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Billionaire Breakfast Club #1
His Semi-Charmed Life
His Semi-Charmed Life (Camp Firefly Falls Book 11)
Going from princess to pauper wasn’t exactly the fairy tale ending Penelope Hastings believed in as a kid. She grabs at the opportunity to work at Camp Firefly Falls—home of her most treasured childhood memories and the haven where her spoiled heart expanded, and her perspective changed, after an encounter with an older boy. Now she’s hoping that the camp can work its magic one more time and help her craft a new life.
Rags to riches entrepreneur, Diego Ramos, never wanted to see Camp Firefly Falls again—the site of the most hated year in his teenage life as camp counselor, and his most regrettable moment ever. That one clash with an entitled little girl had a profound impact on him, changing the trajectory of his future. So, when his assistant books a corporate retreat at Camp Firefly Falls, he’s more than a little unsettled at the irony.
Now, twenty years later, Penelope and Diego are reunited. A second chance at happiness won’t come easy when their reversal in fortunes and unexpected sexual attraction complicates everything. Will they be able to work through their regrets and memories, and learn that love is the greatest fortune of all?
I was so thrilled to be chosen to write a story set at Camp Firefly Falls. Check out books from these wonderful authors, Gwen Hayes, Zoe York, Violet Vaughn, Jamie Wesley, Farrah Rochon, Lily Danes, and season one of camp!
Winning Back His Wife (CFF #1) by Gwen Hayes
His Counterfeit Campfire Bride (CFF #2) by Gwen Hayes
Crushing on Cooper (CFF #3) by Violet Vaughn
Skinning Dipping Dare (CFF #4) by Zoe York
The Time of His Life (CFF #5) by Jamie Wesley
Mr. Right Next Door (CFF #6) by Farrah Rochon
One Last Fling (CFF #7) by Lily Danes
Camp Firefly Falls
Are you thinking of Dirty Dancing? Yeah. So were we. And Indian Summer, and all those fantasies we had about making out with Matthew Broderick on the dock…
But this isn’t a flashback to our youth (at least not entirely). We’ve got hot, sexy, modern, adult stories, intersecting with some of your favourite romance series, from award-winning and bestselling authors Gwen Hayes, Violet Vaughn, Zoe York, Jamie Wesley, Farrah Rochon, Lily Danes, Cate Dean, Lisa Hughey, Tamsen Parker, Kait Nolan, Kate Willoughby, and Ally Decker.
Going from princess to pauper wasn’t exactly the fairy tale ending Penelope Hastings believed in as a kid. She grabs at the opportunity to work at Camp Firefly Falls—home of her most treasured childhood memories and the haven where her spoiled heart expanded, and her perspective changed, after an encounter with an older boy. Now she’s hoping that the camp can work its magic one more time and help her craft a new life.
Rags to riches entrepreneur, Diego Ramos, never wanted to see Camp Firefly Falls again—the site of the most hated year in his teenage life as camp counselor, and his most regrettable moment ever. That one clash with an entitled little girl had a profound impact on him, changing the trajectory of his future. So, when his assistant books a corporate retreat at Camp Firefly Falls, he’s more than a little unsettled at the irony.
Now, twenty years later, Penelope and Diego are reunited. A second chance at happiness won’t come easy when their reversal in fortunes and unexpected sexual attraction complicates everything. Will they be able to work through their regrets and memories, and learn that love is the greatest fortune of all?
I was so thrilled to be chosen to write a story set at Camp Firefly Falls. Check out books from these wonderful authors, Gwen Hayes, Zoe York, Violet Vaughn, Jamie Wesley, Farrah Rochon, Lily Danes, and season one of camp!
Winning Back His Wife (CFF #1) by Gwen Hayes
His Counterfeit Campfire Bride (CFF #2) by Gwen Hayes
Crushing on Cooper (CFF #3) by Violet Vaughn
Skinning Dipping Dare (CFF #4) by Zoe York
The Time of His Life (CFF #5) by Jamie Wesley
Mr. Right Next Door (CFF #6) by Farrah Rochon
One Last Fling (CFF #7) by Lily Danes
Camp Firefly Falls
Are you thinking of Dirty Dancing? Yeah. So were we. And Indian Summer, and all those fantasies we had about making out with Matthew Broderick on the dock…
But this isn’t a flashback to our youth (at least not entirely). We’ve got hot, sexy, modern, adult stories, intersecting with some of your favourite romance series, from award-winning and bestselling authors Gwen Hayes, Violet Vaughn, Zoe York, Jamie Wesley, Farrah Rochon, Lily Danes, Cate Dean, Lisa Hughey, Tamsen Parker, Kait Nolan, Kate Willoughby, and Ally Decker.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2021
About the author
Lisa Hughey
125 books668 followersUSA Today Bestselling Author Lisa Hughey started writing romance in the fourth grade. That particular story involved a prince and an engagement. Now, she writes about strong heroines who are perfectly capable of rescuing themselves and the heroes who love both their strength and their vulnerability. She pens romances of all types—suspense, paranormal, and contemporary—but at their heart, all her books celebrate the power of love.
