to bring the story full circle. Lady Fluke is an intriguing character and extremely unpredictably in some ways, while draped in tradition in other ways. Her character is very entertaining. It would have been great to see more of her towards the end as well.
Bret and Jude’s story is a slow burn about a British biscuit company with a mafia twist. Bret shredded Jude’s heart when he left home without her, breaking their pact to escape their broken lives together. Ten years later they are working together to open up Fluke Biscuit’s American operations, and she isn’t ready to forgive him. The story is nicely written. It is serious in tone. The story is plot driven. It is written in first person. The POV alternates between Bret and Jude. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Judith Pike, twenty-six, both loves and hates her job. She works for the prim and proper Lady Fluke, who runs a famed British biscuit company. The Fluke Biscuit Company makes a bland cookie that the British adore. The American office is basically Judith’s apartment, from which she works. She has spent three years working for her fickle and unpredictable boss. She is Lady Fluke’s American assistant, responsible for everything related to her boss’s American visits. In between trips Fluke assigns her odd jobs, such as research, that are more busy work than anything else. The visits have been less frequent over time, so Jude wonders about her job security.
When she gets called out of the blue to meet up with her boss, she can only expect the worst. Jude sometimes gets stuck on things, allowing them to occupy her attention and to rob her of too much of her time. It was a behavior that she learned from her mother, who had become stuck on her own dependencies. First alcohol and later pills became her obsession. Jude had become the object of her mother’s anger after her father overdosed when she was three. Later her mother turned to pills but instead of anger, Jude was largely left to her own devices. She had essentially raised herself.
She had fallen for her best friend when she was ten, who understood her brokenness. Together they commiserated and dreamed about a better future. He had made a promise that they would leave their broken homes behind together and make a better life for themselves, but instead he left her behind and broke her heart. She had been sixteen then. With his abandonment, she had nobody to turn to so she had only herself to rely upon. She made it through Drexel University, and it didn’t take long before she lucked upon being offered a job working for Lady Fluke. Ten years have passed since her best friend left. Jude has made a point of avoiding anything to do with him on social media over the years, unable to let go of her anger.
Bret Flowers, about twenty-eight, had set out to make something of himself and succeeded beyond his dreams. He left his alcoholic father behind ten years ago, escaping across the country from Levittown, a suburb of Baltimore, to the West Coast where he attended UC Berkeley. It was there that he met Neal Bull, a senior at the time. Together they started Flowers Construction, Incorporated, which was launched even before Bret finished school. With a little luck followed by some hard work, together they had built an international success story. Their talents and personalities complement one another, and they have an excellent working relationship. Neal works best behind the scenes managing numbers, while Bret works well as the face of the company, focusing more on marketing, sales, and operations. Their offices are in Baltimore, but their jobs take them across the globe. They build and refurbish old factories, and bringing jobs back to the US is particularly satisfying.
Bret had first met Lady Fluke several years ago when he had done some work for her, and the job he is about to begin has him excited for more reasons the usual. She had accepted an investment from him, something he hopes will ensure the project goes forward. Lady Fluke is notoriously flakey and prone to changing her mind. Bret is fully aware that his former best friend works for Lady Flake, and that Lady Flake plans on offering her a big promotion. With the title of Chief Consultant, Bret will be working hand in hand with Jude after so many years apart. He has always regretted how he handled things in his youth, but never knew how to fix things. A working relationship just might be the perfect opportunity to wiggle himself back into her life.
When Jude unexpectedly comes face to face Bret, she struggles to maintain her composure. She had been given no warning about him or her new job, and she seriously doubts that they can work together. They have a rather rocky start, but things really get complicated with Zeke Kettner’s appearance. Lady Fluke’s ex claims to hold the American patents to the famous biscuit recipe, and he has every intention of cashing in on the new venture. The man appears a little shady, and Lady Fluke herself confirms his ties to the Czech mafia. Their boss wants to avoid a media scandal at all costs, so she instructs them not to involve the police but rather to handle matters on their own. As Zeke’s demands threaten their ability to launch the business, Bret and Jude must work together if they have any hope of success. The couple eventually earns a happy ending.
