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Quince Valley #1
Level With Me
An all-new steamy enemies-to-lovers romance with NO cheating and a guaranteed HEA
When I hire a husband-and-wife consulting team to help my family’s struggling business, I’m appalled to discover the handsome husband is the very man I shared a ‘moment’ with the morning before our very first meeting.
Firing him is obviously the first order of business. But when Blake confesses his high-profile marriage is a sham, and asks me to keep his secret in exchange for deeply discounted services, I know I’d be a fool to say no. Our resort needs major work, and I’m scraping the bottom of the credit accounts to make it happen.
But keeping Blake’s secret isn’t as easy as I thought it would be. The more time we spend together, the harder it is to deny my growing feelings for him. I promised myself I’d never get entangled in a messy situation again. But the deeper I get, the more complicit I become, and if Blake’s business goes under, my heart—and family business—could too.
Level With Me is a steamy, romantic, enemies-to-lovers story with NO cheating. Read if you love swoon-worthy men, smart, strong women, and ramshackle family of adult siblings doing their best to keep their family business afloat and hearts intact. Happily Ever After guaranteed.
When I hire a husband-and-wife consulting team to help my family’s struggling business, I’m appalled to discover the handsome husband is the very man I shared a ‘moment’ with the morning before our very first meeting.
Firing him is obviously the first order of business. But when Blake confesses his high-profile marriage is a sham, and asks me to keep his secret in exchange for deeply discounted services, I know I’d be a fool to say no. Our resort needs major work, and I’m scraping the bottom of the credit accounts to make it happen.
But keeping Blake’s secret isn’t as easy as I thought it would be. The more time we spend together, the harder it is to deny my growing feelings for him. I promised myself I’d never get entangled in a messy situation again. But the deeper I get, the more complicit I become, and if Blake’s business goes under, my heart—and family business—could too.
Level With Me is a steamy, romantic, enemies-to-lovers story with NO cheating. Read if you love swoon-worthy men, smart, strong women, and ramshackle family of adult siblings doing their best to keep their family business afloat and hearts intact. Happily Ever After guaranteed.
258 pages, ebook
First published March 18, 2022
419 people are currently reading
924 people want to read
About the author
Claire Wilder
28 books458 followersUSA Today bestselling author of spicy small-town romance featuring
- Relatable women who always support each other
- Strong, sexy wounded men
- A sometimes rocky but always steamy road that always leads to a guaranteed HEA
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Bonus Material: clairewilder.com/extras
- Relatable women who always support each other
- Strong, sexy wounded men
- A sometimes rocky but always steamy road that always leads to a guaranteed HEA
Get a free book unavailable in stores when you sign up for my newsletter: geni.us/touchingwoodfree
Where to find me:
Website: clairewilder.com
Instagram: instagram.com/clairewilderbooks
Facebook: facebook.com/clairewilderromance
FB Reader Group: facebook.com/groups/wilderwomenreaders
Bookbub: bookbub.com/profile/claire-wilder
Amazon: amazon.com/author/clairewilder
TikTok: tiktok.com/@clairewilderbooks
Bonus Material: clairewilder.com/extras
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 22, 2022
So excited for this new series that starts off with Cassandra the CEO and matriarch of her family’s business. There is going to be plenty of fun and drama to delve into with this family!
Blake and Cassandra have a “meet steamy” as he rescues her from a fall into water. The chemistry is definitely there and ready to go! But then Cassandra realizes who he is an the lust turns into a bust.
Blake is the beard for his “wife” and her partner. It never really bothered him until he met Cassandra. This seems like a really noble thing to do, but I can’t tell you it didn’t bother me though out the whole book and hold back on some of my enjoyment. Maybe I worked in PR too long to get away from the whole “perception is reality” mantra.
But the push and pull of Blake and Cassandra was immensely enjoyable and the longing was spot on. I loved drunk Blake spilling his guts! And when the two of them got together… STEAM-Y!
I’m so hoping that they are featured in the next book too, because the epilogue was focused on the next couple in the series. OMG! What a cliffhanger that was!!
