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Cinnamon Roll Alphas #4
Tempting Fate
Second chances can be twice as hot
Faith Fox grew up rich, but she burned that bridge—and her trust fund along with it—after her parents drove away the only boy she ever loved.
Leo Morales grew up poor, and although he carved out a fulfilling career for himself, he never forgot the humiliation he endured at the hands of Faith Fox’s family.
Then Leo’s offered a job in his hometown, and he finds himself in an unexpected position: he’s now the one with the money Faith needs to keep her non-profit afloat.
The pair reluctantly agree to work together, but their unresolved issues (and their unstoppable lust) keep boiling over—and that’s before they get stuck in the woods with only one tent.
The award-winning Cinnamon Roll Alphas series concludes with Tempting Fate, featuring the playful banter, steamy encounters, and sunny outlook that Sara Whitney’s readers have come to love.
Faith Fox grew up rich, but she burned that bridge—and her trust fund along with it—after her parents drove away the only boy she ever loved.
Leo Morales grew up poor, and although he carved out a fulfilling career for himself, he never forgot the humiliation he endured at the hands of Faith Fox’s family.
Then Leo’s offered a job in his hometown, and he finds himself in an unexpected position: he’s now the one with the money Faith needs to keep her non-profit afloat.
The pair reluctantly agree to work together, but their unresolved issues (and their unstoppable lust) keep boiling over—and that’s before they get stuck in the woods with only one tent.
The award-winning Cinnamon Roll Alphas series concludes with Tempting Fate, featuring the playful banter, steamy encounters, and sunny outlook that Sara Whitney’s readers have come to love.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2022
16 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Sara Whitney
22 books287 followersSara Whitney writes sexy, sunny contemporary romance that's unforgettable and unputdownable. She worked as a journalist and film critic before she earned her Ph.D. and entered academia. She divides her time between professoring, authoring, and entertainment reporting, and she almost certainly has an opinion about your favorite TV show.
Sara lives in Illinois, where she's surrounded by books, cats, half-full coffee cups, and practically empty bags of Swedish Fish. Keep up with the latest by subscribing to Sara's mailing list at http://www.sarawhitney.com/subscribe
Sara lives in Illinois, where she's surrounded by books, cats, half-full coffee cups, and practically empty bags of Swedish Fish. Keep up with the latest by subscribing to Sara's mailing list at http://www.sarawhitney.com/subscribe
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
March 11, 2022
A brilliant read. I adored it from the beginning. There's the perfect amount of tension, twists and turns! Swoon-worthy MC🥵
Although I still don't understand why Faith did what she did years ago to Leo.
Absolutely cannot wait for Brandon and William's story🤧
Although I still don't understand why Faith did what she did years ago to Leo.
Absolutely cannot wait for Brandon and William's story🤧
March 21, 2022
Leo can take me out on a hike ANY TIME HE WANTS, just saying. 💅🏻💅🏻💅🏻
Behold!! Another MF that I enjoyed!!!!! The name of it it's Tempting Fate and it's about a second chance romance.
And yes, I enjoyed it, the characters were oh, so good, the little town setting didn't annoy me like almost always does and it had a nice development and an even nicer ending. What more can I ask?
It was simple, but fun, warm and lovely, me likes it 😏😏
Let there be more books like this one ma lord, pleeeajjjj 😮💨😮💨😮💨
Behold!! Another MF that I enjoyed!!!!! The name of it it's Tempting Fate and it's about a second chance romance.
And yes, I enjoyed it, the characters were oh, so good, the little town setting didn't annoy me like almost always does and it had a nice development and an even nicer ending. What more can I ask?
It was simple, but fun, warm and lovely, me likes it 😏😏
Let there be more books like this one ma lord, pleeeajjjj 😮💨😮💨😮💨
March 22, 2022
The second time's the charm - for this couple, AND for me with this book. I'm new to the series, so I was expecting a sweet cinnamon roll hero (as the series title describes) and a rom com (as the cover implies), so I was... taken aback... by the level of hostility between these two. There's a TON of bitterness between them, some hot hate sex early on, and plenty of proof that the opposite of love is indifference, not hate. So I set the book aside for a few days, recalibrated my expectations, and went in fresh. And it was pretty great once I knew what I was in for. Whitney does an excellent job of showcasing just how deep the feelings run between these former high school sweethearts, and my heart HURT for them and the time they'd lost. Insecurities and misunderstandings got in the way the first time around, but they are clearly two people who have used their time apart to learn and grow - and they've never forgotten how good they were together.
