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Without Precedent #2
Worth Trying
No strings attached is easier, until love tangles things.
Privileged playboy Innes Kent has been unmoored since his regular escort quit on him. Though he’s a talented lawyer at a successful firm, without the distractions of a gorgeous man and frequent sex, his mind often wanders in unpleasant directions. For instance, toward his estranged daughter and his many regrets therein.
Charlie is a budding fashion designer, but the need to support his unwell mother has left him scraping to get by. When his cleaning job sends him to a lavish office one desperate night, he’s overwhelmed by the excessive luxury he sees, and when Innes catches him thieving, he’s at the lawyer’s mercy.
But Charlie is just the distraction that Innes needs: a proud and determined scrap of a man who challenges him, annoys him, and attracts him all at once. The perfect choice for a personal assistant who won’t bore him to tears or run screaming from his bad temper. Working together leads to sleeping together, but they're both too clever to mess up a perfectly good arrangement by getting feelings involved. Aren’t they?
Privileged playboy Innes Kent has been unmoored since his regular escort quit on him. Though he’s a talented lawyer at a successful firm, without the distractions of a gorgeous man and frequent sex, his mind often wanders in unpleasant directions. For instance, toward his estranged daughter and his many regrets therein.
Charlie is a budding fashion designer, but the need to support his unwell mother has left him scraping to get by. When his cleaning job sends him to a lavish office one desperate night, he’s overwhelmed by the excessive luxury he sees, and when Innes catches him thieving, he’s at the lawyer’s mercy.
But Charlie is just the distraction that Innes needs: a proud and determined scrap of a man who challenges him, annoys him, and attracts him all at once. The perfect choice for a personal assistant who won’t bore him to tears or run screaming from his bad temper. Working together leads to sleeping together, but they're both too clever to mess up a perfectly good arrangement by getting feelings involved. Aren’t they?
- GenresM M RomanceContemporary
294 pages, Paperback
First published September 18, 2021
29 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 6, 2021
While this book by new-to-me author Chloe B. Young took me a couple of chapters to get into, and if I'm honest, felt like it dragged in a couple of places, the quality of the writing and my interest in the characters kept me reading when I might otherwise have stopped. I'm glad I kept going, because it turned into a fun boss-employee, age-gap, rich man - poor man, romance.
The romance part is really slow burn because both of these men have enough emotional baggage to pack for a grand tour of Europe, but that baggage keeps the inevitable breakup from being cliched. I didn't realize there was a book before it until I finished this one and saw the previous one listed in the back, so while the characters from the first book do appear in this one, you can read it as a standalone, though does have spoilers.
With hot sex, snappy banter, and a subplot involving the boss' estranged daughter, I came to care about these people, enjoyed the story, and was quite satisfied with the ending.
The romance part is really slow burn because both of these men have enough emotional baggage to pack for a grand tour of Europe, but that baggage keeps the inevitable breakup from being cliched. I didn't realize there was a book before it until I finished this one and saw the previous one listed in the back, so while the characters from the first book do appear in this one, you can read it as a standalone, though does have spoilers.
With hot sex, snappy banter, and a subplot involving the boss' estranged daughter, I came to care about these people, enjoyed the story, and was quite satisfied with the ending.
September 23, 2021
Yes!! All the feels
Take one grumpy antisocial attorney add in a pragmatic dreamer (yes you can be both you'll see)
And what do you get?
A fun heart ❤ felt romance that will leave you fully sated and slightly giddy
Truly these two were a blast to spend time with
A solid story that captures the essence of the characters making it easy to fall in love with them
Even the supporting cast was fabulous
I do wish I got more time with them though
I want to go back and read the previous book in the series - Don't fret though this was easy to read as a standalone
Take one grumpy antisocial attorney add in a pragmatic dreamer (yes you can be both you'll see)
And what do you get?
A fun heart ❤ felt romance that will leave you fully sated and slightly giddy
Truly these two were a blast to spend time with
A solid story that captures the essence of the characters making it easy to fall in love with them
Even the supporting cast was fabulous
I do wish I got more time with them though
I want to go back and read the previous book in the series - Don't fret though this was easy to read as a standalone
November 9, 2025
SO good! I loved everything about this one, which kinda shocked me since Innes was such an ass in the first book. Charlie is obviously the right guy to both bring out Innes's humanity and to smooth out all his prickliness. I love how much of Mimi we got to see, along with the little glimpses of both Elliott and Aiden.
