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Wilde Ways #13
Pretend You Want Me
She fixes problems.
There is no problem that Aspen Gray can’t handle. No case that is too hard. No challenge too great. She’s a rising star criminal defense attorney, and she intends to have the world at her feet…until a ghost from her past comes back to wreck her carefully designed plans. A ghost who should have been in the ground. And when a dead man comes stalking you, what’s a woman to do?
Let things get Wilde.
As soon as she sets foot in the elite protection and security firm known as Wilde, Aspen knows that she must tread carefully. Her life is on the line, and everything that she has worked so hard to achieve can be destroyed…unless one very talented and dangerous Wilde agent can help her out. She needs a man with exceedingly deadly skills—and she needs him now.
He can practically see the secrets dripping from her…
It should have been a standard undercover operation. Gideon Ranier knew the drill. He was supposed to play the role of his new client’s boyfriend so that he could slip into her world, keep her safe, and unmask the jerk screwing around with her. Standard work. No big deal. Former Delta Force, he could do that type of job in his sleep. Except…he doesn’t count on actually falling for his client. But he does. Hard, fast, and deep, and soon…there is nothing that he won’t do for her.
It’s personal.
Lines are crossed. Desire grows too strong. Their need won’t be denied. But the attacks on Aspen are mounting. As an obsessed killer plays a deadly game, Gideon will have no choice but to fight harder and dirtier than he’s ever fought in his life in order to protect Aspen from a stalker hellbent on vengeance.
Author’s Note: He’s dangerous. She’s devious. They shouldn’t want each other so badly, but they do. Close proximity, a deadly threat…adrenaline is pumping and the desire between Aspen and Gideon will not be controlled. He’ll walk through hell to keep her safe…and, yes, he’s pretty much gonna have to do just that. Sexy times, dangerous deeds, and a happy ending are guaranteed in this stand-alone read. Be on the lookout for secrets, because there sure are plenty of those coming your way!
There is no problem that Aspen Gray can’t handle. No case that is too hard. No challenge too great. She’s a rising star criminal defense attorney, and she intends to have the world at her feet…until a ghost from her past comes back to wreck her carefully designed plans. A ghost who should have been in the ground. And when a dead man comes stalking you, what’s a woman to do?
Let things get Wilde.
As soon as she sets foot in the elite protection and security firm known as Wilde, Aspen knows that she must tread carefully. Her life is on the line, and everything that she has worked so hard to achieve can be destroyed…unless one very talented and dangerous Wilde agent can help her out. She needs a man with exceedingly deadly skills—and she needs him now.
He can practically see the secrets dripping from her…
It should have been a standard undercover operation. Gideon Ranier knew the drill. He was supposed to play the role of his new client’s boyfriend so that he could slip into her world, keep her safe, and unmask the jerk screwing around with her. Standard work. No big deal. Former Delta Force, he could do that type of job in his sleep. Except…he doesn’t count on actually falling for his client. But he does. Hard, fast, and deep, and soon…there is nothing that he won’t do for her.
It’s personal.
Lines are crossed. Desire grows too strong. Their need won’t be denied. But the attacks on Aspen are mounting. As an obsessed killer plays a deadly game, Gideon will have no choice but to fight harder and dirtier than he’s ever fought in his life in order to protect Aspen from a stalker hellbent on vengeance.
Author’s Note: He’s dangerous. She’s devious. They shouldn’t want each other so badly, but they do. Close proximity, a deadly threat…adrenaline is pumping and the desire between Aspen and Gideon will not be controlled. He’ll walk through hell to keep her safe…and, yes, he’s pretty much gonna have to do just that. Sexy times, dangerous deeds, and a happy ending are guaranteed in this stand-alone read. Be on the lookout for secrets, because there sure are plenty of those coming your way!
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2021
278 people are currently reading
606 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Eden
309 books6,808 followersAward-winning author Cynthia Eden writes sexy tales of contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and paranormal romance. She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over one hundred novels and novellas.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
April 1, 2025
The premise is formulaic and the characters are fairly typical Cynthia Eden characters with the feisty, intelligent, but damsel in distress h paired with the alpha/protective H who's instantly enamored with her. It's a fast-paced story with secrets, twists, and tension. The romance is built quickly as the H is protecting the h from a stalker. The h is more rounded as a character than the H, we know he's former military turned security, whereas we learn extensively about the h. A few steamy scenes and "I love you's" exchanged before the end of the book before they're rushing into their HFN after exposing and defeating the villain.
I liked that this is an intersection of two of the author's series so there are side characters from both series, without having had to read any prior books to enjoy. I think I wasn't fully in the mood for this book, even though I was obviously the one to choose it. It was still entertaining and I do always esp like how you're not 100% sure who the bad guy is in this author's stories.
Written in third person, multi-POV with the mains and a couple side characters. No ow drama, touch of om drama from someone who's always wanted the h, and both are experienced, though the h hadn't been with many guys and not much given on the H.
I liked that this is an intersection of two of the author's series so there are side characters from both series, without having had to read any prior books to enjoy. I think I wasn't fully in the mood for this book, even though I was obviously the one to choose it. It was still entertaining and I do always esp like how you're not 100% sure who the bad guy is in this author's stories.
Written in third person, multi-POV with the mains and a couple side characters. No ow drama, touch of om drama from someone who's always wanted the h, and both are experienced, though the h hadn't been with many guys and not much given on the H.
December 12, 2021
This was mega hot and smexy, with a touch of angst and a load of danger and suspense! As soon as I finished it, I was ready to read it all over again!
