He’s a billionaire hiding a devastating diagnosis. She’ll do whatever it takes to help her sick, matchmaking mom. A freak accident throws them together, but will his big secret tear them apart?
When Ryan Lawson’s business partners force him to go on a wilderness retreat to come to terms with a shocking diagnosis, the last thing on Ryan’s mind is romance. But when he’s stranded in the woods with a sweet young event planner, all thoughts of business take a back seat to her girl-next-door appeal.
Fresh off a bad breakup, Zara Georgopoulos comes to Vermont to help her terminally ill mom work through her bucket list—not fall in love with a man who’s the exact opposite of her usual type. But when Ryan starts working his way into her heart with his kindness and generosity, she needs to make a decision: Trust the biotech billionaire not to walk all over her, or go back to guarding her heart.
Stuck in the wilds of Vermont, they forge a tenuous connection. When Ryan finally shares the truth about his illness, will it bring them closer together . . . or shatter Zara’s trust in him for good?
Inspired by 2 Corinthians 12:9, The Billionaire’s Secret is a sweet inspirational romance with a swoony hero, LOTS of entertaining banter, and a strong Christian message. Order your copy today!
Meghann Whistler writes sweet Christian romance novels that won't make your grandmother blush.
Her debut novel, Falling for the Innkeeper, was named one of “Six Sensational 2020 Debut Series Romances” by the American Library Association’s Booklist Reader, and was also a finalist for the 2021 Book Buyers Best Award.
Her first indie book, The Billionaire’s Secret, won the 2022 Selah Award for Contemporary Romance, placed second in the romance category of the 2022 Christian Indie Awards, and was a finalist for the 2022 HOLT Medallion.
Before settling down with her rocket scientist husband and raising three rambunctious boys, Meghann earned a B.A. in English from Amherst College and an M.F.A. in creative writing from Emerson College.
She is grateful to be living her dream of writing sweet, hopeful stories that demonstrate the power of love and grace.
Meghann loves to hear from her readers, who can connect with her via:
Confession time, I am guilty of judging a book by it's title. I never considered a book about Billionaires could be a book of substance and depth, but I was totally wrong! While The Billionaire's Secret by Meghann Whistler is an entertaining story complete with charming characters, it's also a story about real life issues including some serious heath problems.
Ryan has poured all his energy into his business until he is faced with a surprising health diagnosis. He's a bit jaded about his wealth, assuming women only like him for his money. When he meets Zara at a wilderness camp for people with health challenges she's like a breath of fresh air. She has the cutest zany personality, including her over the top fear of bears, kidnappers and serial killers, cue the smiles and laughs! Zara's mom Nancy is quite the character acting as her matchmaking wingwoman, so much fun!
The Billionaire's Secret is told in a lighthearted way, but the serious inspirational message concerning why God allows sickness and disease really spoke to me. The theme verse of the story, 2 Corinthians 12:9 addresses this so wonderfully, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." Zara's support and encouragement overflows from her comment, "It's how God's going to draw you closer to His heart."
I enjoyed every single page of this story, from the delectable food mentioned to the push and pull of Ryan and Zara finding their way to happy ever after. I loved the epilogue and the bonus epilogue too. I can't wait to read Ryan's partner Alan's story in the second book in the Sweet Boston Billionaire series. I appreciate the author making a copy of The Billionaire's Secret available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.
A sweet heartwarming story that keep me interested until the very end. Meghann Whistler's writing style is so good, I felt like the characters were people that I knew. I was rooting for Ryan and Zara, both as individuals and as a couple. Inspired by 2 Corinthians 12:9, the message of "my grace is sufficient for you" ran throughout the story and seeing the main character Ryan finally receive and accept God's word was a powerful part in the story.
"God wasn't a cosmic wheeler and dealer. You couldn't buy or bargain for His favor. Salvation was free, but it wasn't a "get out of life unscathed" card."
"...you could find evidence of God's grace in even the worst situations. You just had to have open eyes and an open heart."
"Life happened. You could rely on God for peace and comfort through the trials, or you could rely on yourself. And relying on herself had never gotten her very far."
This was a quick and enjoyable read! I knew I could trust Meghann Whistler for something clean, fun, and spiritually sound, and she has delivered that and more in The Billionaire's Secret!