She lives in Cape Ann Massachusetts with her fabulously supportive husband, two out of three awesome mostly-grown kids, and one somewhat grumpy cat.
Yoga, hiking, and traveling are her favorite ways to pass the time when she isn’t plotting new ways to get her characters to fall in love.
You can find her on the web at http://www.lisahughey.com
Instagram: @lisa.hughey
FB https://www.facebook.com/LisaHugheyRo...
Email: lisa@lisahughey.com
She loves to hear from readers!
Happy reading!
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Blurb:
Going from princess to pauper wasn’t exactly the fairy tale ending Penelope Hastings believed in as a kid. She grabs at the opportunity to work at Camp Firefly Falls—home of her most treasured childhood memories and the haven where her spoiled heart expanded, and her perspective changed, after an encounter with an older boy. Now she’s hoping that the camp can work its magic one more time and help her craft a new life.
Rags to riches entrepreneur, Diego Ramos, never wanted to see Camp Firefly Falls again—the site of the most hated year in his teenage life as camp counselor, and his most regrettable moment ever. That one clash with an entitled little girl had a profound impact on him, changing the trajectory of his future. So, when his assistant books a corporate retreat at Camp Firefly Falls, he’s more than a little unsettled at the irony.
Now, twenty years later, Penelope and Diego are reunited. A second chance at happiness won’t come easy when their reversal in fortunes and unexpected sexual attraction complicates everything. Will they be able to work through their regrets and memories, and learn that love is the greatest fortune of all?
Blurb:
Going from princess to pauper wasn’t exactly the fairy tale ending Penelope Hastings believed in as a kid. She grabs at the opportunity to work at Camp Firefly Falls—home of her most treasured childhood memories and the haven where her spoiled heart expanded, and her perspective changed, after an encounter with an older boy. Now she’s hoping that the camp can work its magic one more time and help her craft a new life.
Rags to riches entrepreneur, Diego Ramos, never wanted to see Camp Firefly Falls again—the site of the most hated year in his teenage life as camp counselor, and his most regrettable moment ever. That one clash with an entitled little girl had a profound impact on him, changing the trajectory of his future. So, when his assistant books a corporate retreat at Camp Firefly Falls, he’s more than a little unsettled at the irony.
Now, twenty years later, Penelope and Diego are reunited. A second chance at happiness won’t come easy when their reversal in fortunes and unexpected sexual attraction complicates everything. Will they be able to work through their regrets and memories, and learn that love is the greatest fortune of all?
June 16, 2017
Diego Ramos has started from the bottom and rose to the top by one thing alone: hard work. Inspired by an argument he had when he was a camp counselor with a summer camper has set his life on a path of success. Now he is set to merge his company with a huge and successful company that will make him a billionaire; his dream. The only hurdle left before the merge is a company retreat at a familiar place: Camp Firefly Falls.
Penny is finally back, many years later, at Camp Firefly Falls. A place that holds many great summer memories-and a bad one. However, even the bad memory of an interaction with a camp counselor years ago was good in that it gave her advantaged childhood some perspective. Not everyone has food to eat. Now she is determined to get her thesis, urban gardens for corporate offices that donate the food that grows to charity, into reality. She is set to pitch the idea at a corporate retreat at Camp Firefly Falls. This could be the opportunity to get her idea off of the ground. Little does she know that history is going to be waiting for her when she gets there, in more ways than one.
I have been fortunate to have had access to other books by Lisa Hughey in the past. Those books were differently themed in that those previous books had plots about special agents and intense action. That being said, I enjoyed the difference! It really speaks to Lisa Hughey's talent and skill to be able to write so strongly in multiple genres. This book flowed just as well as the previous books and the characters developed just as strongly. I found this book very difficult to put down and the pace is very quick.
Although this was the 11th book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I am very interested in the characters that were mentioned in the book, particularly those in the Billionaire Breakfast Club, and I hope to be able to go back and read the other books in the series to find out their stories. I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy steamy romance, car repair, underdogs, farming, the attraction of opposites, and who enjoy reading about summer camp life. Although I myself have never been to summer camp, I was still able to enjoy the setting.
For those who may be triggered or offended: there are several graphic sexual scenes, explicit foul language, and infidelity.
Please note: an electronic copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher (Red Adept Publishing) via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Penny is finally back, many years later, at Camp Firefly Falls. A place that holds many great summer memories-and a bad one. However, even the bad memory of an interaction with a camp counselor years ago was good in that it gave her advantaged childhood some perspective. Not everyone has food to eat. Now she is determined to get her thesis, urban gardens for corporate offices that donate the food that grows to charity, into reality. She is set to pitch the idea at a corporate retreat at Camp Firefly Falls. This could be the opportunity to get her idea off of the ground. Little does she know that history is going to be waiting for her when she gets there, in more ways than one.
I have been fortunate to have had access to other books by Lisa Hughey in the past. Those books were differently themed in that those previous books had plots about special agents and intense action. That being said, I enjoyed the difference! It really speaks to Lisa Hughey's talent and skill to be able to write so strongly in multiple genres. This book flowed just as well as the previous books and the characters developed just as strongly. I found this book very difficult to put down and the pace is very quick.