January 10, 2022
Worth Trying
This witty, soulful, funny story with characters you love is a great read. The push and pull of Charlie and Innes’ relationship was perfection. Toss in some angst and it’s a winning combination I loved.
This witty, soulful, funny story with characters you love is a great read. The push and pull of Charlie and Innes’ relationship was perfection. Toss in some angst and it’s a winning combination I loved.
September 17, 2021
I'm so glad I decided to give this book a chance after reading WORTH IT because some of the problems I had mentioned with the story in my review of that book were addressed, which led to me becoming more and more invested in this romance as it progressed.
I knew a little about Innes from the previous book and I was not impressed. However, I was curious to see his fall and have him redeem himself in my eyes. And he did both things to my satisfaction. I loved watching him struggle with his feelings and grow into someone who allowed themselves to love and be loved. It was a treat to read his journey and see him go from confirmed bachelor to smitten lover.
Charlie was a great character to get to know too. He was stubborn, hard working and always gave as good as he got. I found him to be the perfect partner for Iness. He had a way to get to Iness without coming across as condescending or fake. Iness was no easy man to get to know and/or love, but Charlie made it happen and I loved reading every minute of it.
This time around the author pulled no punches and gave me both MCs POVs, there was a lot more showing than telling and the characters were fully fleshed out. This gave me the chance to really get to know the characters and become invested in their romance. I also appreciated the author's effort to fully develop their connection on the page. Through their bickering, no nonsense banter and candid moments, I was able to experience first hand how suitable these two were for each other. As expected, the attraction between these two was evident and their chemistry undeniable. Their romance was slow to come through, but when it did it felt viable.
I enjoyed Adrian's and the other secondary characters presence in the story and what it brought to the page. I still don't like Elliot and his one and only appearance didn't improve my impression of him. But alas, it was all good, since it gave Iness the push he needed to finally go for Charlie.
Although this is the first book in the Without Precedent series, it can be read as a stand alone since it's entire focus is on Iness and Charlie's developing romance.
All in all, a great addition to the series and a fun and steamy read.
I knew a little about Innes from the previous book and I was not impressed. However, I was curious to see his fall and have him redeem himself in my eyes. And he did both things to my satisfaction. I loved watching him struggle with his feelings and grow into someone who allowed themselves to love and be loved. It was a treat to read his journey and see him go from confirmed bachelor to smitten lover.
Charlie was a great character to get to know too. He was stubborn, hard working and always gave as good as he got. I found him to be the perfect partner for Iness. He had a way to get to Iness without coming across as condescending or fake. Iness was no easy man to get to know and/or love, but Charlie made it happen and I loved reading every minute of it.
This time around the author pulled no punches and gave me both MCs POVs, there was a lot more showing than telling and the characters were fully fleshed out. This gave me the chance to really get to know the characters and become invested in their romance. I also appreciated the author's effort to fully develop their connection on the page. Through their bickering, no nonsense banter and candid moments, I was able to experience first hand how suitable these two were for each other. As expected, the attraction between these two was evident and their chemistry undeniable. Their romance was slow to come through, but when it did it felt viable.
I enjoyed Adrian's and the other secondary characters presence in the story and what it brought to the page. I still don't like Elliot and his one and only appearance didn't improve my impression of him. But alas, it was all good, since it gave Iness the push he needed to finally go for Charlie.
Although this is the first book in the Without Precedent series, it can be read as a stand alone since it's entire focus is on Iness and Charlie's developing romance.
All in all, a great addition to the series and a fun and steamy read.
September 21, 2021
When I started reading, I wasn’t sure I liked the characters enough to finish this book. Luckily, I stuck with it and wound up enjoying their romance.
The two men meet when Innes catches Charlie with evidence suggesting that Charlie planned to steal from him while working as a cleaner at his law office, and then Innes hits on Charlie before letting him go. Innes is wealthy and arrogant, and Charlie is poor and has a bit of a chip on his shoulder. They don’t seem like a good match at all. But Innes is intrigued by Charlie, so when they run into each other again he offers Charlie a job as his personal assistant. Charlie can’t really turn down the opportunity, and his accepting the position puts them on the path to love.
As it turns out, Innes and Charlie are more similar than they know, and I liked the way they came together over the course of the book as they figured out how to be together. Innes may have money and privilege, but he’s was neglected by his parents to the point that he’s emotionally stunted. He finds it difficult to express love and care for others, including his semi-estranged daughter. Charlie isn’t as emotionally constipated as Innes, but his father’s abandonment of their family has led Charlie to mostly disguise his softer side under a layer of attitude. That’s what he does with Innes, easily falling into taking care of Innes’ needs but hiding his growing feelings for his boss, even after they begin sleeping together. Innes, unused to having someone really focus on him, comes to treasure Charlie, but when he realizes just how much he feels for him, his inability to have normal emotions nearly blows up their relationship. Innes has to do some groveling—and rightly so—before he and Charlie get their happy ending.