Writing: 5/5 Nothing bad to say here!
Characters: Ryan was the sweetest thing ever! He never resented others, he was always looking out for people, and he was never arrogant or self-seeking despite the fact that he is a literal billionaire (with a b!). Obviously he wasn't perfect, but even when things happened and he got angry at Zara, he was always so nice and blamed things on himself instead of her. Ryan was my favorite part of the whole thing, but I do wonder if he was a *little* too perfect? Personally, I don't think I've ever met a guy that was that good, but maybe that's just me! Zara didn't make that big of an impression on me, but she and Ryan did fit really well together (Nancy was right all along!). I really liked Nancy as well, but other than that, there's not really any more characters (other than Ryan's two business partners and some unimportant people).
Plot: The plot was good! I was expecting most of the book to take place at the wilderness retreat, but the author surprised me! This doesn't really have to do with the plot, but I do wish that the settings in the second half of the book had been more vivid like the resort and the scene in the storm was. Also, just in case you're wondering how the whole book could just be about Ryan hiding one secret (his diagnosis), there's actually lots of other problems, too! You'll just have to read the story to figure out how everything gets fixed!
Romance: There were a few kisses and scenes where it was just Ryan and Zara together, but nothing really sexual happened. And then I think the two of them did have a talk or two about whether or not they'd be able to have children with Ryan's diagnosis and such.
Spirituality: Both Zara and Ryan are Christians and they talked about God and Scripture sometimes. However, I was under the impression at first that Zara wasn't a Christian? I knew Ryan was, but for some reason I felt like Zara wasn't really into it all, if that makes sense, but it turns out I was wrong about that later on. There were positive themes like trusting in God and not worrying about what you couldn't control, and the scene with Ryan and the Linx-us deal was amazinggg, but sometimes I felt like God and the spiritual side of things was shoved a bit to the side, like it was just a secondary thing instead of a primary one.
Language: None ofc :)
Recommended for those looking for a clean romance novel!
Many thanks to the author for the free review copy! Please note that all opinions expressed are completely my own and I was not required to leave a positive review :)
The Billionaire’s Secret is a really good, heartwarming story! Zara and Ryan are fun, serious, emotional and giving. They both have things that have hurt them in life but work toward helping others. Meghann Whistler did such a great job of blending all of the personal issues into a story of hope and faith. This is a sweet story of how God’s love gives hope even in the hard times. I definitely recommend this book.
I received an ARC of The Billionaire’s Secret from the author. There was no requirement for a good review. The opinions expressed are completely mine.
Romancey and uplifting story that completely drew me in from the first chapter. I found it to be a book that was very hard to put down. Admittedly I wasn't drawn to the cover at first but as I got into the story I grew to love that cover. I thought the guy on the cover fit Ryan Lawson to a T and that image of him stayed with me through out the book. I thought Ryan was a gentle caring person who hadn't let the fact that he was a billionaire change him one bit. This book was entertaining to the last page. I thought it was original and I loved how the writer pointed out that even Billionaires have their share of challenges along with a big bank account. I was reminded that to those who God has given much, much is expected from them. Then we have Zara Georgopoulos who is a struggling event planner. She too has her challenges. Working for a hard to please boss. Caring for her mother who has terminal breast cancer. Zara has been hurt badly when her fiance broke off their engagement because while she was caring for her sick mother Copper had found someone else to love. This left Zara finding it hard to trust another man in the future. Ryan and Zara meet at a exclusive wilderness retreat , the Planet Wilderness in the wilds of Vermont. They are attracted to each other but they both want to be only friends. Ryan has secrets he's hiding from everyone including Zara and Zara thinks Ryan isn't her type. Can they work out their differences and ever be more than friends? I recommend this book to readers of Contemporary Romance and fans of the Author. This is book one of a new series Sweet Boston Billionaires. I received a complimentary advanced reader copy of this book from the Author. A review was not requested. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ryan is newly diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that is forcing him to slow down the “all work and no rest” way of life he’s led for the past 14 years. He’s caring and others-centered…an all-around “nice guy”, who also happens to be a billionaire. Zara is a sweet gal who, besides working full-time, is also taking care of her cancer-riddled mother. She’s also fresh off a relationship that left her with issues of trust and self-doubt. They meet up at “Wilderness Camp”, a retreat aimed at giving those dealing with illnesses (and their caregivers) some rest and fun. Forging a friendship, they both hope for something more, but they are both holding back. Can they each put aside their own doubts and fears, and see the the good the Lord has set right in front of each of them? You won’t want to miss finding out! Definitely get ahold of Meghann Whistler’s The Billionaire’s Secret ASAP!! I was blessed to receive an advanced copy of this book. My opinion is my own (I read it in one day…I bet you will too!)