The story follows Faith, a woman who runs an educational nonprofit that's in need of immediate funding, or it won't be able to operate. And who is in charge of the grant money she desperately needs? None other than the love of her high school life, Leo. Back in the day, Faith was the one with money - she comes from a wealthy family, and it was always a sticking point in their relationship. Leo never felt like he was good enough for her family, and one emotional betrayal from Faith seemed to prove him right. Twelve years later, Leo is now the one with the financial security, and it's a balm to his pride, even if seeing Faith again opens up that old wound that never healed. They both hate the way things ended, and they both kinda hate each other for the way they reacted, so the years apart have done no favors to their relationship. But working together brings reminders of the way they were, and that might just be a problem.
So I was expecting a rom com with a sweet guy, and this is... definitely not that, lol. It's got some lighthearted moments, but it's actually very angsty and the hurt between Faith and Leo runs deep. They haven't seen each other in over a decade, and they've both grown and matured in a way that makes the loss bittersweet. They needed those years apart to become the people they are now, but they still have the strongest of connections between them. I really wasn't sure that I liked this for awhile - Leo is just SO angry and bitter - but it was obvious that Whitney is a skilled writer who knows the subtleties involved in rebuilding this relationship. Second chance lovers are likely to appreciate the slow build in love and intimacy. Ultimately, I liked this quite a bit once I altered my expectations. The only thing that continued to bug me were the repeated references to the sexual experiences they've had in their time apart - not something I love to be reminded of during steamy scenes, for example. Beyond that, this was very solid, and I would not hesitate to read more from the series or Whitney - it easily reads as a standalone as well. All in all, not what I was expecting in any way, but certainly a good read. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this second chance romance.
The story follows Faith, a woman who runs an educational nonprofit that's in need of immediate funding, or it won't be able to operate. And who is in charge of the grant money she desperately needs? None other than the love of her high school life, Leo. Back in the day, Faith was the one with money - she comes from a wealthy family, and it was always a sticking point in their relationship. Leo never felt like he was good enough for her family, and one emotional betrayal from Faith seemed to prove him right. Twelve years later, Leo is now the one with the financial security, and it's a balm to his pride, even if seeing Faith again opens up that old wound that never healed. They both hate the way things ended, and they both kinda hate each other for the way they reacted, so the years apart have done no favors to their relationship. But working together brings reminders of the way they were, and that might just be a problem.
So I was expecting a rom com with a sweet guy, and this is... definitely not that, lol. It's got some lighthearted moments, but it's actually very angsty and the hurt between Faith and Leo runs deep. They haven't seen each other in over a decade, and they've both grown and matured in a way that makes the loss bittersweet. They needed those years apart to become the people they are now, but they still have the strongest of connections between them. I really wasn't sure that I liked this for awhile - Leo is just SO angry and bitter - but it was obvious that Whitney is a skilled writer who knows the subtleties involved in rebuilding this relationship. Second chance lovers are likely to appreciate the slow build in love and intimacy. Ultimately, I liked this quite a bit once I altered my expectations. The only thing that continued to bug me were the repeated references to the sexual experiences they've had in their time apart - not something I love to be reminded of during steamy scenes, for example. Beyond that, this was very solid, and I would not hesitate to read more from the series or Whitney - it easily reads as a standalone as well. All in all, not what I was expecting in any way, but certainly a good read. I received an early copy and am voluntarily leaving a review of this second chance romance.
March 13, 2022
4.5 STARS
This was such a feel good second chance romance that hit all the right notes perfectly for me.
It balanced sweet, spicy, emotional and hilarious so incredibly well.
It has such cute, fun interactions and situations between the main characters. I fell in love with them!
I was completely entertained.
I laughed, I felt emotional and I swooned.
The characters have some serious issues, but it’s handled in a way that doesn’t weigh heavily or drag out. Perfect for the lighter tone of the story.
The chemistry is super fun, spicy and sweet.
Their banter and the humor is fantastic.
Faith and Leo are immensely lovable characters.
I love the sunny, feisty go-getter that Faith is. She grew up with wealth and turned her back on it and has succeeded on her own with an amazing non-profit she created.
Leo grew up without wealth and privilege and was determined to make himself a success.
He is a bit gruff and stand-offish at first impression.
He’s actually a sweet, big hearted, sexy and protective “cinnamon roll.” Absolutely an alpha as well.