Aspen is steeped in mystery and secrets. I couldn’t wait to find out everything she was hiding. Not knowing what was going to arise had me on pins and needles waiting to learn how it was all going to unfold and the consequences of it all once it did. I thoroughly enjoyed watching her character trudge through the drama of her situation as she was hiding her past even while she was battling her attraction to Gideon.
Gideon was exactly what I love in a hero. From the beginning he was fiercely protective of Aspen leading to so many wonderful moments of alpha goodness. I loved how he was just as possessive of her when another man hugged her or even looked at her in a certain way. Add all of that to his strength, loyalty and determination to rescue her from the situation and my alpha loving heart was beating a happy tune.
I absolutely loved how this story unfolded. There were several twists and turns and some of the surprises had me grasping my Kindle with tension. Holy heck it was intense! I’m curious to see where this author is going to take us next as I can see so many possibilities and I want her to take them all!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Aspen is steeped in mystery and secrets. I couldn’t wait to find out everything she was hiding. Not knowing what was going to arise had me on pins and needles waiting to learn how it was all going to unfold and the consequences of it all once it did. I thoroughly enjoyed watching her character trudge through the drama of her situation as she was hiding her past even while she was battling her attraction to Gideon.
Gideon was exactly what I love in a hero. From the beginning he was fiercely protective of Aspen leading to so many wonderful moments of alpha goodness. I loved how he was just as possessive of her when another man hugged her or even looked at her in a certain way. Add all of that to his strength, loyalty and determination to rescue her from the situation and my alpha loving heart was beating a happy tune.
I absolutely loved how this story unfolded. There were several twists and turns and some of the surprises had me grasping my Kindle with tension. Holy heck it was intense! I’m curious to see where this author is going to take us next as I can see so many possibilities and I want her to take them all!
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
December 28, 2021
I loved that we got the blending of the Wilde Ways series and the Trouble For Hire series. The hero, Gideon, is from the Wilde Ways series and the heroine, Aspen, is from the Trouble For Hire series.
Aspen needs help and she doesn't want to involve her closest friends so she goes out of town to hire Gideon from the Wilde agency. Gideon is the hero I love to see from Cynthia Eden. He falls fast and hard and he isn't afraid to show that possessive, protective side of himself.
Aspen is perceived to be a bit of a shark lawyer but really she is just a good person who sees beyond the facade of most people. I enjoyed these two as a couple!
Aspen needs help and she doesn't want to involve her closest friends so she goes out of town to hire Gideon from the Wilde agency. Gideon is the hero I love to see from Cynthia Eden. He falls fast and hard and he isn't afraid to show that possessive, protective side of himself.
Aspen is perceived to be a bit of a shark lawyer but really she is just a good person who sees beyond the facade of most people. I enjoyed these two as a couple!
December 28, 2021
3.5 Stars
A enjoyable read.
Aspen and Gideon I liked, although for some reason the development to them being in love felt a tad too quick.
It was nice seeing characters from previous books pop up in this one.
A enjoyable read.
Aspen and Gideon I liked, although for some reason the development to them being in love felt a tad too quick.
It was nice seeing characters from previous books pop up in this one.
December 29, 2021
Aspen and Gideon. Aspen thinks he’s all wrong for what she needs. Gideon says he’s exactly what she needs. These two play well against and with each other. Lots of action and suspense. Gideon is very protective of Aspen. Aspen tries hard to resist Gideon, but in the end, she just can’t. HEA.
December 29, 2021
Three and a half
This was a fun, sexy read with numerous twists to keep the reader guessing just which guy was the true bad guy. Gideon from the start is this twinkling eyed, growly possessive type that just screams protective and doesn't that just work so well in romantic suspense ? Add in Aspen who likes to play the frosty ice maiden and its easy to want to sit back and watch the sparks fly. So why am I not rating this higher ? As much as I enjoyed the crossover in this book as two literary worlds collide I just didn't feel convinced that things were only just ratcheting up now several years after events that saw Aspen losing her father. It's was a joy meeting up with previous characters particularly Ramsey but sadly not my favourite by this talented author.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This was a fun, sexy read with numerous twists to keep the reader guessing just which guy was the true bad guy. Gideon from the start is this twinkling eyed, growly possessive type that just screams protective and doesn't that just work so well in romantic suspense ? Add in Aspen who likes to play the frosty ice maiden and its easy to want to sit back and watch the sparks fly. So why am I not rating this higher ? As much as I enjoyed the crossover in this book as two literary worlds collide I just didn't feel convinced that things were only just ratcheting up now several years after events that saw Aspen losing her father. It's was a joy meeting up with previous characters particularly Ramsey but sadly not my favourite by this talented author.
This voluntary take is of an advanced copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
December 28, 2021
Classic Cynthia Eden
Another amazing romantic suspense by the oh-so-talented Cynthia Eden. She’s been a 1-click author for me for years, and her books get impossibly better with each new release.
I love the way Gideon owns up to his feelings and emotions in regard to Aspen. He doesn’t shy away from his instant attraction, and no matter how hard she fights it in the beginning, he’s relentless in his pursuit of something more between them than a client-bodyguard relationship. And when Gideon finally does manage to break through her protective walls, sparks fly and there’s no turning back!
If you like reading edge-of-your -seat suspenseful stories about hot alpha heroes protecting the smart, sexy heroines they’ve fallen in love with, you will love Pretend You Want Me! And if you haven’t started this series yet, you should absolutely read it from the beginning, along with Ms. Eden’s Trouble For Hire series!
Another amazing romantic suspense by the oh-so-talented Cynthia Eden. She’s been a 1-click author for me for years, and her books get impossibly better with each new release.
I love the way Gideon owns up to his feelings and emotions in regard to Aspen. He doesn’t shy away from his instant attraction, and no matter how hard she fights it in the beginning, he’s relentless in his pursuit of something more between them than a client-bodyguard relationship. And when Gideon finally does manage to break through her protective walls, sparks fly and there’s no turning back!