Prodigy Ryan is a billionaire and learning that his money can't buy everything including his health.
After getting burned by her ex-fiance, Zara is focused on being present for her mom as she struggles with cancer.
The two meet at a retreat in Vermont. Ryan is there at the request of his friends/co-owners of his business. Zara is there with her mom to check off a bucket list item.
Loved the banter and although the romance happened very fast, it came across as realistic.
I liked the way Ryan was just a regular guy even with his money, and even though he was sick he allowed himself to lean into God for strength. When Ryan goes to a wilderness camp to help him come to terms with his Lupus he never expects to get struck by lightening twice — literally, and by a woman he’s only just met. He can’t help but admire Zara whose attending the camp to help her mom. I liked Zara’s compassion and love for people, and I liked her insecurities that made her real as she learned to let them go. I liked the interaction between the two and how it wasn’t based solely on physical attraction. When Ryan is asked to be Zara’s pretend boyfriend could it turn into something more? Will his diagnosis get in the way of love, or does God have a better plan? This was a sweet, well written book filled with love, family, and inspiration. I loved it. You will too.
Ryan and Zara are both struggling with life-altering circumstances and find themselves at a remote retreat center for people and caretakers with chronic diseases. One is there by choice, the other by force.
Ryan was such a humble, down-to-earth, wealthy guy that I couldn’t wait to see how his happily ever after was going to work out for him. The saying, “Money makes the man,” could not have been less true for Ryan. His faith and caring about others were what made him a wonderful man and the ideal fit for Zara.
Zara’s mistrust of men and romantic relationships was well founded since she seemed to find men who didn’t respect or truly care for her. Her mother’s concern and bucket list item for Zara finding “the right guy” was touching and humorous. I am not sure I would have wanted to tell a guy, but Zara’s transparency in sharing this with Ryan was refreshing and added to the story. Things get complicated when the past intrudes and Zara has to make a decision about her future. I was happy to see that she found she was not the same young lady she was before she met Ryan.
I recommend reading this inspirational Christian romance. It deals with some difficult life issues and gives encouragement and hope. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
The Billionaires Secret was a sweet, uplifting story of finding love in the most unexpected circumstance. Ryan and Zara are both uniquely flawed in how they view themselves and what they can bring to a relationship. Through a series of unexpected trials they are able to figure out their worth through their trust in each other and faith in God. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that there is another chapter to Ryan and Zara’s story by Meghann Whistler. I look forward to finding out how their story ends!
Billionaire romances are not my thing usually, but this book read like so much more than a man with money. Ryan is not your typical billionaire. His character is layered and relatable, almost making the reader forget about his bank account. Zara is beautiful, as well, and I adored the mother-daughter relationship in the book. The connection between the characters is lovely to see unfold, too, with an encouraging spiritual arc that does not disappoint.
I was fortunate enough to read an early version of this story and stayed up late to finish it! Fans of inspirational romance will love this story!
What a great and believable billionaire story! I loved these two characters. Ryan was a smart man who ended up also being very wealthy through some successful biomedical innovations and business decisions throughout the years. But he was struggling with a health diagnosis he had recently received and the very real truth that all of his money could not solve his problems.
Zara was a nice woman who loved her mother and wanted to do all she could to care for her as she struggled with a recurrence of cancer. Zara was also coming off of a relationship that ended very badly.
These two characters had such a great connection right from the start, yet there were quite a few struggles for them to immediately overcome. I thought the flow to Zara and Ryan’s relationship was very realistic. They both had reasons to try friendship first, yet they were drawn to each other and wanted more. As Ryan’s wealth became obvious, I appreciated that Zara wasn’t interested in him because of his money. In fact, she wanted to make sure he wasn’t trying to buy her favor. Ryan’s diagnosis was something he was very worried about bringing up, thinking it could cause the end to any romantic possibilities. I thought the way things played out regarding his illness was also very realistic.