I received an early reader copy of this book from the author and these are my honest opinions.
Blake and Cassandra have a “meet steamy” as he rescues her from a fall into water. The chemistry is definitely there and ready to go! But then Cassandra realizes who he is an the lust turns into a bust.
Blake is the beard for his “wife” and her partner. It never really bothered him until he met Cassandra. This seems like a really noble thing to do, but I can’t tell you it didn’t bother me though out the whole book and hold back on some of my enjoyment. Maybe I worked in PR too long to get away from the whole “perception is reality” mantra.
But the push and pull of Blake and Cassandra was immensely enjoyable and the longing was spot on. I loved drunk Blake spilling his guts! And when the two of them got together… STEAM-Y!
I’m so hoping that they are featured in the next book too, because the epilogue was focused on the next couple in the series. OMG! What a cliffhanger that was!!
I received an early reader copy of this book from the author and these are my honest opinions.
March 19, 2022
And again...another amazing read! The enemies-to-lovers trope is one of my favorites!
I absolutely loved Cassandra and Blake's story. These two had me laughing my butt off when they first met. They have an instant attraction to each other. When Cassandra realizes who Blake is, out come the gloves. These two both, dig their heels in and the fun begins!
They both have some things in their past that they need to get through. And struggle they do, but it's so worth it.
If I had to be critical of anything it would be the ending. I wanted more. It ended really quickly I felt. The epilogue was geared more towards the next book vs Blake and Cassandra. I really hope these two are in the next book because I wasn't ready to say goodbye to these two.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved Cassandra and Blake's story. These two had me laughing my butt off when they first met. They have an instant attraction to each other. When Cassandra realizes who Blake is, out come the gloves. These two both, dig their heels in and the fun begins!
They both have some things in their past that they need to get through. And struggle they do, but it's so worth it.
If I had to be critical of anything it would be the ending. I wanted more. It ended really quickly I felt. The epilogue was geared more towards the next book vs Blake and Cassandra. I really hope these two are in the next book because I wasn't ready to say goodbye to these two.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 17, 2022
Business just got real, and Blake and Cassandra are serving it on a hot little platter! 🔥
From the moment Cassandra fell (literally) for Blake, the tension and the chemistry between them were undeniable; even my heart was ready to take the plunge in this new series by Claire Wilder.
The plot, while simple mostly, was engaging and well balanced, setting the solid groundwork for a series laden with angst, drama, and family. Not to mention the dual POV, which added an extra touch of charm and temptation to this dual-sided affair of the heart.
Featuring two strong leads, a family united, and a history marked by complications and scars still healing, Level With Me was the perfect culmination of power and vulnerability, with a wounded heart borne on its sleeve. And I loved it!
The state of Blake’s fake marriage proved a complicated matter, his heart even more so, as evidenced by the enticing push and pull between him and Cassandra at every turn. The longing shared between them was spot on, and the stolen moments of intimacy were ELECTRIC! They seared their chemistry into the pages, and the instant spark was a fire set to burn out of control with every stolen moment alone. I loved the complexities of each character, the vulnerabilities that were shared, and the foundations established between them, but also the consideration and care that both shared for Lila and the risks their love carried. Wilder went a long way in showing just how complex love really is, and I admired the depth they could bring into this narrative through their skillful use of dialogue, tension, and slow-burning goodness.
I just adored Blake and Cassandra together, and cannot wait to learn more about Chelsea and Seamus’ in the next installment after that little tease! Learning more about a certain ghost and cipher will just be the icing on the cake - June cannot come soon enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Net Galley and the author, and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
From the moment Cassandra fell (literally) for Blake, the tension and the chemistry between them were undeniable; even my heart was ready to take the plunge in this new series by Claire Wilder.
The plot, while simple mostly, was engaging and well balanced, setting the solid groundwork for a series laden with angst, drama, and family. Not to mention the dual POV, which added an extra touch of charm and temptation to this dual-sided affair of the heart.