Bret and Jude’s story is complex. It is a friends to lovers story, but it is also a second chance romance, even if not technically true. They were young when Bret left, and though they secretly had feelings for one another, they hadn’t yet crossed that line. It is also an enemies to lovers story, as Jude makes no qualms about her resentment and anger towards Bret. There is a bit of mafia thrown into the mix as well. The story is rather serious in tone, though the cover and title might give the impression that it is light and humorous. The only exception is Lady Fluke herself and the bland cookie that is such a hit in England.
Bret and Jude’s focus is largely upon opening Fluke Biscuit’s American offices in this story. Their past differences take a backseat most of the time, which builds the tension in this slow burn. Circumstances do finally bring the couple together, but it would have been nice to have seen a more meaningful discussion about the past. It is touched upon to be fair, but given how much they both suffered, it would have been nice if they went into more detail. It also would have been nice to have more of Neal in the story, particularly towards the end. It would have helped to bring the story full circle. Lady Fluke is an intriguing character and extremely unpredictably in some ways, while draped in tradition in other ways. Her character is very entertaining. It would have been great to see more of her towards the end as well.
Bret and Jude’s story is a slow burn about a British biscuit company with a mafia twist. Bret shredded Jude’s heart when he left home without her, breaking their pact to escape their broken lives together. Ten years later they are working together to open up Fluke Biscuit’s American operations, and she isn’t ready to forgive him. The story is nicely written. It is serious in tone. The story is plot driven. It is written in first person. The POV alternates between Bret and Jude. I rate this book four stars.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2021
This is a story about childhood friends, Jude and Bret who grew up in homes that were unhealthy and caused them pain over years of growing up. They make a promise to leave Levittown together and make a new life and when Bret leaves one night he ends up leaving Jude heartbroken and forced to move on alone. Jude and Bret were only ever friends and years later Bret has become a wealthy businessman and finds a way to get into business with Lady Fluke and her assistant in America is none other than Jude. At a meeting that Jude gets called to last minute she is meet with Bret and is surprised and blindsided by his appearance. The business deal is to produce the Fluke Biscuits from England. Jude had a mother who took pills and drank and Bret had a father who drank and was abusive towards him. Jude has a hard time getting over Bret leaving her so once these two spend time together to get the factory restored and running they have their ups and downs and figure out the past and how to live and work together. When Lady Flukes ex, Zeke demands a payout or he’ll end their ability to open the factory and when they do not pay him strange occurrences happen around them. Bret becomes Jude’s protector and along the way they allow their feelings for one another become more and they enjoy being together as a couple. These two figure out a way to deal with Zeke and open the factory to a grand opening a successful adventure. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
April 15, 2021
Grumpy Best Friend is the third book in the Grumpy series by BB Hamel. This book is a complete stand alone written in dual POV.
Jude and Bret were best friends growing up and dreaming of leaving their small town and terrible home lives behind them. Until Bret leaves Jude behind- breaking her heart and trust. Ten years later they are thrown together in a work opportunity that Jude can't turn down. Throw in some unresolved tensions, increasing threats from a mobster all while trying put together a factory and office for a British cookie company.
When I started this story, I was expecting Bret to the "grumpy" friend but I feel like Jude was really the grumpy one. She was hurt when get left her behind and basically forgot her in his past so she wanted to keep him at an arms length. Bret was sweet and obviously had his reasons for leaving but definitely used this opportunity to get close to Jude again. The story was engaging and had some interesting twists with the problems Bret and Jude faced. Though it was kind of frustrating for them to hold back getting help when they were threatened or had property destroyed all for the sake of not causing a scene or bad press.
Jude and Bret were best friends growing up and dreaming of leaving their small town and terrible home lives behind them. Until Bret leaves Jude behind- breaking her heart and trust. Ten years later they are thrown together in a work opportunity that Jude can't turn down. Throw in some unresolved tensions, increasing threats from a mobster all while trying put together a factory and office for a British cookie company.
When I started this story, I was expecting Bret to the "grumpy" friend but I feel like Jude was really the grumpy one. She was hurt when get left her behind and basically forgot her in his past so she wanted to keep him at an arms length. Bret was sweet and obviously had his reasons for leaving but definitely used this opportunity to get close to Jude again. The story was engaging and had some interesting twists with the problems Bret and Jude faced. Though it was kind of frustrating for them to hold back getting help when they were threatened or had property destroyed all for the sake of not causing a scene or bad press.