I loved this book from the start to the finish. There was a beautiful faith message woven into the novel and I so enjoyed the bonus epilogue that was available to sign up for at the end of the book. I am really looking forward to reading more books in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This was my first read by Ms. Whistler and it won't be my last. I loved that she gave the hero an autoimmune disorder. I think that's my first time reading that and I loved how the storyline is effected based off of that. Looking forward to more of her books.
This is my second Meghann Whistler book and it was a fast and enjoyable read. Ryan is adorable and more sophisticated than I would have assumed, given his nerdy techy status. Zara is insecure but lovable and so kind-hearted. Ryan’s struggle with an incurable autoimmune disease diagnosis is real and raw. Their quirky banter and personalities are endearing and fun. The characters also delve into what it means to have faith even when illness wages war within the body and how to dream bigger despite fear.
I received the book via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are my own.
A strong storyline with just the right amount of emotional highs and lows and full of inspiration and Faith. Read a lot this Summer, and this was a favorite. Highly recommend this book.
The Billionaire’s Secret took me by surprise. Initially I thought this book would be cheesy based on the cover. However, this was such a sweet, heartwarming book. It was super easy to read. It flowed smoothly and was quick. However, there was still depth to the storyline and characters. There were some inspirational moments and scripture references which I appreciated as well. This review was based on a complimentary pre-release copy. I was asked to give my honest opinion and was not compensated for my review.
“If she’d learned anything from her mother’s battle with cancer, it was that you could find evidence of God’s grace in even the worst situations. You just had to have open eyes and an open heart.”
I love discovering new authors! When I won a copy of this from LibraryThing, I thought the premise sounded interesting and fun, so I decided to give it a try. I’m so glad I did! This was a well written, fresh, new take on the billionaire trope. The characters immediately pulled me in and I was intrigued as to how their relationship would play out.
Ryan is a billionaire venture capitalist and bioengineer. His recent diagnosis of an autoimmune disease has left him reeling. His friends and business partners convince him to go to a wilderness retreat in Vermont to clear his head and get some much needed R&R. Zara has put her life on hold since her mother’s breast cancer has returned. She’s devoted herself to helping her mother achieve her bucket list in whatever time she has left. Her absentee brother Robbie has financed a stay for them at the same wilderness resort designed specifically for those with medical conditions. When Ryan and Zara meet, there’s a surprising attraction even though Zara’s just recovering from a bad breakup and Ryan is leery about starting a new relationship after his diagnosis.
Though Zara claims Ryan’s not her type, there’s definitely something there. Ryan’s nice guy persona brings her instant comfort and his ability to make the impossible happen makes her wonder just who he is. Ryan is instantly attracted to Zara’s funny down-to-earth personality. She’s not falling all over him and doesn’t seem to be overly impressed by his wealth. Not wanting to ruin their budding relationship, he’s reluctant to share his diagnosis for fear it will push her away. Will they be able to find love or is friends the only thing they will ever be?
I loved Zara! She’s such a fun character with a big personality that makes you instantly want to be friends with her. Her positive, take things in stride attitude and funny quirks add to the enjoyment. Ryan is honestly a dream guy. He’s kind, considerate, and almost too good to be true. His struggles with his illness are believable and understandable. I could sympathize with his need to feel in control versus relying on God.
The spiritual messages were naturally woven in to the story in a positive way without being over the top or too preachy. I liked the way faith was used to help both characters learn to trust and love themselves, each other, and God.
I highly recommend this fun creative take on the billionaire trope and recommend it to those who love Christian romance especially. Thanks to the author and LibraryThing for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
This was a nice clean book that I really enjoyed. As the title suggests it is about a billionaire. It is hard to think about someone with that much money. Oh the things I could do with that kind of fortune. What I really liked about the story was the focus wasn’t so much on money as it was on relationships. The author does a good job of giving us characters that we can relate to because they have insecurities and real life issues.
Ryan may be wealthy but he is the kindest most generous man you could ever meet. He has worked hard to get where he is, but he needs to take a break from work to deal with his health. The diagnosis he has received is not without hope, but it can be hard at times to keep it under control. The author does a good job of describing the illness and the affects it can have on people.