Featuring two strong leads, a family united, and a history marked by complications and scars still healing, Level With Me was the perfect culmination of power and vulnerability, with a wounded heart borne on its sleeve. And I loved it!
The state of Blake’s fake marriage proved a complicated matter, his heart even more so, as evidenced by the enticing push and pull between him and Cassandra at every turn. The longing shared between them was spot on, and the stolen moments of intimacy were ELECTRIC! They seared their chemistry into the pages, and the instant spark was a fire set to burn out of control with every stolen moment alone. I loved the complexities of each character, the vulnerabilities that were shared, and the foundations established between them, but also the consideration and care that both shared for Lila and the risks their love carried. Wilder went a long way in showing just how complex love really is, and I admired the depth they could bring into this narrative through their skillful use of dialogue, tension, and slow-burning goodness.
I just adored Blake and Cassandra together, and cannot wait to learn more about Chelsea and Seamus’ in the next installment after that little tease! Learning more about a certain ghost and cipher will just be the icing on the cake - June cannot come soon enough!
I received a complimentary copy of this book thanks to Net Galley and the author, and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
April 2, 2022
Level With Me is a book about a family trying to save their mother's hotel after she has died. Cassandra hires a husband and wife team to come in and review the business in order to help restore it to greater profit than is it's history. A chance meeting with a handsome stranger who rescues her from a fall into a river is also the "husband" of the team coming to save the hotel. The two are attracted to each other from the start, but Cassandra is not interested in a relationship with a "married" man. The two main characters, Cassandra and Blake try their best to keep it just business, because there is more at stake. There are secrets on both sides that will destroy more than a business if they give in to their attraction.
This book was fun to read as their attraction burned through the pages. It was a quick read but very entertaining to watch their relationship slowly ignite to an inferno. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
This book was fun to read as their attraction burned through the pages. It was a quick read but very entertaining to watch their relationship slowly ignite to an inferno. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
October 22, 2025
3.5 ⭐
March 22, 2022
Well she did it again sucked me in from the start with this sweet sexy enemies to lovers small Town love story.
Blake Harrington rescues Cassandra Kelly and they have a moment. She doesn’t know who he is. When she finds out everything explodes and his emotionally charged secrets are brought to light.
Working together brings them closer but it can never be.
“Sun shower,” she cried. “My mom always said these were good luck.” My chest squeezed. She was so good, Cassandra. Too good. “You’re good luck,” I said, too quiet for her to hear.
Another amazing adventure from this great author.
Blake Harrington rescues Cassandra Kelly and they have a moment. She doesn’t know who he is. When she finds out everything explodes and his emotionally charged secrets are brought to light.
Working together brings them closer but it can never be.
“Sun shower,” she cried. “My mom always said these were good luck.” My chest squeezed. She was so good, Cassandra. Too good. “You’re good luck,” I said, too quiet for her to hear.
Another amazing adventure from this great author.
March 22, 2022
Another perfect read.
I’ve come to the realisation that I love everything Claire Wilder writes! And while I haven’t read all her books (yet!) everything I have read has been 5 stars.
So excited to start this new series. The Kelly family are gorgeous, mildly dysfunctional, intriguing and complicated. Watching Cass and Blake fight their demons and past choices to find love together was frustrating, emotional and ultimately beautifully rewarding. The epilogue has me anxiously awaiting the next story! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’ve come to the realisation that I love everything Claire Wilder writes! And while I haven’t read all her books (yet!) everything I have read has been 5 stars.
So excited to start this new series. The Kelly family are gorgeous, mildly dysfunctional, intriguing and complicated. Watching Cass and Blake fight their demons and past choices to find love together was frustrating, emotional and ultimately beautifully rewarding. The epilogue has me anxiously awaiting the next story! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 22, 2022
Level With Me is a beautiful foundation to Claire Wilder’s newest series. Let’s just say Cassandra and Blake’s meet not-so-cute is pretty awesome and sets the stage for this well-paced, steamy, slightly angsty enemies-to-lovers story really well. Wilder’s excellent character introductions develop into a beautiful picture of two people with some pretty intense family dynamics and personal losses that build the tension and intensity throughout the novel. The supporting characters provide wonderful insights and depth to Cassandra and Blake’s personalities and relationship, while also establishing their own identities as main players in future books within the series. Wilder slides a little bit of intrigue into the story as well, and I am really looking forward to seeing how that element of mystery continues to play out in the rest of the series and the characters’ lives.