If you like reading edge-of-your -seat suspenseful stories about hot alpha heroes protecting the smart, sexy heroines they’ve fallen in love with, you will love Pretend You Want Me! And if you haven’t started this series yet, you should absolutely read it from the beginning, along with Ms. Eden’s Trouble For Hire series!
December 28, 2021
Well I have to say I love the Wilde and the Trouble For Hire series. So when I found out there would be a crossover I was so excited. Everything that makes both these series amazing is front and center in the book.
This is the story of Aspen the hard as nails lawyer. Her past has come back to haunt her. Gideon from the Wild Agency is hired to pose as her boyfriend but as soon as he sees her he wants there relationship to be real. Her secrets are gonna get her killed.
“Because I think the person you need to fear is close to you. Because you are stopping me from doing my job the way it has to be done and that’s putting you at risk.
So much action and adventure along with a spectacular love story. A strong confident woman clashes with a alpha male determined to protect her.
I can’t get enough of anything this author writes. She’s just that good!!
This is the story of Aspen the hard as nails lawyer. Her past has come back to haunt her. Gideon from the Wild Agency is hired to pose as her boyfriend but as soon as he sees her he wants there relationship to be real. Her secrets are gonna get her killed.
“Because I think the person you need to fear is close to you. Because you are stopping me from doing my job the way it has to be done and that’s putting you at risk.
So much action and adventure along with a spectacular love story. A strong confident woman clashes with a alpha male determined to protect her.
I can’t get enough of anything this author writes. She’s just that good!!
December 31, 2021
I was ready for some steamy scenes but not the amount of suspense that came with the book. Could not put it down i really enjoyed it.
But for the love of god can we have better covers for these books
But for the love of god can we have better covers for these books
May 11, 2022
OMFG what a great read. Aspen was a kickass addition to the Wilde storyline and i loved seeing the crossover characters from Trouble for Hire. She and Gideon were totally hot and perfect for one another in the end once they came to terms with their true emotions
June 12, 2023
French & English reviews
Malheureusement une déception ...
C'est un livre qui avait beaucoup de potentiel pour moi parce que j'aimais beaucoup l'idée du couple avocate avec de lourds secrets / ancien militaire badass sexy et tout ça sur fond de lourds secrets venant du passé ...
SAUF QUE
Si j'ai adoré Gideon et l'enquête bien tordue, je n'ai PAS DU TOUT aimé Aspen ... OK elle a des secrets et je comprend pourquoi elle n'a rien dit au début mais j'ai trouvé son comportement irresponsable (elle aurait pu faire tuer Gideon et Elijah avec ses mensonges ! D'accord pour garder ses secrets au début mais tu n'engages pas des gardes du corps en leur vendant une histoire de stalker alors qu'ils ont affaire à des pro !) et elle avait un côté manipulateur (on avait quand même bien l'impression qu'elle jouait les demoiselles en détresse pour manipuler tous les hommes dans sa vie ...) qui a fait que je n'avais aucune compassion pour elle (d'ailleurs si elle avait été dans un autre livre, elle aurait pu faire un méchante manipulatrice aux airs innocents parfaite !)
Bref, une romance qui ne m'a pas convaincue mais je vais continuer la série parce que pour l'instant c'est le seul livre qui m'a déçue =)
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Unfortunately a disappointment ...
It's a book that had a lot of potential for me because I really liked the idea of the lawyer with heavy secrets / sexy badass ex-military couple and all that with heavy secrets from the past ...
BUT
If I loved Gideon and the twisted investigation, I DID NOT like Aspen at all ... OK she has secrets and I understand why she didn't say anything at first but I found her behavior irresponsible (she could have get Gideon and Elijah killed with her lies ! Okay to keep her secrets at first but you don't hire bodyguards selling them a stalker story when they are dealing with pros !) and she had a manipulative side (we still had the impression that she was playing the damsel in distress to manipulate all the men in her life ...) which caused me to have no sympathy for her (indeed, if she had been in another book, she could have been a perfect innocent-looking evil manipulator !)
In short, a romance that didn't convince me but I'm going to continue the series because for now it's the only book that disappointed me =)
Malheureusement une déception ...
C'est un livre qui avait beaucoup de potentiel pour moi parce que j'aimais beaucoup l'idée du couple avocate avec de lourds secrets / ancien militaire badass sexy et tout ça sur fond de lourds secrets venant du passé ...
SAUF QUE
Si j'ai adoré Gideon et l'enquête bien tordue, je n'ai PAS DU TOUT aimé Aspen ... OK elle a des secrets et je comprend pourquoi elle n'a rien dit au début mais j'ai trouvé son comportement irresponsable (elle aurait pu faire tuer Gideon et Elijah avec ses mensonges ! D'accord pour garder ses secrets au début mais tu n'engages pas des gardes du corps en leur vendant une histoire de stalker alors qu'ils ont affaire à des pro !) et elle avait un côté manipulateur (on avait quand même bien l'impression qu'elle jouait les demoiselles en détresse pour manipuler tous les hommes dans sa vie ...) qui a fait que je n'avais aucune compassion pour elle (d'ailleurs si elle avait été dans un autre livre, elle aurait pu faire un méchante manipulatrice aux airs innocents parfaite !)
Bref, une romance qui ne m'a pas convaincue mais je vais continuer la série parce que pour l'instant c'est le seul livre qui m'a déçue =)
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Unfortunately a disappointment ...
It's a book that had a lot of potential for me because I really liked the idea of the lawyer with heavy secrets / sexy badass ex-military couple and all that with heavy secrets from the past ...