Zara is trying to juggle work and also take care of her mother who has been diagnosed with a devastating illness. It is something that her mother is not sure she wants to continue treatment for but I admire her strength. Zara has grown closer to her mother which is something they both have been blessed to have. I liked that Zara never once thought she was sacrificing anything to take care of her mother.
The story explores two people who meet at a place where they have come to relax and slow down from their hectic lives. With Zara’s mother there as well, I thought it was sweet that Zara always made sure her mother was comfortable and having a good time. There are a few bumps in the road as Zara and Ryan get to know each other. They discover they need to open up more to others and learn to trust. For Zara it was a lesson on not only judging someone by their success but also to learn to trust that there are good men out there in the world. The faith element in the book is nice and not preachy. Overall a sweet story that makes you feel good after reading it.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
I usually don’t go for Billionaire stories, but I am glad I choose this one. I enjoyed Zara and Ryan’s story so much. Author Meghann Whistler does an Amazing job creating characters that are so loveable, realistic and friendly. It was so entertaining to watch them develop as the story unfolds. Zara is in Vermont with her mom to help her work off her bucket list before cancer finally takes its toll on her. Ryan is there to rest and learn to deal with his illness. The two wasn’t looking for love, especially not with each other but as circumstances keep throwing them together, they started having feelings for each other, against both their wills, I should say. I found it fun watching them interact with each other, sometimes laughing at their ways. All of the characters were homey and so nice and friendly. Zara’s mom was a sweetheart and I love the attention she gets from Ryan. The Billionaire’s Secret is a sweet contemporary story that you will love if you enjoy a good clean Christian romance. This one is Five Stars for me.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
The thing that resonates most with me in a book is the characterization. If I like the characters, if they’re memorable, then I consider it a good book. The Billionaire’s Secret by Meghann Whistler is a good book.
Ryan and Zara are both likable and hit it off immediately. They’re drawn to each other for their strengths and there despite what’s going on in each of their lives, they both have a sense of humor. They find themselves in some tense situations, so they get to know each other fast (most of this book takes place over three or four days). Ryan is intelligent and has earned his status but he’s also a normal guy who wants to be appreciated for himself and not his money.
I would have liked to learn a little more about the retreat center with an activity or two, but the setting and scenery were painted well. This was a quick and lighter-hearted romance but still contained substance and revelation for the characters. I look forward to more in the series and hopefully we’ll get to see this couple again as well.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
This book was so good. It's well written and holds your attention from the first page until the last. Zara and Ryan's story was a sweet clean read that was an absolute joy to read. This is the first book I've read by Meghann Whistler and I loved it.
Meghann writes good books I sure will be coming back for more of her books.This was a quick read for me.I really enjoyed the characters.I can't wait for the next book to come out.
I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced copy of this months ago and then unfortunately have life happens situations were my reading went on hold . So my review is late sadly .However that being said ,it was an enjoyable story with very likeable characters I could completely root for. It was worth the wait I had to get around to perusing it.Normally I don't read romances anymore because I was on such a steady diet of them in my younger years I grew tired of the genre .The plots blurred together after all that time and it was hard to find anything with an new concept.That's what I really liked about The Billionaire's Secret ...the plot was definitely a fresh take on the subject and I can honestly say I've never read one similar. So kudos to the author for originality .If you're looking for a clean, quick, inspiring love story this is a perfect choice .Valentine's Day is right around the corner .....just saying : ) .
Sweet uplifting read with well-developed characters. Meghann Whistler makes the billionaire, Ryan, a relatable, down-to-earth guy. His romance interest, Zara, is just right too. The plot moves along well. Good book, enjoyable read.
Two people that have issues that are worried that the other will not accept them because of it. I am a caregiver and love that sweet caregiver didn't hesitate to help another human being!
I received this book for an honest review... therefore I can honestly say I thoroughly enjoyed it! Quick read!
Thank you in advance to author, Meghann Whistler, for providing an advanced review copy of the book through her launch team. A positive review was definitely not required or requested in any way; all words are my own.
I was lucky enough to read her debut Love Inspired book, Falling for the Innkeeper, and immediately loved it. I’m still waiting for another book in that line.
When I was asked to review this book – I definitely agreed. Again, nothing less than a completely honest review. And, while the guy on the cover is cute – he’s not my type. It has nothing to do with being a nice guy, he is FAR too young for me.