March 25, 2022
After falling into the water during a jog along the shore, Cassandra Kelly is rescued by a fisherman and the two share a heated moment. When she discovers the fisherman is actually Blake Harrington, part of the husband and wife team of consultants she and her siblings have hired to review the family owned Rolling Hills resort in an effort to keep it afloat, she rejects the idea of cheating with a married man, particularly one she has hired to save the resort. But things aren't what they seem as Blake's is a marriage of convenience, an arrangement that gives his business an edge while protecting a friend. No cheating appears in this book despite first impressions.
Cassandra and Blake share an instant attraction with a slow burn ultimately igniting like fire. Their relationship evolves from enemies to lovers but both are holding back from going all in. Cassandra has been hurt in the past, keeping her from trusting another man. Meanwhile, Blake sacrifices his own happiness for the sake of his fake marriage, precluding him from finding love and starting a family of his own.
A great start to a new series, Level With Me reflects upon self worth, deserving love unconditionally, forgiveness and learning to trust. Beautiful moments of sweetness combine with intense sexual tension and I couldn't wait for Cassandra and Blake to realize they could no longer fight their feelings for one another. The sex is super steamy with elements of power and control along with tender moments and an underlying deep level of emotional intimacy. But there's also anger and pain, and a sadness lying underneath the surface, adding to the obstacles on the journey towards a HEA.
I loved how the characters are more complex than they initially appear, each with a story of his or her own worth telling. Both Cassandra and Blake are smart and successful yet they learn more about themselves as they discover their own strengths and weaknesses, helping them overcome past hurts. Family dynamics also play a large role as they shed some light on the motivations behind the thoughts and actions of the characters, shaping the people they have become.
I also need to point out that the sexy eye candy on the cover is the epitome of absolutely everything I envision Blake Harrington to be. And my heart breaks for the feelings Blake needed to work through in order to open himself up to the possibility of love and true happiness.
My only criticism is that I would have liked to see a more developed ending as it seemed somewhat abrupt although heartwarming. The epilogue focused on the next book in the series rather than a continuation of the romance between Cassandra and Blake, and I hope to rediscover them in later books to see what the future holds for them.
** Special thanks to author Claire Wilder for sending me this ARC to read and review. **
* Available March 22, 2022 *
Cassandra and Blake share an instant attraction with a slow burn ultimately igniting like fire. Their relationship evolves from enemies to lovers but both are holding back from going all in. Cassandra has been hurt in the past, keeping her from trusting another man. Meanwhile, Blake sacrifices his own happiness for the sake of his fake marriage, precluding him from finding love and starting a family of his own.
A great start to a new series, Level With Me reflects upon self worth, deserving love unconditionally, forgiveness and learning to trust. Beautiful moments of sweetness combine with intense sexual tension and I couldn't wait for Cassandra and Blake to realize they could no longer fight their feelings for one another. The sex is super steamy with elements of power and control along with tender moments and an underlying deep level of emotional intimacy. But there's also anger and pain, and a sadness lying underneath the surface, adding to the obstacles on the journey towards a HEA.
I loved how the characters are more complex than they initially appear, each with a story of his or her own worth telling. Both Cassandra and Blake are smart and successful yet they learn more about themselves as they discover their own strengths and weaknesses, helping them overcome past hurts. Family dynamics also play a large role as they shed some light on the motivations behind the thoughts and actions of the characters, shaping the people they have become.
I also need to point out that the sexy eye candy on the cover is the epitome of absolutely everything I envision Blake Harrington to be. And my heart breaks for the feelings Blake needed to work through in order to open himself up to the possibility of love and true happiness.