BUT
If I loved Gideon and the twisted investigation, I DID NOT like Aspen at all ... OK she has secrets and I understand why she didn't say anything at first but I found her behavior irresponsible (she could have get Gideon and Elijah killed with her lies ! Okay to keep her secrets at first but you don't hire bodyguards selling them a stalker story when they are dealing with pros !) and she had a manipulative side (we still had the impression that she was playing the damsel in distress to manipulate all the men in her life ...) which caused me to have no sympathy for her (indeed, if she had been in another book, she could have been a perfect innocent-looking evil manipulator !)
In short, a romance that didn't convince me but I'm going to continue the series because for now it's the only book that disappointed me =)
April 7, 2022
I really liked Gideon and Aspen.
[And hooray for Aspen being a criminal defense attorney! Heh. And NOT total slimeball.]
OMG when Gideon is like "when did you know you loved me" or whatever. They both fall FAST but they don't talk but GIDEON does first and <3
GAH.
[So ... I really love that.]
Heh - I'm kinda glad I read Elijah's book first. [Dude got a jump on him which 😱]
Anyway - I was vaguely annoyed with the "secrets secrets" thing ... although I also get like ... well, Aspen is in quite the predicament, and she's also trying to protect people.
Secrets secrets means she's hamstrung herself though.
I do have some questions like the chandelier and O_o the cameras and stuff in her house; like obviously it was a big deal but also it kinda seemed glossed over/nothing really came of it?
There was a slight twist with the baddie/a baddie I wasn't expecting, so I enjoyed that misdirect.
The detective. Dude.
Ramsey (sp) and Darius! <3 I'd like to know more about them.
Also I think I have War's book in my queue ...
OMG I just love how direct Gideon is and how he's smitten and SERIOUSLY Aspen is LITERALLY ride or die.
Fucking took a bullet for Ben.
<3
I love that Eric and Ben are like "she's family" and I'd love to see more of her interacting with Eric and Ben. Alas.
STILL. <3
The secrets secrets stuff as I said was like ... ugh. :| pretty annoying. [lol I feel like this tightness in my chest and my face is literally 😐 right now]
but the rest of it!
The other players, how Gideon is <3 huge smile on my face.
Definitely a solid C.
[And hooray for Aspen being a criminal defense attorney! Heh. And NOT total slimeball.]
OMG when Gideon is like "when did you know you loved me" or whatever. They both fall FAST but they don't talk but GIDEON does first and <3
GAH.
[So ... I really love that.]
Heh - I'm kinda glad I read Elijah's book first. [Dude got a jump on him which 😱]
Anyway - I was vaguely annoyed with the "secrets secrets" thing ... although I also get like ... well, Aspen is in quite the predicament, and she's also trying to protect people.
Secrets secrets means she's hamstrung herself though.
I do have some questions like the chandelier and O_o the cameras and stuff in her house; like obviously it was a big deal but also it kinda seemed glossed over/nothing really came of it?
There was a slight twist with the baddie/a baddie I wasn't expecting, so I enjoyed that misdirect.
The detective. Dude.
Ramsey (sp) and Darius! <3 I'd like to know more about them.
Also I think I have War's book in my queue ...
OMG I just love how direct Gideon is and how he's smitten and SERIOUSLY Aspen is LITERALLY ride or die.
Fucking took a bullet for Ben.
<3
I love that Eric and Ben are like "she's family" and I'd love to see more of her interacting with Eric and Ben. Alas.
STILL. <3
The secrets secrets stuff as I said was like ... ugh. :| pretty annoying. [lol I feel like this tightness in my chest and my face is literally 😐 right now]
but the rest of it!
The other players, how Gideon is <3 huge smile on my face.
Definitely a solid C.
December 18, 2021
This story is about Gideon and Aspen. We get to see characters from both the Wilde series and the Trouble for Hire series and its a great combination. I loved getting to see all of them working together to protect someone they all love. Aspen walks into the Wilde office with a list of specific characteristics the guy protecting her needs to have and Gideon is the only one that fits the bill.
Aspen felt like she couldn't go to Trouble for Hire because of their connection to Ramsey and the fact they all love her. When she brings Gideon to Florida, she tells him the real reason why she brought him to Pensacola from Atlanta, and he is a bit annoyed to say the least.
When the two start really investigating her stalker they find some odd things that just don't add up. So, Gideon brings in his friends War and Odin to help him out. Aspen is upset that Gideon went to War for help, but it ends up that they were needed in the end.
This book is a cross-over between two great series and it makes the book even better than we could hope for. I could not put this book down, there was always something happening. My only complaint is I felt like we didn't get to see the full love story between Aspen and Gideon unfold because of everything going on, but in the end it all fits together. Another great read in the Wilde Ways series, I highly recommend it.
Received ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review
Aspen felt like she couldn't go to Trouble for Hire because of their connection to Ramsey and the fact they all love her. When she brings Gideon to Florida, she tells him the real reason why she brought him to Pensacola from Atlanta, and he is a bit annoyed to say the least.
When the two start really investigating her stalker they find some odd things that just don't add up. So, Gideon brings in his friends War and Odin to help him out. Aspen is upset that Gideon went to War for help, but it ends up that they were needed in the end.
This book is a cross-over between two great series and it makes the book even better than we could hope for. I could not put this book down, there was always something happening. My only complaint is I felt like we didn't get to see the full love story between Aspen and Gideon unfold because of everything going on, but in the end it all fits together. Another great read in the Wilde Ways series, I highly recommend it.