There are some issues that potential readers might have a problem with – there is a reference to cheating (though not between a married couple) and cocaine use (not by the major characters).
Whistler puts an interesting perspective on money, relationships, and faith. As Ryan wonders – what good is having money if you can’t do what matters with it?
The characters are wonderful and delightful. Zara’s mom, Nancy, reminds me of my own when she is trying to find a “nice guy” for her daughter. Unlike Zara, I wouldn’t mind a nice guy.
Ryan is just that – a nice guy. He happens to be smart, wealthy, and on the verge of a major deal when his two friends (and partners in the company) send him off to a retreat.
Anyone else would likely see this a coup to takeover – no, they’re concerned for him. And, with good reason. I had to laugh at their “grumpy old man” comment.
Meanwhile, Zara is at the same re-treat to be with her mother whose cancer has returned.
And, as luck would have it, the two end up meeting the first day. And, Nancy likes what she is seeing between the two. Of course, Ryan decides to keep his wealth a secret, as well as his health problem.
There’s just one problem – Ryan isn’t exactly Zara’s type. He’s “nice”. And, she usually doesn’t date “nice” guys. They don’t do it for her – that is until Ryan and his Tesla happens along. It’s the same kind of car Zara’s brother drives.
Ryan is the kind of guy that Zara’s mom would approve of. But, due to his condition, he isn’t looking for a romance – that is until he meets Zara who he thinks is a bit dorky.
He offers Zara the chance to drive his Tesla in an effort to impress her and is thankful to her mom for pushing the two together on the outing. Even more so after he tells Zara his intentions.
Zara, fresh off of a break-up, feels some kind of attraction for the MIT grad though.
After learning of her mother’s health, Ryan offers to get Nancy into a better medical facility which Zara balks at. And, although he agrees to pretend date (even though he wants to really date), Zara is cautious.
An accident on their outing has Zara re-thinking Ryan. Though, she is very conflicted. After learning about Cooper, Zara’z ex, Ryan believes she deserves better. Of course, Zara is defensive and asks how he knows. Ryan has a good point – we all deserve family and a significant other that cares about us, will take care of us, and not put obstacles in the way.
Despite how sweet and genuine Ryan is, and Zara wishing he were her type, she is wondering where she and Cooper went wrong – even though he cheated on her. She also learns her mother was seeing someone but broke it off because of her health.
Just as Zara warms up to the idea of really dating Ryan, Nancy has an accident. Ryan’s offers to help are met with resistance by Zara who learns one of the truths about Ryan – he’s wealthy. And, even though his offers to help are genuine, Zara sees it as if he is buying her. She doesn’t want to be indebted to him.
Despite her feelings, Ryan is still there even bringing Panera Bread goodies to the hospital while her mother recovers (love Panera!).
Ryan’s event planner is arrested (DWI – Cocaine), he offers Zara the chance to help with the fundraiser. He realizes she can do this, but she’ll need help. He reaches out to her brother Robert who is prickly.
Of course, there is going to be some drama when there is an issue with the deal mentioned in the beginning of the book, and Zara’s ex shows back up.
Ryan is working up the courage to move forward while it looks like Zara is going back.
I have to admit, that Whistler played the romance out right to the last page. I loved the idea of bringing back the ex-boyfriend. I also liked that the readers got a resolution with the business deal that starts off the story.
It is a very sweet, clean read and relies heavily on the bible passage 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” Most gladly therefore I will rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” – a lesson that Ryan needs to come to terms with when it comes to his medical diagnosis. As a result, this relies on Christian themes and will have references to God. It wasn’t preachy by any means or in anyway.
I loved how the author used what the characters were going through to demonstrate God’s plans for us and his love for us.
There were a few things that were “familiar” for me:
When it came to Zara’s boss being upset with her taking what is commonly referred to as FMLA (Family Medical Leave Act) time off whether paid or unpaid. My mom had one for her Asthma and her bosses were none too sympathetic. Whistler realistically, without going into detail, portrayed Zara’s boss. The comment of “gaming” the system to take time off is almost identical to what I heard one of my mother’s own bosses saying.
I’m also like Zara in that I like to do things on my own and won’t ask for help. If it is offered, I’m leery. Sometimes those who’ve offered never showed up.