My only criticism is that I would have liked to see a more developed ending as it seemed somewhat abrupt although heartwarming. The epilogue focused on the next book in the series rather than a continuation of the romance between Cassandra and Blake, and I hope to rediscover them in later books to see what the future holds for them.
** Special thanks to author Claire Wilder for sending me this ARC to read and review. **
* Available March 22, 2022 *
March 24, 2022
First off, let me say that I love when authors create a new series using a character from another one. If you read "All Your Fault", the fifth book in the "Jewel Lakes" series, you might remember (H) Will's friend, Eli. "Level With Me" is about Eli's family and their resort hotel in Vermont. (The same one that was in "All Your Fault". )Eli's does make appearances, but this story is about his sister, Cassandra, the new CEO of the hotel.
The relationship between Blake (H) and his wife is one that I have not come across before. I'll be honest and say that I had mixed feelings about it. That said, I have always enjoyed Wilder's books so I trusted her to write an interesting story. And I got one!
This story has a little bit of everything: insta-attraction, small town romance, family drama, and even a ghost! Wilder packs a whole lot of story into "Level With Me" and she also sets up the next book with you asking a lot of questions. I wouldn't say that this is a cliffhanger, but there is a part of the story that will continue in the next book. I am not a big fan of the cliffhanger style of writing. I guess it has its place, but it is not for me. This book left me with questions, but in an excited, "I can't wait to find out if ....." kind of way. I did not feel like Calire Wider had pulled a fast one on me and left it so I HAD to read the next book. That is just good writing! And I am already looking forward to the next installment!
I received and ARC for an honest review.
The relationship between Blake (H) and his wife is one that I have not come across before. I'll be honest and say that I had mixed feelings about it. That said, I have always enjoyed Wilder's books so I trusted her to write an interesting story. And I got one!
This story has a little bit of everything: insta-attraction, small town romance, family drama, and even a ghost! Wilder packs a whole lot of story into "Level With Me" and she also sets up the next book with you asking a lot of questions. I wouldn't say that this is a cliffhanger, but there is a part of the story that will continue in the next book. I am not a big fan of the cliffhanger style of writing. I guess it has its place, but it is not for me. This book left me with questions, but in an excited, "I can't wait to find out if ....." kind of way. I did not feel like Calire Wider had pulled a fast one on me and left it so I HAD to read the next book. That is just good writing! And I am already looking forward to the next installment!
I received and ARC for an honest review.
March 22, 2022
This is the first book in a new series. I am loving the way this series has started! This book is very well written and I am just loving the Kelly family! This book is about Cassandra Kelly the oldest of the Kelly children. She is only minutes older than her next sibling but she gets to be called the oldest none the less.
Blake and his wife Lily are the owners of a consultant firm that helps turn failing businesses around to once again make a profit. The Kelly family owns an old hotel that was once a grand place. Blake is really excited about taking this job and helping the 100th company since they started their business.
Blake and his wife do not have a normal marriage and Blake is starting to feel frustrated with their arrangement.
Cassandra was in a long term relationship that ended abruptly with her boyfriend telling her that he has been seeing someone else for over a year!! She is not looking for a man, no way no how!!
This story is very interesting and has plenty of twists and turns and an interesting long term story to carry through the series. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
Blake and his wife Lily are the owners of a consultant firm that helps turn failing businesses around to once again make a profit. The Kelly family owns an old hotel that was once a grand place. Blake is really excited about taking this job and helping the 100th company since they started their business.
Blake and his wife do not have a normal marriage and Blake is starting to feel frustrated with their arrangement.
Cassandra was in a long term relationship that ended abruptly with her boyfriend telling her that he has been seeing someone else for over a year!! She is not looking for a man, no way no how!!
This story is very interesting and has plenty of twists and turns and an interesting long term story to carry through the series. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
March 20, 2022
Another incredible book by Claire Wilder with a plot I haven't seen anywhere before. This book took me on a journey as Blake and Cassandra explore the difficulty they face when a secret and a promise can outweigh even the deepest love.
Let me preface this here - there is no cheating in this book - but you'll have to read it to find out more!