Although this was the 11th book in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone. I am very interested in the characters that were mentioned in the book, particularly those in the Billionaire Breakfast Club, and I hope to be able to go back and read the other books in the series to find out their stories. I would recommend this book for readers who enjoy steamy romance, car repair, underdogs, farming, the attraction of opposites, and who enjoy reading about summer camp life. Although I myself have never been to summer camp, I was still able to enjoy the setting.
For those who may be triggered or offended: there are several graphic sexual scenes, explicit foul language, and infidelity.
Please note: an electronic copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher (Red Adept Publishing) via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2017
They met at camp when she was 9 and he was 15. They got into a nasty argument that positively effected each other's lives as they reached adulthood. They are both at the camp 17 years later for a corporate retreat. This was a nice second chance romance.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
This review is based on the ARC provided by the author and/or the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 25, 2018
I want to like every book I read but that isn’t really feasible. Sadly this is one of them. I didn’t hate or even dislike it but it’s more that it didn’t work for me on any level whatsoever.
The books starts out when the main characters, Penelope Hastings and Diego were young. She was 9 and a camper and Diego Ramos was a counselor at the camp, a very angry and bitter young guy. She tried being friendly to him and he was a total jerk. The interaction between them stayed with them for years until they run into each other again. Penny is doing some kind of co-op farming thing and doing a demonstration at the very same place they met years ago and Diego is there when he is thinking of merging his very successful business with another business. While she knows who he is right off the bat it isn’t until he hears her name that he recognizes her. And just like the first time when they met, he’s often rude, jumps to conclusions and is a total jerk. Yet she forgives him time and time again – why I have no idea, but still she does. So we have a guy who is NOT hero material.
And let’s talk about Penny. She has this idea of putting in vegetable gardens at companies and the employees can garden on their free time and then donate the vegetables to a food bank. Doing this will make them more relaxed and happier employees.
Say what????
I work and there is not a chance in hell that I would do any type of “gardening” on my breaks or lunch. What a stupid, stupid idea. Sure some might be into something like that but seriously?. Though she was raised rich, Penny is definitely an earth mother type now. And about her childhood. When she was still young, around 18 or so, her parents embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars and simply disappeared, leaving Penny with the after math. She had no clue about anything. Give me a break. As if 2 parents would do something like that? Nope, can’t buy it.
Another thing I found unbelievable. It’s a couple who own the camp and when she has to go to the hospital, he stays with her and then expects Penny to run the entire seminar She was there to do a presentation about vegetables and now she’s running the show. There is no mention of any kind of compensation but if someone expected that kind of thing from me, I know I’m nice, too nice at times, but I would be saying HELL TO THE NO! If I were expected to take on the responsibility of the whole camp which is basically what happens, I’d want something more than a hearty thanks.
There was just too much I just couldn’t believe. I see there are some better reviews than I’m giving and I’m happy for the author, but this one is a fail for me sadly. An earth mother type heroine and a Very Dislikeable hero just aren’t my cuppa.
The books starts out when the main characters, Penelope Hastings and Diego were young. She was 9 and a camper and Diego Ramos was a counselor at the camp, a very angry and bitter young guy. She tried being friendly to him and he was a total jerk. The interaction between them stayed with them for years until they run into each other again. Penny is doing some kind of co-op farming thing and doing a demonstration at the very same place they met years ago and Diego is there when he is thinking of merging his very successful business with another business. While she knows who he is right off the bat it isn’t until he hears her name that he recognizes her. And just like the first time when they met, he’s often rude, jumps to conclusions and is a total jerk. Yet she forgives him time and time again – why I have no idea, but still she does. So we have a guy who is NOT hero material.
And let’s talk about Penny. She has this idea of putting in vegetable gardens at companies and the employees can garden on their free time and then donate the vegetables to a food bank. Doing this will make them more relaxed and happier employees.
Say what????
I work and there is not a chance in hell that I would do any type of “gardening” on my breaks or lunch. What a stupid, stupid idea. Sure some might be into something like that but seriously?. Though she was raised rich, Penny is definitely an earth mother type now. And about her childhood. When she was still young, around 18 or so, her parents embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars and simply disappeared, leaving Penny with the after math. She had no clue about anything. Give me a break. As if 2 parents would do something like that? Nope, can’t buy it.
Another thing I found unbelievable. It’s a couple who own the camp and when she has to go to the hospital, he stays with her and then expects Penny to run the entire seminar She was there to do a presentation about vegetables and now she’s running the show. There is no mention of any kind of compensation but if someone expected that kind of thing from me, I know I’m nice, too nice at times, but I would be saying HELL TO THE NO! If I were expected to take on the responsibility of the whole camp which is basically what happens, I’d want something more than a hearty thanks.
There was just too much I just couldn’t believe. I see there are some better reviews than I’m giving and I’m happy for the author, but this one is a fail for me sadly. An earth mother type heroine and a Very Dislikeable hero just aren’t my cuppa.