He’s been doing awesome eco/humanitarian work in the Amazon jungle for years and now he’s back home in a corporate office doing great things for his community.
I love that both characters had the calling to make the world and their community a better place. It makes them so endearing to me.
And I think it makes them well suited for each other.
Their story has some past pain they still carry and they have some new bumps along the way back to each other, but it’s a low angst fun and sexy romance.
The secondary characters are great, they add laughs and heart.
The family issues are realistic and I liked the way they played out.
It was my first read by this author and I’m definitely going to read more by her. This was a big hit for me.
This was such a feel good second chance romance that hit all the right notes perfectly for me.
It balanced sweet, spicy, emotional and hilarious so incredibly well.
It has such cute, fun interactions and situations between the main characters. I fell in love with them!
I was completely entertained.
I laughed, I felt emotional and I swooned.
The characters have some serious issues, but it’s handled in a way that doesn’t weigh heavily or drag out. Perfect for the lighter tone of the story.
The chemistry is super fun, spicy and sweet.
Their banter and the humor is fantastic.
Faith and Leo are immensely lovable characters.
I love the sunny, feisty go-getter that Faith is. She grew up with wealth and turned her back on it and has succeeded on her own with an amazing non-profit she created.
Leo grew up without wealth and privilege and was determined to make himself a success.
He is a bit gruff and stand-offish at first impression.
He’s actually a sweet, big hearted, sexy and protective “cinnamon roll.” Absolutely an alpha as well.
He’s been doing awesome eco/humanitarian work in the Amazon jungle for years and now he’s back home in a corporate office doing great things for his community.
I love that both characters had the calling to make the world and their community a better place. It makes them so endearing to me.
And I think it makes them well suited for each other.
Their story has some past pain they still carry and they have some new bumps along the way back to each other, but it’s a low angst fun and sexy romance.
The secondary characters are great, they add laughs and heart.
The family issues are realistic and I liked the way they played out.
It was my first read by this author and I’m definitely going to read more by her. This was a big hit for me.
March 10, 2022
Tempting Fate is an emotional second chance romance. Faith and Leo were high school sweethearts but her disapproving parents were worried that she'd end up pregnant and skipping college. He is of Puerto Rican heritage and struggles with a learning disorder, her family is very well off but they have their problems, eg. a somewhat messed-up relationship with food and body image. After her father made some disclosures to Leo he broke up with Faith, and Faith broke up with her parents, giving up her trust fund. Following their studies, they have both been involved in attempts to make the world a better place. Leo is back in town and it turns out in charge of the grants Faith needs to run her non-profit. There are still some lingering bad feelings but their mutual attraction has not disappeared either. But can you just erase years of hurt and get past the past?
I loved this engaging story that kept my attention throughout. The writing style is beautiful and the characters felt complete and well-rounded. There is some sexual content. I received a copy from Booksprout and this is a voluntary review.
I loved this engaging story that kept my attention throughout. The writing style is beautiful and the characters felt complete and well-rounded. There is some sexual content. I received a copy from Booksprout and this is a voluntary review.
March 29, 2022
4 star Review Tempting Fate (Cinnamon Roll Alphas #5) by Sara Whitney
Sara Whitney is a new author to me and why I have not read her before I have no idea. This is Faith and Leo’s second chance at love story and it ticked a number of boxes for me.
This was well written, entertaining and a good mix of heat, humour and being set in a small town just added to my enjoyment of Tempting Fate. The characters were easy to relate to and engaging and I quickly found myself drawn into the story that Ms. Whitney wove.
There were some interesting plot twists that had me wondering as Faith and Leo reconnected. I was also unsure whether or not the bitterness from the past would destroy any chance they had of igniting the love that they once shared. I felt for both characters as they struggled to come to terms with the past and in doing so creating a second chance at happiness.
Tempting Fate is a story of giving back and standing up for what you believe in and taking chances.
Sara Whitney is a new author to me and why I have not read her before I have no idea. This is Faith and Leo’s second chance at love story and it ticked a number of boxes for me.
This was well written, entertaining and a good mix of heat, humour and being set in a small town just added to my enjoyment of Tempting Fate. The characters were easy to relate to and engaging and I quickly found myself drawn into the story that Ms. Whitney wove.
There were some interesting plot twists that had me wondering as Faith and Leo reconnected. I was also unsure whether or not the bitterness from the past would destroy any chance they had of igniting the love that they once shared. I felt for both characters as they struggled to come to terms with the past and in doing so creating a second chance at happiness.