Cassandra is the CEO of her family's resort but, due to several problems before she took over, things are going down hill rapidly and she isn't sure she can turn it around. Determined to give it one last effort she hires a husband and wife consulting team with a stellar reputation. She just didn't expect the husband half of this team to be the man she had a 'moment' with when he saved her life that morning.
Blake and Lila Harrington have built a thriving consulting company but a competitor is trying to take away their clients. With a father that has done everything to destroy his self-esteem, Blake is determined to make his 100th job the best they've ever done. But after an unusual first meeting with the client has her ready to fire them, Blake is more resolved to get their business, no matter what it takes.
Can a blossoming love over-ride a promise made years ago?
I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.
Let me preface this here - there is no cheating in this book - but you'll have to read it to find out more!
Cassandra is the CEO of her family's resort but, due to several problems before she took over, things are going down hill rapidly and she isn't sure she can turn it around. Determined to give it one last effort she hires a husband and wife consulting team with a stellar reputation. She just didn't expect the husband half of this team to be the man she had a 'moment' with when he saved her life that morning.
Blake and Lila Harrington have built a thriving consulting company but a competitor is trying to take away their clients. With a father that has done everything to destroy his self-esteem, Blake is determined to make his 100th job the best they've ever done. But after an unusual first meeting with the client has her ready to fire them, Blake is more resolved to get their business, no matter what it takes.
Can a blossoming love over-ride a promise made years ago?
I received an ARC and voluntarily offer this review.
March 23, 2022
Cassandra has been through hell recently, and after meeting Blake Harrington ahead of the meeting that may save her family's business, she is livid. They very nearly had a moment together, and he is married! She cannot afford to fire him, though, particularly after he makes her an offer she can't refuse. Time moves on, as he and his wife and business partner dissect and make suggestions to rebuild the small town resort, and Cassandra and Blake's feelings grow. She cannot destroy a marriage, even if it is a sham.
Cassandra and Blake are so real. Their chemistry is a thing of beauty it's so hot, and the whole enemies-to-lovers thing makes it just more so. Claire Wilder writes romances that are a great escape from the real world, with Heroes that are hot, and good men, heroines that are feisty but relatable. It is the opening to a new series, and it promises to be quite interesting. This is a book that is not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
Cassandra and Blake are so real. Their chemistry is a thing of beauty it's so hot, and the whole enemies-to-lovers thing makes it just more so. Claire Wilder writes romances that are a great escape from the real world, with Heroes that are hot, and good men, heroines that are feisty but relatable. It is the opening to a new series, and it promises to be quite interesting. This is a book that is not to be missed.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
March 18, 2022
OMG!! This book has so much goodness in it that I don't know where to start. The end came before I wanted it to as I was so wrapped up in the story. I laughed, cried, my heart hurt and I felt sooo much. Cassandra and her siblings take over their mother's hotel a short time after her death. They have split up the duties and are trying to bring the place back to its former glory, but right now they aren't getting anywhere fast so Cassandra decides to hire a husband and wife consulting firm to help them.
Blake and Lila are good at what they do, but their success is carrying a heavy toll on their lives and they may have to decide if they are willing to pay the price.
Cassandra's first encounter with Blake is memorable for several reasons, but once she learns who she is she feels a touch betrayed because of her reaction to him and the fact that he is a married man. Cassandra cannot abide a man who cheats do to the fact that she was left for another woman. For once, Blake finally feels something but he cannot act on said feelings or can he.
This book has lots of undercurrents and a mystery or two and so many feelings. Once you start it, I dare you to put it down before you reach the end. I cannot wait until the next book about this family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blake and Lila are good at what they do, but their success is carrying a heavy toll on their lives and they may have to decide if they are willing to pay the price.
Cassandra's first encounter with Blake is memorable for several reasons, but once she learns who she is she feels a touch betrayed because of her reaction to him and the fact that he is a married man. Cassandra cannot abide a man who cheats do to the fact that she was left for another woman. For once, Blake finally feels something but he cannot act on said feelings or can he.
