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The Techboys Series #1
The Refusal
WINNER OF 16 ROMANCE BOOK AWARDS: Overall winner of the 16th National Indie Excellence Awards and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Awards for best first book. Winner of the Pinnacle Book Achievement Award. Finalist in the International Book awards. Global Book Award Gold.
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Have you ever had one of those really bad days at work?
When you meet a famous guy in a lift and pretend not to know who he is?
Only to find you’re working for him?
No? Just me then?
Now I’ve got to try and dazzle him with my personality and professionalism.
Ha, bloody, ha.
And you haven’t seen him.
Janus Phillips. CEO.
Floppy hair, heart-breaking smile. In and out of the tabloids.
And did I mention his carousel of model girlfriends?
I wear Doc Martens and strange clothes.
Yeah. Riiiight.
Problem is, I think he kind of likes me.
That is, until he catches me with someone else.
So now he’s gorgeous and pissed off.
And we’ve got to go to Hong Kong together.
What could possibly go wrong?
The Refusal is a full-length romance with a HEA and no cliffhanger. Don’t miss out on this fun, edge-of-the-seat read. Click BUY NOW to find out what happens between Jo and Janus.
HOW OBSESSED CAN YOU GET WITH A NEW ROMANCE SERIES?
"Have you ever found yourself reading a really exceptional book and you find that you’re forcing yourself to slow down on your reading because you simply don’t want the book to end? That’s exactly how I felt.” Shannon Kuhn Writes
"Do not pass on this story. You won't regret reading it!" Vivian Gunn, Erotic Romance Author
"I loved, loved, loved it! Jo and Janus have captured my heart. Definitely in my top 5 romance novels! I can't wait to see what comes next in the series. Eve M. Riley may be a debut author but she's right up there with the great romance authors. This book is a definite must read!" Clare Murphy, Romance Author
"I’m ruined now. I loved this story! I didn’t want to put it down. Jo with her fierce attitude and Janus’s softness yet domineering way made for the perfect couple!" C.G. Miller, Romance Author, Marked for You
"The Refusal is overall one of the best romance novels I have read in a long time. I can't wait to read the next in series." T.S. Simons, Author, Antipodes
“Let’s all take a moment of silence now that I’ve finished this book and it’s truly over until book two is released. This is a must read and will get you out of any book slump you’ve fallen into.” Beauty and The Book, Book Blogger
“I loved this book. I finished it in one day because I couldn't put it down.” All the Romance, Book Blog
“I have to say, first of all, DAMN! This book was sensational!” Pride Prejudice and Pups, Goodreads Reviewer
“Janus and Jo's story is absolutely brilliant. I loved the slow burn of their relationship at first and then the risk for it all!” Anne Mckayla, Book Blogger
______________________________________________________________________________
Have you ever had one of those really bad days at work?
When you meet a famous guy in a lift and pretend not to know who he is?
Only to find you’re working for him?
No? Just me then?
Now I’ve got to try and dazzle him with my personality and professionalism.
Ha, bloody, ha.
And you haven’t seen him.
Janus Phillips. CEO.
Floppy hair, heart-breaking smile. In and out of the tabloids.
And did I mention his carousel of model girlfriends?
I wear Doc Martens and strange clothes.
Yeah. Riiiight.
Problem is, I think he kind of likes me.
That is, until he catches me with someone else.
So now he’s gorgeous and pissed off.
And we’ve got to go to Hong Kong together.
What could possibly go wrong?
The Refusal is a full-length romance with a HEA and no cliffhanger. Don’t miss out on this fun, edge-of-the-seat read. Click BUY NOW to find out what happens between Jo and Janus.
HOW OBSESSED CAN YOU GET WITH A NEW ROMANCE SERIES?
"Have you ever found yourself reading a really exceptional book and you find that you’re forcing yourself to slow down on your reading because you simply don’t want the book to end? That’s exactly how I felt.” Shannon Kuhn Writes
"Do not pass on this story. You won't regret reading it!" Vivian Gunn, Erotic Romance Author
"I loved, loved, loved it! Jo and Janus have captured my heart. Definitely in my top 5 romance novels! I can't wait to see what comes next in the series. Eve M. Riley may be a debut author but she's right up there with the great romance authors. This book is a definite must read!" Clare Murphy, Romance Author
"I’m ruined now. I loved this story! I didn’t want to put it down. Jo with her fierce attitude and Janus’s softness yet domineering way made for the perfect couple!" C.G. Miller, Romance Author, Marked for You
"The Refusal is overall one of the best romance novels I have read in a long time. I can't wait to read the next in series." T.S. Simons, Author, Antipodes
“Let’s all take a moment of silence now that I’ve finished this book and it’s truly over until book two is released. This is a must read and will get you out of any book slump you’ve fallen into.” Beauty and The Book, Book Blogger
“I loved this book. I finished it in one day because I couldn't put it down.” All the Romance, Book Blog
“I have to say, first of all, DAMN! This book was sensational!” Pride Prejudice and Pups, Goodreads Reviewer
“Janus and Jo's story is absolutely brilliant. I loved the slow burn of their relationship at first and then the risk for it all!” Anne Mckayla, Book Blogger
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First published June 2, 2021
382 people are currently reading
1309 people want to read
About the author
Eve M. Riley
6 books189 followersScottish-based author Eve Riley was born in Dunfermline, a small picturesque town in Fife. After graduating with a degree in Mathematics, she worked in advertising agencies for ten years before setting up her own market research company, which she ran successfully for twenty years. She then began working
with technology startups, which spawned the ideas for The Refusal. Over the last eight years she has pursued her childhood dream of writing.
Her romance series The Techboys Series revolves around three men, Janus, Fabian, and Adam, who by chance sit next to each other in their first
computer science lecture at college. Their contrasting personalities result in them helping each other out, and, as they rescue one another from various scrapes, a deep bond develops. The books meet them years later in New York City as they struggle to get their lives on track.
Eve lives in Edinburgh with her husband and has two grown-up children.
Janus and Jo’s story, The Refusal, is the first novel in The Techboys Series, and will be followed by a further seven novels exploring Fabian and Kate’s, Liss’s
and Adam’s unfolding stories.
with technology startups, which spawned the ideas for The Refusal. Over the last eight years she has pursued her childhood dream of writing.
Her romance series The Techboys Series revolves around three men, Janus, Fabian, and Adam, who by chance sit next to each other in their first
computer science lecture at college. Their contrasting personalities result in them helping each other out, and, as they rescue one another from various scrapes, a deep bond develops. The books meet them years later in New York City as they struggle to get their lives on track.
Eve lives in Edinburgh with her husband and has two grown-up children.
Janus and Jo’s story, The Refusal, is the first novel in The Techboys Series, and will be followed by a further seven novels exploring Fabian and Kate’s, Liss’s
and Adam’s unfolding stories.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
May 25, 2021
Do you want a slow burn romance with two strong yet vulnerable main characters, drama and some absolutely hilarious moments too? Then this is a definite winner.
I'm still shocked that this is Eves first novel, as it's so well written, with such an intriguing storyline that you don't see very often. Jo runs a security software company and goes to help Janus at his company as they've had a hack in their system. It's always so refreshing to read about a woman in such a male dominated role and Jo is amazing at what she does in the book.
There were quite a few twists, some incredibly funny moments throughout this book and I really loved Janus and Jos relationship. Starting out as friends and building it up as they both wouldn't admit they liked eachother, but when they got together. Well, those are some steamy sex scenes.
I can't wait to read more from Eve and to dive back into this world she's created with the next 'techboys' book!
