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Perfect Harmony
When billionaire mogul Gerald Hawthorne dies, he leaves behind an ultimatum for his son in order to get the portion of his allotted inheritance, he must marry the woman who had taken care of him in his final days, Nurse Harmony Rhoades. Instead of getting angry, Ethan makes a deal with Harmony, one that will help him get around his father's contract. All seems to be going well until Ethan suffers a car accident that causes him to lose the last five years of his memory, which includes both Harmony and their deal. Chaos and fireworks ensue as Harmony finds herself playing the role of wife, hoping that Ethan recovers before she has to tell too many lies.
ebook
First published July 15, 2021
69 people are currently reading
63 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Donley
16 books205 followersC.L. Donley is a future New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of multicultural and interracial romance, who believes romance novels that are impossible to put down are the only kind that should exist! Armed with a B.A. in English and M.A. in Writing, she is new to the romance game, having written her first novel, Amara's Calling, after discovering the romance genre in September 2017. Donley writes in a style she calls "romantic realism" that is sophisticated yet simple, grounded yet unaplogetically escapist, and character-driven rather than plot-driven. This style creates a unique, modern reading experience ideal for book club discussions, personal epiphanies, satisfying re-reads, and the occasional spiraling reviewer! Love it or hate it, fans and critics alike can't deny her talent, and always find themselves coming back for more!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 9, 2023
2.75⭐️ This is an amnesia-themed romance that focuses on Harmony, a hospital administrator and former nurse, and Ethan, who is a very rich manwhore and an all around a**hole. Harmony is strong in many ways, dedicated to her profession, and she’s often very quick-witted with the comeback. She’s a likable character, and I respect and applaud Harmony for her dedication to her profession. On the other hand, Ethan is a character that lacks any appealing qualities. As the story proceeds, he is involved in a horrific car accident and suffers a traumatic brain injury that causes amnesia. As a result, a seemingly different, polar opposite of the rich, spoiled, hedonistic Ethan emerges—but it’s not for long before his a**hole colors start to show.
For the most part, I enjoyed the book 1) once the salient aspects of the plot were divulged; and 2) after a more thorough understanding of the dynamics involving the main characters and their motivations are revealed much later in the book. In this respect, more complete backstories of Ethan and Harmony would have really augmented the story.
Similarly, while the plot structure is creative, the way the fundamental elements unfold is problematic. For more than half of the book, important foundational components are missing, and major topic points haven’t yet been disclosed. As a consequence, certain key references are confusing and significant conversations between Ebony, Ethan, and secondary characters are baffling and difficult to decipher without further details. In this regard, sharper execution and restructuring of the plot in conjunction with more overall cohesiveness would optimize the enjoyment of the book.
As a whole, until important events were disclosed, I kept thinking that I’d missed something. Subsequently, however, as pertinent and requisite aspects of the plot are finally unfurled, I was able to correlate all the prior missing components, and I was able to derive some pleasure from the story. IMHO, with some reworking of the plot, I believe it would be a very enjoyable read, especially for those who love this subject-matter.
For the most part, I enjoyed the book 1) once the salient aspects of the plot were divulged; and 2) after a more thorough understanding of the dynamics involving the main characters and their motivations are revealed much later in the book. In this respect, more complete backstories of Ethan and Harmony would have really augmented the story.
Similarly, while the plot structure is creative, the way the fundamental elements unfold is problematic. For more than half of the book, important foundational components are missing, and major topic points haven’t yet been disclosed. As a consequence, certain key references are confusing and significant conversations between Ebony, Ethan, and secondary characters are baffling and difficult to decipher without further details. In this regard, sharper execution and restructuring of the plot in conjunction with more overall cohesiveness would optimize the enjoyment of the book.
As a whole, until important events were disclosed, I kept thinking that I’d missed something. Subsequently, however, as pertinent and requisite aspects of the plot are finally unfurled, I was able to correlate all the prior missing components, and I was able to derive some pleasure from the story. IMHO, with some reworking of the plot, I believe it would be a very enjoyable read, especially for those who love this subject-matter.