Received ARC in exchange for voluntary honest review
December 28, 2021
I love Cynthia's books so far (mind you I don't read her paranormal). And this book knocks it out of the park. The leads (Gideon whom has connections to Wilde Ways and Aspen from Trouble for Hire) bring in background characters from their respective series which are nice to see again. The connection between the H/h was intense from the initial contact and loved that we got to see how that initial spark grew into love. The conversations were real to life, the plot excellent and quick paced. I love that both leads have complicated background stories that manifest into secrets they don't want told. It's like solving multiple issues all on top of trying to figure out who the badguy is and how to stop him. I love Aspen's need to protect everyone and Gideon's need to protect her even as she tries to protect him. And the steamy scenes truly fogged up my glasses it was so HOT. Yet at the same time, there was a lot more to the story then just them in the sheets. CE balanced the romance and the suspense so well. The only issue I had, and it's a minor one and probably only an issue for me, is the scenes fully in the POV of the bad guy. I like not knowing his motivation and obsession except through the acts happening against the H/h. To me that draws me out of the main story and relationship that I find myself invested in. Even with this small issue, the story is still exceptional and I recommend highly. Two thumbs up.
March 4, 2022
Gideon is the latest Wilde agent to go rogue, so to speak, and fall for one of his clients. Aspen Gray is a defense attorney in Pensacola and an old friend of Ben and Eric Wilde. She doesn't need protection per se, so she hires Wilde under false pretenses (sort of) and meets Gideon.
What I liked:
-I love that Cynthia Eden writes about Southern locations. Being a Southerner myself, I really feel a connection with the locations she chooses (Atlanta and Pensacola in this one).
-Gideon is tough and smart and loyal (oh, and sexy).
-There's a crossover with the Trouble for Hire series, which I have found very enjoyable so far.
-The story is pretty twisty and kept me entertained.
What I didn't like:
-Cynthia Eden is one of my favorites, but this series has always been hit or miss for me.
-Aspen annoyed the hell out of me from the very beginning. She hires Wilde under false pretenses and because of her lies and half-truths, Elijah gets seriously hurt. I actually stopped reading for a little while because I got so pissed she did this. The agency should have dropped her immediately because she put the agents in mortal danger.
-One of the things that CE does across the board is using the word "jerk" to describe the bad guy. It comes across as sort of juvenile and amateurish. I don't think hardened cops, commandos and general badasses would use the term "jerk" to describe a serial killer.
What I liked:
-I love that Cynthia Eden writes about Southern locations. Being a Southerner myself, I really feel a connection with the locations she chooses (Atlanta and Pensacola in this one).
-Gideon is tough and smart and loyal (oh, and sexy).
-There's a crossover with the Trouble for Hire series, which I have found very enjoyable so far.
-The story is pretty twisty and kept me entertained.
What I didn't like:
-Cynthia Eden is one of my favorites, but this series has always been hit or miss for me.
-Aspen annoyed the hell out of me from the very beginning. She hires Wilde under false pretenses and because of her lies and half-truths, Elijah gets seriously hurt. I actually stopped reading for a little while because I got so pissed she did this. The agency should have dropped her immediately because she put the agents in mortal danger.
-One of the things that CE does across the board is using the word "jerk" to describe the bad guy. It comes across as sort of juvenile and amateurish. I don't think hardened cops, commandos and general badasses would use the term "jerk" to describe a serial killer.
June 17, 2024
Aspen Gray is a defense attorney in Pensacola, Florida. She goes out of state, Atlanta, Georgia to hire an agency that she knows she can trust. Aspen knows they will keep her trust because they feel they owe her for saving her friend's life. You see someone took a shot at Ben, one of the Wilde brothers. When she went to Eric about hiring the best at everything, including defending himself as well as her.
Whether it be with Ben’s brothers or with the guys she hires, she needs to be careful. Aspen knows that she must tread carefully. Her life is on the line, and everything that she has worked so hard for can be destroyed except for one very talented and dangerous man who may be able to help. She needs a man with exceedingly deadly skills, and she needs him now.
They knew Gideon Ranier was the man. Former Delta Force, he could do that type of job in his sleep. Plus, he knew she was scared, yes, but not telling them the complete truth. Except he doesn’t count on actually being the one to fall for his client. But he does. Hard, fast, and deep, and soon there is nothing that he won’t do for her. He’s in love, and so is she. But boy, does she fight it. You must read this book, it grips you at the beginning. Aspen does piss you off from the get-go. Won’t lie! Because she won’t stop lying, which puts her at a higher risk of getting killed. But, the girl will not give it up easily. Enjoy the mystery.
Whether it be with Ben’s brothers or with the guys she hires, she needs to be careful. Aspen knows that she must tread carefully. Her life is on the line, and everything that she has worked so hard for can be destroyed except for one very talented and dangerous man who may be able to help. She needs a man with exceedingly deadly skills, and she needs him now.
They knew Gideon Ranier was the man. Former Delta Force, he could do that type of job in his sleep. Plus, he knew she was scared, yes, but not telling them the complete truth. Except he doesn’t count on actually being the one to fall for his client. But he does. Hard, fast, and deep, and soon there is nothing that he won’t do for her. He’s in love, and so is she. But boy, does she fight it. You must read this book, it grips you at the beginning. Aspen does piss you off from the get-go. Won’t lie! Because she won’t stop lying, which puts her at a higher risk of getting killed. But, the girl will not give it up easily. Enjoy the mystery.
January 17, 2022
Gideon Ranier, the hero in this story, is a former Delta Force member who now works for the Wilde protection and security firm. He is strong, tough and very macho. He is also very attracted to Aspen Gray, from the first moment he sees her.
Aspen Gray is a criminal defense attorney. She is fearless, independent and tough. Unfortunately, she discovers that she is being stalked by someone from her past who is supposed to be dead. Even though she had planned to take care of the problem on her own, she realizes that she needs someone who can help her.