I'm still shocked that this is Eves first novel, as it's so well written, with such an intriguing storyline that you don't see very often. Jo runs a security software company and goes to help Janus at his company as they've had a hack in their system. It's always so refreshing to read about a woman in such a male dominated role and Jo is amazing at what she does in the book.
There were quite a few twists, some incredibly funny moments throughout this book and I really loved Janus and Jos relationship. Starting out as friends and building it up as they both wouldn't admit they liked eachother, but when they got together. Well, those are some steamy sex scenes.
I can't wait to read more from Eve and to dive back into this world she's created with the next 'techboys' book!
May 30, 2021
Who knew the tech world could be this sexy!
This debut novel by Eve Riley was swoon-worthy, witty, emotional, sexy and highly entertaining!
I’m a sucker for kick-ass female characters and Jo embodied poise and confidence except when Janus is concerned. This slow burn romance will keep you on your toes and never let up. I was hooked from the moment they met in the elevator and when you thought you knew what’s happening, Eve Riley threw something that will make you say “Well that was clever!”
I loved witnessing Jo and Janus grow as individuals and a couple. I’ve been a huge fan of Eve Riley since I started following her Instagram series about Euan and Laura and this book just solidified my admiration for her.
Great job and congratulations, Eve Riley!
This debut novel by Eve Riley was swoon-worthy, witty, emotional, sexy and highly entertaining!
I’m a sucker for kick-ass female characters and Jo embodied poise and confidence except when Janus is concerned. This slow burn romance will keep you on your toes and never let up. I was hooked from the moment they met in the elevator and when you thought you knew what’s happening, Eve Riley threw something that will make you say “Well that was clever!”
I loved witnessing Jo and Janus grow as individuals and a couple. I’ve been a huge fan of Eve Riley since I started following her Instagram series about Euan and Laura and this book just solidified my admiration for her.
Great job and congratulations, Eve Riley!
August 28, 2023
Eve Riley is a Scottish author who lives in Edinburgh and makes her debut with a runaway hit in my opinion. It’s got all those feel-goods, a bit of suspense and is such a fun reading experience.
Janus Phillips and Jo Williams are perfectly mismatched couple. He’s a tech billionaire whose company is being hacked by unknowns. Her skills are near-genius and her security company is hired to help solve the problem. There's immediate attraction that begins with a slow burn that turns to hot and steamy. A fast-paced romp that has real depth and development in the storyline, along with the introduction of an amazing secondary cast, some of whom I hope will get their own story told.
The author uses the phrase, “I reckon” and the word, “gawp” in place of “gawk” repeatedly throughout the story – both of which didn’t seem to fit the setting of New York City or the characteristics or professions of either Janus or Jo. Knowing the author’s homeland, I’m thinking it’s just a case of “they say that” and “we say this.” It did cause me to pause with each usage though, but I won’t make a fuss. That’s really my only oops throughout the entirety. I “reckon” that’s worth a lot.
The Refusal is by far one of the most enjoyable Kindle Unlimited romance novels that I’ve chosen to read in a long time. I can't wait to read the next in this series.
Future Books:
The Risk - #2 (Fabian/Kate?) – pub 6/22
The Misunderstanding #3 (Adam) – pub 6/23
Janus Phillips and Jo Williams are perfectly mismatched couple. He’s a tech billionaire whose company is being hacked by unknowns. Her skills are near-genius and her security company is hired to help solve the problem. There's immediate attraction that begins with a slow burn that turns to hot and steamy. A fast-paced romp that has real depth and development in the storyline, along with the introduction of an amazing secondary cast, some of whom I hope will get their own story told.
The author uses the phrase, “I reckon” and the word, “gawp” in place of “gawk” repeatedly throughout the story – both of which didn’t seem to fit the setting of New York City or the characteristics or professions of either Janus or Jo. Knowing the author’s homeland, I’m thinking it’s just a case of “they say that” and “we say this.” It did cause me to pause with each usage though, but I won’t make a fuss. That’s really my only oops throughout the entirety. I “reckon” that’s worth a lot.
The Refusal is by far one of the most enjoyable Kindle Unlimited romance novels that I’ve chosen to read in a long time. I can't wait to read the next in this series.
Future Books:
The Risk - #2 (Fabian/Kate?) – pub 6/22
The Misunderstanding #3 (Adam) – pub 6/23
November 6, 2021
This is a solid debut novel from an author that has clear potential, but it is also very clearly a first effort.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 2, 2024
5⭐️
This book has been on my to do list for quite some time and it was well worth the wait ☺️
Both Jo and Janus are richly written with all their quirks and insecurities and were some of the most relatable characters I have ever read.
The story is set in the tech world 💻, so it was different and fresh. Last, but NOT least the steam scenes were hot and sometimes humorous 🔥 😄
I will definitely read the rest of the books in this series.
This book has been on my to do list for quite some time and it was well worth the wait ☺️
Both Jo and Janus are richly written with all their quirks and insecurities and were some of the most relatable characters I have ever read.
The story is set in the tech world 💻, so it was different and fresh. Last, but NOT least the steam scenes were hot and sometimes humorous 🔥 😄
I will definitely read the rest of the books in this series.
September 23, 2021
Janus Phillips needs someone to help him solve his company’s hacking problems before they become public knowledge. He’s surprised to find the strait-laced woman he’s been flirting with in the elevator is in fact Jo Williams, internet security expert. After an awkward meeting, Jo isn’t sure if she wants to work for Janus, but with her fledgling company struggling to make payroll, she isn’t left with much of a choice. Janus isn’t at all what she expected, and she’s alarmed by her attraction to him since he has a terrible reputation for being a womanizer. Jo tries to keep her distance, leery of finding herself on the gossip pages as Janus’ latest flavor of the week, but she soon finds herself unable to resist the force of his charm as Janus works to convince her that he’s not what he seems.
First off, I hate this book’s blurb. Not even the fact that it’s written in first person and from the POV of only one of the MCs, but because it tells you virtually nothing about the book’s plot. This book has so much potential, but it definitely needs another look from an American editor to fix errors in slang, though this didn’t bother me too much. My main issue, as is so often the case these days, was with the heroine. For me, she was obnoxiously off-putting from the start and seemed incredibly judgmental. Her dialogues and inner monologues made it hard to believe she would be someone who had made it so far in her field. The segues between conversation or plot points were very choppy and I found it difficult to get into the book, finding myself skimming quite a lot. This tendency to skim was also brought on by the tech details we got which I found myself just not interested in. By the time I was halfway through the book I felt like nothing had really happened and questioned if I was reading a romance. I was mainly just annoyed by how often the heroine’s ‘tiny body’ was referenced at this point. Things improved in the second half of the book only to go off the rails again near the end with the hero making a lovely grand romantic gesture that the heroine doesn’t properly acknowledge or return. I felt she treated him badly, only acknowledging how she benefited from what he did and not considering his feelings at all. Jo was incredibly focused on herself and what benefited her and her business with little concern for Janus, so I had a hard time feeling like she deserved him when he turned out to be so sweet. Jo just believed everything she read in gossip magazines and nothing people actually told her. Beyond her business, Jo and Janus were both very caught up in their insecurities and while he helped bolster her confidence, I never felt like she really did the same for him and, combined with the focus on technical details with their computer skills, I think for me the romance suffered.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
First off, I hate this book’s blurb. Not even the fact that it’s written in first person and from the POV of only one of the MCs, but because it tells you virtually nothing about the book’s plot. This book has so much potential, but it definitely needs another look from an American editor to fix errors in slang, though this didn’t bother me too much. My main issue, as is so often the case these days, was with the heroine. For me, she was obnoxiously off-putting from the start and seemed incredibly judgmental. Her dialogues and inner monologues made it hard to believe she would be someone who had made it so far in her field. The segues between conversation or plot points were very choppy and I found it difficult to get into the book, finding myself skimming quite a lot. This tendency to skim was also brought on by the tech details we got which I found myself just not interested in. By the time I was halfway through the book I felt like nothing had really happened and questioned if I was reading a romance. I was mainly just annoyed by how often the heroine’s ‘tiny body’ was referenced at this point. Things improved in the second half of the book only to go off the rails again near the end with the hero making a lovely grand romantic gesture that the heroine doesn’t properly acknowledge or return. I felt she treated him badly, only acknowledging how she benefited from what he did and not considering his feelings at all. Jo was incredibly focused on herself and what benefited her and her business with little concern for Janus, so I had a hard time feeling like she deserved him when he turned out to be so sweet. Jo just believed everything she read in gossip magazines and nothing people actually told her. Beyond her business, Jo and Janus were both very caught up in their insecurities and while he helped bolster her confidence, I never felt like she really did the same for him and, combined with the focus on technical details with their computer skills, I think for me the romance suffered.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 9, 2021
When I began reading this book, I wasn't sure what to expect. Workplace romances aren't usually my thing, and I was expecting an alpha hero with a superiority complex. While our hero does act alpha in the boardroom, he has no problem letting a woman take the lead alongside him, and he was amazingly sexy in his vulnerabilities. I loved how the romance was slow burn, so unexpected in the twists and turns, and I stayed up until 1am to finish the book. I value my sleep, but this book was well worth the baggy eyes in the morning.