July 18, 2021
I was fully prepared to love this but I felt liked it was kind of all over the place at first. Once I got past the first 20% it was good, but then it got chaotic again sadly. I expected a “Leftover with Benefits” quality but sadly this one missed the mark for me. I will say I appreciated the H and h’s sense of humor though. I had some genuine laughs!
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January 28, 2023Not for me. Both leads were unlikeable so there was no one to root for.
July 20, 2021
Despite including something inconsequential to the story since it wasn't expanded on, this was a good story. The H and h had great chemistry, even though he appeared to be a dick, but it all came out in the wash.
C. L. suggests some form of abuse in the H's and his twin sisters' past but then drops it. Why include it if she wasn't going somewhere with it? possibly to explain his attitude?
This really was an enjoyable story that would have been superb with an additional 25 to 50 pages.
C. L. suggests some form of abuse in the H's and his twin sisters' past but then drops it. Why include it if she wasn't going somewhere with it? possibly to explain his attitude?
This really was an enjoyable story that would have been superb with an additional 25 to 50 pages.
February 14, 2025
Underwhelming
August 23, 2021
3.25 Stars. (BW/WM). Kindle Unlimited Edition e-book. This is a so-so read. The story begins with some useless information: The heroine's twin sister attracts rich white men and plays them, the heroine is awful at skating, injured a white child when in forth grade and decided not to skate again until her 30th birthday. The hero, Ethan Hawthorne, is a billionaire womanizing trust fund recipient and baby brother to his paternal twin sister. The heroine, Harmony Rhoades-Hawthorne, is an administrative nurse at a geriatric clinic and is one of a pair of identical twins. Ethan and Harmony meet when Ethan's father becomes a patient of Harmony's. Ethan and Harmony enter into a dubious marriage contract after the death Ethan's father because he names Harmony executor of his assets totaling 13 billion dollars. In order to gain control of these assets, Ethan has to marry Harmony within a year of the probation of the will and must remain married for five years. Harmony is to relinquish the assets and accept a billion dollar pay off. Following a car accident, Ethan is hospitalized with a server head injury and recovers with retrograde amnesia. Harmony leaves her live-in boyfriend to be at Ethan's side, her boyfriend issues an ultimatum and vacates the apartment. Harmony becomes moves in with Ethan to help him as he regains his memory; but her passive aggressive accusatory condemnation and sanctimonious attacks regarding his philandering ways is hypocritical when she's had a live-in beau and miscarried. She hems and haws and wants and don't want and is hurt because of her insecurities. In the end, they work things out but the story is all over the place and by the end as a reader, I didn't care what happened.
September 2, 2021
Initial I didn’t like the idea of harmony sweating Ethan but after the accident they seemed to build a genuine relationship. So I was willing to accept things progressing between them. I didn’t like her sleeping with him prior to telling him the truth about their arrangement. I felt like she was making pitiful excuses.
I thought it was dramatic that she left without word. And did not like the fact that she didn’t respect herself enough to refrain from kissing him after he accused her of taking advantage of him and threatened to take her to court.
I never truly invested in their relationship after that even though they reconciled and expressed their “true” feelings to each other.
I thought it was dramatic that she left without word. And did not like the fact that she didn’t respect herself enough to refrain from kissing him after he accused her of taking advantage of him and threatened to take her to court.
I never truly invested in their relationship after that even though they reconciled and expressed their “true” feelings to each other.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2025
I don't normally do reviews, but I had to for this book. It missed the mark. It's tough to speak of things without spoilers, but I'll just say that there's the pre/during/post amnesia phase for the protagonist and I don't believe there was any growth with the character at all. I thought there was a moment where maybe she found her voice/strength, but nope, just bad choices and more silent stewing.
The semi-antagonist also had phases the during/pos/post amnesia and understanding the normal dynamics of stories, I also understand roles, but there were too many unknowns about his past and why he was so broken was not flushed out very well.