May 11, 2021
Inconsistent Characters
I did not finish this book due to the inconsistencies with the characters. Most disappointing was Jude and her contradictory behavior towards Bret. It’s not at all a realistic reunion especially given the betrayal of their agreement by Bret. There was also a template of the chart that I despise which rich, hot, and successful man not especially sorry for his behavior though the author tries she fails at establishing remorse by him and he comes off as douchey frat boy. Then we have the female lead, Jude who is in the deficit. No love, no money and not successful. The fact that the author thinks this character development is romantic is sad and is a perfect example of biases. The characters and storylines directly reflects who the author is, their belief systems, how they see the world, how they see gender, age, beauty, etc as a rubric for a person worth. It’s a terrible message and we as readers need to pushback and demand a new narrative.
Lastly, the introduction of a nefarious mobster storyline does not interest me at all so I stopped reading at page 85..
STEAM = 0
SEX SCENES = ?
DO NOT RECOMMEND
I did not finish this book due to the inconsistencies with the characters. Most disappointing was Jude and her contradictory behavior towards Bret. It’s not at all a realistic reunion especially given the betrayal of their agreement by Bret. There was also a template of the chart that I despise which rich, hot, and successful man not especially sorry for his behavior though the author tries she fails at establishing remorse by him and he comes off as douchey frat boy. Then we have the female lead, Jude who is in the deficit. No love, no money and not successful. The fact that the author thinks this character development is romantic is sad and is a perfect example of biases. The characters and storylines directly reflects who the author is, their belief systems, how they see the world, how they see gender, age, beauty, etc as a rubric for a person worth. It’s a terrible message and we as readers need to pushback and demand a new narrative.
Lastly, the introduction of a nefarious mobster storyline does not interest me at all so I stopped reading at page 85..
STEAM = 0
SEX SCENES = ?
DO NOT RECOMMEND
April 18, 2021
This is not so dark like other BB books, but is still thrilling, full of action and danger.
A true BB story, that keep you glued to it, with you half breating, waiting the finale.
It’s center on the relationship between ex teenage best friends (which have a silent crush on each others) that after 10 years of no relationships at all, are forced to work together.
How they can succed to start this business with all the struggles involved, when Jude can’t trust Brett and don’t trust herself around him?
And the external dangers pill up and threaten not only the business and their relationship, but also their lives.
I like Lady Fluke, but I also hate her a little!
Her refusal to call the police, for not smear her image make me insane!!!
And, like Jude, I wonder if Lady is her first name.
I received an ARC copy thru Bookfunnel and I left my honest voluntary review.
A true BB story, that keep you glued to it, with you half breating, waiting the finale.
It’s center on the relationship between ex teenage best friends (which have a silent crush on each others) that after 10 years of no relationships at all, are forced to work together.
How they can succed to start this business with all the struggles involved, when Jude can’t trust Brett and don’t trust herself around him?
And the external dangers pill up and threaten not only the business and their relationship, but also their lives.
I like Lady Fluke, but I also hate her a little!
Her refusal to call the police, for not smear her image make me insane!!!
And, like Jude, I wonder if Lady is her first name.
I received an ARC copy thru Bookfunnel and I left my honest voluntary review.
May 4, 2021
Revival Of A Lost Love -
Brett and Jude were best friends who grew up in a difficult home environment, but helped each other deal with it. However, even though their lives went in separate directions after a while, their interlinked destinies brought back together as adults. Their initial relationship as adults was acrimonious, but they didn’t hesitate to stand together when they got into trouble.
The angst, suspense, stimulating plot-line, intense sexual encounters and rousing characters, made this a must read book. This is a wonderful and heartfelt love story, that showed that if two people are meant to be together, then they will be able to overcome any obstacles placed in their path. I definitely recommend reading this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brett and Jude were best friends who grew up in a difficult home environment, but helped each other deal with it. However, even though their lives went in separate directions after a while, their interlinked destinies brought back together as adults. Their initial relationship as adults was acrimonious, but they didn’t hesitate to stand together when they got into trouble.