The first book in the Without Precedent series is a romance between Innes’ nephew and the sex worker Innes pays to be his companion. After reading this, I’m curious enough about it that I’m going to check it out. I’ll be looking for more from the author, too.
This review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy; all opinions are my own.
The two men meet when Innes catches Charlie with evidence suggesting that Charlie planned to steal from him while working as a cleaner at his law office, and then Innes hits on Charlie before letting him go. Innes is wealthy and arrogant, and Charlie is poor and has a bit of a chip on his shoulder. They don’t seem like a good match at all. But Innes is intrigued by Charlie, so when they run into each other again he offers Charlie a job as his personal assistant. Charlie can’t really turn down the opportunity, and his accepting the position puts them on the path to love.
As it turns out, Innes and Charlie are more similar than they know, and I liked the way they came together over the course of the book as they figured out how to be together. Innes may have money and privilege, but he’s was neglected by his parents to the point that he’s emotionally stunted. He finds it difficult to express love and care for others, including his semi-estranged daughter. Charlie isn’t as emotionally constipated as Innes, but his father’s abandonment of their family has led Charlie to mostly disguise his softer side under a layer of attitude. That’s what he does with Innes, easily falling into taking care of Innes’ needs but hiding his growing feelings for his boss, even after they begin sleeping together. Innes, unused to having someone really focus on him, comes to treasure Charlie, but when he realizes just how much he feels for him, his inability to have normal emotions nearly blows up their relationship. Innes has to do some groveling—and rightly so—before he and Charlie get their happy ending.
The first book in the Without Precedent series is a romance between Innes’ nephew and the sex worker Innes pays to be his companion. After reading this, I’m curious enough about it that I’m going to check it out. I’ll be looking for more from the author, too.
This review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy; all opinions are my own.
September 19, 2021
Chloe B Young is a new to me author, and I will definitely be going back to read the first Without Precedent novel. Because her writing hooked me from the jump, diving right into the not so traditional way that Innes and Charlie meet. The way she introduces the characters gives us a great way of knowing who they are and what they value before we're even out of the first chapter. By the time they ended their first interaction, I was rooting for them and I felt like I had an understanding of these characters, an understanding that grew deeper as the book progressed.
And my understanding of these characters definitely deepened as the book progressed. Chloe does an amazing job at characterization in this book. Every single person, from Charlie's mother to Innes's estranged daughter Mimi to a random client who exists for just a few pages and is never heard from again feel three dimensional and have their own voices. I really felt as if we were peeking in on a section of these characters' lives and watching them unfold.
The actual romance in this book is very slow burn, and it makes sense for Charlie and Innes and the way they are presented. Instead, we spend a lot of time watching the relationship between the two men develop into something more, and it works really well. The chemistry between them is palpable from the start. I was beyond ready for them to just kiss already by the end of their first interaction, even though that would've been a very bad idea.
This book has a moderate level of angst from our main characters, but its not really about their relationship. They are more angsting about various parts of their life that neither really have any control over.
I highly recommend Worth Trying. It was a very enjoyable read that I didn't want to put down.
** ARC FROM GRR AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW **
And my understanding of these characters definitely deepened as the book progressed. Chloe does an amazing job at characterization in this book. Every single person, from Charlie's mother to Innes's estranged daughter Mimi to a random client who exists for just a few pages and is never heard from again feel three dimensional and have their own voices. I really felt as if we were peeking in on a section of these characters' lives and watching them unfold.
The actual romance in this book is very slow burn, and it makes sense for Charlie and Innes and the way they are presented. Instead, we spend a lot of time watching the relationship between the two men develop into something more, and it works really well. The chemistry between them is palpable from the start. I was beyond ready for them to just kiss already by the end of their first interaction, even though that would've been a very bad idea.
This book has a moderate level of angst from our main characters, but its not really about their relationship. They are more angsting about various parts of their life that neither really have any control over.
I highly recommend Worth Trying. It was a very enjoyable read that I didn't want to put down.