June 23, 2017
His Semi-Charmed Life is sweet, a little sexy, and charming. Diego was an angry 15 year old when a conversation at their summer camp with spoiled little rich girl, 9 year old Penny, changed the course of his life. 17 years later they're both back at the camp, only their situations are reversed. He's now the successful, wealthy one, running a classic car restoration company, and she's a farmer and founder of a non-profit trying to pitch her idea of installing small farms at corporations to reduce the stress of their employees.
When they meet again, there's an instant sort of recognition between the two, not mention a zing of electric attraction. Once Penny hears Diego's name, she remembers him as the 15 year old boy who set her to rights, let her know that her little world was just that, little, and it broadened her narrow horizons. Diego didn't recognize Penny per se, but he felt as if there were something about her that called to him. As they come to realize just who they are to each other, they give into the attraction, and it seems as if a charming little romance just might happen for them. But, the merger that Diego is so set on completing could be derailed once his potential partner realizes who Penny is, or rather, who her family is, and just how much her family had hurt his. Will Diego charge forward with his intended goal, even though it means hurting Penny and not sticking up for her to his potential partner? Or will he realize that what he really needs is right under his nose?
His Semi-Charmed Life is a great start to a potential new series. Penny and Diego are realistic, charming characters, especially Penny, and their chemistry is sexy! If charming, sweet and sexy are your thing, be sure to read His Semi-Charmed Life, you will not regret it.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
When they meet again, there's an instant sort of recognition between the two, not mention a zing of electric attraction. Once Penny hears Diego's name, she remembers him as the 15 year old boy who set her to rights, let her know that her little world was just that, little, and it broadened her narrow horizons. Diego didn't recognize Penny per se, but he felt as if there were something about her that called to him. As they come to realize just who they are to each other, they give into the attraction, and it seems as if a charming little romance just might happen for them. But, the merger that Diego is so set on completing could be derailed once his potential partner realizes who Penny is, or rather, who her family is, and just how much her family had hurt his. Will Diego charge forward with his intended goal, even though it means hurting Penny and not sticking up for her to his potential partner? Or will he realize that what he really needs is right under his nose?
His Semi-Charmed Life is a great start to a potential new series. Penny and Diego are realistic, charming characters, especially Penny, and their chemistry is sexy! If charming, sweet and sexy are your thing, be sure to read His Semi-Charmed Life, you will not regret it.
I received an ARC through NetGalley for an honest review.
June 11, 2017
I have read a couple of the Camp Firefly Falls stories , and hoped this one would be another sweet, thoughtful story . It did not disappoint me.
Diego and Penny met at the Camp Firefly Falls almost 20 years ago. She was a 9 year old child of a privilege family with a child’s innocence view of life. Diego was 15, working as a counselor and from a blue collar family with issues. Not only was he going through his teenage rebellion, but also had a lot of attitude. Somehow, each others parting words in the short exchange they had, one in which Diego was rather cruel to Penny, made an everlasting impression in them and influenced what they had become as adults.
Their paths cross again as they return to the camp. Penny to help the owners when a “retreat” is being held and also to present to the group her farming plan and Diego with the hopes a business expansion with his competitor.
Amazing how well developed were the characters and the plot , considering it’s a short book. Only a talented author can accomplish that deed.
I can see a series in the Billionaire Breakfast Club. Wonder if there will be one in the future.
I was gifted this copy by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
June 11, 2017
Loved Penny & Diego "shoe on the other foot" story. It is so realistic and confirms the power of the word we speak because they can come back. I felt sorry for Penny and the shame she harbored about things totally out of her control. She's a trooper though and I think it strengthen & molded her into the much more down to earth person she grew into. Penny undeniably ignites Diego, then and even more so now, they both learn that money still can't buy true "charmed" love or happiness. Well written, well rounded romance story about correcting past hurts, forgiveness and having someone special to love.
Read
August 30, 2018 She opened the drawer next to the bed and oh em gee, there were condom packets emblazoned with "Camp Firefly Falls: For the Woody in You". And another with the Red Cross symbol and the caption "Orgasm Donor"
Vomiting here. That's supposed to be 'sexy'?? Really?? I can think of nothing more off-putting and sordid. Yuck
Perhaps it's me. Yes, I know you can buy stupid Red Cross Orgasm Donor condoms, but this is supposed to be about romance, not coarse jokes and a quick fuck.
dnf
CBA rating, but it would be 1 star.
Vomiting here. That's supposed to be 'sexy'?? Really?? I can think of nothing more off-putting and sordid. Yuck
Perhaps it's me. Yes, I know you can buy stupid Red Cross Orgasm Donor condoms, but this is supposed to be about romance, not coarse jokes and a quick fuck.
dnf
CBA rating, but it would be 1 star.
June 2, 2017
How ironic is it that one conversation when they were kids affected both Penny and Diego's life so drastically. Years later they still live by the life lessons they learned.
Penny could be bitter by the raw deal life handed her, instead she's giving back to people in need. I really like her idea of corporate gardening. What a nice idea.