This is definitely a short “weekend” or “beach read”, and while it is the first book of a series, it does well as a standalone. There were a few questions I had and a few things I wanted a resolution to, but it didn’t affect the overall enjoyment of the story. It made me more curious to see what’s in store for the second book.
I was able to read it in a day off and on (had to run some errands over the days I read it), but I really had a hard time putting it down. The author’s use of short chapters and engaging story-telling really moved the story along. It wasn’t too speedy, but it didn’t slug along either.
Those who’ve read Falling for the Innkeeper, and especially those who enjoy a sweet and clean Christian read; are sure to enjoy this read.
The Billionaire’s Secret is written by Meghann Whistler. This is the second book that I have read by this author. I love her writing style! Her stories will draw you in as soon as you start reading. Her characters are so well written, Ryan Lawson for instance. Ryan is sent on a wilderness retreat after he finds out he has a horrible diagnosis. He has made a lot of money with his two business partners. He realizes that he may have missed out on happily ever after working to make that money.
When he gets Vermont he meets Zara Georgopoulos. Zara is in Vermont taking care of her terminally ill mother. They cross paths and both are holding back. Can Zara trust him? Will he break her heart like so many others? Ryan is worried that he will lose her when he tells her about his diagnosis.
This is a sweet contemporary romance that is a little over 200 pages. It is a quick read that will leave you wanting another book from the author. I love how she incorporated 2 Corinthians 12:9 as the central theme of the story. The verse reads: Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. (NLT) What a great reminder that when we feel like we are losing hope and afraid people will hurt us - HIS Grace is always there. He gave us the greatest gift of all - Everlasting life.
TO the author, thank you for this beautiful story. God always places books to review at certain times of my life. I cannot wait until the next one.
I received a copy of this book through the author and Celebrate Lit Blogging Program, all thoughts are my own.
This is book one in The Sweet Boston Billionaires Series and it is Ryan and Zara's story and it is definitely a must read. Ryan has always worked hard but when he is diagnosed with a disease that is incurable he is devastated as he is young and always wanted a family and this is the type of disease that can be passed down to his children and now he feels like that could be out of the picture and his future doesn't look at all how he wanted it to be and now his best friend's have decided to step in and make him take some time off and go to a retreat so that he can come to terms with how his life will change and even though he really doesn't want to go his best friend's have convinced him. Zara and her mother are going to spend some time at a retreat as her mother's cancer has returned and Zara would do anything for her mother as she is the most important person in her life and Zara is also looking forward to getting a bit of rest herself after what she has been through when her ex fiance not only cheated on her but also broke off there engagement. When Ryan and Zara meet they both have there own issues to deal with but the more time that they spend together the stronger there feelings for each other grows but with everything going on in there lives will they be able to take a step back and realise that they are so perfect for each other and they both deserve a happy ending. Omg this book took you on a roller coaster ride of emotions and I couldn't put it down as it was a real page turner that kept your attention throughout the whole book. I definitely recommend you read this book and you will definitely not be disappointed.
I always enjoy stories with billionaires, and The Billionaire’s Secret, the first book in the Sweet Boston Billionaire’s series by Meghann Whistler, did not disappoint.
The Billionaire’s Secret is a Christian romance with Bible passages quoted throughout that fit into the story. I didn’t feel the story was preachy at all. It is filled with some heartwarming and heartbreaking moments and has lots of romance and love too. There are family and friends, illnesses, injuries, sadness, anger, fear, melancholy, lots of business being transacted along with wonderful closure. The bonus epilogue was the icing on the cake and added better closure and a feeling of love.
The book was fast-paced and a quick read, with a few different storylines woven together. Ryan and Zara have instant chemistry when their paths cross.
They are both staying at a resort and are on the resort’s schedule, so when the couple meets up a second time, they make the most of it. They have problems communicating, especially when they attempt to interpret what the other said—incorrectly most of the time. There are lovely descriptions throughout but especially while in Vermont at the resort.
The main characters tell the story in alternating chapters, but the supporting characters definitely add another layer to the story. There was a nice flow to the story and a better than anticipated happily ever after, especially with the bonus epilogue. I look forward to reading more of this series.
Ms. Whistler is a new-to-me author, and I look forward to reading more of her books.