Tempting Fate is a story of giving back and standing up for what you believe in and taking chances.
January 21, 2025
Tempting Fate is definitely not my favourite from this author. I never felt engaged in either of them, but I’ve read others by Sara Whitney and really enjoyed them.
March 13, 2022
Tempting Fate is a gratifying second chance romance that proves to this reader once again that while romance novels may be predictable because we want them to be, the journey to the Happily Ever After is where the challenge lies. In this novel, Faith and Leo have Capital-H History from high school. They fell in love (and lust) as teenagers. They were thwarted by her family's misguided but earnest desire for her not to lose sight of her career and life goals by a boy.
They meet again back in their hometown after Leo's been off on Adventures Saving the World post-college. Faith is estranged from her wealthy family because of their machinations that came between her and Leo, plus she's had the nerve not to join the family business and has set up her own non profit to save the world, one at-risk, after-school care needing kid at a time.
Leo now holds the keys to the money box as he's a grant manager for a foundation. Faith desperately needs money to keep her agency afloat and has even moved back home to keep from having to pay rent. It's a clever script flip slash power switch since in high school Faith was the rich "Duchess Fox" and Leo was the poor Puerto Rican boyfriend with a learning disability.
This book does a great job digging into nuts and bolts of non profits and their funding models. As a non profit consultant I appreciated the attention to those details. It also sets Faith and Leo up in conflict, lust and long-term pining for each other in a way that's compelling. The author allow Faith be honest about their mutual sexual lack of experience as teens, and (bonus) lets Leo appreciate her in her current iteration as a grown women who no longer eats a fraction of a hamburger to stay skinny. The sex scenes are lovely, a good balance between showing the action and leaving some to the reader's imagination. I also enjoyed Faith's honest and realistic reconciliation with her family.
It's a solid 4.5 star read for me the only reason it's not a 5 is I got a little lost in the many secondary characters, both the number of them and their implied backstories. That said, I am eager to read William's story next.
They meet again back in their hometown after Leo's been off on Adventures Saving the World post-college. Faith is estranged from her wealthy family because of their machinations that came between her and Leo, plus she's had the nerve not to join the family business and has set up her own non profit to save the world, one at-risk, after-school care needing kid at a time.
Leo now holds the keys to the money box as he's a grant manager for a foundation. Faith desperately needs money to keep her agency afloat and has even moved back home to keep from having to pay rent. It's a clever script flip slash power switch since in high school Faith was the rich "Duchess Fox" and Leo was the poor Puerto Rican boyfriend with a learning disability.
This book does a great job digging into nuts and bolts of non profits and their funding models. As a non profit consultant I appreciated the attention to those details. It also sets Faith and Leo up in conflict, lust and long-term pining for each other in a way that's compelling. The author allow Faith be honest about their mutual sexual lack of experience as teens, and (bonus) lets Leo appreciate her in her current iteration as a grown women who no longer eats a fraction of a hamburger to stay skinny. The sex scenes are lovely, a good balance between showing the action and leaving some to the reader's imagination. I also enjoyed Faith's honest and realistic reconciliation with her family.
It's a solid 4.5 star read for me the only reason it's not a 5 is I got a little lost in the many secondary characters, both the number of them and their implied backstories. That said, I am eager to read William's story next.
March 17, 2022
Faith was raised in a privileged lifestyle but with that privilege came expectations that resulted in the end of her relationship with her first love Leo. She has forged her own path and now manages a non-profit charity, but she desperately needs funds to continue however the man in charge of the grants just happens to be Leo.
Leo is a self-made man who has overcome his less-than-ideal childhood who has made it his mission to help those he need it the most. When Faith approaches him, they soon realize that the chemistry and connection between them hasn’t diminished over time but is it enough to overcome the past?
Both Faith and Leo are good people who are trying to make things better for others. They have both seen the advantages and disadvantages that wealth can bring which gives them a clearer picture of what truly matters even if they must face some turmoil along the way.
Leo is a self-made man who has overcome his less-than-ideal childhood who has made it his mission to help those he need it the most. When Faith approaches him, they soon realize that the chemistry and connection between them hasn’t diminished over time but is it enough to overcome the past?
Both Faith and Leo are good people who are trying to make things better for others. They have both seen the advantages and disadvantages that wealth can bring which gives them a clearer picture of what truly matters even if they must face some turmoil along the way.