Diego is your common boy from the wrong side of the tracks, says screw you to the doubters and becomes a millionaire. It's Penny who steals the show for me.
Penny could be bitter by the raw deal life handed her, instead she's giving back to people in need. I really like her idea of corporate gardening. What a nice idea.
Diego is your common boy from the wrong side of the tracks, says screw you to the doubters and becomes a millionaire. It's Penny who steals the show for me.
May 1, 2020
Sweet and sexy surprise love story!
I loved The characters in this story, the perfect plot and the setting. Oh and the Billionaire Breakfast Club is intriguing—I’ll be reading more of those, too.
Penny and Diego kept me sighing and smiling!
I loved The characters in this story, the perfect plot and the setting. Oh and the Billionaire Breakfast Club is intriguing—I’ll be reading more of those, too.
Penny and Diego kept me sighing and smiling!
June 4, 2017
I loved this book! It's very different from the author's usual books, but just as well done. In this novel, two children have an encounter that has a profound effect on each of their lives, despite that encounter being the last time they saw each other. Then, many years later, they are once more thrown together, with neither aware of the way they changed the other. I loved this premise and loved the way it was done.
This is an engaging and entertaining contemporary romance, with just enough reality to make it feel real. I felt invested in the characters and cared about their story. I loved that Penny was a strong woman that met life on her own terms and made the best out of the hand she was dealt by life. Diego is just as strong, yet very caring and totally swoon worthy.
If you haven't yet read one of the author's books, you've been missing out. She is on my must read authors' list. This is a wonderful book that should be at the top of your tbr.
This is an engaging and entertaining contemporary romance, with just enough reality to make it feel real. I felt invested in the characters and cared about their story. I loved that Penny was a strong woman that met life on her own terms and made the best out of the hand she was dealt by life. Diego is just as strong, yet very caring and totally swoon worthy.
If you haven't yet read one of the author's books, you've been missing out. She is on my must read authors' list. This is a wonderful book that should be at the top of your tbr.
June 6, 2017
His Semi Charmed Life started out really good. I knew coming in, it would be similar to a "second chance" novel and I'm really into those. I liked this book and while the characters had chemistry, I felt it was all so rushed. There wasn't really a "second chance" because Penny was 9 when she met Diego. The way they intertwined their lives based on them initially meeting, and having a really scornful conversation, was really cool. I do wish that their background of how they came to be was touched on more or at least had gone more in depth. Overall, this was a good book and enjoyed it
June 7, 2017
**I voluntarily received an Advance Reader Copy of this book.**
I loved this story. It has a lot of my favorite things. I feel like I have been to Camp Firefly, and I love classic and sports cars. Most of all I can relate to Penny, because I spent so much time on a farm.
This is a wonder romance with just the right amount of sizzle. There is a bit of conflict and some drama that keeps you glued to the story. Overall I am hoping to read more about Camp Firefly and the romances it inspired.
I loved this story. It has a lot of my favorite things. I feel like I have been to Camp Firefly, and I love classic and sports cars. Most of all I can relate to Penny, because I spent so much time on a farm.
This is a wonder romance with just the right amount of sizzle. There is a bit of conflict and some drama that keeps you glued to the story. Overall I am hoping to read more about Camp Firefly and the romances it inspired.
August 10, 2018
I received this book At the indie book fest in Orlando Florida. As I waited for the next panel to begin I started reading it and I finished it in no time. This is such a good book. If all is the story of a man named Diego and a woman named Penelope or Penny Through a weekend in their life at this camp fire fly balls which is a camp for corporate functions and adults. It has the ups and downs that you expect but it also has external not just internal conflicts. It made me really feel for the character because they were really well written and when things went bad I felt it when things went good I thought it. I will be reading more of this author as this is the first time I’ve read any of her books.
October 19, 2018
Diego Ramos was a camp worker when he was fifteen.
One summer, an annoying little nine year old camper Penelope Hastings and he had a conversation. He was trying to fix his car; the car he probably shouldn’t have been driving at the age of fifteen. She just blithely said he’d get a new car for his sixteenth birthday.
Annoyed he let fly with some truths; people don’t get enough to eat, they wear shoes with holes (like his) and they don’t get new cars.
“My dad always says, ‘how do we turn this failure into a success?’”, she parrots.
He told her off. And he didn’t apologise.
Years later, he uses that phrase to change his life. He takes risks, and he takes an interest in renovating classic cars and turns it into a successful business.
He thinks about that little girl a lot.
When his company is going to merge with another big business, they organise a three day camp for the staff of both companies.
Diego’s assistant sends him down a night early, and as he’s checking in he meets a green eyed young woman. And she seems kind of familiar.
It’s Penelope.
That conversation changed her life as well. Sadly, her parents ripped off their business customers and absconded with the funds and without her. It ruined her life. But she’s kept track of Diego’s success and she’s still intent to share what she has with others. Her new farming venture is vegetable gardens on business sites. The staff can plant, weed and relax, the produce can be eaten or given away. It’s a neat idea, and Diego likes it.
But not nearly as much as he likes Penelope.
***
People keep calling this a second chance romance and I don’t think it is. She was 9 ffs.
Diego is driven to be a billionaire. He has a group of friends (the billionaire breakfast club) who share advice and support. They’re all successful. He also has some doubts about this merger, but he’s not listening to his friends, his staff or his gut.
Penelope derails him. And they go from nought to a hundred in seconds. Making use of the camp branded condoms.
Bwahaha.
For the first time in ages, he’s happy. But Penelope is clashing with Jeff London, the other CEO, over her parent’s history.
And Diego needs to make a choice.
This was very cute and sexy. A little repetitive in places. And it obviously ties into the authors own series for the Billionaires.
There’s more than a few recent pop culture references which may date, but I liked it.
The declaration of love scene was great. He sits her on the kitchen bench in front of everyone and pours out his heart. Yay.
4 stars
One summer, an annoying little nine year old camper Penelope Hastings and he had a conversation. He was trying to fix his car; the car he probably shouldn’t have been driving at the age of fifteen. She just blithely said he’d get a new car for his sixteenth birthday.
Annoyed he let fly with some truths; people don’t get enough to eat, they wear shoes with holes (like his) and they don’t get new cars.
“My dad always says, ‘how do we turn this failure into a success?’”, she parrots.
He told her off. And he didn’t apologise.
Years later, he uses that phrase to change his life. He takes risks, and he takes an interest in renovating classic cars and turns it into a successful business.
He thinks about that little girl a lot.
When his company is going to merge with another big business, they organise a three day camp for the staff of both companies.
Diego’s assistant sends him down a night early, and as he’s checking in he meets a green eyed young woman. And she seems kind of familiar.
It’s Penelope.
That conversation changed her life as well. Sadly, her parents ripped off their business customers and absconded with the funds and without her. It ruined her life. But she’s kept track of Diego’s success and she’s still intent to share what she has with others. Her new farming venture is vegetable gardens on business sites. The staff can plant, weed and relax, the produce can be eaten or given away. It’s a neat idea, and Diego likes it.
But not nearly as much as he likes Penelope.
***
People keep calling this a second chance romance and I don’t think it is. She was 9 ffs.
Diego is driven to be a billionaire. He has a group of friends (the billionaire breakfast club) who share advice and support. They’re all successful. He also has some doubts about this merger, but he’s not listening to his friends, his staff or his gut.
Penelope derails him. And they go from nought to a hundred in seconds. Making use of the camp branded condoms.
She opened the drawer next to the bed and oh em gee, there were condom packets emblazoned with “Camp Firefly Falls: For the Woody in You.” And another with the Red Cross symbol and the caption “Orgasm Donor.” (p. 67).
Bwahaha.
For the first time in ages, he’s happy. But Penelope is clashing with Jeff London, the other CEO, over her parent’s history.
And Diego needs to make a choice.
This was very cute and sexy. A little repetitive in places. And it obviously ties into the authors own series for the Billionaires.
There’s more than a few recent pop culture references which may date, but I liked it.
The declaration of love scene was great. He sits her on the kitchen bench in front of everyone and pours out his heart. Yay.
4 stars
October 14, 2025
One night, one interaction between a spoiled child and an angry teen changed two lives. That night opened the naive eyes of a child. She realized her privilege and dedicated her life's work to feeding those with food insecurity. He realized he wasn't defined by his upbringing and could change his family's fortune. They both realized the impact of that evening. Now, years later, their paths cross again at the camp where it all started. Once again, they ignite strong emotions from one another, but as adults, it's completely different. This time, they could bring each other the happiness they both still seek.
I loved the idea of one night changing two lives. Words have power. I loved Penny's mission. But I didn't connect with Diego. The entire story fell short for me. I was hoping for humor with a few heartfelt scenes. Instead, I got insta-lust and anger. I also have unanswered questions - What happened to Penny's friend from the first scene? She was never brought back into the story. Why was Diego's cousin Zin drinking so heavily at a company event the first night? Why was this not discussed? Did Diego not research the company he was planning a merger with? The owner was horrible, and his employees didn't mesh with Diego's at all. They implied Diego was a caring boss, yet he didn't discuss this beforehand with his family. Was there an investigation into Penny's family? Was Penny implicated because at 17, she could have been held accountable if not cleared? If cleared, she should be sympathized with and admired for her accomplishments. Where are her parents? People don't disappear as long as they are spending money. People like this aren't living off the grid, and most countries cooperate with the US to return our criminals. Yes, I know, I am overthinking plotlines, but I prefer not to suspend reality in simple stories.
I loved the idea of one night changing two lives. Words have power. I loved Penny's mission. But I didn't connect with Diego. The entire story fell short for me. I was hoping for humor with a few heartfelt scenes. Instead, I got insta-lust and anger. I also have unanswered questions - What happened to Penny's friend from the first scene? She was never brought back into the story. Why was Diego's cousin Zin drinking so heavily at a company event the first night? Why was this not discussed? Did Diego not research the company he was planning a merger with? The owner was horrible, and his employees didn't mesh with Diego's at all. They implied Diego was a caring boss, yet he didn't discuss this beforehand with his family. Was there an investigation into Penny's family? Was Penny implicated because at 17, she could have been held accountable if not cleared? If cleared, she should be sympathized with and admired for her accomplishments. Where are her parents? People don't disappear as long as they are spending money. People like this aren't living off the grid, and most countries cooperate with the US to return our criminals. Yes, I know, I am overthinking plotlines, but I prefer not to suspend reality in simple stories.
June 24, 2017
"There's a whole world of people who don't have food to eat at night, don't wear shoes without holes. And don't get new cars. " "Turn a negative into a positive." Who knew that with one conversation at summer camp, Diego & Penny would impact each other's lives far into the future. Fast forward seventeen years. Penny is back at Camp Firefly Falls but not as a camper this time. In exchange for helping out with a corporate retreat, she's given the chance to talk to the corporate sponsors about her nonprofit FEED Together. What Penny doesn't know is that the corporate sponsor is Diego.
Diego left the summer camp & spent the next several years learning how to fix cars & ended up specializing in restoring classics. Now he's looking to merge his company in with another one for a lot of money & to decrease his workload. His cousin set up the corporate retreat so the workers for the two organizations could start some team building. Diego couldn't believe it when he saw Penny there.
I really enjoyed this story. The character of Penny was developed to be strong, sexy & sympathetic. She had to overcome the trauma & humiliation of her parents actions & their desertion. Diego has overcome his poor beginnings & has proven he is strong, dependable, & dedicated. These characters were well thought out, well defined & realistic. The supporting characters & the interactions with them added depth to the storylines. This was a really good story that is a great addition to the Camp Firefly Falls series but can easily be read as a standalone. The setting is the same in each story, as are the owners of the camp & a few others but you aren't lost in the storyline if this is the first one you've read.
Diego left the summer camp & spent the next several years learning how to fix cars & ended up specializing in restoring classics. Now he's looking to merge his company in with another one for a lot of money & to decrease his workload. His cousin set up the corporate retreat so the workers for the two organizations could start some team building. Diego couldn't believe it when he saw Penny there.
I really enjoyed this story. The character of Penny was developed to be strong, sexy & sympathetic. She had to overcome the trauma & humiliation of her parents actions & their desertion. Diego has overcome his poor beginnings & has proven he is strong, dependable, & dedicated. These characters were well thought out, well defined & realistic. The supporting characters & the interactions with them added depth to the storylines. This was a really good story that is a great addition to the Camp Firefly Falls series but can easily be read as a standalone. The setting is the same in each story, as are the owners of the camp & a few others but you aren't lost in the storyline if this is the first one you've read.
August 5, 2025
I needed something funny and light, and the suggestion of reading His Semi-Charmed Life couldn't have come at a better time. It is a hilarious and fast-paced second-chance romance, set in a summer camp for adults.
Diego Ramos met Penny Hastings when he was a counselor at Camp Firefly Falls. At 15 and from a troubled family, he was angry because of the shitty hand life had dealt him. She was a rich and spoiled 9-year-old. One exchange that would mold the trajectory of their future.
20 years later, they are back in Firefly Falls. He is now a wealthy entrepreneur, and she runs a self-sustainable farm. He is there for a business weekend retreat, and she is there to help the owners and pitch her philanthropic venture.
The tension and the banter between Diego and Penny are everything. They are not the kids they were, and there is so much more than meets the eye. Plus, the concept of a summer camp for adults, which gives its attendees condom packets with the Red Cross symbol and the caption "orgasm donor," is hysterical. What could happen over three days?
I devoured Semi-Charmed Life and laughed out loud. It was a perfect palate cleanser.
Diego Ramos met Penny Hastings when he was a counselor at Camp Firefly Falls. At 15 and from a troubled family, he was angry because of the shitty hand life had dealt him. She was a rich and spoiled 9-year-old. One exchange that would mold the trajectory of their future.
20 years later, they are back in Firefly Falls. He is now a wealthy entrepreneur, and she runs a self-sustainable farm. He is there for a business weekend retreat, and she is there to help the owners and pitch her philanthropic venture.
The tension and the banter between Diego and Penny are everything. They are not the kids they were, and there is so much more than meets the eye. Plus, the concept of a summer camp for adults, which gives its attendees condom packets with the Red Cross symbol and the caption "orgasm donor," is hysterical. What could happen over three days?
I devoured Semi-Charmed Life and laughed out loud. It was a perfect palate cleanser.
August 28, 2018
This was my first time reading Lisa Hughey. I really liked and cared about the characters and enjoyed the storyline and I truly wanted to see if (haha.. ok when) they got to have the happily ever… that I wanted for them.
I look forward to reading more books by Lisa Hughey because this book kept me so interested that it ended before I was ready to leave these characters.
Kind of a spoiler: I didn’t care for the birthday comment made by the female character when she was a child but… that was to show that she didn’t know any better. Also, there’s a lot of car talk by the characters but… that was one of their loves so, I was fine with that.