** ARC FROM GRR AND THIS IS MY HONEST REVIEW **
September 19, 2021
A number of tropes in this novel are familiar: boss/employee, upper class/working class, world class snark-that-disguises affection, etc. I wouldn’t say grumpy/sunshine so much as sharp and a different kind of sharp: both Charlie and Innes have lightning sharp wits and verbal skills, and they give no one any quarter, especially not each other. I liked every minute of their relationship, from the inauspicious beginning to the HEA that reflects real growth and depth for them both, and while the tropes might be on the familiar side, the story itself felt fresh and completely shaped by the two protagonists’ individual characters and circumstances. It’s impossible not to admire Charlie, who’s carrying the world on his shoulders, and not to like Innes, and to feel for how hard he works not to need anyone because he’s so sure no one will ever really want him. Charlie sees him, likes him, and holds him accountable, and that’s everything he needs, really. I think he’s a better person than everyone, including him, gives him credit for being, and it was lovely, and painful, watching him get to where he needed to be. Extra points too for Mimi, who’s an awesome supporting character who felt like a person in her own right, rather than a plot device. She definitely came off better than some of Innes’ other relatives. I will say that if you liked Aiden and Elliott in the previous book in this series, you’re likely to be disappointed with them here: they treat Innes with an insensitivity that crosses into cruelty, and it’s not a good look for either of them. Overall, a great read with really well-developed protagonists and a romance that fits them both.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2021
4.5 stars
This is a new author for me but I’m glad I gave her a try because I enjoyed this book a lot. A slow-burn, rich man, poor man story about Innes who has it all and Charlie who is a battler and has very little.
Despite how they meet Charlie is a good person but I’m not sure I can say that about Innes although he grew on me even if I did numerous times want to shake him to make him acknowledge his feelings instead of giving up on them.
I did think the MCs and all the side characters felt real and it felt as if you could understand their motivations and why they were the way they were. Which explained the slow-burn because Innes and Charlie needed time to understand each other and get past their personal problems before they began to explore their attraction to each other. We are taken on an interesting and sometimes funny ride while they do this, though
I found it a little sad that Charlie seemed to give up his passion for fashion designing so quickly while he was working for Innes, as it seemed to drop by the wayside or at least there was very little mention of it, also it would have been nice to know if the blouse he was commissioned to make was made and liked. I also found it strange that there was no mention of whether the job came with health benefits or not, which seemed strange for a PA position and which could have helped his mom and maybe Charlie from working so many jobs.
All in all a great read, which gave me a lot of feels, humour and some angst before they finally get their acts together and find their HEA. While this is the second book in the series I easily read it as a stand-alone.
I was given an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
This is a new author for me but I’m glad I gave her a try because I enjoyed this book a lot. A slow-burn, rich man, poor man story about Innes who has it all and Charlie who is a battler and has very little.
Despite how they meet Charlie is a good person but I’m not sure I can say that about Innes although he grew on me even if I did numerous times want to shake him to make him acknowledge his feelings instead of giving up on them.
I did think the MCs and all the side characters felt real and it felt as if you could understand their motivations and why they were the way they were. Which explained the slow-burn because Innes and Charlie needed time to understand each other and get past their personal problems before they began to explore their attraction to each other. We are taken on an interesting and sometimes funny ride while they do this, though
I found it a little sad that Charlie seemed to give up his passion for fashion designing so quickly while he was working for Innes, as it seemed to drop by the wayside or at least there was very little mention of it, also it would have been nice to know if the blouse he was commissioned to make was made and liked. I also found it strange that there was no mention of whether the job came with health benefits or not, which seemed strange for a PA position and which could have helped his mom and maybe Charlie from working so many jobs.
All in all a great read, which gave me a lot of feels, humour and some angst before they finally get their acts together and find their HEA. While this is the second book in the series I easily read it as a stand-alone.
I was given an ARC of this book to review and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
September 3, 2021
Rating: 4.5 stars
If you enjoy boss/PA romances with a lot of bite to them, this is the real deal rather than a watered-down version. You've got a boss who actually behaves like a jerk, and a relationship between boss and employee filled with actual tension--and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
The premise is that a wealthy lawyer named Innes catches poor Charlie when Charlie is about to steal (or not steal) something from Inness's office...and after that, well, I can't tell you or I would ruin a delightful romp. The two characters are both sharp-tongued and witty and the narration itself contains a satisfying level of snark, even if it's a bit awkward sometimes. There's a lot of emphasis on character development: As in, the two main characters are actual people with childhood traumas and estranged children and forgetful mothers to look after. This book is still funny, I promise, just in a dark way! Some readers may despise Innes, but even though I did indeed want to slap him a few times, ultimately I came to realize that more often than not the person he's really hurting is himself. That was very real for me.