Therefore, Aspen visits her friend Eric Wilde who owns the Wilde security firm. She asks him to find a dangerous-looking agent to pretend to be her boyfriend. Unfortunately, Aspen and Gideon clash immediately. Their tenacious and self-sufficient personalities cause them to be unable to agree on anything.
Macho Gideon wants to “run the show.” He wants to keep Aspen safe and away from all danger. On the other hand, Aspen devises a plan whereby Gideon’s job is to just be back-up for her.
Neither of them expects to fall so quickly and so completely in love with each other. Plus, their sizzling chemistry and hot, romantic sex will curl your toes!
This is an action-packed story is a page-turner!
April 24, 2024
Not up to her usual standard
I usually love Cynthia Eden's books. But this was subpar on so many levels.
First, Gideon was a flat character. We don't get any background on him except for being ex military. No secrets. No family. We know he isn't usually possessive and jealous, but we don't know what he is.
What we see now is someone pushy and insulting who will stop at nothing to get Aspen's secrets, even during sex. Way to make a woman feel cheap, man. And for some reason Aspen doesn't throw him out. In general, I found the love at first sight romance less believable in this book.
The bad guy makes no sense either, as he texts her so she won't get hurt in one scene but has no problem dropping a chandelier on her in another. Also, why now was never made clear.
And last but not least, this is a crossover book. Wilde and Trouble for Hire. So all the men are buddies who work together and help each other out. While the two female characters snipe at each other and try to trip the other. They're aren't many female characters in Cynthia Eden's books in any case, but in this one the contrast was almost painful.
Standalone. 3rd person all knowing pov. Some non graphic violence. Steamy.
I usually love Cynthia Eden's books. But this was subpar on so many levels.
First, Gideon was a flat character. We don't get any background on him except for being ex military. No secrets. No family. We know he isn't usually possessive and jealous, but we don't know what he is.
What we see now is someone pushy and insulting who will stop at nothing to get Aspen's secrets, even during sex. Way to make a woman feel cheap, man. And for some reason Aspen doesn't throw him out. In general, I found the love at first sight romance less believable in this book.
The bad guy makes no sense either, as he texts her so she won't get hurt in one scene but has no problem dropping a chandelier on her in another. Also, why now was never made clear.
And last but not least, this is a crossover book. Wilde and Trouble for Hire. So all the men are buddies who work together and help each other out. While the two female characters snipe at each other and try to trip the other. They're aren't many female characters in Cynthia Eden's books in any case, but in this one the contrast was almost painful.
Standalone. 3rd person all knowing pov. Some non graphic violence. Steamy.
December 22, 2021
Once again Cynthia has given us the perfect combination of sizzling drama non stop action and red hot romance in this latest instalment of this fun series and best of all we not only get Gideon and Aspen's story but we get to reconnect with a lot of the couples we have met before. After saying that this is a stand alone that you will probably enjoy more if you have read the previous books but it isn't necessary but why wouldn't you read them when they are all so great
Aspen Gray is a rising defense attorney who has her life perfectly planned a until a dead man from her past walks back into her life now she knows she needs help and Wilde are the most elite of bodyguards. Gideon Ranier is former delta force and now a close protection officer at Wilde Security he knows he can slip seamlessly into Aspen's life acting as her boyfriend the only problem soon he isn't pretending he wants that role for real but first he has to keep her safe and eliminate the threat against her a threat that he will have to use every skill he posses if she is to survive
Aspen Gray is a rising defense attorney who has her life perfectly planned a until a dead man from her past walks back into her life now she knows she needs help and Wilde are the most elite of bodyguards. Gideon Ranier is former delta force and now a close protection officer at Wilde Security he knows he can slip seamlessly into Aspen's life acting as her boyfriend the only problem soon he isn't pretending he wants that role for real but first he has to keep her safe and eliminate the threat against her a threat that he will have to use every skill he posses if she is to survive
December 25, 2021
When I think that Ms. Eden can’t possibly write a story with more captivating characters, than the previous one, I am proven wrong. In this story we have Gideon Ranier, former Delta Force, strong, reliable and a bit sarcastic and Aspen Gray, a criminal defense attorney who has overcome a past personal tragedy. Aspen is a close friend of the Wilde Family and hires Gideon to be her bodyguard. He intends to be more than her bodyguard and upsets the norms of what she is expecting. She is being stalked by someone who she believed was dead…the same someone who had tried to kill her. As Gideon slowly convinces her to reveal what happened, they are threatened again and again. Luckily, they have help from some previous characters. I so enjoyed the conversation that took place between Ramsey and Gideon! Non-stop action and romance make this a “wild” ride. Maybe Detective Wright and Darius next...and of course Elijah? I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
May 13, 2024
With a gripping mystery and inextricably tangled characters this page-turner will keep you guessing to the very end.
Aspen Gray is a rising criminal defense attorney with big plans for her future; until a ghost from her past seems determined to destroy those plans. So Aspen does what anyone would do when the dead won't stay dead. She hires a bodyguard with very specialized talents.
After all the battles he'd fought former Delta Force Gideon Ranier had learned how to smile and fit in so his past didn't overwhelm him. As a member of Wilde Protection Firm he has just been hired to pretend to be the loving boyfriend of criminal defense attorney Aspen Gray. But when the most beautiful woman Gideon has ever seen walks into their office the air feels as if it has been sucked right out of the room. This job was not going to be a hardship at all.
Yet, with a ghost out for vengeance, nothing about this job will come easy, especially convincing Aspen she deserves to finally find trust and happiness.
Aspen Gray is a rising criminal defense attorney with big plans for her future; until a ghost from her past seems determined to destroy those plans. So Aspen does what anyone would do when the dead won't stay dead. She hires a bodyguard with very specialized talents.