March 25, 2022
I'll admit I haven't read the others in this series, but this was a fun, quick read and a first for me by Sara Whitney! I love the steam, only one bed (or tent in this case), and the relationship between Leo and Faith. They come from very different lives, but fell for one another in high school until her parents meddled and ruined their relationship. Faith is an excellent heroine who is beautifully strong, stubborn AF, and throws herself into everything she does. Watching her and Leo get their second chance was wonderful and they are just perfect for each other! I will definitely be adding the rest of the series to my TBR - fingers crossed they are as funny and heartfelt as this one!
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I received an ARC from Hidden Gems and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 23, 2022
second chance for the win
What a great book! Both Faith and Leo are wonderfully flawed humans who made mistakes in their pasts. Meeting when all grown up with nothing cleared up from the past was angst and healing for both of them. They both grew into the people they were meant to be and found each other again!
Loved seeing some old faces pop up!
What a great book! Both Faith and Leo are wonderfully flawed humans who made mistakes in their pasts. Meeting when all grown up with nothing cleared up from the past was angst and healing for both of them. They both grew into the people they were meant to be and found each other again!
Loved seeing some old faces pop up!
December 11, 2024
I loved this swoony, opposite-side-of-the-tracks, second-chance workplace romcom. It’s got meddling sisters, meddling townsfolk, and even a villainous boss - everything I was looking for. Toss in a just-one-tent situation? Perfection! 🤌
January 26, 2024
Leo & Faith ❤️
| Steam 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Rated R, scenes 3-5 scenes
| Feels 🙂🏕️
| Steam 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Rated R, scenes 3-5 scenes
| Feels 🙂🏕️
March 24, 2024
okay,, kinda sick that a white author made one of the only people of color very stereotypical but.
February 23, 2022
In typical Sara Whitney fashion, Tempting Fate weaves a poignant but hilarious tale of a second chance romance between two people whose fates change course dramatically after a failed high school romance. It's funny, clever, and oh so steamy. Perfect for fans of Rom Com.
May 23, 2025
That was cute
February 25, 2024
I always love a good second chance romance story. Particularly those that feature a couple who were separated by youth and circumstance. But, the fact that although they were separated, they were able to become amazing adults. Of the type that they maybe wouldn’t have been able to if they hadn’t gone their separate ways in the first place. Plus, this is a Cinnamon Roll Alpha story. And they’re just generally cute anyway – big manly, grunt men who are actually totally adorable and smitten when in love.
At the very beginning of this story, Faith’s parents are cast as the villains of the piece – they separated Faith and Leo through some not-so-nice actions. And as a result, Faith has been estranged from them ever since. I like that, instead of continuing to cast them as the villains, Faith is able to find a way to move on with her family. That their actions, although seriously wrong, were actually based in good intentions. And that, even if they are a bit broken and silly, her parents are able to own up to their mistakes and try to make amends. It’s a bit of a departure from other stories of this vein, were the catalyst for the break up is often incredibly villainized and unloveable.
Although I really liked Leo as the male lead, I mean, cinnamon roll alpha, come on. I did find him a bit of a hard headed fool at times. He doesn’t really treat Faith all that well at the very beginning. And, although its understandable why he’s such a dick, it does make it that little bit harder to connect. And I feel like, as a result, it takes Faith that little bit longer to actually trust him and move forward in her relationship with him. Having said that, many of his actions are kind of understandable, so you can’t hate him. And, he is a fun lead to read about. Particularly with his career background and personal goals – making the world a better, more sustainable place.
Normally I don’t love mean girls, or any kind of story that perpetuates how nasty women can be (and are often taught to be) to one another. However, I absolutely adored how Leo’s sisters go to bat for him. They’re not overly nice about it, but, the moment he tells them to back off and that Faith is back in his life – they do. It’s the perfect blend of sticking up for someone you love, but also respecting their decisions. And, ultimately they return to being good friends with Faith and making her welcome into their family yet again.
I knew that there would be a final barrier to Faith and Leo’s relationship in this story. And, I kind of figured it would have something to do with privilege and money. But, it was actually quite a bit nastier than I had anticipated. And very heartbreaking. I love how it actually kind of blindsided me. Although, since this is a happy romance, it all still worked out beautifully in the end.