This story has so many gaps and picks up like a story in progress because the gaps never really fill in. It's unfair to the reader to assume that the small snippets will be enough to do what the writing does not do at all. I gave it 2 stars b/c I cannot give 1.5 stars. The amnesia part is ridiculous but it was funny and I think the most honest (yeah, I said honest). It's a quick read and can be a palette cleanser if you need something like that after a harsh read, other than that, don't bother.
The semi-antagonist also had phases the during/pos/post amnesia and understanding the normal dynamics of stories, I also understand roles, but there were too many unknowns about his past and why he was so broken was not flushed out very well.
This story has so many gaps and picks up like a story in progress because the gaps never really fill in. It's unfair to the reader to assume that the small snippets will be enough to do what the writing does not do at all. I gave it 2 stars b/c I cannot give 1.5 stars. The amnesia part is ridiculous but it was funny and I think the most honest (yeah, I said honest). It's a quick read and can be a palette cleanser if you need something like that after a harsh read, other than that, don't bother.
August 4, 2021
Marriage of Confusion
I liked Ethan and Harmony’s story. Ethan was so mean and spoiled that he wanted you to not like him, but he showed signs of a heart. I knew Ethan was harboring feelings for Harmony way before his accident, but I wasn’t sure about Harmony’s feelings for him until later. That’s why Ethan kept his distance from Harmony because he knew the longer he was around her the more he would want her. Ethan’s family was so wealthy that they didn’t know how to talk to each other without money being involved. Ethan mentioned to Harmony that he and Ivy experienced some some traumatic things growing up that shaped them into who they were but he never revealed those things. I wish he had so that we would have had more insight into why Ethan behaved the way he did. Ethan and Harmony were finally able to communicate their feelings and what they wanted from each other. That conversation was 4 years overdo, but at least it finally happened. Im glad they had their HEA.
I liked Ethan and Harmony’s story. Ethan was so mean and spoiled that he wanted you to not like him, but he showed signs of a heart. I knew Ethan was harboring feelings for Harmony way before his accident, but I wasn’t sure about Harmony’s feelings for him until later. That’s why Ethan kept his distance from Harmony because he knew the longer he was around her the more he would want her. Ethan’s family was so wealthy that they didn’t know how to talk to each other without money being involved. Ethan mentioned to Harmony that he and Ivy experienced some some traumatic things growing up that shaped them into who they were but he never revealed those things. I wish he had so that we would have had more insight into why Ethan behaved the way he did. Ethan and Harmony were finally able to communicate their feelings and what they wanted from each other. That conversation was 4 years overdo, but at least it finally happened. Im glad they had their HEA.
July 21, 2021
3.75 Stars
I liked Harmony and “Blank slate” Ethan, but they really didn’t know much about each other. I wish I would’ve gotten to see them learn about each other more.
If you suspended your belief, the plot was workable, but it seemed too much that all that drama surrounding the will agreement. Honestly, there was really no reason to lie, and the ones she came up with were hilariously ridiculous. She really could’ve just said, so, we’re married in name only and I felt really bad you got hurt so I’m here. Let’s be friends.
I did love the way Ethan fought for their relationship though based on her made up story. Freaking adorable!
I liked Harmony and “Blank slate” Ethan, but they really didn’t know much about each other. I wish I would’ve gotten to see them learn about each other more.
If you suspended your belief, the plot was workable, but it seemed too much that all that drama surrounding the will agreement. Honestly, there was really no reason to lie, and the ones she came up with were hilariously ridiculous. She really could’ve just said, so, we’re married in name only and I felt really bad you got hurt so I’m here. Let’s be friends.
I did love the way Ethan fought for their relationship though based on her made up story. Freaking adorable!