After all the battles he'd fought former Delta Force Gideon Ranier had learned how to smile and fit in so his past didn't overwhelm him. As a member of Wilde Protection Firm he has just been hired to pretend to be the loving boyfriend of criminal defense attorney Aspen Gray. But when the most beautiful woman Gideon has ever seen walks into their office the air feels as if it has been sucked right out of the room. This job was not going to be a hardship at all.
Yet, with a ghost out for vengeance, nothing about this job will come easy, especially convincing Aspen she deserves to finally find trust and happiness.
December 24, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "PRETEND YOU WANT ME" WOW!!! This story is interesting, intriguing, mystery, secrets, lies, deception, angst, stalker, intense sexual desire, danger, suspense, twists that make for a very addicting read.
This story brings characters from both Wilde Ways Series that would be Gideon making Aspen from the Trouble For Hire Series she needs help but wants keep her friends, colleagues, out of it so she demands Gideon sign a contract not investigating any of them.
Aspen & Gideons atrraction to one another is scorching hot will they cross those lines while working together oh yes they will he's very possessive of her & will protect her at any cost.
I definitely recommend to get this on the edge of your seat riviting, intriguing, engaging, mind-blowing storyline loved the journey Gideon & Aspen take you on so much happens so many twists & turns, surprises you can't put down until finished reading. AWESOME AWESOME READ!!!
This story brings characters from both Wilde Ways Series that would be Gideon making Aspen from the Trouble For Hire Series she needs help but wants keep her friends, colleagues, out of it so she demands Gideon sign a contract not investigating any of them.
Aspen & Gideons atrraction to one another is scorching hot will they cross those lines while working together oh yes they will he's very possessive of her & will protect her at any cost.
I definitely recommend to get this on the edge of your seat riviting, intriguing, engaging, mind-blowing storyline loved the journey Gideon & Aspen take you on so much happens so many twists & turns, surprises you can't put down until finished reading. AWESOME AWESOME READ!!!
December 27, 2021
Pretend You Want Me (Wilde Ways Book 13) by Cynthia Eden
For me this book was more than 5 stars! I hated to put it down at all - but I did have to eat and sleep.
Gideon Ranier and Aspen Gray are the perfect H and h - they are both strong with their own secrets. They are a good mix of angst, secrets, desire, some mistrust and a strong desire for each other. We meet up with some old friends from the Wilde Ways and make a few new ones. Cynthia kept me guessing until she lets us know some of what is happening. She kept me on the edge of my seat right till the end. There was plenty of fear, tears, laughter and STEAM to get us to a very HEA. I can't wait to see what's next.... I have an idea but will not give it away.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After Romantic Tear-jerker Wonderful characters Action-packed Great word building Scary Witty Entertaining Page-turner Haunting Easy-to-read Unpredictable Steamy
For me this book was more than 5 stars! I hated to put it down at all - but I did have to eat and sleep.
Gideon Ranier and Aspen Gray are the perfect H and h - they are both strong with their own secrets. They are a good mix of angst, secrets, desire, some mistrust and a strong desire for each other. We meet up with some old friends from the Wilde Ways and make a few new ones. Cynthia kept me guessing until she lets us know some of what is happening. She kept me on the edge of my seat right till the end. There was plenty of fear, tears, laughter and STEAM to get us to a very HEA. I can't wait to see what's next.... I have an idea but will not give it away.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After Romantic Tear-jerker Wonderful characters Action-packed Great word building Scary Witty Entertaining Page-turner Haunting Easy-to-read Unpredictable Steamy
February 19, 2022
1.5 stars, maybe, but I definitely can’t give this 2 stars.
I adore stories with the fake relationship trope. Don’t ask me why, I just do.
Do you know what I expect from those? A progression in the relationship: feelings and attraction that develop gradually, build-up, tension, sometimes angst, sometimes cuteness, even slight enemies-to-lovers vibes.
Do you know what I got here instead? Spiced up instalove and extreme commitment with no legs to stand on.
I didn’t care for the characters because I didn’t really know them. I didn’t buy the fierce attraction and premature commitment. The premise had a lot of potential but I wasn’t impressed with the execution or denouement. The ending wrapped up so quickly and a little out of nowhere. I wasn’t particularly entertained.
I wouldn’t recommend this book. I’m not familiar with the author but it seems she’s prolific. I doubt I’ll read her other books if this is indicative of her work (I’m open to suggestions if it’s not).
I adore stories with the fake relationship trope. Don’t ask me why, I just do.
Do you know what I expect from those? A progression in the relationship: feelings and attraction that develop gradually, build-up, tension, sometimes angst, sometimes cuteness, even slight enemies-to-lovers vibes.
Do you know what I got here instead? Spiced up instalove and extreme commitment with no legs to stand on.
I didn’t care for the characters because I didn’t really know them. I didn’t buy the fierce attraction and premature commitment. The premise had a lot of potential but I wasn’t impressed with the execution or denouement. The ending wrapped up so quickly and a little out of nowhere. I wasn’t particularly entertained.
I wouldn’t recommend this book. I’m not familiar with the author but it seems she’s prolific. I doubt I’ll read her other books if this is indicative of her work (I’m open to suggestions if it’s not).
April 14, 2022
Another steamy action packed Wilde ride of a story. The characters were great, the plot very interesting, and conflict strong-a real murder mystery/suspense thriller. Loved every second. This one focused on Aspen and Gideon. Aspen is definitely the strong independent type and boy does she have a backstory! Gideon had no idea what he was getting into when he agreed to work Aspen's case, but he knew he wanted her and as their story unfolded he comes to realize how special and important Aspen is and will be in his life. This one takes place in Florida and we get introduced to a new group of PI's that screams for their own series, and I am pretty sure Cynthia Eden already has it in the works, if aren't already established. I enjoyed this one a lot, though there have not been many in this series that I didn't absolutely love and devoured from start to finish. Continues to be a great series with strong characters.