This book has lots of undercurrents and a mystery or two and so many feelings. Once you start it, I dare you to put it down before you reach the end. I cannot wait until the next book about this family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 19, 2022
* Thank you NetGalley for proving me with this ARC for my honest review.*
- Workplace romance
- Forbidden love
- Dual POV
- Spice
What I loved:
It is sort of a workplace romance with a relationship forming between consultant and his client with some forbidden love due to the arrangement that Blake has with his business partner.
I really loved that the FMC was tall. It’s not a body type that is frequently represented in romance books.
What I didn’t like:
This is an enemies to lovers book, however I felt that the trope was really mild in this book. It seemed that they were only enemies for a blip and even then, I wouldn’t describe them as enemies.
Overall:
I really enjoyed the book and I’m really looking forward to the next in the series!
- Workplace romance
- Forbidden love
- Dual POV
- Spice
What I loved:
It is sort of a workplace romance with a relationship forming between consultant and his client with some forbidden love due to the arrangement that Blake has with his business partner.
I really loved that the FMC was tall. It’s not a body type that is frequently represented in romance books.
What I didn’t like:
This is an enemies to lovers book, however I felt that the trope was really mild in this book. It seemed that they were only enemies for a blip and even then, I wouldn’t describe them as enemies.
Overall:
I really enjoyed the book and I’m really looking forward to the next in the series!
March 17, 2022
“Level with Me” is a book about taking a second chance on what you want in life.
Cassandra hires a husband and wife team to help bring back their hotel property and all of its amenities to life. But before her big meeting, she has one of those moments with a handsome stranger. The stranger is the husband of the duo, Blake. But as she gets to know him and his wife, not everything on the outside is as it seems. The two have a slow burn chemistry and when it ignites, it turns into a raging fire.
This book was a fun and quick read. We get lots of information at once since it’s the first in a potential new series about Cassandra and her siblings. I liked Cassandra and how she was willing to do what she needed to do to make the hotel successful again in her mother’s honor. The rest of the siblings are on board-ish but all of them have problems of their own.
Blake has this sweet vulnerability that you can’t help but love. He’s struggling with some family problems that a lot can relate to. And he’s big on consent in the bedroom which is always a huge plus for me. Makes them even swoony. And there is no cheating in this book even if he’s married. There’s some unique circumstances that definitely rules this out anything Cassandra and Blake do.
Cassandra hires a husband and wife team to help bring back their hotel property and all of its amenities to life. But before her big meeting, she has one of those moments with a handsome stranger. The stranger is the husband of the duo, Blake. But as she gets to know him and his wife, not everything on the outside is as it seems. The two have a slow burn chemistry and when it ignites, it turns into a raging fire.
This book was a fun and quick read. We get lots of information at once since it’s the first in a potential new series about Cassandra and her siblings. I liked Cassandra and how she was willing to do what she needed to do to make the hotel successful again in her mother’s honor. The rest of the siblings are on board-ish but all of them have problems of their own.
Blake has this sweet vulnerability that you can’t help but love. He’s struggling with some family problems that a lot can relate to. And he’s big on consent in the bedroom which is always a huge plus for me. Makes them even swoony. And there is no cheating in this book even if he’s married. There’s some unique circumstances that definitely rules this out anything Cassandra and Blake do.
March 22, 2022
I love Claire's stories - they're so satisfying. Well written, full of romance, humour and steamy to boot. Not only does she write terrific main characters (women you want to be friends with, men you want for yourself!) but the secondary characters are great too - I look forward to them getting their own stories. The world Claire has created is so clear to me and sounds wonderful, I really want to visit! The chemistry between Blake and Cass leapt off the page and in some ways this was a slow burn story but boy did it explode when they got together! There's no cheating here but I won't spoil it by explaining how that can be given the plot/blurb, but it's a safe story with a HEA - a must for romance lovers! I received an ARC in exhange for my honest review.
March 23, 2022
This book is such a heart clenching emotional book.
We have a fake marriage, enemy to lovers, and a slow burn romance.