Ultimately, I enjoyed seeing the characters' journeys and their romantic development. This was a new, sharp, witty, and romantic MM novel. I always love it when an author takes a good thing (the boss-employee trope), creates their own twist, and it actually works.
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
If you enjoy boss/PA romances with a lot of bite to them, this is the real deal rather than a watered-down version. You've got a boss who actually behaves like a jerk, and a relationship between boss and employee filled with actual tension--and it kept me on the edge of my seat.
The premise is that a wealthy lawyer named Innes catches poor Charlie when Charlie is about to steal (or not steal) something from Inness's office...and after that, well, I can't tell you or I would ruin a delightful romp. The two characters are both sharp-tongued and witty and the narration itself contains a satisfying level of snark, even if it's a bit awkward sometimes. There's a lot of emphasis on character development: As in, the two main characters are actual people with childhood traumas and estranged children and forgetful mothers to look after. This book is still funny, I promise, just in a dark way! Some readers may despise Innes, but even though I did indeed want to slap him a few times, ultimately I came to realize that more often than not the person he's really hurting is himself. That was very real for me.
Ultimately, I enjoyed seeing the characters' journeys and their romantic development. This was a new, sharp, witty, and romantic MM novel. I always love it when an author takes a good thing (the boss-employee trope), creates their own twist, and it actually works.
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
September 23, 2021
4 of 5 stars
Worth Trying is the second installment of the Without Precedent series. I enjoyed Worth It and was curious to see how the author would redeem Innes. He came off as selfish, inconsiderate, and cruel at times in the first book. Getting his perspective in the second book was enlightening. Every character has a back story that shapes their actions and motivations. Innes' back story is more angsty than I expected. He's not completely the self-absorbed rich guy I thought I knew. His relationship with his daughter is complicated and adds to the complexity and growth of his character.
The other MC, Charlie, surprised me as well. At the beginning, I got the impression that he's not as determined and strong as he truly is. He also has a complicated relationship with a woman in his life, his mother. I wish the author gave more background on her parents to help understand her and Charlie's situation better. I like how fierce and determined he is, and how he looks out for others. He's a good match for Innes and can keep up with Innes step to step.
I've enjoyed this series and hope to see more from this author.
***Thanks to GRR and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for a an honest review.***
Worth Trying is the second installment of the Without Precedent series. I enjoyed Worth It and was curious to see how the author would redeem Innes. He came off as selfish, inconsiderate, and cruel at times in the first book. Getting his perspective in the second book was enlightening. Every character has a back story that shapes their actions and motivations. Innes' back story is more angsty than I expected. He's not completely the self-absorbed rich guy I thought I knew. His relationship with his daughter is complicated and adds to the complexity and growth of his character.
The other MC, Charlie, surprised me as well. At the beginning, I got the impression that he's not as determined and strong as he truly is. He also has a complicated relationship with a woman in his life, his mother. I wish the author gave more background on her parents to help understand her and Charlie's situation better. I like how fierce and determined he is, and how he looks out for others. He's a good match for Innes and can keep up with Innes step to step.
I've enjoyed this series and hope to see more from this author.
***Thanks to GRR and the author for an advanced copy in exchange for a an honest review.***
September 20, 2021
I haven’t read the first book and did not realize at first that this was a book two in a series. This was my first book by this author. I really enjoyed the characters of Innes and Charlie. Innes isn’t very lovable and he is a bit of a cold hearted bastard but believe it or not, he kinda grows on you. He has spent his whole life selfishly and it takes him a while to figure that out. Charlie has not had it easy and has a hard time trusting that a situation isn’t going to blow up in his face. Watching these two dance around each other was entertaining. Charlie has a lot of spunk and sass, which I always appreciate in a character. He takes Innes by surprise and keeps him on his toes. It’s no wonder Innes becomes fascinated by him. But that man has spent so long pushing people away, it is going to take some work for him to change that behavior. Seeing Elliott in this book, he didn’t impress me much and seemed a little selfish. Neither did Aiden. I will have to go back and read book one to see if my opinion changes with their book. But I enjoyed this one very much. I wouldn’t mind knowing more about how Mimi and Charlie get on but that isn’t touched on in this book.
September 20, 2021
Couples meet in the strangest way….like when one’s trying to rob the other! In “Worth Trying” by Chloe B. Young, Charlie and Innes first meet when Charlie is cleaning his office and doesn’t think anyone would miss a “trinket” or two that he could sell to help support his mother. Innes, who the office belongs to, interrupts him in the act. This turns into an agreement between the two men for Charlie to act as Innes assistant with side benefits and Charlies will get an intro into the Fashion world when either is ready to move on. Innes is interested in Charlie because he’s one of the few people who push back on Innes’s strong personality. Though neither men want a relationship for similar reasons, they can’t help but find comfort in each other as they fit together like puzzle pieces. This was the first book I have read by the author and I really enjoyed their writing style. There were touching moments, funny ones and all the heat you could want in a book. Now I have to go back and read the first book in the series, where we first meet Innes. Definitely recommend grabbing this book for a fun read!
September 20, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Worth Trying is the second title in Chloe B. Young’s Without Precedent series. The story centers on Innes, who readers may recognize as the sugar daddy who helped out one of the MCs from the first book in the series, Worth It. This is a great series for readers who enjoy seeing a story-verse expand, because each book focuses on a different set of characters rather than following a main pairing through a series of adventures. Yet Young works in some nods to Aiden/Elliot at various points. There is also the delightful tension that crops up when Innes’ inner circle know Innes typically avails himself of the services of sex workers (like he used to keep Elliot on a retainer), and assumes that Charlie is merely his assistant as a technicality. This idea that Charlie is a VERY personal assistant gets touched on somewhat, but is largely negated by how quickly their strictly professional relationship ignites into a mutually consensual, sexual one.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Worth Trying is the second title in Chloe B. Young’s Without Precedent series. The story centers on Innes, who readers may recognize as the sugar daddy who helped out one of the MCs from the first book in the series, Worth It. This is a great series for readers who enjoy seeing a story-verse expand, because each book focuses on a different set of characters rather than following a main pairing through a series of adventures. Yet Young works in some nods to Aiden/Elliot at various points. There is also the delightful tension that crops up when Innes’ inner circle know Innes typically avails himself of the services of sex workers (like he used to keep Elliot on a retainer), and assumes that Charlie is merely his assistant as a technicality. This idea that Charlie is a VERY personal assistant gets touched on somewhat, but is largely negated by how quickly their strictly professional relationship ignites into a mutually consensual, sexual one.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
August 31, 2021
Two emotionally stunted men, from vastly different walks of life, meet unexpectedly under poor circumstances and begin a complicated dance around each other’s vulnerabilities and defenses to ultimately discover that they might be able to be stronger together than they are apart.
While attraction is instant, the romance is definitely slow burn – almost glacial – but extremely well paced. The slower romance theme allows us to see and explore the weaknesses and fears of the main characters and observe how each man’s sarcasm and defensiveness leads to the start of healing and better self-awareness.
The story is wonderful. The setup is unique, the characters and their stories are original, and it is so well written that each scene and interaction is enjoyable in itself. Despite the slow pace, you’re entertained through the entire journey of Innes learning to be more human, and Charlie learning it’s okay to let other people in.
My first experience with this author, I definitely look forward to reading more!
While attraction is instant, the romance is definitely slow burn – almost glacial – but extremely well paced. The slower romance theme allows us to see and explore the weaknesses and fears of the main characters and observe how each man’s sarcasm and defensiveness leads to the start of healing and better self-awareness.
The story is wonderful. The setup is unique, the characters and their stories are original, and it is so well written that each scene and interaction is enjoyable in itself. Despite the slow pace, you’re entertained through the entire journey of Innes learning to be more human, and Charlie learning it’s okay to let other people in.
My first experience with this author, I definitely look forward to reading more!
September 22, 2021
I wasn't aware that this was book 2 of a series, but it really didn't make much of a difference in understanding the story. I liked the premise of this book, Innes meets Charlie when he catches Charlie trying to rob him, but instead of calling the police, Innes hires Charlie to be his personal assistant. Makes you wonder if Innes is lacking excitement in his life. Would you hire someone who is trying to rob you?
In spite of Innes having all the power here, Charlie talks back to him and doesn't let himself be walked over instead of kowtowing to him, and Innes likes this strength of character he finds in Charlie. We meet some characters in this story such as Mimi, Innes' daughter from a teenage hook-up. At first Mimi seems like such a brat, until you get to know her better and learn the circumstances of her life. The story proceeds with the development of the relationship between Charlie and Innes, family problems, some misunderstanding, and an HEA ending.
In spite of Innes having all the power here, Charlie talks back to him and doesn't let himself be walked over instead of kowtowing to him, and Innes likes this strength of character he finds in Charlie. We meet some characters in this story such as Mimi, Innes' daughter from a teenage hook-up. At first Mimi seems like such a brat, until you get to know her better and learn the circumstances of her life. The story proceeds with the development of the relationship between Charlie and Innes, family problems, some misunderstanding, and an HEA ending.
September 25, 2021
Don't do it! Innes is an entitled lawyer who needs constant companionship to help him remain focused. He had a lot on his mind between his relationship with his estranged adult daughter, Mimi and he broken love life. Charlie has career aspirations in the fashion industry, and works other jobs, to survive, but he has personal obligations that distract. These two meet under unusual circumstances. In a moment of weakness, Charlie made a bad choice in front of Innes, that compromised him. Does Innnes let him get away with it? Is the job offer further bait? Innis and Charlie are absolutely hysterical! The trait that Innes finds useful is what makes Charlie, top notch! Can they stay professional? Do they implement complications? Is Charlie able to get help with his Ma? Does Innes find balance with Mimi? Does Charlie get his design business off moving forward? Good story. I Good flow. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 17, 2021
I kinda liked this story.
I didnt really get Innes character. I mean, hes a rich trust fund lawyer, that holds his family at arms length, Perhaps I missed his reasoning for this...
I did like Charlie. Alot. He tried sooo hard to make life easier for his mother. She seems to have medical/mental health reason for shutting down, and while we dont actually know what it is, we know Charlie adores her. He tries to keep stress from her. He works two jobs, just to provide for them both and has little to no life otherwise. Hes too caring, about others, esp, most of tje restraunt staff.
Innes has learned to read people, and when he lashes out, he aims for maximum damage. Personally, I thought Charlie let him off to easily, though I was cheering them on
I didnt really get Innes character. I mean, hes a rich trust fund lawyer, that holds his family at arms length, Perhaps I missed his reasoning for this...
I did like Charlie. Alot. He tried sooo hard to make life easier for his mother. She seems to have medical/mental health reason for shutting down, and while we dont actually know what it is, we know Charlie adores her. He tries to keep stress from her. He works two jobs, just to provide for them both and has little to no life otherwise. Hes too caring, about others, esp, most of tje restraunt staff.
Innes has learned to read people, and when he lashes out, he aims for maximum damage. Personally, I thought Charlie let him off to easily, though I was cheering them on
September 24, 2021
It is clear as the story begins that Innes is used to getting what he wants and the fact that he views the opportunity to hire Charlie when he catches him as a diversion is telling. Innes is a bit selfish and thoughtless but in Charlie he got more than what he was expecting. Charlie might be down on his luck a bit when they met but he is not without a spine and I liked that both are strong snappy characters. Their time together transforms both of them and it was nice that it also had an impact on Innes' less than wonderful relationship with his daughter Mimi. I did not read the first story in this series but I just might because I really enjoyed this story. It is truly worth reading.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for an honest review.
October 10, 2021
I started this one because I usually enjoy a good boss/employee trope, but was immediately kind of thrown by the creepiness of Innes’ character in the first meeting between him and Charlie, so I set it aside. After thinking about it a bit and noting some of the good reviews, I decided to give it another try. I was glad I did, I ended up really liking this book! Once you get to know more about Innes, you really start to like him, particularly the parts where he tries to repair the relationship with his daughter. I found those scenes to be really touching and I loved where the story left them. I also loved Charlie’s character, he was a joy to read. Definitely recommend!
August 30, 2021
Charlie meets Innes and the stars seem to align. Or not, as the case may be. A sweet, fairly slow burn book about two men struggling to keep their lives in order. Surprisingly low angst, the story centers on how a relationship is formed when neither participant knows what they are doing.
The author created interesting characters. Their interactions were engaging. Innes’ inner voice was both harsh and needy. I liked how Charlie broke his walls.
This was an enjoyable story. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a light/sexy read.
I received an arc of this book.
The author created interesting characters. Their interactions were engaging. Innes’ inner voice was both harsh and needy. I liked how Charlie broke his walls.
This was an enjoyable story. I would recommend it to anyone who wants a light/sexy read.
I received an arc of this book.
September 8, 2021
Oh, the emotions involved in this book. From the very beginning I was caught up with Charlie. Then Innes enters and things sizzle. Their animosity, sparks and negative energy is off the charts. This author created all of this sizzle and passion, beautifully. The m/c’s chemistry radiates off the pages. Their story is one that captivates and doesn’t let go. When it was good, it was extraordinary but then the hurt was devastating. Building isn’t always as hard as rebuilding but when it works it’s glorious. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
September 22, 2021
The story if well written and overall enjoyable. I had a difficult time getting into the story at first since I really did not care for the type of person that is portrayed by Innes. Innes is an arrogant wealthy lawyer who likes to belittle his subordinates. He meets his match in Charlie the budding fashion designer hired to be his personal assistant who doesn't put up with it. Although not quite the type of story I read it was an interesting read.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy
I received this book as an Advanced Reader's Copy
September 24, 2021
I really enjoyed this book it was just what I needed. I love the whole Boss/Employee trope especially if there is a touch of blackmail, coercion in the mix.
The book is mostly well written, but I found that the pace dragged a little in some places, however the characters both main and secondary were interesting and fun enough to keep my attention throughout, so much so that I finished the book with a smile on my face. This is a new to me author that I will be keeping an eye open for, as I am sure I will be reading more from them in the future.
The book is mostly well written, but I found that the pace dragged a little in some places, however the characters both main and secondary were interesting and fun enough to keep my attention throughout, so much so that I finished the book with a smile on my face. This is a new to me author that I will be keeping an eye open for, as I am sure I will be reading more from them in the future.
October 15, 2021
Loved it!
Charlie has been head of household for himself and his Mom ever since they lost his father.
Innes was born to money.
Charlie's first meeting with Innes is great but the second is seriously funny. I loved the humor, the sadness, the anger.. this story had all the feels. They were great together. The one criticism was they didn't scorch the pages, meaning I didn't feel the passion between them but they were quite steamy.
I loved that Innes figured out his issues and actually did something about then to keep his happiness.
Good read. Loved it!
Charlie has been head of household for himself and his Mom ever since they lost his father.
Innes was born to money.
Charlie's first meeting with Innes is great but the second is seriously funny. I loved the humor, the sadness, the anger.. this story had all the feels. They were great together. The one criticism was they didn't scorch the pages, meaning I didn't feel the passion between them but they were quite steamy.
I loved that Innes figured out his issues and actually did something about then to keep his happiness.
Good read. Loved it!
November 9, 2021
The story of Innes and Charlie isn’t your standard one, they meet under very odd circumstances, Charlie was stealing from Innes and the next thing you know Innes offers Charlie a job as his PA. some of the book seemed hard to get, I’m not convinced that you’d hire someone straight away after catching them stealing. Charlie’s mother just seemed pathetic and unlikable, she wasn’t even very old, just a total nightmare for Charlie to have to deal with. There were just parts of this book that I found a little off and annoying but overall it was a good enough read, just nothing amazing. 3.5 from me
September 12, 2021
Even though it took a bit to get into the book I really did enjoy it, this was a new author, my first book by her but definitely not my last. I was totally surprised about this emotionally vivid romance with these two characters, it easy to be drawn into their totally different outlook on life and love including their ages, interests and life styles but somehow finding their way through all of their own life's drama, so they could somehow just be together.
September 15, 2021
It took me a while to get into this book but when I did it was excellent. Innes was this man who felt so unloved by his family that he didn't know how to love. Charlie the young man deserted by his father as a young child who never knew why. The story involves them meeting, working together, falling in love, blowing it all apart due to fear and finally getting a HEA. The side story with Mimi was also well written. Chloe was a new author for me and I look forward to discovering more
September 24, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this age gap romance written by Chloe B Young,a new to me author.
I enjoyed the banter and bickering between the two main characters,which made the moment they came together all the more sweeter.
I don't want to give spoilers for this,I would like to give readers the chance to discover this enjoyable story for themselves.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
I enjoyed the banter and bickering between the two main characters,which made the moment they came together all the more sweeter.
I don't want to give spoilers for this,I would like to give readers the chance to discover this enjoyable story for themselves.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
April 29, 2022
Considerably more enjoyable than the first book.
I feel like Charlie and Innes were far better fleshed out and likeable characters than the supposedly “nice” Aiden and Elliott (who both come across rather more thoughtless in this book than they did in their book). I also preferred the ages Charlie (24) and Innes (36) vs the 21 & 28 years of Eliot and Aiden.
I would have preferred one POV vs the dual POV… but it wasn’t overly annoying, as they did have succinct voices.
I feel like Charlie and Innes were far better fleshed out and likeable characters than the supposedly “nice” Aiden and Elliott (who both come across rather more thoughtless in this book than they did in their book). I also preferred the ages Charlie (24) and Innes (36) vs the 21 & 28 years of Eliot and Aiden.
I would have preferred one POV vs the dual POV… but it wasn’t overly annoying, as they did have succinct voices.
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