Jo Williams is no stranger to arrogant men. Working in a male-dominated profession - IT security - she has had to work really hard to gain respect in her field. When she gains a contract at a well-known tech company run, she is both thrilled and nervous. This could mean big things for her, so long as she doesn't do anything stupid. Like fall for the boss. Janus Phillips is H-O-T. His type is a hot blonde with big boobs, not a nerdy redhead with a flat chest. But as soon as they meet, sparks fly. Soon Jo is dodging his advances, and Janus, the man who can get anyone he wants, is having to work extra hard to get the one woman he thinks might be the perfect one for him. If only the cameras weren't constantly on them and her reputation was at stake.
I adored this couple, from beginning to end. Jo first meets Janus in the elevator, and she realizes instantly who he is. With a natural instinct to play with people, she pretends that she has no idea who he is, and Janus shows his vulnerable side for the first time. Instead of being offended or smirking, he blushes and looks uncomfortable. I loved this introduction to his character, because it set the scene for how their relationship would play out. Janus is a smart dude - someone equated to the likes of Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. However, he is way more into the technical side of coding than the business intricacies, and while he can manage his company, he misses what fun he had in college with his best friend. Meeting Jo is like a breath of fresh air for him. She isn't intimidated by him, makes him laugh, and she has quirks that drive him wild with lust. But the media portrays him as a playboy, and that's who Jo thinks he is. For a large part of the story, he has to battle that image, and Jo doesn't make it easy. She doesn't understand why he's attracted to her, because the poor thing is insecure herself. She knows she's smart but when it comes to men, what is there to attract them? Of course, we as readers see how wonderful she is and Janus sees it to, but it takes time to make Jo see it. She was a sweetheart, to everyone she met, and she and Janus deserved the beautiful happy ending that they got.
Janus' best friend get his book next. At first, I was apprehensive that he would get his own book, as I'm not a fan of guys who do drugs and he came across as a drug-addicted bum...at first. But then you see his character slowly develop into a really intelligent guy who just doesn't have direction in his life. I'm excited to see how his relationship develops with Jo's friend, and hopefully we get to see more of Jo and Janus as well.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
Jo Williams is no stranger to arrogant men. Working in a male-dominated profession - IT security - she has had to work really hard to gain respect in her field. When she gains a contract at a well-known tech company run, she is both thrilled and nervous. This could mean big things for her, so long as she doesn't do anything stupid. Like fall for the boss. Janus Phillips is H-O-T. His type is a hot blonde with big boobs, not a nerdy redhead with a flat chest. But as soon as they meet, sparks fly. Soon Jo is dodging his advances, and Janus, the man who can get anyone he wants, is having to work extra hard to get the one woman he thinks might be the perfect one for him. If only the cameras weren't constantly on them and her reputation was at stake.
I adored this couple, from beginning to end. Jo first meets Janus in the elevator, and she realizes instantly who he is. With a natural instinct to play with people, she pretends that she has no idea who he is, and Janus shows his vulnerable side for the first time. Instead of being offended or smirking, he blushes and looks uncomfortable. I loved this introduction to his character, because it set the scene for how their relationship would play out. Janus is a smart dude - someone equated to the likes of Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. However, he is way more into the technical side of coding than the business intricacies, and while he can manage his company, he misses what fun he had in college with his best friend. Meeting Jo is like a breath of fresh air for him. She isn't intimidated by him, makes him laugh, and she has quirks that drive him wild with lust. But the media portrays him as a playboy, and that's who Jo thinks he is. For a large part of the story, he has to battle that image, and Jo doesn't make it easy. She doesn't understand why he's attracted to her, because the poor thing is insecure herself. She knows she's smart but when it comes to men, what is there to attract them? Of course, we as readers see how wonderful she is and Janus sees it to, but it takes time to make Jo see it. She was a sweetheart, to everyone she met, and she and Janus deserved the beautiful happy ending that they got.
Janus' best friend get his book next. At first, I was apprehensive that he would get his own book, as I'm not a fan of guys who do drugs and he came across as a drug-addicted bum...at first. But then you see his character slowly develop into a really intelligent guy who just doesn't have direction in his life. I'm excited to see how his relationship develops with Jo's friend, and hopefully we get to see more of Jo and Janus as well.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
October 12, 2021
The book tells the story of Janus, who owns a big tech business, but unfortunately hackers trying to breach his security demanded him to hire Jo’s tech security company to fix the problem. The sparks fly between them at their very first encounter.
Janus can be considered a nerd who got a makeover throughout college, and became a 30-year-old hunk, with women toppling over him. After working hard, his company grew to be a solid business and with that came the social spotlight and the perks of dealing with the media vultures. Jo, on the other hand, is a gorgeous red-haired geek with some shaken self-confidence due to bullying in her past and exposure to the media because of it.
There are a lot of tech terms and hacking talk in the story while the main characters fall into an excruciating slow burn romance, and don’t take me wrong. When I say excruciating, I don’t mean in a bad way! It keeps you on your toes and your heart hitting your throat the entire time.
Janus is portrayed as a ladies’ man by the news, and the media is not the most trustworthy source of information sometimes, but Jo’s media experience takes its toll on their romance, and while the reader is almost ripping the hem of its t-shirt off, waiting for their romance to happen, the reader has time to fall in love with Fabian, the troubled nerd hacker who is friends with Janus. Well, I did!
The book has a bit of a slow pace in the first part, but once those two get together, the reader is up to a wild, hot, fun ride! Their time together is full of steam and sassiness, and the pace of the story changes so you can’t put the book down, and it’s not only with the struggles of their romance and to make it work, but also all the adrenaline of the hacking world.
The book was a sweet surprise since I’m not acquainted with the Tech World, but I loved it from beginning to ending, and I recommend it to everyone who would enjoy a steamy story with strong main characters, well built second characters that makes you fall in love with them… Fabian, I’m waiting for you, my hunky geek!