July 26, 2021
Great story
This was an enjoyable story with a different twist that the
marta
This was an enjoyable story
The twist was that the main character had amnesia and the story revolves around him and the woman he doesn't realizes he loves
The author does a great job creating a realistic storyline and characters you can relate to
The romance was great
You won't be disappointed getting this book
This was an enjoyable story with a different twist that the
marta
This was an enjoyable story
The twist was that the main character had amnesia and the story revolves around him and the woman he doesn't realizes he loves
The author does a great job creating a realistic storyline and characters you can relate to
The romance was great
You won't be disappointed getting this book
September 22, 2022
Respect
Not gonna lie, I binge read this story it was unputdownable. I love me a a heroine who is not a goody two shoes even though I was yelling at her to tell amnesiac Ethan the whole truth. However, I respect her ingenuity and would have done a runner myself in her shoes. Old Ethan was a piece of work and clean slate Ethan was cute, but my favourite was combined Ethan cos he was hot hot hot even when he was being mean. Respect to my favourite author.
Not gonna lie, I binge read this story it was unputdownable. I love me a a heroine who is not a goody two shoes even though I was yelling at her to tell amnesiac Ethan the whole truth. However, I respect her ingenuity and would have done a runner myself in her shoes. Old Ethan was a piece of work and clean slate Ethan was cute, but my favourite was combined Ethan cos he was hot hot hot even when he was being mean. Respect to my favourite author.
August 8, 2021
Good Read!!
So, I really loved the plot. The story for the most part was good. It was just at times I was confused as to what was really going on? Like when they had a argument after he came to her job then end up kissing and going with him for the weekends. Then the matter of their feelings i was lost a little close to the end but i really liked the story.
So, I really loved the plot. The story for the most part was good. It was just at times I was confused as to what was really going on? Like when they had a argument after he came to her job then end up kissing and going with him for the weekends. Then the matter of their feelings i was lost a little close to the end but i really liked the story.
August 13, 2021
Bravo!!!
I loved this book. It had everything. It wasn't what I call "instalove" I wish they had had identical twins...lol. Since both of them were from a set of twins. Great job!!! I love sex scenes. Not necessarily a big fan of erotica , especially when there's no real storyline
I loved this book. It had everything. It wasn't what I call "instalove" I wish they had had identical twins...lol. Since both of them were from a set of twins. Great job!!! I love sex scenes. Not necessarily a big fan of erotica , especially when there's no real storyline
July 15, 2021
The Bold and the Beautiful
Ms. Donley delivers a drama filled entry worthy of the amnesia storyline/trope. I laughed out loud, cringed, and fanned myself during this very enjoyable tale!
Ms. Donley delivers a drama filled entry worthy of the amnesia storyline/trope. I laughed out loud, cringed, and fanned myself during this very enjoyable tale!
July 17, 2021
Mixed
I have mixed feelings with this book. Up until the reveal, the book was great. It was like a twin to Leftover with Benefits. But after the reveal, the writing was jumbled and confusing. Please redo. Because this is such a great book and I want to give it 5 stars.
I have mixed feelings with this book. Up until the reveal, the book was great. It was like a twin to Leftover with Benefits. But after the reveal, the writing was jumbled and confusing. Please redo. Because this is such a great book and I want to give it 5 stars.
July 18, 2021
Great Reading
I really enjoyed reading this book, at first I thought the husband was an asshole until all was being revealed. Then I felt sorry for him. His family was a piece of work and the sex scenes were awesome.
All in all I loved this book.
I really enjoyed reading this book, at first I thought the husband was an asshole until all was being revealed. Then I felt sorry for him. His family was a piece of work and the sex scenes were awesome.
All in all I loved this book.
July 19, 2021
Sweet Sexy Romance
Ms Donley writes with style and wit. The humor is clever and the dialogue flows naturally. The characters are well developed and fascinating. The amnesia element was used well. I highly recommend this book.
Ms Donley writes with style and wit. The humor is clever and the dialogue flows naturally. The characters are well developed and fascinating. The amnesia element was used well. I highly recommend this book.
July 20, 2021
Good story
I'm happy I read this book. Very enjoyable read. Just downloaded another book by this author. Can you tell that I had to use so many words before I could finish my review😤
I'm happy I read this book. Very enjoyable read. Just downloaded another book by this author. Can you tell that I had to use so many words before I could finish my review😤
July 25, 2021
Amazing
I absolutely loved this book! It was such a feel good read. CL Donley is amazing at what she does, and this is yet another book to prove it.