December 12, 2021
Four and a half stars
Pretend You Want Me by Cynthia Eden is the thirteenth in her fast-paced, high intensity Wilde Ways series. Aspen Gray is an excellent defense attorney with her share of high profile wins and clients. When she acquires a stalker, she turns to Wilde to hire some help. What she gets is Gideon Ranier, who checks all the boxes on her list of requirements plus a couple she didn’t know she had.
Gideon is more than willing to play fake boyfriend for Aspen, who seems to have quite a few secrets she isn’t sharing with the class. Good thing Gideon has always been an excellent student…
Cynthia Eden’s written a terrific page-turning read, full of heat and action as well as the gamut of emotions. The Wilde Ways and Trouble for Hire series have some intersections, and this latest is one of them. I couldn’t put this down, and look forward to more!
Pretend You Want Me by Cynthia Eden is the thirteenth in her fast-paced, high intensity Wilde Ways series. Aspen Gray is an excellent defense attorney with her share of high profile wins and clients. When she acquires a stalker, she turns to Wilde to hire some help. What she gets is Gideon Ranier, who checks all the boxes on her list of requirements plus a couple she didn’t know she had.
Gideon is more than willing to play fake boyfriend for Aspen, who seems to have quite a few secrets she isn’t sharing with the class. Good thing Gideon has always been an excellent student…
Cynthia Eden’s written a terrific page-turning read, full of heat and action as well as the gamut of emotions. The Wilde Ways and Trouble for Hire series have some intersections, and this latest is one of them. I couldn’t put this down, and look forward to more!
January 3, 2022
Cynthia Eden is one of my automatic one-clicks and this one does not disappoint. Aspen and Gideon have an instant connection that Aspen wants to try to avoid, but Gideon won't allow that. These two are perfect for each other. Neither one allowing the other to hide, and once the walls fall down for both of them they are a force together. Aspen holds a lot close to the vest because of circumstances of her life, but I love that Gideon doesn't allow her to hid from him. He calls her out on it all. We get that usual suspense element that you expect from Eden and it isn't predictable which I enjoy so much!
Another great element to this story is the perfect blend between her Wilde Ways and Trouble for Hire Series, but also gives little snippets of possible books to come in the future.
Another great element to this story is the perfect blend between her Wilde Ways and Trouble for Hire Series, but also gives little snippets of possible books to come in the future.
May 13, 2023
3.5 Stars - this was an enjoyable read, a little bit of a quick love plot but not over the top. The characters were great, I love a growly possessive man, and Aspen was a strong female lead, and the chemistry between her and Gideon was on fire 🔥
The mystery was also well done and kept you guessing right to the end. My one complaint would be that I felt like you didn’t get all the info about Aspens past or situation right away and it treaded around the details quite a bit for the first 1/3 of the book for sure, and it caused a little confusion and I felt like I was lost or missing things I should have known already. However that could be because I haven’t read the other books, but as a stand-alone it felt like storyline or plot points were left hanging until you really got into the book.
Either way, I was able to get hooked into it and enjoyed the book overall.
The mystery was also well done and kept you guessing right to the end. My one complaint would be that I felt like you didn’t get all the info about Aspens past or situation right away and it treaded around the details quite a bit for the first 1/3 of the book for sure, and it caused a little confusion and I felt like I was lost or missing things I should have known already. However that could be because I haven’t read the other books, but as a stand-alone it felt like storyline or plot points were left hanging until you really got into the book.
Either way, I was able to get hooked into it and enjoyed the book overall.
December 14, 2021
Aspen is a defense attorney and goes seeking help from the Wilde agency. Someone is sending her threatening notes. Gideon works for Wilde and is going undercover as her boyfriend. They head back to Florida and Gideon starts digging into her friends. Gideon knows she’s keeping more from him but until he can get her to trust him, he’ll never get her to open up. As Gideon and Aspen get closer to figuring it out, they are in more danger.
I swear it’s getting harder and harder to write these reviews. I don’t want to give to much away but enough so a reader will want to read this book. I’ll be honest, I did not know who the killer was. Mrs. Eden’s stories takes me away and I imagine I’m right there with them. Page turner. Sex. Action.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for Bookfunnel *
I swear it’s getting harder and harder to write these reviews. I don’t want to give to much away but enough so a reader will want to read this book. I’ll be honest, I did not know who the killer was. Mrs. Eden’s stories takes me away and I imagine I’m right there with them. Page turner. Sex. Action.
* Voluntarily read and reviewed this for Bookfunnel *
January 24, 2022
This series has either been a hit or a miss for me 😏.
This book was a miss, I know that I am in the minority here with my rating but I REALLY REALLY do not like my heroines to have 1 foot out the door and that is how I felt about Aspen 😣.
I like to have both parties in my romance wanting to be in the relationship and not having the hero always bending over and compromising all the time.
I kept comparing this book with book 4 - The Heart You Break, which was a very nice read and they are similar plot lines.
I found the romance average and the story okay but forgettable.
This book was a miss, I know that I am in the minority here with my rating but I REALLY REALLY do not like my heroines to have 1 foot out the door and that is how I felt about Aspen 😣.
I like to have both parties in my romance wanting to be in the relationship and not having the hero always bending over and compromising all the time.
I kept comparing this book with book 4 - The Heart You Break, which was a very nice read and they are similar plot lines.
I found the romance average and the story okay but forgettable.
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