Janus can be considered a nerd who got a makeover throughout college, and became a 30-year-old hunk, with women toppling over him. After working hard, his company grew to be a solid business and with that came the social spotlight and the perks of dealing with the media vultures. Jo, on the other hand, is a gorgeous red-haired geek with some shaken self-confidence due to bullying in her past and exposure to the media because of it.
There are a lot of tech terms and hacking talk in the story while the main characters fall into an excruciating slow burn romance, and don’t take me wrong. When I say excruciating, I don’t mean in a bad way! It keeps you on your toes and your heart hitting your throat the entire time.
Janus is portrayed as a ladies’ man by the news, and the media is not the most trustworthy source of information sometimes, but Jo’s media experience takes its toll on their romance, and while the reader is almost ripping the hem of its t-shirt off, waiting for their romance to happen, the reader has time to fall in love with Fabian, the troubled nerd hacker who is friends with Janus. Well, I did!
The book has a bit of a slow pace in the first part, but once those two get together, the reader is up to a wild, hot, fun ride! Their time together is full of steam and sassiness, and the pace of the story changes so you can’t put the book down, and it’s not only with the struggles of their romance and to make it work, but also all the adrenaline of the hacking world.
The book was a sweet surprise since I’m not acquainted with the Tech World, but I loved it from beginning to ending, and I recommend it to everyone who would enjoy a steamy story with strong main characters, well built second characters that makes you fall in love with them… Fabian, I’m waiting for you, my hunky geek!
June 13, 2021
Thank you Eve for being so patient with me and for sending us a copy of your book.
I have been looking forward to getting my teeth into this book after seeing the snippets all over Instagram and this book did not disappoint.
Janus and Jo's story was a definitely Tech young loves dream... Meeting a man who is at the top of the tech world and him asking you to help him secure his business, for any young women especially like Jo that Loves everything Tech it really was incredible.
Their first meeting in the elevator was Hilarious. I love the quirky side of Jo. She pretends not to know who Janus is and to play with him a little, which in her mind sees that he would never date a woman like her but for Janus, it does the polar opposite, it only intrigues him more.
Jo can't help herself around him and says things she shouldn't or wouldn't normally. Janus finds himself completely smitten with her from the offset and the chemistry just bubbles between them from the moment he looked at Jo's map of his systems. what I liked about the character's was that they showed vulnerability in the second-guessing of how the other felt about them. it brought the reality of their feelings to life.
I don't want to go into too much detail as to how the story progresses as for a first novel this seriously needs to be read. Eve, you should be seriously proud of yourself because I really enjoyed the read. My only critique would be at times I felt like it was never-ending and there was just a little too much before the excitement got going but it did not affect the read and I can not wait to read more of your work.
My Overall Rating is 4 💋💋💋💋
My Passion rating is 3 💋💋💋
I have been looking forward to getting my teeth into this book after seeing the snippets all over Instagram and this book did not disappoint.
Janus and Jo's story was a definitely Tech young loves dream... Meeting a man who is at the top of the tech world and him asking you to help him secure his business, for any young women especially like Jo that Loves everything Tech it really was incredible.
Their first meeting in the elevator was Hilarious. I love the quirky side of Jo. She pretends not to know who Janus is and to play with him a little, which in her mind sees that he would never date a woman like her but for Janus, it does the polar opposite, it only intrigues him more.
Jo can't help herself around him and says things she shouldn't or wouldn't normally. Janus finds himself completely smitten with her from the offset and the chemistry just bubbles between them from the moment he looked at Jo's map of his systems. what I liked about the character's was that they showed vulnerability in the second-guessing of how the other felt about them. it brought the reality of their feelings to life.
I don't want to go into too much detail as to how the story progresses as for a first novel this seriously needs to be read. Eve, you should be seriously proud of yourself because I really enjoyed the read. My only critique would be at times I felt like it was never-ending and there was just a little too much before the excitement got going but it did not affect the read and I can not wait to read more of your work.
My Overall Rating is 4 💋💋💋💋
My Passion rating is 3 💋💋💋
February 26, 2022
A very good debut novel from a talented author. I’d call this an explicit romance or an erotic romance because there’s an interesting and compelling story in the background.
After reading this excellent book, I read through a bunch of the 2, 3 and 4 star reviews. I was surprised by how many were ARC reviews and the number of concerns: too much tech, not American slang, too much focus on their businesses, etc - really?
With this author’s work experience, I was hoping there would be more insight into the tech/security/hacking world. It’s an area that needs more light, not less. And anyone who doesn’t think building a hi-tech company is all consuming doesn’t understand that business. Having had some experience in the industry, I think the author caught it just right.
I appreciated the backstory on the characters and the concerns Jo had for her reputation. I would have thought that readers of romance books would be sensitive to the complexity of characters. Few of the lower starred reviews acknowledged how easily people pigeonhole real people, particularly women, so they can dismiss them with a single descriptor. I thought the author did an excellent job of highlighting the legitimate concerns entrepreneurs have in managing their public images, particularly women.
My only complaints are the lead male was too swoonworthy, offset by the fact that the lead female was well described and well depicted in the cover photo (too frequently this isn’t the case) ;-) and in the end there were strong indications of a D/s relationship offered in the bedroom - I certainly didn’t see that coming. I thought they were beautifully matched, and with Jo’s personality she’d want it her way some times.
A solid 4 Stars, and I’m looking forward to the follow-on books in the series.
After reading this excellent book, I read through a bunch of the 2, 3 and 4 star reviews. I was surprised by how many were ARC reviews and the number of concerns: too much tech, not American slang, too much focus on their businesses, etc - really?
With this author’s work experience, I was hoping there would be more insight into the tech/security/hacking world. It’s an area that needs more light, not less. And anyone who doesn’t think building a hi-tech company is all consuming doesn’t understand that business. Having had some experience in the industry, I think the author caught it just right.
I appreciated the backstory on the characters and the concerns Jo had for her reputation. I would have thought that readers of romance books would be sensitive to the complexity of characters. Few of the lower starred reviews acknowledged how easily people pigeonhole real people, particularly women, so they can dismiss them with a single descriptor. I thought the author did an excellent job of highlighting the legitimate concerns entrepreneurs have in managing their public images, particularly women.
My only complaints are the lead male was too swoonworthy, offset by the fact that the lead female was well described and well depicted in the cover photo (too frequently this isn’t the case) ;-) and in the end there were strong indications of a D/s relationship offered in the bedroom - I certainly didn’t see that coming. I thought they were beautifully matched, and with Jo’s personality she’d want it her way some times.
A solid 4 Stars, and I’m looking forward to the follow-on books in the series.
June 19, 2021
One of the true delights in indie publishing for me is finding new and new to me authors. Make room y'all, there's a new penner of prose on the scene and she is spectacular! Rarely have I ever seen such a polished, riveting, heartfelt read from a debut novel, and I need more!!
Jo Williams is a woman working in the male-dominated tech security industry. Her start-up security business is making great strides, but they're still surviving job to job. If she can get the contract with Janus Industries, it will go a long way to putting her company on the map.
Janus Phillips has had virtually overnight success with his company, and he's getting used to life in the spotlight, but he's lost the excitement that comes with spending hours in front of the computer solving coding issues. When someone hacks into his company's computer system, he wants the best in the business working to solve his problem.
I adore Janus and Jo soooo much! Jo has an delightfully quirky side and gives as good as she gets. And Janus may be Mr. Important, but he has a softer, more vulnerable side that just gets more appealing as layers are revealed.