At the very beginning of this story, Faith’s parents are cast as the villains of the piece – they separated Faith and Leo through some not-so-nice actions. And as a result, Faith has been estranged from them ever since. I like that, instead of continuing to cast them as the villains, Faith is able to find a way to move on with her family. That their actions, although seriously wrong, were actually based in good intentions. And that, even if they are a bit broken and silly, her parents are able to own up to their mistakes and try to make amends. It’s a bit of a departure from other stories of this vein, were the catalyst for the break up is often incredibly villainized and unloveable.
Although I really liked Leo as the male lead, I mean, cinnamon roll alpha, come on. I did find him a bit of a hard headed fool at times. He doesn’t really treat Faith all that well at the very beginning. And, although its understandable why he’s such a dick, it does make it that little bit harder to connect. And I feel like, as a result, it takes Faith that little bit longer to actually trust him and move forward in her relationship with him. Having said that, many of his actions are kind of understandable, so you can’t hate him. And, he is a fun lead to read about. Particularly with his career background and personal goals – making the world a better, more sustainable place.
Normally I don’t love mean girls, or any kind of story that perpetuates how nasty women can be (and are often taught to be) to one another. However, I absolutely adored how Leo’s sisters go to bat for him. They’re not overly nice about it, but, the moment he tells them to back off and that Faith is back in his life – they do. It’s the perfect blend of sticking up for someone you love, but also respecting their decisions. And, ultimately they return to being good friends with Faith and making her welcome into their family yet again.
I knew that there would be a final barrier to Faith and Leo’s relationship in this story. And, I kind of figured it would have something to do with privilege and money. But, it was actually quite a bit nastier than I had anticipated. And very heartbreaking. I love how it actually kind of blindsided me. Although, since this is a happy romance, it all still worked out beautifully in the end.
March 16, 2022
Though our MCs--and this book--had a bit of a rocky start (Faith in particularly was very prickly, and yikes, their relationship was very antagonistic from page one which initially had me wondering if they *should* get back togewther), by the time I was about a quarter of the way through Ms Whitney ensured through both the story and her characters that I wasn't going to be able to put this one down until I got to the end.
There were a lot of yikes-I-don't-see-how-they-can-get-past-this moments as we went along (nicely balanced out with some *very* steamy scenes, which got increasingly less like hate f*cking as we went along--that first one was kind of hard to read because they still disliked each other so intensely) but Ms Whitney knows her craft well and managed to pull together a very satisfying HEA in the end. (I kept trying to come up with ways things would work out once we hit that black moment--and OMG, was it ever black!--but she went a direction I hadn't guessed, and it worked out brilliantly.)
For those who have read some (or all) of the other series books, a few of their characters play some supporting roles here, but this could absolutely be read as a standalone if needed.
Tempting Fate is the final book in Sara Whitney's Cinnamon Roll Alphas, which is a bummer--but her author's note at the end give me hope, because she promised that the 2 secondary characters here who made me think, hmmm...wouldn't it be nice if *he* had a story? will star in books in her next series. #readinggoals
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
There were a lot of yikes-I-don't-see-how-they-can-get-past-this moments as we went along (nicely balanced out with some *very* steamy scenes, which got increasingly less like hate f*cking as we went along--that first one was kind of hard to read because they still disliked each other so intensely) but Ms Whitney knows her craft well and managed to pull together a very satisfying HEA in the end. (I kept trying to come up with ways things would work out once we hit that black moment--and OMG, was it ever black!--but she went a direction I hadn't guessed, and it worked out brilliantly.)
For those who have read some (or all) of the other series books, a few of their characters play some supporting roles here, but this could absolutely be read as a standalone if needed.
Tempting Fate is the final book in Sara Whitney's Cinnamon Roll Alphas, which is a bummer--but her author's note at the end give me hope, because she promised that the 2 secondary characters here who made me think, hmmm...wouldn't it be nice if *he* had a story? will star in books in her next series. #readinggoals
Rating: 4 stars / A-
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
April 17, 2022
I went into this book expecting a sweet, cinnamon roll hero based on the name of the series. This was.....not that book. Instead it was a steamy, enemies-to-lovers, second chance love story. Once I recalibrated my expectations into something more in line with the story I was reading, I was able to enjoy the snark and sparks flying between Leo and Faith, high school sweethearts who had a disastrous, bitter end to their relationship on their graduation night 12 yrs prior.
Although outwardly their lives are very different, they both ended up in the non-profit sector, working to improve their little piece of the world. Out of the blue, they run into each other when Leo returns home from his Amazon rainforest non-profit to take a corporate position as a grant development officer. Then, in a twist of fate, Leo's company ends up funding Faith's organization and the two are thrown together once again. Somehow, they've got to get past their animosity and learn to work together.
Leo was rather growly and grumpy, while Faith was like a steamroller, flattening any objects in her path. These two can't help but clash, even as they are inevitably drawn together by the force of an attraction they can no longer deny and it made for quite an entertaining read. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Although outwardly their lives are very different, they both ended up in the non-profit sector, working to improve their little piece of the world. Out of the blue, they run into each other when Leo returns home from his Amazon rainforest non-profit to take a corporate position as a grant development officer. Then, in a twist of fate, Leo's company ends up funding Faith's organization and the two are thrown together once again. Somehow, they've got to get past their animosity and learn to work together.
Leo was rather growly and grumpy, while Faith was like a steamroller, flattening any objects in her path. These two can't help but clash, even as they are inevitably drawn together by the force of an attraction they can no longer deny and it made for quite an entertaining read. I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 10, 2022
Leo and Faith come from such different backgrounds, making them nearly perfect opposites. Yet they have loved one another fiercely. And perhaps it’s that fierceness that gets them into trouble this time, because all those old feelings – the love and the resentment – are still there affecting their every interaction. Will love or hate win? This pair pushed me to my breaking point. I spent pretty much all of the story waffling between wanting to hug Faith or Leo and wanting to kick at least one of them in the shin. (It was a regular yo-yo back and forth deciding which one I wanted to do which to at any given time.) I loved them in equal measure to how much I wanted to pull my hair out over them. (I have hair left but it wasn’t for a lack of trying on Faith and Leo’s parts.) I despaired over these two ever finding their way back. I completely adored the ending, and I can’t wait to see what the author cooks up for us next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Hidden Gems Books.
March 31, 2022
4.5 Stars for Tempting Fate ( Cinnamon Roll Alphas, #4)
This us the first book I have read by Sara Whitney but it certainly won’t be the last. This is Faith and Leo’s second chance love and this story will certainly appeal appeal to a wide range of audiences.
Faith grew up in a wealthy family but after walking away when her family chased off the only man she has ever loved she is now surviving without their backing or her trust fund. Leo came from the wrong side of town and he will never forget the humiliation he went through due to Faith’s family. But move forward to the present time and the tide has turned, Leo is now back working in his hometown and he is the man controlling the purse strings for a grant Faith desperately needs. So will this couple rekindle their love or will the past be to painful to forget…..
This is a story about living your life how you feel fit, it’s about trust and giving, it’s about taking chances but more importantly it’s about love. Looking forward to reading more by this very talented author as soon as time permits.
This us the first book I have read by Sara Whitney but it certainly won’t be the last. This is Faith and Leo’s second chance love and this story will certainly appeal appeal to a wide range of audiences.
Faith grew up in a wealthy family but after walking away when her family chased off the only man she has ever loved she is now surviving without their backing or her trust fund. Leo came from the wrong side of town and he will never forget the humiliation he went through due to Faith’s family. But move forward to the present time and the tide has turned, Leo is now back working in his hometown and he is the man controlling the purse strings for a grant Faith desperately needs. So will this couple rekindle their love or will the past be to painful to forget…..
This is a story about living your life how you feel fit, it’s about trust and giving, it’s about taking chances but more importantly it’s about love. Looking forward to reading more by this very talented author as soon as time permits.
March 6, 2022
Leo and Faith are High School sweethearts that are still extremely bitter about their break up. Faith has given her life towards her non-profit and it hanging on by a string. She needs a grant to go through and just found out that Leo might be able to help her. Leo just moved back home and of course one of his first projects at his new job includes the girl that broke his heart. Can these two have a real chance at love this time? This was a second chance at love story that definitely played with the heart stings. I found Faith to be a bit immature and she grated on my nerves a little but in all I enjoyed the story. Leo and Faith both had baggage and Insecurities they needed to work on before having a healthy relationship with anyone let alone each other. I look forward to seeing what this author comes up with next. I have enjoyed reading this series.