The angst, suspense, stimulating plot-line, intense sexual encounters and rousing characters, made this a must read book. This is a wonderful and heartfelt love story, that showed that if two people are meant to be together, then they will be able to overcome any obstacles placed in their path. I definitely recommend reading this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 11, 2021
This book brings us Jude and Bret, along with Lady Fluke herself. Jude works in America for Lady Fluke. Bret is a contractor who Lady Fluke has hired to build a commercial bakery in the US. She asks Jude to manage it. Jude has no idea that she will be working along side Bret, who she knew several years ago and was crushed when he left without a word. He was "her person" she went to, as she had horrible parents. Bret's home life wasn't any better and that's why he left. I was amazed how Jude worked through he hurt and how Bret knew what he had done to her. there is evil at work also while they are trying to get the bakery up and running. This is a great read and I highly recommend it. I did receive an arc for an honest review.
April 12, 2021
A second chance romance between Jude; Lady Fluke’s assistant in America and Bret an entrepreneur of commercial building. Lady Fluke wants to open a cookie factory in America and promotes Jude to be in charge of running it, while Bret bought into it as a shareholder and to teach Jude how to run her own business. We learn that Jude and Bret knew each other from when they were younger - both having grown up in troubled households. They grew apart when Bret moved away and left Jude behind. They now have to overcome not only their own past mistakes to launch this cookie factory but they’ll have to overcome a mistake from Lady Fluke’s past as well.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
I received an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review
April 9, 2021
Jude never expected to see Bret again, and didn't want to see him again (or so she told herself), because he left her behind and it broke her heart. Her boss, Lady Fluke, has a new task for Jude to do, and Jude gets a big shock to see his familiar and unwanted face. Can she work with him? Even if she gets over having to work with him, can she forgive him? I enjoyed this ex-friend romance, it had some elements of danger, some angst, and they have some challenges to face, although sometimes this stubborn pair was a bit frustrating (they were still easy to like).
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received, and giving my thoughts and opinions on it.
April 9, 2021
Super exciting!!!
Who knew that the renovation of a commercial bakery that had been closed for years could be exciting, much less riveting. Jude and Brett had been on the same romantic on and off path for years. Avoidance of their feelings was the norm; however, there was no way there would be an end to their togetherness. When she is entrusted with the restoration of a commercial bakery business by her employer Lady Fluke, they didn’t realize that they were placing themselves in danger.
It’s no surprise being the author is Ms. Hamel that this book was virtually impossible to put down until the final period.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
Who knew that the renovation of a commercial bakery that had been closed for years could be exciting, much less riveting. Jude and Brett had been on the same romantic on and off path for years. Avoidance of their feelings was the norm; however, there was no way there would be an end to their togetherness. When she is entrusted with the restoration of a commercial bakery business by her employer Lady Fluke, they didn’t realize that they were placing themselves in danger.
It’s no surprise being the author is Ms. Hamel that this book was virtually impossible to put down until the final period.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 10, 2021
This is a sweet, second chance at love romance. The story is about Bret and Jude. They have know each other since kids. They were best friends who both had a terrible home life. Bret made the choice to leave a horrible situation which left Judge behind and broken-hearted. Years pass and Jude is asked to renovate a bakery and, as it turns out, Brett is also on the team. The job is too good to pass down but Judge still has not forgiven Brett nor is she passed the hurt he caused her. A sweet read, great secondary characters. I voluntarily received an arc copy of the book from the author and purchased a copy as well
April 12, 2021
I love a good second chance story. And this one was so good. Bret and Jude were childhood friends. Both coming from bad homes, but they had each other. And promised to leave their town together. Then Brent graduates and leaves Jude behind. Now years later she is put in charge of getting a cookie factory up and running. And the guy that’s going to help and has a stake in the factory is Bret. She has a lot of hurt and anger towards him that it’s not easy for her to work with him. Things start to change when there is a threat against the factory. This had all the emotions, a touch of suspense and definitely steamy.
April 14, 2021
Bret and Judes story is a slow burn love that has us seeing how they started from childhood friends that gives look into their lives, abuse, the betrayal when Bret left and didn’t take Jude as he promise to. To the success of Bret with his company to her success Jude made for her self with the company she’s working for. This will bring Jude and Bret to work together and reignite their feelings but he has to work to fix this and she’s not taking it. But as this new company is planning to expand a major factor brings in the mafia into the mix with some more drama to fix this situation.