This premise is something I haven’t seen a lot of, so I love it for it's freshness. And when a work of fiction can educate me along with all the other elements I love, it's a double win for me! Full of suspense, humor, steam, angst and heart, this one is a definite can’t-miss. And if you love finding a new author with a seasoned voice who can masterfully manipulate your heartstrings in the most delicious ways, run to the 1-Click now and start reading this unique, phenomenal romance!
Jo Williams is a woman working in the male-dominated tech security industry. Her start-up security business is making great strides, but they're still surviving job to job. If she can get the contract with Janus Industries, it will go a long way to putting her company on the map.
Janus Phillips has had virtually overnight success with his company, and he's getting used to life in the spotlight, but he's lost the excitement that comes with spending hours in front of the computer solving coding issues. When someone hacks into his company's computer system, he wants the best in the business working to solve his problem.
I adore Janus and Jo soooo much! Jo has an delightfully quirky side and gives as good as she gets. And Janus may be Mr. Important, but he has a softer, more vulnerable side that just gets more appealing as layers are revealed.
This premise is something I haven’t seen a lot of, so I love it for it's freshness. And when a work of fiction can educate me along with all the other elements I love, it's a double win for me! Full of suspense, humor, steam, angst and heart, this one is a definite can’t-miss. And if you love finding a new author with a seasoned voice who can masterfully manipulate your heartstrings in the most delicious ways, run to the 1-Click now and start reading this unique, phenomenal romance!
August 9, 2021
A big shout out to indie author, Eve Riley, who has launched her successful debut novel, The Refusal. She is definitely an indie author to watch, and one I connect with online as a fellow indie. I am also someone who doesn’t read a lot of romance, but she has got me hooked on her exciting tech-romance series.
The Refusal is about a slow burn romance within the fast-paced tech world. It stars Jo, a confident, smart, IT consultant whose personal insecurity inhibits her from realizing how much of an electric effect her personality can have on men. Then there is Janus, a well-known tech guru, leading a powerhouse company, whose confident, womanizing reputation may not be what it seems. Throw these two in an elevator, as the author does at the start, add in a sly mistaken identity twist, and their chemistry is as awkward and as exciting as you can imagine. But the author doesn’t make it easy for you. She adds in twists and turns to keep you reading.
For a guy who doesn’t read romance, I am impressed. Fortunately, more is to come in this series with Eve’s sequel prepping for publication soon. I will be reading her next book as well. Check it out.
The Refusal is about a slow burn romance within the fast-paced tech world. It stars Jo, a confident, smart, IT consultant whose personal insecurity inhibits her from realizing how much of an electric effect her personality can have on men. Then there is Janus, a well-known tech guru, leading a powerhouse company, whose confident, womanizing reputation may not be what it seems. Throw these two in an elevator, as the author does at the start, add in a sly mistaken identity twist, and their chemistry is as awkward and as exciting as you can imagine. But the author doesn’t make it easy for you. She adds in twists and turns to keep you reading.
For a guy who doesn’t read romance, I am impressed. Fortunately, more is to come in this series with Eve’s sequel prepping for publication soon. I will be reading her next book as well. Check it out.
March 27, 2023
Great debut novel in a geeky setting.
Very enjoyable book for those having a soft spot for guys and girls in IT. 😊 I liked the heroine a little bit more than the Hero, since Janus was a "manwhore-geek" (started the business being the typical "dirty and smelly" IT guy, had a makeover and women went nuts about him).
The whole drama is about this simple fact, and Jo doesn't want to be Janus' "flavor of the week", which makes absolute sense to me.
I wasn't missing anything in this book - there was tension growing between the two, jealous moments with a bit of angst, smut 🔥 and the drama.
Honestly, I wouldn't mind if Janus was a nerdy geek without as much experience with women. I need more books about these "Techboys."😊
May 19, 2021
I was given an ARC by Eve Riley in order to share my honest review of this book.
Janus is an owner of a huge tech business and seen by many as a sexpot, while Jo is a woman in tech just trying to make it. When they meet, so many things happen, and it is such a whirlwind.
Janus hires Jo to stop hackers from destroying his company but can Janus separate his professional relationship with Jo from person?
This book is spicy in all the right ways. Being a woman in tech, you see the struggles of a woman trying to be taken seriously in the industry but what Jo struggles with most is her personal perception of herself. How much is she willing to sacrifice just to make sure she is taken seriously? Is she willing to sacrifice her love life because she is scared people are going to discount her business finesse and her spot at the table?
This book has an amazing storyline. You follow the journey of romantic relationships along with a business that is at risk of being hacked and questionable friendships. There is such a build up to the sexiness of this book and it does not disappoint when you finally get to the juiciness. I cannot wait for the next book in the tech boys series!
Janus is an owner of a huge tech business and seen by many as a sexpot, while Jo is a woman in tech just trying to make it. When they meet, so many things happen, and it is such a whirlwind.
Janus hires Jo to stop hackers from destroying his company but can Janus separate his professional relationship with Jo from person?
This book is spicy in all the right ways. Being a woman in tech, you see the struggles of a woman trying to be taken seriously in the industry but what Jo struggles with most is her personal perception of herself. How much is she willing to sacrifice just to make sure she is taken seriously? Is she willing to sacrifice her love life because she is scared people are going to discount her business finesse and her spot at the table?
This book has an amazing storyline. You follow the journey of romantic relationships along with a business that is at risk of being hacked and questionable friendships. There is such a build up to the sexiness of this book and it does not disappoint when you finally get to the juiciness. I cannot wait for the next book in the tech boys series!
June 9, 2021
Janus and Jo. Wow. From the first page I was giggling and loving everything about Jo and her quirkiness.
This is the kind of book you don’t want to start if you have to put it down. And afterwards? Plan on having a book hangover. I loved all of the characters and cannot wait for the rest of the Techboy series.
This is the kind of book you don’t want to start if you have to put it down. And afterwards? Plan on having a book hangover. I loved all of the characters and cannot wait for the rest of the Techboy series.
May 14, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
From start to finish I couldn’t put it down. Any required adulting went out the window and instead I lived and breathed Janus and Jo's world.
I love a strong female character and Jo certainly fit in that category, with her fierce independence and strong willed personality and reactions to any obstacle. I really related to her.
Janus is, underneath the charm, a really sweet and caring guy. His character was so well rounded and thought out. By the end they had become real people to me, who I was 100% invested in.
This is a beautifully written story which chugs along a good pace.
Looking forward to reading the next one.
From start to finish I couldn’t put it down. Any required adulting went out the window and instead I lived and breathed Janus and Jo's world.
I love a strong female character and Jo certainly fit in that category, with her fierce independence and strong willed personality and reactions to any obstacle. I really related to her.
Janus is, underneath the charm, a really sweet and caring guy. His character was so well rounded and thought out. By the end they had become real people to me, who I was 100% invested in.
This is a beautifully written story which chugs along a good pace.
Looking forward to reading the next one.
June 10, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔥🔥
I recieved a ARC copy of The Refusal and this is my honest review.
This debut novel is not one that should not be overlooked! a must read esp if you love the tech world ( or even if you don’t)
I couldn’t get enough of this book. Jo and Janus was 🔥 i loved that JO was a bad a$$ but there was something about Janus!
a definite must read.
🔥🔥
I recieved a ARC copy of The Refusal and this is my honest review.
This debut novel is not one that should not be overlooked! a must read esp if you love the tech world ( or even if you don’t)
I couldn’t get enough of this book. Jo and Janus was 🔥 i loved that JO was a bad a$$ but there was something about Janus!
a definite must read.
Read
June 4, 2021I was given a ARC copy of this book.
A great read. I loved the characters. Jo is a clever, feisty woman while Janus is a successful man who is also vulnerable and caring.
It's a really good story. I let all the house work wait so that I could keep reading.
Read it. You won't regret it.
A great read. I loved the characters. Jo is a clever, feisty woman while Janus is a successful man who is also vulnerable and caring.
It's a really good story. I let all the house work wait so that I could keep reading.
Read it. You won't regret it.
June 3, 2021
Oh my gosh...if I knew tech boys were this hot, I would’ve hung out with the nerds more often!! I didn’t want to put this book down!!
I loved Jo until she wouldn’t get out of her own way! I wanted to slap her upside the head a few times and be like, girl, listen up! With the chemistry, steam and love between these two, I’m happy there was a HEA!
And who wouldn’t want a Janus?! He was a subtle Alpha but seriously undeniable, nonetheless!
So well written! Never would’ve thought this was a debut novel! I seriously cannot wait for the next one! Bring on Fabian’s story!! I need it!!!
I loved Jo until she wouldn’t get out of her own way! I wanted to slap her upside the head a few times and be like, girl, listen up! With the chemistry, steam and love between these two, I’m happy there was a HEA!
And who wouldn’t want a Janus?! He was a subtle Alpha but seriously undeniable, nonetheless!
So well written! Never would’ve thought this was a debut novel! I seriously cannot wait for the next one! Bring on Fabian’s story!! I need it!!!
June 19, 2021
The Refusal is my first book by Eve and I wasnt disappointed at all!
The Refusal isn't the type of book I normally go for but the blurb caught my attention. Like I said I wasnt disappointed and it had my attention the whole time.
If you love techy, friends to lovers with office romance twisted all together this is the book for you.
The Refusal isn't the type of book I normally go for but the blurb caught my attention. Like I said I wasnt disappointed and it had my attention the whole time.
If you love techy, friends to lovers with office romance twisted all together this is the book for you.
May 31, 2021
ARC Review - The Refusal by Eve M Riley
Having just finished my arc version of this book, i have to say, First of all, DAMN! 🔥🌶 This book was sensational! The story was interesting & steamy and the characters likable!! The first couple chapters I wondered what I got myself into. Jo, a sassy but sweet, down to earth tech security genius, and Janus, a hyper successful, too-good looking for his own good type, meet in an elevator and, to me, think and react like two 15 year old high school kids. I was hoping it wasn’t going to be soppy high school infatuation in the guise of 20 something hipsters.
However, as Jo holds Janus off to protect her professional reputation and her struggling business, and as you learn more about the two of them, they become likable characters that one might want to be friends with. Jo is caring and smart and has trouble trusting due to events in her past. Janus is trying to be what a successful single businessman should be while still trying not to deny what he actually is and where he comes from.
The sex was steamy when it started but I was glad it wasn’t immediate or gratuitous. And the two of them shared much more during those scenes than just physical satisfaction. Written with an emotional undertone and stress placed on their compatibility as people, I was drawn into their relationship.
I’ve never really read romance novels before and I’m glad this was my first one. While I’m sure romance novels on the whole have unrealistic attractions, overly dramatized relationship issues and sex scenes galore, I found this story sweet, touching, at times extremely HOT, yet adorable. But one of my favorite elements was the intriguing subplot of a security breach, Janus’ friend Fabian’s alternative lifestyle and, though on the mild side, the mystery to solve.
Great debut novel! And if you love romance novels, definitely pick this up. If you’ve never read a romance novel before and aren’t prudish about sex, check out this cute love story with an undercurrent of mystery.
Having just finished my arc version of this book, i have to say, First of all, DAMN! 🔥🌶 This book was sensational! The story was interesting & steamy and the characters likable!! The first couple chapters I wondered what I got myself into. Jo, a sassy but sweet, down to earth tech security genius, and Janus, a hyper successful, too-good looking for his own good type, meet in an elevator and, to me, think and react like two 15 year old high school kids. I was hoping it wasn’t going to be soppy high school infatuation in the guise of 20 something hipsters.
However, as Jo holds Janus off to protect her professional reputation and her struggling business, and as you learn more about the two of them, they become likable characters that one might want to be friends with. Jo is caring and smart and has trouble trusting due to events in her past. Janus is trying to be what a successful single businessman should be while still trying not to deny what he actually is and where he comes from.
The sex was steamy when it started but I was glad it wasn’t immediate or gratuitous. And the two of them shared much more during those scenes than just physical satisfaction. Written with an emotional undertone and stress placed on their compatibility as people, I was drawn into their relationship.
I’ve never really read romance novels before and I’m glad this was my first one. While I’m sure romance novels on the whole have unrealistic attractions, overly dramatized relationship issues and sex scenes galore, I found this story sweet, touching, at times extremely HOT, yet adorable. But one of my favorite elements was the intriguing subplot of a security breach, Janus’ friend Fabian’s alternative lifestyle and, though on the mild side, the mystery to solve.
Great debut novel! And if you love romance novels, definitely pick this up. If you’ve never read a romance novel before and aren’t prudish about sex, check out this cute love story with an undercurrent of mystery.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2024
Another over hyped book. I cannot believe that so many people find just okay books amazing.
Can someone please tell me why all these romance authors describe their main characters with long lashes constantly touching their cheeks. What are they unicorns?!
First of all half of the book was super slow, nothing was really happening except long conversations, inner dialogues, repetitions, predictable situations dragging on, etc. The first real exciting moment was Fabian and Jo drama (as I don't want to give any spoilers here). While Jo and Janus flirting was fun it was sporadic with many interruptions of nothing happening. Jo started annoying me with her doubts when it comes to Janus and believing everything she read in gossip magazines. Janus never really gave her a reason to doubt him, he was pretty much showing his interest from the start and when he finally admitted how he feels she kept on with her "I can't believe he likes me. I'm not pretty. I don't have big boobs. He was with all these women I saw in magazine. BLA BLA BLA" and it goes on and on. She spent all this time around him yet refused to get to know real him without constantly judging his actions. In addition, author had to mention how Jo kept blushing, her pink cheeks, this goes for Janus too in almost every chapter.
I was hoping that her character would evolve a bit more and that she would stop doubting everything but this kept on until the end. That's pretty much what made this book often tiring to me, author could have done better with her leading lady. Otherwise I did like Janus, Fabian, and overall tech crowd. 2 stars as I still liked it but didn't love it, the story after first few chapters was ridiculously predictable.
Can someone please tell me why all these romance authors describe their main characters with long lashes constantly touching their cheeks. What are they unicorns?!
First of all half of the book was super slow, nothing was really happening except long conversations, inner dialogues, repetitions, predictable situations dragging on, etc. The first real exciting moment was Fabian and Jo drama (as I don't want to give any spoilers here). While Jo and Janus flirting was fun it was sporadic with many interruptions of nothing happening. Jo started annoying me with her doubts when it comes to Janus and believing everything she read in gossip magazines. Janus never really gave her a reason to doubt him, he was pretty much showing his interest from the start and when he finally admitted how he feels she kept on with her "I can't believe he likes me. I'm not pretty. I don't have big boobs. He was with all these women I saw in magazine. BLA BLA BLA" and it goes on and on. She spent all this time around him yet refused to get to know real him without constantly judging his actions. In addition, author had to mention how Jo kept blushing, her pink cheeks, this goes for Janus too in almost every chapter.