Ethan and Harmony got together as a means to an end, but learned after tragedy struck they were meant for soo much more. They were complete opposites and virtually strangers until Ethan was in a car accident. From there the story truly unfolds and we get to see them both find what they were to blind or to afraid to see…
I absolutely loved this book! It was such a feel good read. CL Donley is amazing at what she does, and this is yet another book to prove it.
Ethan and Harmony got together as a means to an end, but learned after tragedy struck they were meant for soo much more. They were complete opposites and virtually strangers until Ethan was in a car accident. From there the story truly unfolds and we get to see them both find what they were to blind or to afraid to see…
July 26, 2021
Fabulous!
I couldn't wait to get to the end! There was never a dull moment, the story wasn't predictable like other romance novels. The sexual parts weren't too graphic and it had a beautiful ending.
I couldn't wait to get to the end! There was never a dull moment, the story wasn't predictable like other romance novels. The sexual parts weren't too graphic and it had a beautiful ending.
July 29, 2021
Great book!
I really enjoyed this story line it was a little confusing at first but as you go on this journey it becomes clearer. Loved the chemistry between Ethan and Harmony it was smoking hot 🔥! I recommend this book to my fellow romance readers you will enjoy reading it.
I really enjoyed this story line it was a little confusing at first but as you go on this journey it becomes clearer. Loved the chemistry between Ethan and Harmony it was smoking hot 🔥! I recommend this book to my fellow romance readers you will enjoy reading it.
August 14, 2021
Title befitting
I always enjoy this author and was not disappointe with their latest work. Loved how the story played out. How Ethan an Harmony both really finds their memories . Enjoyable read,
I always enjoy this author and was not disappointe with their latest work. Loved how the story played out. How Ethan an Harmony both really finds their memories . Enjoyable read,
September 11, 2021
Really good!!
This was a good read. Funny and sweet and sexy too. The characters were sometimes lovable and sometimes got on my nerves…like real people. It’s a good read and wasn’t super predictable given the amnesia premise. Like it a lot.
This was a good read. Funny and sweet and sexy too. The characters were sometimes lovable and sometimes got on my nerves…like real people. It’s a good read and wasn’t super predictable given the amnesia premise. Like it a lot.
October 9, 2021
romance and drama
Love the plot for this book it’s interesting. However som characters were annoying and made the story unbearable at times. Over all is a good story with interesting characters.
Love the plot for this book it’s interesting. However som characters were annoying and made the story unbearable at times. Over all is a good story with interesting characters.
November 9, 2021
Perfect
I love the story, the characters and the
pace of the book. I love reading books with strong characters that speaks to your heart and make you feel every emotion they are going through. Great storyline.
I love the story, the characters and the
pace of the book. I love reading books with strong characters that speaks to your heart and make you feel every emotion they are going through. Great storyline.
July 16, 2021
Love this book
It was a little rocky there, with the insecurities of the characters, but she pulled them through and created an awesome tale. This book is a joy to read.
It was a little rocky there, with the insecurities of the characters, but she pulled them through and created an awesome tale. This book is a joy to read.
July 21, 2021
Well done
I enjoyed the writing, I love Harmony and felt like she was a real person. I enjoyed the relationship based plot and there's just enough sex to keep it steamy.
I enjoyed the writing, I love Harmony and felt like she was a real person. I enjoyed the relationship based plot and there's just enough sex to keep it steamy.
July 31, 2021
Wow
So intense, horny abandonment really cool book-to read. Usually I am not a fan of sad events however I accepted and enjoyed reading the book
So intense, horny abandonment really cool book-to read. Usually I am not a fan of sad events however I accepted and enjoyed reading the book
August 18, 2021
Perfect Harmony: A BWWM Amnesia Romance
I love everything about this book. The story of Ethan and Harmony was great. It is good to see black women in a good light.
I love everything about this book. The story of Ethan and Harmony was great. It is good to see black women in a good light.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews