What do you think?
Rate this book
The Grand Men #1
The Grand Pact
We all have a dream.
But I think I preferred holding mine at arm’s length...
It’s not that I don’t want to go to New York.
It’s that it’s all I’ve ever wanted.
So when a dream internship lands in my lap, the last thing I should be doing is hesitating.
Elliot thinks I should take it — he’s always believed in me.
Smirking, smouldering Elliot Montgomery.
Playboy-about-town.
Notorious womaniser.
And... dearest friend?
It was Elliot’s arms I’d innocently fallen asleep between on lonely nights.
And those same arms that promised all kinds of unspeakable things when I found myself writhing between them...
But even as he threw me out of my comfort zone, Elliot promised me something immeasurable.
So now I’m here, living my fashion design dreams in the trustiest outfit I own — indecision. But the longer I stay in New York, the further I feel myself drift from everything I thought I wanted.
And somehow, absence is making the heat grow stronger...
If Elliot Montgomery is no Prince Charming, why does he feel like happily ever after?
But I think I preferred holding mine at arm’s length...
It’s not that I don’t want to go to New York.
It’s that it’s all I’ve ever wanted.
So when a dream internship lands in my lap, the last thing I should be doing is hesitating.
Elliot thinks I should take it — he’s always believed in me.
Smirking, smouldering Elliot Montgomery.
Playboy-about-town.
Notorious womaniser.
And... dearest friend?
It was Elliot’s arms I’d innocently fallen asleep between on lonely nights.
And those same arms that promised all kinds of unspeakable things when I found myself writhing between them...
But even as he threw me out of my comfort zone, Elliot promised me something immeasurable.
So now I’m here, living my fashion design dreams in the trustiest outfit I own — indecision. But the longer I stay in New York, the further I feel myself drift from everything I thought I wanted.
And somehow, absence is making the heat grow stronger...
If Elliot Montgomery is no Prince Charming, why does he feel like happily ever after?
497 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2022
925 people are currently reading
11429 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 359 reviews
Read
July 4, 2023Tik Tok lied to me… which shouldn't be surprising considering the internet is a cesspool filled with misinformation. This book I have had recommended to me constantly, I was bombarded with people saying read this it's so amazing and everyone loves it. They lied. The Grand Pact centers around our main character Lucy. Lucy dreams of becoming a fashion designer and getting her dream job in New York. She and her bestie, Elliot, have been dancing around each other for years, but nothing has ever happened. Lucy is pretty meek, so Elliot tells her that she needs to live her life, and in two years, if she's not with someone head over heels in love, he will give her a kid. Now that's the title of the book The Grand Pact, but it's only mentioned three times after that.
Elliot is our “hero” and I put quotes there because I would have more faith in my 5-year-old brother's morality than this man. I'm all for a morally gray character, but he was just straight up, not a good person. He “cheated” (they weren't actually together but knew each other in the biblical sense) the day after they had done the semi deed. Then, a few chapters later, he's getting head from the same lady. Now, this lady Harriet turns about to be evil (eye roll) because, of course, she is. Everyone is just falling over themselves for Elliot; he's just so HOT. No, because the way people talk about him in this book, you would think he was a Greek god… with the personality to go with it.
Lucy is meek, and there is nothing wrong with that inherently, but Ms. Girl has no spine. I imagine her back is just being held up by a flimsy cardboard toilet paper roll. Picture this if you will. You love this guy, but you move to New York and can't see him. You meet a new guy and you like him but just like a friend, his name is Max. Elliot, the guy you love, breaks up with you so you can ”be who you are truly meant to be”. Elliot then surprises you on your birthday, but you are now with Max, the guy you like as just a friend. Now, of course, you and Max, your friend with kinda benefits, are having sex with other people because DUH. But now you and your former love are back in the same room, so of course, you do the dirty. But your Max comes back so you shove your lover in the closet, and he(Elliot) finds out you have been living and in a semi-relationship for WEEKS.
Elliot storms home, and you're hurt because he finds out. But keep in mind he was literally with someone else the day after yall got together three months ago; I was getting head while on the phone with you at one point.
A few weeks later your friends convince you to go to Bora Bora with them but you don't want to because you have to bring Max your jerk of a boyfriend and your former bestie Elliot who you are in love with will be there. Soooo your friends lie to you and tell you that Elliot won't in fact be there. Surprise Surprise he is there. He throws your favorite piece of jewelry into the ocean.
Finally, you go back to New York where you find out Max is a DRUG DEALER who has been using the house you got from the nice old rich man you met when you first got to New York. Oh yeah, Lucy got a whole house from a guy she met at the park. Anyway, Max has been using this house to store his DRUGS and apparentl you just never went into the basement? This ends with you getting whacked in the face, quitting your dream job that wasn't actually your dream, and going back to London.
Oh, and you and Elliot finally get together so you can be a dysfunctional happy family. Oh, and remember that pact you made three-ish years ago is not at all relevant to the story.
At the end of the day, I would give this book two stars because I made it all the way through and I can't in good faith give a book one star, unless it was absolutely horrible, whereas this was just awful.
Side note: The side characters made no sense to me. Nina and Mason were constantly being mentioned, but they felt very irrelevant.
Elliot is our “hero” and I put quotes there because I would have more faith in my 5-year-old brother's morality than this man. I'm all for a morally gray character, but he was just straight up, not a good person. He “cheated” (they weren't actually together but knew each other in the biblical sense) the day after they had done the semi deed. Then, a few chapters later, he's getting head from the same lady. Now, this lady Harriet turns about to be evil (eye roll) because, of course, she is. Everyone is just falling over themselves for Elliot; he's just so HOT. No, because the way people talk about him in this book, you would think he was a Greek god… with the personality to go with it.
Lucy is meek, and there is nothing wrong with that inherently, but Ms. Girl has no spine. I imagine her back is just being held up by a flimsy cardboard toilet paper roll. Picture this if you will. You love this guy, but you move to New York and can't see him. You meet a new guy and you like him but just like a friend, his name is Max. Elliot, the guy you love, breaks up with you so you can ”be who you are truly meant to be”. Elliot then surprises you on your birthday, but you are now with Max, the guy you like as just a friend. Now, of course, you and Max, your friend with kinda benefits, are having sex with other people because DUH. But now you and your former love are back in the same room, so of course, you do the dirty. But your Max comes back so you shove your lover in the closet, and he(Elliot) finds out you have been living and in a semi-relationship for WEEKS.
Elliot storms home, and you're hurt because he finds out. But keep in mind he was literally with someone else the day after yall got together three months ago; I was getting head while on the phone with you at one point.
A few weeks later your friends convince you to go to Bora Bora with them but you don't want to because you have to bring Max your jerk of a boyfriend and your former bestie Elliot who you are in love with will be there. Soooo your friends lie to you and tell you that Elliot won't in fact be there. Surprise Surprise he is there. He throws your favorite piece of jewelry into the ocean.
Finally, you go back to New York where you find out Max is a DRUG DEALER who has been using the house you got from the nice old rich man you met when you first got to New York. Oh yeah, Lucy got a whole house from a guy she met at the park. Anyway, Max has been using this house to store his DRUGS and apparentl you just never went into the basement? This ends with you getting whacked in the face, quitting your dream job that wasn't actually your dream, and going back to London.
Oh, and you and Elliot finally get together so you can be a dysfunctional happy family. Oh, and remember that pact you made three-ish years ago is not at all relevant to the story.
At the end of the day, I would give this book two stars because I made it all the way through and I can't in good faith give a book one star, unless it was absolutely horrible, whereas this was just awful.
Side note: The side characters made no sense to me. Nina and Mason were constantly being mentioned, but they felt very irrelevant.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2025
when i say my favourite trope is best friends to lovers, this is NOT what i mean.
May 2, 2022
Sooo… I guess it’s just me but damn I totally hated the book and the characters especially Lucy, almost DNF.
June 24, 2022
Wish I could give this no stars
April 7, 2022
The first of the Grand Men series, a spin off series from 2021's beautiful Promises duet, is the friends to lovers story of Elliot Montgomery, notorious billionaire playboy, and Lucy Morgan, the funny, fiesty, driven dreamer who loves with her whole heart.
The plotting, pacing and characterisation by Jess Hawke is second to none - and even better, if that is to be believed, than that of her first duet. This standalone will have you laughing, crying and feeling ALL the feels. No less than I'd expect from the mind and heart of this author.
Simply put - read it. Thank me later!
The plotting, pacing and characterisation by Jess Hawke is second to none - and even better, if that is to be believed, than that of her first duet. This standalone will have you laughing, crying and feeling ALL the feels. No less than I'd expect from the mind and heart of this author.
Simply put - read it. Thank me later!
March 10, 2023
This whole series is amazing by JC Hawke! I was so excited to get an Advanced Reader Copy of this masterpiece. This story follows Elliot and Lucy who were side characters in the first two books (Grand Duet). The emotional turmoil and twists in this book I was not ready for. You fall so head over heels for both Elliot and Lucy that I found myself being so frustrated with them when they made questionable decisions. This book jumps right into it and if you’re looking for a low burn this isn't it, the beginning gets you hooked on both of them and I fought for their love the whole book‹ not to mention the smut is amazing). One thing so unique to JC Hawke is that i get so invested in all of her characters, main or side doesn't matter. All of her characters are so real and genuine you know exactly who they are. I cannot say enough amazing things about this book so it you haven't yet make sure you get this on your reading list!!
April 26, 2022
Thanks to JC Hawke for sending me an advance reader copy of this amazing book.
This is my first book by JC (yes i Know late to the party) and I loved Elliot! Lucy was amazing. I loved the mix of friendship, throw in some serious attraction, and the long distance. wow! JC did good with this one. You need to add it to your TBR! also my TBR list grew some more with my additions of JC's books.
This is my first book by JC (yes i Know late to the party) and I loved Elliot! Lucy was amazing. I loved the mix of friendship, throw in some serious attraction, and the long distance. wow! JC did good with this one. You need to add it to your TBR! also my TBR list grew some more with my additions of JC's books.
May 13, 2022
Hero 5⭐Elliott.
Heroine 4⭐Lucy.
Story 5⭐
Writing 5⭐
Steam 4⭐
Romance 4⭐
Secondary Characters 5⭐
Drama 5⭐
Mystery 5⭐
Twists 4⭐
Action 5⭐
Recommend -
Heroine 4⭐Lucy.
Story 5⭐
Writing 5⭐
Steam 4⭐
Romance 4⭐
Secondary Characters 5⭐
Drama 5⭐
Mystery 5⭐
Twists 4⭐
Action 5⭐
Recommend -
May 19, 2022
the conflict was so annoying bro☠️
November 7, 2022
Lucy is truly one the most insufferable female main characters in any book I’ve read so far.
January 9, 2023
it was kind of underwhelming?
the main characters? meh. the writing? meh. i don’t even know what to do with myself honestly
the main characters? meh. the writing? meh. i don’t even know what to do with myself honestly
May 10, 2022
“𝑺𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒕𝒊𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒚 𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆, 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒎𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒚 𝒔𝒂𝒅.”
𝑴𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒔𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒖𝒎𝒑 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒔 𝑬𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒖𝒑 𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒔.
𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒕𝒐𝒐.”
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🔥🔥.5
Tropes: Friends to lovers, billionaire,
Series: The Grand Men #1
This was my first read by JC Hawke and I enjoyed it! Friends to lovers is a trope I struggle with at times because there's usually an imbalance that I don't enjoy. However, I've come to enjoy that trope when it's done well, and this is a great example.
This book works so well because of Elliot and Lucy's friendship. They're extremely close and you can tell how much they both appreciate each other. Sometimes with this trope one of the characters is taken advantage of by their friend, but that's not how these two are. They're equals in their friendship, they care about one another, and provide each other with support. They say a strong friendship is a great foundation to a relationship and Ell and Luce are proof of this.
I enjoyed Lucy a ton. I could see Lucy being a character that some find annoying, but I think that's because she reminds people of themselves in a way that doesn't lend to escapism. Lucy feels lost in her 30s and boy do I relate. I'm 29 and constantly have a crisis about how my life doesn't feel exciting enough. I could relate to Lucy wanting to do amazing things, but feeling so scared. I found her relatable and I was happy to see her be brave enough to try different things.
Ell is just the best. I love how he pushed Lucy to be brave and told her how deserving she was of everything in her life. He was so in love with Lucy and was sweet with her. I swooned at the different ways he showed his love for Lucy through the flowers and her birthday. I personally loved the skincare scene because it showed how much he paid attention and the attentiveness he had towards her. He's truly the sweetest and I love him so much 🥰
Thank you to JC Hawke for the ARC!
𝑴𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒘𝒆𝒍𝒍𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑰 𝒔𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒍𝒖𝒎𝒑 𝒊𝒏 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒔 𝑬𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒕 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒖𝒑 𝒂𝒕 𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒌𝒔.
𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖.
“𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒕𝒐𝒐.”
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice: 🔥🔥.5
Tropes: Friends to lovers, billionaire,
Series: The Grand Men #1
This was my first read by JC Hawke and I enjoyed it! Friends to lovers is a trope I struggle with at times because there's usually an imbalance that I don't enjoy. However, I've come to enjoy that trope when it's done well, and this is a great example.
This book works so well because of Elliot and Lucy's friendship. They're extremely close and you can tell how much they both appreciate each other. Sometimes with this trope one of the characters is taken advantage of by their friend, but that's not how these two are. They're equals in their friendship, they care about one another, and provide each other with support. They say a strong friendship is a great foundation to a relationship and Ell and Luce are proof of this.
I enjoyed Lucy a ton. I could see Lucy being a character that some find annoying, but I think that's because she reminds people of themselves in a way that doesn't lend to escapism. Lucy feels lost in her 30s and boy do I relate. I'm 29 and constantly have a crisis about how my life doesn't feel exciting enough. I could relate to Lucy wanting to do amazing things, but feeling so scared. I found her relatable and I was happy to see her be brave enough to try different things.
Ell is just the best. I love how he pushed Lucy to be brave and told her how deserving she was of everything in her life. He was so in love with Lucy and was sweet with her. I swooned at the different ways he showed his love for Lucy through the flowers and her birthday. I personally loved the skincare scene because it showed how much he paid attention and the attentiveness he had towards her. He's truly the sweetest and I love him so much 🥰
Thank you to JC Hawke for the ARC!
April 26, 2022
Elliot and Lucy had me from the very first time I met them in the promise duet, I was so excited to read their story. This is a best friends to lovers slow burn romance and I was here for all of it. Even though I have described this as a slow burn I have to say Jess gave us one of the hottest moments within the first few chapters and the tension between these 2 is mental.
Lucy has taken an internship in New York but was in 2 minds if she should go, it was always her dream but she is very indecisive (yep I feel your pain Luce 🤦🏻♀️) Elliot gives her that little push to follow her dreams and go which obviously for our MCs causes so much tension and drama. Will the physical distance make these 2 stronger?
Lucy is kind hearted and is looking for her happy ever after and Elliot by his own admission is London’s most notorious playboy, as they feel they are on different paths even though their is no doubt an attraction between them from the off they never move further than friends.
Elliot Montgomery it’s official has made it to my book boyfriend list, that man is so swoon worthy, he listens, takes care of those he loves, secretly loves a Disney film, but has one of the filthiest mouths 😮���💨
Thank you Jess for allowing me to receive an ARC of this amazing story I’m excited to read more from this world, it is definitely one I want to step into.
Lucy has taken an internship in New York but was in 2 minds if she should go, it was always her dream but she is very indecisive (yep I feel your pain Luce 🤦🏻♀️) Elliot gives her that little push to follow her dreams and go which obviously for our MCs causes so much tension and drama. Will the physical distance make these 2 stronger?
Lucy is kind hearted and is looking for her happy ever after and Elliot by his own admission is London’s most notorious playboy, as they feel they are on different paths even though their is no doubt an attraction between them from the off they never move further than friends.
Elliot Montgomery it’s official has made it to my book boyfriend list, that man is so swoon worthy, he listens, takes care of those he loves, secretly loves a Disney film, but has one of the filthiest mouths 😮���💨
Thank you Jess for allowing me to receive an ARC of this amazing story I’m excited to read more from this world, it is definitely one I want to step into.
April 29, 2022
Opposites attract, friends to lovers, Elliot and Lucy try to figure out these new feelings. But, she's moved across the Atlantic to the big city and these two are missing each other more than they thought they would. Elliot plays the field hard and never keen on any type of romantic relationships with anyone. It was actually hard for me to connect with either characters. I understood where the story was going, but it was really hard for me to like Elliot. But aside from that, these two had a lot of chemistry. I do love to see the tough, gruff, "I don't do relationships" kinda guy fall completely head over heels for their other half. 3.5 for me
August 16, 2022
Their connection is like ecstasy. Her books give you pleasure, amusement, stress, anger, hope, and even a thrill. I haven’t read anything by her other than this series which was months ago, I’ve been waiting for this one to come out and it did not disappoint. Also,
The smut never, EVERRR, disappoints in her books.
The smut never, EVERRR, disappoints in her books.
July 18, 2022
I loved this book !! One of my faves of the year !
April 18, 2022
I was honoured to be able to read this as a beta reader.
I haven’t read the other books written by Jess and I didn’t need to. This book works perfectly as a standalone, and has made me want to go back and read Grand love and grand lies.
My heart was on a rollercoaster throughout this book, I couldn’t stop reading as I just wanted to know more!
Elliot and Lucy are best friends, they made a pact that if in a few years Lucy hadn’t found ‘the one’, Elliot would have children with Lucy.
Elliot just wants the best for Lucy and doesn’t want to see her throw her life away with the wrong guy.
Lucy has her life mapped out and doesn’t want to deviate from that plan.
I was laughing out loud at this book, Lucy is absolutely hilarious as is Elliot. He is definitely my type of book boyfriend. (Hands off I have claimed Elliot as my own 😂).
This is the type of book that you can re read over and over and never get bored of the characters. They will imprint themselves into your heart and will live there forever.
Jess is a fantastic author with wild characters running around in her head, I can’t wait to read more by her. She is a one click author for me now.
I haven’t read the other books written by Jess and I didn’t need to. This book works perfectly as a standalone, and has made me want to go back and read Grand love and grand lies.
My heart was on a rollercoaster throughout this book, I couldn’t stop reading as I just wanted to know more!
Elliot and Lucy are best friends, they made a pact that if in a few years Lucy hadn’t found ‘the one’, Elliot would have children with Lucy.
Elliot just wants the best for Lucy and doesn’t want to see her throw her life away with the wrong guy.
Lucy has her life mapped out and doesn’t want to deviate from that plan.
I was laughing out loud at this book, Lucy is absolutely hilarious as is Elliot. He is definitely my type of book boyfriend. (Hands off I have claimed Elliot as my own 😂).
This is the type of book that you can re read over and over and never get bored of the characters. They will imprint themselves into your heart and will live there forever.
Jess is a fantastic author with wild characters running around in her head, I can’t wait to read more by her. She is a one click author for me now.
October 13, 2022
You know how fictional men > real men?? I’d take a real man over Elliot.
Elliot…ew. Their “friendship” was weird from the start. Apparently it’s flirty but never goes anywhere sexual. Then they fool around a little, and the line is crossed. Then, before they talk about it, a day later she walks in on him with another woman. K. Then a few days after that, he’s getting a blowjob from said woman, while he texts Lucy and gets off from her picture. K. Then he goes to a club where he has sex with women all the time, and goes to a room with a girl. Now I’m thinking, ok this is the part of the story where the man can’t get aroused and realizes he only wants the heroine. But no - he thinks about how the girl has “perfect tits”, gets hard, and is literally agonized to put a stop to it.
At this point, I don’t see the good side of Elliot. He even tells Lucy about the weird blowjob moment and suddenly she is comforting him that he’s a good person??? She’s like, oh people categorize you as a playboy but you’re much more. Maybe so, but he *is* a huge playboy and if he doesn’t want that reputation, maybe stop?? I also think there’s a line of being fun loving and sexually free and having an addiction or something. Also - now I’m ranting 🤣 - in these books, the men usually have a reason to be a commitment phobe. Like they were hurt, or had a bad upbringing, but there was just no reason here.
So this seemed doomed from the start for me, especially since they’re apart almost all of the book?? Being long distance seemed like a weird choice considering I don’t even think they’d make it in the same town at this point.
And then the second half is just weird. Elliot cuts her off so she can strike out on her own, Lucy is super hurt and then it’s like when one of them stops making bad choices, the other picks up the slack! Lucy gets a sort of boyfriend who seems kind of abusive even though it’s never really addressed, her and Elliot fight, they all go on vacation. Elliot seems to try to knock her up due to a weird pact they made but then they don’t really address it? Her sort of boyfriend turns out to be a drug dealer?? Shit hits the fan… man, I don’t know.
To me, these two were toxic.
You know it’s not going to be good when I was actually rooting for Lucy to flourish in NY and meet someone new.
Elliot…ew. Their “friendship” was weird from the start. Apparently it’s flirty but never goes anywhere sexual. Then they fool around a little, and the line is crossed. Then, before they talk about it, a day later she walks in on him with another woman. K. Then a few days after that, he’s getting a blowjob from said woman, while he texts Lucy and gets off from her picture. K. Then he goes to a club where he has sex with women all the time, and goes to a room with a girl. Now I’m thinking, ok this is the part of the story where the man can’t get aroused and realizes he only wants the heroine. But no - he thinks about how the girl has “perfect tits”, gets hard, and is literally agonized to put a stop to it.
At this point, I don’t see the good side of Elliot. He even tells Lucy about the weird blowjob moment and suddenly she is comforting him that he’s a good person??? She’s like, oh people categorize you as a playboy but you’re much more. Maybe so, but he *is* a huge playboy and if he doesn’t want that reputation, maybe stop?? I also think there’s a line of being fun loving and sexually free and having an addiction or something. Also - now I’m ranting 🤣 - in these books, the men usually have a reason to be a commitment phobe. Like they were hurt, or had a bad upbringing, but there was just no reason here.
So this seemed doomed from the start for me, especially since they’re apart almost all of the book?? Being long distance seemed like a weird choice considering I don’t even think they’d make it in the same town at this point.
And then the second half is just weird. Elliot cuts her off so she can strike out on her own, Lucy is super hurt and then it’s like when one of them stops making bad choices, the other picks up the slack! Lucy gets a sort of boyfriend who seems kind of abusive even though it’s never really addressed, her and Elliot fight, they all go on vacation. Elliot seems to try to knock her up due to a weird pact they made but then they don’t really address it? Her sort of boyfriend turns out to be a drug dealer?? Shit hits the fan… man, I don’t know.
To me, these two were toxic.
You know it’s not going to be good when I was actually rooting for Lucy to flourish in NY and meet someone new.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2022
The Grand Pact
@authorjchawke
⭐⭐⭐⭐.75
🌶🌶🌶.5
𝒯𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝒾𝓃 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓂𝑒𝑒𝓉 𝒶 𝓅𝑒𝓇𝓈𝑜𝓃, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓎 𝑔𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝒻𝒻 𝒶𝓃 𝒶𝓊𝓇𝒶 𝓈𝑜 𝓈𝓉𝓇𝑜𝓃𝑔 𝓎𝑜𝓊'𝓇𝑒 𝒾𝓂𝓂𝑒𝒹𝒾𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓁𝓎 𝒹𝓇𝒶𝓌𝓃 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂.
Wow. Just wow. I was honored to receive an ARC for this book and I was blown away. I've seen so much chatter about the excitement for this release and now I can see why. This book was so good, I stayed up until 2am to finish it because I. Just. Couldn't. Stop.
Elliott is a notorious playboy. Just ask him yourself. He exudes sex appeal and confidence and he doesn't settle down. Lucy is more like the girl next door. The girl you take home to mama. The stunning woman that adores you but doesn't sleep with you. Elliott and Luce have been best friends for years. But there's always been something....more. The attraction was THERE but did they want to ruin a friendship over it.
When Lucy is offered an opportunity of a lifetime, Elliott is the one to convince her to go. Leaving behind everything she's known, she flies to New York and starts a "new life".
The angst in this book is real. The tension is delicious. And the plot twists? Didn't see it coming!!! I knew something was going to happen but what transpired had me gasping at 1:30 in the morning!
I loved this book so much and need more immediately! (I'm looking at you JC!) Do you know how hard it was to narrow down the quotes?! I can't wait to see where this goes! I am counting down to where you all can get your hands on this book! It was perfection!
@authorjchawke
⭐⭐⭐⭐.75
🌶🌶🌶.5
𝒯𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝒶𝓇𝑒 𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝒾𝓃 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓂𝑒𝑒𝓉 𝒶 𝓅𝑒𝓇𝓈𝑜𝓃, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓎 𝑔𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝑜𝒻𝒻 𝒶𝓃 𝒶𝓊𝓇𝒶 𝓈𝑜 𝓈𝓉𝓇𝑜𝓃𝑔 𝓎𝑜𝓊'𝓇𝑒 𝒾𝓂𝓂𝑒𝒹𝒾𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓁𝓎 𝒹𝓇𝒶𝓌𝓃 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓂.
Wow. Just wow. I was honored to receive an ARC for this book and I was blown away. I've seen so much chatter about the excitement for this release and now I can see why. This book was so good, I stayed up until 2am to finish it because I. Just. Couldn't. Stop.
Elliott is a notorious playboy. Just ask him yourself. He exudes sex appeal and confidence and he doesn't settle down. Lucy is more like the girl next door. The girl you take home to mama. The stunning woman that adores you but doesn't sleep with you. Elliott and Luce have been best friends for years. But there's always been something....more. The attraction was THERE but did they want to ruin a friendship over it.
When Lucy is offered an opportunity of a lifetime, Elliott is the one to convince her to go. Leaving behind everything she's known, she flies to New York and starts a "new life".
The angst in this book is real. The tension is delicious. And the plot twists? Didn't see it coming!!! I knew something was going to happen but what transpired had me gasping at 1:30 in the morning!
I loved this book so much and need more immediately! (I'm looking at you JC!) Do you know how hard it was to narrow down the quotes?! I can't wait to see where this goes! I am counting down to where you all can get your hands on this book! It was perfection!
May 1, 2022
Elliot and Lucy are my first ARC read and honestly they are nothing like I expected and everything I needed. With this book I laughed, cried, cringed hard, felt understood and wanted to punch someone in the face, but the rollercoaster ride was completely worth it.
The Grand Men Series follows the friends of Mason and Nina from Grand Lies and Grand Love. You can read this one as a stand alone but I recommend the series. Especially if you want to see the beginning of Elliot and Luce. I loved Nina and Mason but Elliot had me so intrigued and he did not disappoint.
If you think this is a slow burn pfft it’s not. Because let me tell you there is spice 🌶🌶🌶 and it’s delicious. I’ll let Elliot do anything he wants to me. And I mean anything!
The story of Luce and Elliot is of friends to lovers. My poor Lucy is a walking anxiety attack and the way JC wrote her I identified with her quit a bit. But she may be an little unsure of herself but my little one can surprise you while Elliot is the epitome of you only live once but deep down he’s a teddy bear and this mix of humans makes for the most EPIC love story. I love their dynamic polar opposites but yet understand each other like no one else. But what happens when you cross that friendship line?
Honestly I recommend this read 100 percent. And I’m sure by the end your jaw will be on the floor.
You’re welcome in advance. 🖤
The Grand Men Series follows the friends of Mason and Nina from Grand Lies and Grand Love. You can read this one as a stand alone but I recommend the series. Especially if you want to see the beginning of Elliot and Luce. I loved Nina and Mason but Elliot had me so intrigued and he did not disappoint.
If you think this is a slow burn pfft it’s not. Because let me tell you there is spice 🌶🌶🌶 and it’s delicious. I’ll let Elliot do anything he wants to me. And I mean anything!
The story of Luce and Elliot is of friends to lovers. My poor Lucy is a walking anxiety attack and the way JC wrote her I identified with her quit a bit. But she may be an little unsure of herself but my little one can surprise you while Elliot is the epitome of you only live once but deep down he’s a teddy bear and this mix of humans makes for the most EPIC love story. I love their dynamic polar opposites but yet understand each other like no one else. But what happens when you cross that friendship line?
Honestly I recommend this read 100 percent. And I’m sure by the end your jaw will be on the floor.
You’re welcome in advance. 🖤
June 21, 2022
This does say #1 correct? Like why am I reading about shit that implies I should know already? Lance in prison? Who tf is lance? Mason and Nina (pixie?) Book was annoying- I somewhat enjoyed Lucy and Elliot- he pushed her out of her comfort zone to fulfill her “dream” only to come home before her internship was up anyway??? And wtf with max and the random chapter from Polly? Ugh so stupid and the longest epilogue in the fucking world. Wtf is a Tuesday club? Another thing in the secret book before this one? Are scarlet and lance together? Who is Waverly? Their child? Idk who cares this was a waste of time 500 pages of dumb. I’m mad at whoever recommended this. Lucy’s friends were meddling and annoying I wouldve stayed in NY not to have to deal with those douches anymore.
May 26, 2022
It wasn’t horrible, but wasn’t great. I feel it drags on in a lot of places. Pretty much all of the conflict in this book could have been solved with just a simple conversation, I’m usually fine with the miscommunication trope, but it took solving it far too long for my liking with it not being a really good solution. Also for the first book in the series I feel like I did not know the characters at all? Maybe I missed another series before this one that introduces them, I’m not sure.
I can’t see me reading it again.
I can’t see me reading it again.
March 6, 2025
A slow burn that had me literally burning. I thought Nina was annoying — fuck me, Lucy takes the cake. The woman can’t make a decision to save her life, but she sure as shit knows how to make a terrible decision with confidence
February 2, 2023
What the hell did I just read
January 3, 2025
reached the end of the book and still have no idea who alec and polly are
May 2, 2022
I had to noodle on this one a bit. My thoughts are still a little jumbled.
I liked this book. In fact, I liked it a lot. However, this is an entirely different book than the blurb made it out to be. And that is totally fine. I simply was not prepared for the emotional and mental roller coaster I would be on.
There were a few gaps and missing elements that had me with questions at the end but nothing that really took away from the book. Just loose ends that I would’ve liked tied up or better understood.
Elliot and Lucy were infuriating at times. It wasn’t even a lack of communication but more a lack of understanding themselves. Lucy wouldn’t make any decisions for herself. She was so scared of making the wrong choice that she would try to avoid making one at all. She never wanted to hurt anyone but her indecisiveness created difficult and hurtful situations. She never had bad intentions and was incredibly loving to her friends and family but really lacked confidence.
Elliot was such a player and not even in a cute or funny way. He just wanted to get his rocks off. Which to me really spoke to his lack of confidence as well cause he thought that was all he was capable of giving. Not that you’d know it cause he had quite the ego. He also was so kind and loving to his friends and family.
Both MCs had huge hearts but they couldn’t get out of their own way. They hurt the shit out of each other a couple of times. It was truly heartbreaking and tear inducing.
There are actually triggers in this book. There are elements of DV and non-con/dub-con. I think those are important to note because they are deal breakers for many. That being said, I can’t tell you much about those cause it’ll literally ruin the story. And I’m not giving spoilers today.
I will tell you that they do have their happy ending and it’s glorious but there is also a fairly substantial cliff hanger.
I liked this book. In fact, I liked it a lot. However, this is an entirely different book than the blurb made it out to be. And that is totally fine. I simply was not prepared for the emotional and mental roller coaster I would be on.
There were a few gaps and missing elements that had me with questions at the end but nothing that really took away from the book. Just loose ends that I would’ve liked tied up or better understood.
Elliot and Lucy were infuriating at times. It wasn’t even a lack of communication but more a lack of understanding themselves. Lucy wouldn’t make any decisions for herself. She was so scared of making the wrong choice that she would try to avoid making one at all. She never wanted to hurt anyone but her indecisiveness created difficult and hurtful situations. She never had bad intentions and was incredibly loving to her friends and family but really lacked confidence.
Elliot was such a player and not even in a cute or funny way. He just wanted to get his rocks off. Which to me really spoke to his lack of confidence as well cause he thought that was all he was capable of giving. Not that you’d know it cause he had quite the ego. He also was so kind and loving to his friends and family.
Both MCs had huge hearts but they couldn’t get out of their own way. They hurt the shit out of each other a couple of times. It was truly heartbreaking and tear inducing.
There are actually triggers in this book. There are elements of DV and non-con/dub-con. I think those are important to note because they are deal breakers for many. That being said, I can’t tell you much about those cause it’ll literally ruin the story. And I’m not giving spoilers today.
I will tell you that they do have their happy ending and it’s glorious but there is also a fairly substantial cliff hanger.
June 1, 2022
what the fuck 😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞😞 IDK WHAT I FEEL IT'S 4AM AND THIS BOOK WAS A ROLLERCOASTER RIDE .... I'll review it properly tomorrow, but seriously what the fuck
--- updated review ---
𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: The Grand Pact
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: J.C. Hawke
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: 5/5 stars
𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: NA Contemporary Romance
𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈: Everything I Did to Get to You - Ben Platt
𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒆: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 oh god
𝑾𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌?
yes wth ofc YES (but pls give me 5 yrs to recover from this book first)
━━━━━━ ◦ ❖❖❖ ◦━━━━━━━
ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎:
I didn't know this was so chaotic ... I started the month WITH THIS BOOK and my dreams were also connected to the story and characters in the book last night 😭😭😭 I wanted to get off a few points for this review because of *that incident where somebody had to hide* but then I realized I understand Lucy's POV and why she did THAT. I felt so sorry for her tbh and GODDDDDDD Elliot's loyalty and commitment ?? girlie is so lucky for that. I wish I had an Elliot in my life 😞 I didn't even really get into the sex scenes because all I felt was anxiety. I FELT THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG ISTGGGGG and I love it. I love the way it was written, how it provoked emotions out of me, and how it left me so fucking broken HUHU so beautiful, what a strong start for June we love that 😌
--- updated review ---
𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐋𝐄: The Grand Pact
𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑: J.C. Hawke
𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐍𝐆: 5/5 stars
𝑮𝒆𝒏𝒓𝒆: NA Contemporary Romance
𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈: Everything I Did to Get to You - Ben Platt
𝑺𝒑𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒆: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶 oh god
𝑾𝒊𝒍𝒍 𝑰 𝒓𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌?
yes wth ofc YES (but pls give me 5 yrs to recover from this book first)
━━━━━━ ◦ ❖❖❖ ◦━━━━━━━
ℝ𝔼𝕍𝕀𝔼𝕎:
I didn't know this was so chaotic ... I started the month WITH THIS BOOK and my dreams were also connected to the story and characters in the book last night 😭😭😭 I wanted to get off a few points for this review because of *that incident where somebody had to hide* but then I realized I understand Lucy's POV and why she did THAT. I felt so sorry for her tbh and GODDDDDDD Elliot's loyalty and commitment ?? girlie is so lucky for that. I wish I had an Elliot in my life 😞 I didn't even really get into the sex scenes because all I felt was anxiety. I FELT THAT THERE WAS SOMETHING WRONG ISTGGGGG and I love it. I love the way it was written, how it provoked emotions out of me, and how it left me so fucking broken HUHU so beautiful, what a strong start for June we love that 😌
April 26, 2022
The Promise Duet (Grand Lies and Grand Love) and The Grand Pact is a story that follows two of sub characters from the promise duet, Elliot and Lucy.
When I first found out that Elliot and Lucy would be getting their own story I screamed. They are two of the most lovable characters you will ever meet, and their journey is an emotional one.
Lucy is a beautiful heroine that is struggling to find her place in the world and feels as though her time is running out to accomplish all the dreams she has.
Elliot is a mega rich, hot as sin, alpha male that lives life day by day and never worries about what’s next.
Together, they have the most beautiful friendship and Elliot proposes a pact…If Lucy doesn’t have what she wants out of life in two years, Elliot will give it to her.
Jess is unbelievably talented in writing complex and unique characters and storylines. Her ability to pull a reader in and make them feel as though they are a part of the world she has written is a true gift and so rare. Every word and sentence are carefully strung together to create magic and I’m in love with every single thing she writes.
When I first found out that Elliot and Lucy would be getting their own story I screamed. They are two of the most lovable characters you will ever meet, and their journey is an emotional one.
Lucy is a beautiful heroine that is struggling to find her place in the world and feels as though her time is running out to accomplish all the dreams she has.
Elliot is a mega rich, hot as sin, alpha male that lives life day by day and never worries about what’s next.
Together, they have the most beautiful friendship and Elliot proposes a pact…If Lucy doesn’t have what she wants out of life in two years, Elliot will give it to her.
Jess is unbelievably talented in writing complex and unique characters and storylines. Her ability to pull a reader in and make them feel as though they are a part of the world she has written is a true gift and so rare. Every word and sentence are carefully strung together to create magic and I’m in love with every single thing she writes.
April 20, 2022
I was so excited that Luce and Elliott were going ti get their own book, but this blew my high expectations out of the park. the first books (The Promise Duet) were so good and that is where you get to know Luce and Elliott. we got to see their friendship begin and now that they have their own story it was completely perfect. their story made me smile, cry, and laugh. JC does such a good job of emotionally tying you into the story and writing the most gut-wrenching beautiful stories. i was honored to be able to receive an ARC of this book and i binge read it in less than 24 hours. i could not out it down. i would like to also point out that i am a huge fan of epilogues, and this one hit me in the feels and made all my long epilogue dreams come true. this has got to be one of my top reads for 2022. i cannot wait for others to read this amazing story also!
October 2, 2022
Awesome Book
Whole cow this book had me on the edge of my seat and on an emotional rollercoaster. I wasn’t totally sure that Lucy and Elliot were going to make it.
There was a lot of build up with Lucy and Elliot and it drove me crazy. Like I kept waiting for it to happen each chapter and when it didn’t I died a little inside.
I love how Lucy saw who the real Elliot was behind all the labels that other put on him. He genuinely seems like an amazing guy who would do anything for Lucy.
The steamy moments in the book were so hot and like I said earlier there was build up but during the build up there was some pretty epic moments.
I can’t wait until the next book about Lance and Scarlet and to learn about their story.
Whole cow this book had me on the edge of my seat and on an emotional rollercoaster. I wasn’t totally sure that Lucy and Elliot were going to make it.
There was a lot of build up with Lucy and Elliot and it drove me crazy. Like I kept waiting for it to happen each chapter and when it didn’t I died a little inside.
I love how Lucy saw who the real Elliot was behind all the labels that other put on him. He genuinely seems like an amazing guy who would do anything for Lucy.
The steamy moments in the book were so hot and like I said earlier there was build up but during the build up there was some pretty epic moments.
I can’t wait until the next book about Lance and Scarlet and to learn about their story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 359 reviews