June 20, 2022
Faith and Leo were a couple in high school with plans to spend their lives together. Odds were against them because Faith grew up with money, Leo didn't and her dad saw Leo as the wrong person for her. A decade apart with no communication and they have truly lost touch with each other. Now Leo moves back to their hometown and takes a job with an organization that has the ability to make or break Faith's future. He tries to help her and that puts the two of them together on a regular basis. Old feelings surface as they learn more about each other and at the same time both have guards up so they aren't hurt again. Lots of laughs along the way to figuring out if they can try this again and actually be happy together!. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 11, 2022
Faith and Leo were a couple in high school with plans to spend their lives together. Odds were against them because Faith grew up with money, Leo didn't and her dad saw Leo as the wrong person for her. A decade apart with no communication and they have truly lost touch with each other. Now Leo moves back to their hometown and takes a job with an organization that has the ability to make or break Faith's future. He tries to help her and that puts the two of them together on a regular basis. Old feelings surface as they learn more about each other and at the same time both have guards up so they aren't hurt again. Lots of laughs along the way to figuring out if they can try this again and actually be happy together! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 12, 2022
I love this series from Sara Whitney so much. I'm sad to see it come to an end, but Faith and Leo's second chance romance was a wonderful last book.
They had great chemistry and banter. They have both grown and changed from who they were in high school, and it was interesting seeing them get to know each other as they are now. Things are complicated, but the connection between them never really went away.
I like Sara's writing style quite a bit. As with each book of her's I've read, I was hooked from the first page. The story was well paced, entertaining, and engaging. I cannot wait to see what she writes next!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
They had great chemistry and banter. They have both grown and changed from who they were in high school, and it was interesting seeing them get to know each other as they are now. Things are complicated, but the connection between them never really went away.
I like Sara's writing style quite a bit. As with each book of her's I've read, I was hooked from the first page. The story was well paced, entertaining, and engaging. I cannot wait to see what she writes next!
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
March 15, 2022
Finding Each Other Again . . .
Faith Fox and Leo Morales dated in high school and had hopes of a future together. But her father saw their differences and did not want Leo to interfere with their plans for Faith. The two of them did not communicate after the breakup.
Then Leo came back to his hometown. His job has him in charge of the grant money Faith would need for her non-profit business. Both of them are still hurt by the past, but their attraction is also still there. Not wanting to be hurt again, are they willing to take a chance on each other? Will getting stuck in the woods with only one tent be at all helpful?
Faith Fox and Leo Morales dated in high school and had hopes of a future together. But her father saw their differences and did not want Leo to interfere with their plans for Faith. The two of them did not communicate after the breakup.
Then Leo came back to his hometown. His job has him in charge of the grant money Faith would need for her non-profit business. Both of them are still hurt by the past, but their attraction is also still there. Not wanting to be hurt again, are they willing to take a chance on each other? Will getting stuck in the woods with only one tent be at all helpful?
March 17, 2022
loved it !! love this series !!! love, love, love Leo !!! and Faith.. this is their story... a fast paced second chance rom/com drama... they dated in high school until her family broke them apart... she turned her backs on them and their money... Leo has made it big time... he had to... after what Faith's parents put him through... now, back in his hometown... there's Faith... and she needs help, money help... and he has it... they start working together and the sparks start flying... can they have their second chance ?. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 8, 2022
Loved the way this story incorporates both MC's work lives. Work challenges become relationship challenges and complicate everything in this second chance romance, making the story and the characters feel real and relatable. Allowing that there's a super hot hero who got hotter with age ;) Highly recommend this series - a great balance of wit, feels and steam.
I received an ARC copy from the author and my review is my honest opinion.
I received an ARC copy from the author and my review is my honest opinion.
March 10, 2022
I truly loved this book so much! I related to Faith's independence loved how she wanted to truly stand free from her parents' influence! Leo! What a dream boat! Haven't we all been in a position where we really just wanted to prove ourselves, ugh I loved him. This book is so funny, smart, and steamy! And while I'm sad the Cinnamon Roll Alphas series is over, I can't wait to see what comes next! MAYBE BRANDON? Is Sara going to make him redeemable?!
March 11, 2022
I received an ARC of this novel through Hidden Gems for my honest review...
I had no clue this was the 4th book in a series but I was an amazing stand alone. I love a second chance romance and the story of Faith and Leo was great. I loved the push and pull with their chemistry although the head strong vibe from both was a bit much for me towards the end. Over all, this was a great easy read and I'd definitely recommend to anyone that lives a good love story.
I had no clue this was the 4th book in a series but I was an amazing stand alone. I love a second chance romance and the story of Faith and Leo was great. I loved the push and pull with their chemistry although the head strong vibe from both was a bit much for me towards the end. Over all, this was a great easy read and I'd definitely recommend to anyone that lives a good love story.
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