I was hoping that her character would evolve a bit more and that she would stop doubting everything but this kept on until the end. That's pretty much what made this book often tiring to me, author could have done better with her leading lady. Otherwise I did like Janus, Fabian, and overall tech crowd. 2 stars as I still liked it but didn't love it, the story after first few chapters was ridiculously predictable.
May 25, 2021
The Refusal✨
💓ARC
The feels: 4/5💋
The steam: 3/5🔥
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌀Book 1 in the Techboys Series
🌀Slow Burn
🌿Jo Williams is an incredibly talented, driven, NYC techie, who is so broke she can’t even pay attention. Desperate to save her struggling tech security firm, she accepts a job with Janus Industries, a wildly successful tech corporation.
🌿Janus Phillips, CEO and founder of Janus Industries, is a gorgeous, intelligent enigma, who often misses the simplicity of his pre-business life. He’s definitely a unique hero—sexy, yet slightly insecure, and charming, yet a bit awkward. He struggles with the media’s portrayal of his image, resulting in a misleading “playboy” reputation.
🌿Jo and Janus are immediately enamored with each other, but choose to fight their undeniable connection and sizzling chemistry for the sake of professionalism. But how long can they really fight an attraction that only continues to get stronger?
🌿I loved Janus and Jo! Janus was delightfully impatient, but always thoughtful and empathetic—while Jo was funny, level-headed, and a total lady boss. Janus was loving, kind, and constantly prepared to soothe Jo’s insecurities brought on by her past, while Jo was a rock for Janis, the calm to his storm.
🌿Eve Riley hits it out of the park with her debut! Can’t wait to read more about these Techboys😉
💓ARC
The feels: 4/5💋
The steam: 3/5🔥
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌀Book 1 in the Techboys Series
🌀Slow Burn
🌿Jo Williams is an incredibly talented, driven, NYC techie, who is so broke she can’t even pay attention. Desperate to save her struggling tech security firm, she accepts a job with Janus Industries, a wildly successful tech corporation.
🌿Janus Phillips, CEO and founder of Janus Industries, is a gorgeous, intelligent enigma, who often misses the simplicity of his pre-business life. He’s definitely a unique hero—sexy, yet slightly insecure, and charming, yet a bit awkward. He struggles with the media’s portrayal of his image, resulting in a misleading “playboy” reputation.
🌿Jo and Janus are immediately enamored with each other, but choose to fight their undeniable connection and sizzling chemistry for the sake of professionalism. But how long can they really fight an attraction that only continues to get stronger?
🌿I loved Janus and Jo! Janus was delightfully impatient, but always thoughtful and empathetic—while Jo was funny, level-headed, and a total lady boss. Janus was loving, kind, and constantly prepared to soothe Jo’s insecurities brought on by her past, while Jo was a rock for Janis, the calm to his storm.
🌿Eve Riley hits it out of the park with her debut! Can’t wait to read more about these Techboys😉
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2021
So good! I love a smart romance and this story totally fits that bill.
Jo and Janus are equals in both intelligence and reticence to get involved in a relationship. Jo is building a tech company and needs to protect her professional reputation at all costs. Janus has been working so hard, he only has experience connecting with women on the surface level.
They both have backstories where they were made to feel “less than” and Jo’s in particular had me tearing up. When these two finally let down their walls it is MAGIC, but the path there might drive you crazy with their “oblivious-ness” to the other’s person’s interest.
While they clearly on fire in the bedroom - or wherever! They are equally compatible at the keyboard. I love how Janus totally respects Jo’s knowledge and competency and defers to her expertise.
There are a few really fun side characters introduced as well and I really hope that we get Fabian’s story and figure out what the heck is going on with him medically. I think Dr. Kate needs to help him out!!
Great story for those that like a slow burn romance with spicy payoff at the end and a nerd-perfect story line.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and these are my honest opinions.
Jo and Janus are equals in both intelligence and reticence to get involved in a relationship. Jo is building a tech company and needs to protect her professional reputation at all costs. Janus has been working so hard, he only has experience connecting with women on the surface level.
They both have backstories where they were made to feel “less than” and Jo’s in particular had me tearing up. When these two finally let down their walls it is MAGIC, but the path there might drive you crazy with their “oblivious-ness” to the other’s person’s interest.
While they clearly on fire in the bedroom - or wherever! They are equally compatible at the keyboard. I love how Janus totally respects Jo’s knowledge and competency and defers to her expertise.
There are a few really fun side characters introduced as well and I really hope that we get Fabian’s story and figure out what the heck is going on with him medically. I think Dr. Kate needs to help him out!!
Great story for those that like a slow burn romance with spicy payoff at the end and a nerd-perfect story line.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author and these are my honest opinions.
January 7, 2022
When Jo Williams, cyber-security expert, and Janus Phillips, billionaire technology entrepreneur, match wits in his office elevator, it was love at first sight. It just took a lot longer for one of them to jump on board than the other. Jo has been burned by the media in the past and is hyper-sensitive about what others may think. Janus seeks out high profile engagements and never let the gossips worry him before now. Can they meet in the middle somehow?
The Refusal is a clever, steamy tech-based workplace romance. Jo, Janus, and their close friends, Fabian and Kate, are well imagined and likeable characters. The suspense that drew Williams Security to Janus Industries hums in the background while the two lovers suss out their relationship. I’ll admit that I was sold on the attraction between Jo and Janus from the outset and was therefore very impatient for them to get their act together. That made the overall progress feel slow. I felt relieved once put out of my misery. Although this is a standalone, I definitely want to read more about the Techboys.
The Refusal is a clever, steamy tech-based workplace romance. Jo, Janus, and their close friends, Fabian and Kate, are well imagined and likeable characters. The suspense that drew Williams Security to Janus Industries hums in the background while the two lovers suss out their relationship. I’ll admit that I was sold on the attraction between Jo and Janus from the outset and was therefore very impatient for them to get their act together. That made the overall progress feel slow. I felt relieved once put out of my misery. Although this is a standalone, I definitely want to read more about the Techboys.
June 3, 2021
Janus is a bit of me. And Jo is everything I want to be!
Anyone who knows me will also know if you throw in business talk in a steamy romance I could die happy.
The Refusal caught me in a reading slump, and god bless this book for being an easy and engaging read and getting me primed and ready for even more books! It gave me a kick in the ass to get my head back in the books and enjoy them again.
Jo is a woman working in tech security with her own business which is no small feat. She struggles with her own history and coming to terms with acknowledging what she wants not just from her own business but also in her personal life.
I loved the push and pull of Janus and Jo, I definitely got whiplash and that’s what I enjoy about a good romance that keeps me on my toes 😂
Jo is making her way in a male dominated industry, and what that means is she is under more scrutiny in her role than would have otherwise been. I loved the miscommunication around the issues that arise because of this.
Anyone who knows me will also know if you throw in business talk in a steamy romance I could die happy.
The Refusal caught me in a reading slump, and god bless this book for being an easy and engaging read and getting me primed and ready for even more books! It gave me a kick in the ass to get my head back in the books and enjoy them again.
Jo is a woman working in tech security with her own business which is no small feat. She struggles with her own history and coming to terms with acknowledging what she wants not just from her own business but also in her personal life.
I loved the push and pull of Janus and Jo, I definitely got whiplash and that’s what I enjoy about a good romance that keeps me on my toes 😂
Jo is making her way in a male dominated industry, and what that means is she is under more scrutiny in her role than would have otherwise been. I loved the miscommunication around the issues that arise because of this.
July 14, 2021
The best romance book ever! It keeps you hooked up from the start to the end. I'm never getting tired of reading this for another million times. Absolutely lovin' it!
May 31, 2021
"How do you fancy...coming over and writing software with me?"
"I laugh at the kind of invites that make your pulse race when you're a girl in tech..."
I absolutely loved the things that make the characters in The Refusal by debut writer Eve M. Riley excited like tech talk. Trust me though, they are not business oriented all the time.
Jo is a freckled face redhead who is trying to expand her security tech company. Janus is a self made computer software billionaire whose company is having hacking issues. When they meet not knowing they are about to do business together they are cute and flirty. Then they are formally introduced and both of them are thrown out of their comfort zones
Jo has many insecurities but the one thing she is sure of is getting involved with Janus romantically will destroy her reputation and then her business.
Janus has a reputation as a player but the truth is most of his dates are publicity set ups and there is no one he has felt wants him for him and not his money. That is until he meets Jo.
Through miscommunications and one very serious threat from hackers that could easily destroy Janus and his clients we slowly see these two people realize that they could be perfectly nerdy together.
I read this sexy fun novel in one night. It was refreshingly written showing the real insecurities from both people in entering a relationship.
It also had some of the most honest sexy love scenes. Jo knows she is not voluptuously built and Janus is not the blond hard six pack washboard type they think the other is interested in.
I enjoyed every page of this book. It was funny, suspenseful, and very steamy. It was also real about emotions, friendships and public perceptions. This story is the first in the author's tech boys series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
"I laugh at the kind of invites that make your pulse race when you're a girl in tech..."
I absolutely loved the things that make the characters in The Refusal by debut writer Eve M. Riley excited like tech talk. Trust me though, they are not business oriented all the time.
Jo is a freckled face redhead who is trying to expand her security tech company. Janus is a self made computer software billionaire whose company is having hacking issues. When they meet not knowing they are about to do business together they are cute and flirty. Then they are formally introduced and both of them are thrown out of their comfort zones
Jo has many insecurities but the one thing she is sure of is getting involved with Janus romantically will destroy her reputation and then her business.
Janus has a reputation as a player but the truth is most of his dates are publicity set ups and there is no one he has felt wants him for him and not his money. That is until he meets Jo.
Through miscommunications and one very serious threat from hackers that could easily destroy Janus and his clients we slowly see these two people realize that they could be perfectly nerdy together.
I read this sexy fun novel in one night. It was refreshingly written showing the real insecurities from both people in entering a relationship.
It also had some of the most honest sexy love scenes. Jo knows she is not voluptuously built and Janus is not the blond hard six pack washboard type they think the other is interested in.
I enjoyed every page of this book. It was funny, suspenseful, and very steamy. It was also real about emotions, friendships and public perceptions. This story is the first in the author's tech boys series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
May 22, 2021
❤ The Refusal by Eve M Riley
❤ Publication Date - 2nd June 2021
❤ Never let down your guard. Never let anyone see your weakness. You can’t say I wasn’t warned . . . When I first walked into Janus Phillips’s offices, it was right into a high-profile hacking problem the scale of which I’d never seen before. That word high-profile? Been there, done that. Not stepping through that doorway twice. But the trouble was, I didn’t really have a choice. And I wasn’t prepared for Janus. God, no. He was determined to get through every last defense I had. And I had no idea how addictive he would turn out to be.
I could tell you how the gossip columns roasted me, or how I wasn’t prepared for the limelight. But truthfully? I dropped my guard. And trusting someone like that? Well, that’s the worst thing you can do.
❤ Generally romance books are not my thing. I can't get into how unrealistic they can be.... In saying that Riley made it feel natural. Jo and Janus had an immediate spark but Jo being the fierce independent woman she is, she didn't act upon it straight away. I love that they play games, it's the way I would act in real life and makes the story feel that much realistic!
❤ The point of view changed between Jo and Janus. I loved watching them wrestle with their own doubts and thoughts about each other and themselves. I loved watching the difference in the way Jo thought compared to Janus.
❤ There is a good amount of humour and cheekiness to keep it fun and not overly sexual to keep the reader hooked. The characters are well developed with a full backstory, their personality traits are reflective of their past, they have realistic actions and emotions, and are very relatable.
❤ Publication Date - 2nd June 2021
❤ Never let down your guard. Never let anyone see your weakness. You can’t say I wasn’t warned . . . When I first walked into Janus Phillips’s offices, it was right into a high-profile hacking problem the scale of which I’d never seen before. That word high-profile? Been there, done that. Not stepping through that doorway twice. But the trouble was, I didn’t really have a choice. And I wasn’t prepared for Janus. God, no. He was determined to get through every last defense I had. And I had no idea how addictive he would turn out to be.
I could tell you how the gossip columns roasted me, or how I wasn’t prepared for the limelight. But truthfully? I dropped my guard. And trusting someone like that? Well, that’s the worst thing you can do.
❤ Generally romance books are not my thing. I can't get into how unrealistic they can be.... In saying that Riley made it feel natural. Jo and Janus had an immediate spark but Jo being the fierce independent woman she is, she didn't act upon it straight away. I love that they play games, it's the way I would act in real life and makes the story feel that much realistic!
❤ The point of view changed between Jo and Janus. I loved watching them wrestle with their own doubts and thoughts about each other and themselves. I loved watching the difference in the way Jo thought compared to Janus.
❤ There is a good amount of humour and cheekiness to keep it fun and not overly sexual to keep the reader hooked. The characters are well developed with a full backstory, their personality traits are reflective of their past, they have realistic actions and emotions, and are very relatable.
May 23, 2021
The Refusal is about an up and coming security genius, Jo; a woman techie and we all know that this industry is heavily dominated by men, and Janus who is an established young billionaire in the tech industry. It starts with Janus hiring Jo's company and they first met in the elevator.
I loved Jo & Janus' story. Jo's attitude is refreshing because I can relate to it. I like the snarky remarks and her sense of humor to throw people off. I connected with her right away as I do it sometimes too. Lol. Her insecurities as a woman are very valid. We all have something that we are unsire of and overthink. Be it our body, our looks, hair, etc. She refused to get involved with Janus because of his reputation. He was seen as a player by the media. The POV switches every so often when it needed to. I think it's very smart to do it that way. The author, Eve, chose the right moments. Its interesting to see his and hers as the story evolves and what they were thinking at that moment. In the middle, we get the best friend's POV as a surprised. I didn't expect that.
This is a lovely story with mystery, a bit of twist, and some steamy content. There was a mention of the other bestfriend but he didnt make an appearance. I'm now very curious about his story more than Fabian. Lol. But I'm still interested with Fab's story. Cant wait to read more about these techies.
Thanks Eve for giving me an opportunity to be part of your ARC team.
I loved Jo & Janus' story. Jo's attitude is refreshing because I can relate to it. I like the snarky remarks and her sense of humor to throw people off. I connected with her right away as I do it sometimes too. Lol. Her insecurities as a woman are very valid. We all have something that we are unsire of and overthink. Be it our body, our looks, hair, etc. She refused to get involved with Janus because of his reputation. He was seen as a player by the media. The POV switches every so often when it needed to. I think it's very smart to do it that way. The author, Eve, chose the right moments. Its interesting to see his and hers as the story evolves and what they were thinking at that moment. In the middle, we get the best friend's POV as a surprised. I didn't expect that.
This is a lovely story with mystery, a bit of twist, and some steamy content. There was a mention of the other bestfriend but he didnt make an appearance. I'm now very curious about his story more than Fabian. Lol. But I'm still interested with Fab's story. Cant wait to read more about these techies.
Thanks Eve for giving me an opportunity to be part of your ARC team.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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