I look forward to reading more books by Lisa Hughey because this book kept me so interested that it ended before I was ready to leave these characters.
Kind of a spoiler: I didn’t care for the birthday comment made by the female character when she was a child but… that was to show that she didn’t know any better. Also, there’s a lot of car talk by the characters but… that was one of their loves so, I was fine with that.
July 1, 2017
Okay
I liked the premise of this story, but I thought the execution was just okay. I thought the hero was a big jerk and the heroine deserved better.
Spoiler alert:
He sleeps with her and afterward doesn't come to her defense not once, but twice; accuses her of trying to sabotage his deal, sneaks out without telling her that he's not really giving her the brush off, he just acts like he is. Then he says he's sorry and she jumps right back into his arms every time. I think she let him off too easily, especially when she backed off repeatedly in order nkit toblowhis deal.
I liked the premise of this story, but I thought the execution was just okay. I thought the hero was a big jerk and the heroine deserved better.
Spoiler alert:
He sleeps with her and afterward doesn't come to her defense not once, but twice; accuses her of trying to sabotage his deal, sneaks out without telling her that he's not really giving her the brush off, he just acts like he is. Then he says he's sorry and she jumps right back into his arms every time. I think she let him off too easily, especially when she backed off repeatedly in order nkit toblowhis deal.
July 26, 2017
What a story about one meeting when these two where young and met for the first time at the camp, he was poor and she was rich.Now their lives have reversed but they both in their own way remember that day that has changed their lives. This book is now in my wish list I will be buying I want to re-read it.Their meeting this time will change their life's again. This Author draws you into her book and will not let go until the last page, it is so well done that you feel like you are watching the story. I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
July 22, 2022
Diego is an angry 15 year old working as a summer camp counselor and Penny is a 9 year old rich kid. They get into an agrument that changes both their lives. Diego learns something that day and so does Penny. Travel years later and he's wealthy and Penny's had her life turned upside down when they meet again at the very same camp. They often wondered about each other .... His is a funny, sassy, romantic story. Read what happens next.... I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
July 31, 2023
Penelope Hastings and Diego Ramos met when she was 9 and he was 15 at Camp Firefly falls. They argued and each said something that stuck with the other and changed the course of both their lives. Years later, Diego is at the newly reopened camp for a corporate team building weekend and Penny is working there. Each of their lives are complete different than they were when they were young, and it was cute watching them get to know each other again.
February 9, 2026
Diego Ramos and Penelope (Pennie) Hastings met briefly at camp more than a decade ago. He thought she was a spoiled, entitled little girl. And his sharp barbs helped to shape the present day Pennie, the sustainable farmer.
When Diego lands at a corporate retreat and encounters Pennie, he has no clue who she is at first, but she recognizes his name. These two give off a vibe that later develops into chemistry.
There is a happy ending after a misunderstanding is resolved.
When Diego lands at a corporate retreat and encounters Pennie, he has no clue who she is at first, but she recognizes his name. These two give off a vibe that later develops into chemistry.
There is a happy ending after a misunderstanding is resolved.
January 12, 2019
Cute sweet story
This story was one of two people immensely impacted by the other and never imagining they would run in to one another again. Wow! The fireworks when they see one another again we’re amazing. The struggles they fought through were well fought and worth the HEA they finally found with one another.
This story was one of two people immensely impacted by the other and never imagining they would run in to one another again. Wow! The fireworks when they see one another again we’re amazing. The struggles they fought through were well fought and worth the HEA they finally found with one another.
January 15, 2018
Hemi Good
Ms. Hughey has added a quality read to the Campfire Falls group. I found this tome to be full of twists and turns like a mountain road as the plot moved forward toward its proper ending. Great read.
Ms. Hughey has added a quality read to the Campfire Falls group. I found this tome to be full of twists and turns like a mountain road as the plot moved forward toward its proper ending. Great read.
August 25, 2018
A wonderful summer read...
I love this premiss, these two children meet at summer camp and influence each other's lives monumentally then meet again twenty years later. The story telling here grabs you and takes you along for a fun angsty ride.
I love this premiss, these two children meet at summer camp and influence each other's lives monumentally then meet again twenty years later. The story telling here grabs you and takes you along for a fun angsty ride.
August 27, 2018
Sexy and fun
I enjoyed this camp story and the backstory between the two characters was different, really enjoyable. I didn't know it was a series, so back to start from the beginning
I enjoyed this camp story and the backstory between the two characters was different, really enjoyable. I didn't know it was a series, so back to start from the beginning
September 8, 2018
Who would’ve thought that a conversation between a spoiled little girl and a headstrong teenage boy that occurred at camp years ago but have such an impact on both our lives. These two meet up again years later and boy have their lives changed. Can these two opposites find love Or is it just lust?
June 16, 2021
Really inspiring story
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this story. I really appreciate the way you opened their eyes to both sides of life. The greatest lesson anyone can learn is how to overcome whatever obstacles are in your path.
I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this story. I really appreciate the way you opened their eyes to both sides of life. The greatest lesson anyone can learn is how to overcome whatever obstacles are in your path.
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