With a serious plot with great characters in this story. Will everyone get their happy ending?
With a serious plot with great characters in this story. Will everyone get their happy ending?
April 10, 2021
This was such a good read! Bret and Jude were best friends who both had a terrible home life. Bret had to get away and in the process leave Jude with a broken heart. Jude thought she hated Bret for leaving her. Years pass then all of a sudden Judes boss, Lady Fluke has a new position for her and it involves Bret. A lot of complications arise and meanwhile they are trying to deal with all of that plus their old friendship and feelings. Lots of intrigue and great characters! Very good read and I highly recommend! Received arc and am voluntarily leaving an honest review
April 10, 2021
Jude and Bret were best friends until he walked away and left her heartbroken behind, and now after 10-years Jude is assigned to a project by her boss, and she must work together with Bret. The chemistry between these two is combustible and undeniable, but will these two be able to work together? Will they get a 2nd chance at love? This is a well written story which is filled with drama, danger, suspense, angst, forgiveness, and love. I was hooked and intrigued throughout this addictive page turner, and I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
April 10, 2021
Romance full of twists and turns
4.5
The narrative is very well written, with characters who have resented each other for 10 years and who have to work together, until threats more serious than their bickering and grievances emerge.
The romance between Jude and Bret is a bit hot, but it is above all the attacks they suffer on their company which belongs to Lady Fluke (already encountered in the previous episodes) that holds the novel together.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
4.5
The narrative is very well written, with characters who have resented each other for 10 years and who have to work together, until threats more serious than their bickering and grievances emerge.
The romance between Jude and Bret is a bit hot, but it is above all the attacks they suffer on their company which belongs to Lady Fluke (already encountered in the previous episodes) that holds the novel together.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
April 11, 2021
Jude and Brett were friends growing up in traumatic houses. They spent their days and years with each other as their only solace and escape . When Bret breaks their pact and leaves town before Jude can graduate he also breaks and her heart.
Now ten years later her boss brings them together to open a cookie bakery. Yet this isn’t a simple project . There is danger, old hurts and hurdles.
A book that I enjoyed from start to finish. Very entertaining and a wonderful second chance romance that I am volunteering to leave a review.
Now ten years later her boss brings them together to open a cookie bakery. Yet this isn’t a simple project . There is danger, old hurts and hurdles.
A book that I enjoyed from start to finish. Very entertaining and a wonderful second chance romance that I am volunteering to leave a review.
April 15, 2021
Can you forgive the first one to break your heart?
Jude and Bret haven’t seen each other for ten years. Not since Bret left town to escape his abusive father. He left Jude with her pill popping mother to fend for herself. Now there thrown back together by Jude’s boss, the prim and proper English Lady Fluke. Seems she’s building one of her biscuit (read cookie) factories in the US and she wants them to work together to do it. But can they? And who is the snake that’s turned up claiming to be Lady Fluke’s ex?
Jude and Bret haven’t seen each other for ten years. Not since Bret left town to escape his abusive father. He left Jude with her pill popping mother to fend for herself. Now there thrown back together by Jude’s boss, the prim and proper English Lady Fluke. Seems she’s building one of her biscuit (read cookie) factories in the US and she wants them to work together to do it. But can they? And who is the snake that’s turned up claiming to be Lady Fluke’s ex?
April 9, 2021
Steamy Romantic Suspense!
*possible spoilers*Wow! This one had me reading all night. It is a compelling story with all the feels. There are two childhood friends that ended badly. Then ten years later she is forced to work with him. And he loves it because it gives him a chance to rebuild that relationship. And then the mafia gets involved to add the suspense. And there is a HEA! I did receive an advance copy for my honest review.
*possible spoilers*Wow! This one had me reading all night. It is a compelling story with all the feels. There are two childhood friends that ended badly. Then ten years later she is forced to work with him. And he loves it because it gives him a chance to rebuild that relationship. And then the mafia gets involved to add the suspense. And there is a HEA! I did receive an advance copy for my honest review.
April 10, 2021
More like, best friends to enemies to co workers.
Jude and Bret used to be best friends for sixteen years until Bret ghosted Jude ten years ago. Now, they have to work together to get a defunct commercial bakery going again.
This time, Jude hates Bret, who left her with no explanation and zero contact in ten years. He so moved on, she didn’t. She stewed.
Humor and second chances
Recommend.
Borrowed on KU.
Jude and Bret used to be best friends for sixteen years until Bret ghosted Jude ten years ago. Now, they have to work together to get a defunct commercial bakery going again.
This time, Jude hates Bret, who left her with no explanation and zero contact in ten years. He so moved on, she didn’t. She stewed.
Humor and second chances
Recommend.
Borrowed on KU.
April 10, 2021
Bret and Jude have a past. They were best friends when they were young. When he left her to go to college, she was heartbroken and felt betrayed. They didn’t speak for years Now, unexpectedly, he is back in her life again due to a business deal. This is a sweet, second chance romance. There’s plenty of drama, steam and intrigue. The plot is interesting and the characters are strong. I really enjoyed it. This honest review is based on a complimentary copy from the author
April 10, 2021
Great story. Filled with a roller o start of ups and downs between Jude and Bret. I really liked their relationship and when you were rooting for them to finally admit their chemistry and feelings for one another. This book was sexy, fun, and addicting until the end with characters who drew you in and had great chemistry.
I received a ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
I received a ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a honest review.
April 12, 2021
Bret and Jude have known eachother since they were kids, they both had difficult childhoods. When Bret made the choice to leave he left behind a broken-hearted Jude. Years later they find themselves working together. Will these two get a second chance? Will Bret be able to keep Jude safe?ret
I really enjoyed this book! It was well-written with great characters and an entertaining storyline that had drama, danger, emotions, romance and love.
I really enjoyed this book! It was well-written with great characters and an entertaining storyline that had drama, danger, emotions, romance and love.
April 13, 2021
Bret did what he had to do... unfortunately Jude was the one to pay the price... years later they are brought together to work on a BIG project and he is determined to see her succeed and make things right. He wants his best friend back. What neither of them counted on was some ugliness from Lady Fluke's past to haunt her present and make life dangerous and difficult. An entertaining story with lots of chemistry as these two work through their past and find a chance at HEA.
April 18, 2021
I received this book in advance for a voluntary honest review. Jude and Bret’s story is about two childhood best friends that promised to leave their crappy home lives and hometown together, only Bret left without Jude. This is the thing that will hold Jude back from the best friend and lover she will ever have. With a hoity toity English Lady, mafia ex-husbands, blackmail, forgiveness and let’s not forget, steaminess, it’s another great BB Hamel book.
May 28, 2021
Great book
Jude and Bret Webber friends when they were kids and were gonna take care of each other when they got older but Bret had to get away from his dad he was abusive and mean songs left went to college.
Jude had to put up with her mom and pills. She worked for Lady Fluke and she made husband offer she couldn't refuse but she had to work with Bret and they kept it civil and he was very protective of her like he use to be and in the end they feel in love with each other.
Jude and Bret Webber friends when they were kids and were gonna take care of each other when they got older but Bret had to get away from his dad he was abusive and mean songs left went to college.
Jude had to put up with her mom and pills. She worked for Lady Fluke and she made husband offer she couldn't refuse but she had to work with Bret and they kept it civil and he was very protective of her like he use to be and in the end they feel in love with each other.
July 8, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book and I really enjoyed it.
This is an entertaining easy to read story. Plenty of drama and emotion throughout. I liked both Jude and Bret, their reunion was strained and difficult after Bret just left when they were younger. Lady Fluke was definitely an eccentric character. The best friends/enemies to lovers storyline is unique and definitely takes you for a ride.
This is an entertaining easy to read story. Plenty of drama and emotion throughout. I liked both Jude and Bret, their reunion was strained and difficult after Bret just left when they were younger. Lady Fluke was definitely an eccentric character. The best friends/enemies to lovers storyline is unique and definitely takes you for a ride.
April 9, 2021
I didn't think it was fair of Jude to be mad at Bret because he left town to save himself. He could have ended up dead if he stayed and she should have realized that if she was mature. I liked that Bret proved what a hero he really was in Jude's life. He was a real keeper and his affections never wavered.
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