Blake who is in a fake marriage, meets Cassandra, and is in turmoil because he wants her. Cassandra wants Blake even thought she thinks he is married. (there is no cheating in this book). The connection these two is sweet and as you read this book you want them to be together no matter what.
We get to see how Cassandra's family interacts with each other, there is a mystery about room 114 which I hope there is going to be more about that in the next book.
Claire Wilder writes such a enthralling story that you are wanting more from her. Eagerly awaiting for the next book to come out.
We have a fake marriage, enemy to lovers, and a slow burn romance.
Blake who is in a fake marriage, meets Cassandra, and is in turmoil because he wants her. Cassandra wants Blake even thought she thinks he is married. (there is no cheating in this book). The connection these two is sweet and as you read this book you want them to be together no matter what.
We get to see how Cassandra's family interacts with each other, there is a mystery about room 114 which I hope there is going to be more about that in the next book.
Claire Wilder writes such a enthralling story that you are wanting more from her. Eagerly awaiting for the next book to come out.
March 23, 2022
Absolutely magnificent story, the opposite attract between characters in this book is the start of a new series and it promise to have everything to keep your captivated, well written by Claire, this story filled with a great numbers of surprises, love, betrayal, suspense and steamy moments, I feel in love with Cassandra and Blake’s story. You’ll love the twists and turns, the thrill in the storyline you won’t be able to put it down. Just love Blake, I felt in love with him, he is a man with huge secrets. Can’t wait to read book 2 in this series, I am hooked, I highly recommended reading it. Thanks to the author for providing my review copy.
March 21, 2022
Good start to the series:
I enjoyed this book and found that it held my interest throughout. I thought it was an interesting and unique spin as this time the guy was in a fake marriage and helping out a friend when he meets a woman who captures his heart. Complicating matters further was the fact that she was his client and thus even more off-limits. Despite the many obstacles in their way, Blake and Cassandra had an intense connection and you could really feel the tension between these two.
This was the first book in the series and I look forward to reading about the rest of the siblings in upcoming books as they all seem to have interesting and unique stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I enjoyed this book and found that it held my interest throughout. I thought it was an interesting and unique spin as this time the guy was in a fake marriage and helping out a friend when he meets a woman who captures his heart. Complicating matters further was the fact that she was his client and thus even more off-limits. Despite the many obstacles in their way, Blake and Cassandra had an intense connection and you could really feel the tension between these two.
This was the first book in the series and I look forward to reading about the rest of the siblings in upcoming books as they all seem to have interesting and unique stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2022
I received a free copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Cassandra is the CEO of The Rolling Hills resort, which belongs to her family. But the resort is not doing very well. To help them fix this situation they hire two very famous and expensive consultants, Lila and Blake.
Cassandra and Blake are attracted to each other from the very first moment, which would be idea if he wasn't married to Lila!
I must admit I find this book a little bit boring in the beginning. But later, I quite enjoyed it.
Cassandra is the CEO of The Rolling Hills resort, which belongs to her family. But the resort is not doing very well. To help them fix this situation they hire two very famous and expensive consultants, Lila and Blake.
Cassandra and Blake are attracted to each other from the very first moment, which would be idea if he wasn't married to Lila!
I must admit I find this book a little bit boring in the beginning. But later, I quite enjoyed it.
March 19, 2022
First of all- how great is the model on the cover, it’s really how I envision Blake to look like. I really like the concept of this story Cassie and her siblings need help to keep their mothers pride and joy hotel afloat ,enter Blake and Lila. There’s an instant attraction between Cassie and Blake, but as he’s married it’s a big no no for her. No cheating as all it’s not what it seems. I really enjoyed the direction Claire took to avoid said cheating/ no cheating saga. My heart is with Blake and the sacrifices he made so he deserves a happy ending. A beautiful well written love story that will remain in my heart/head for a long time. Hope her siblings get their hea, look forward to reading that as and when. Big fan of miss wilder and I just adore her books. I received this arc for an honest review. Job done I say.
March 22, 2022
Another great read by Claire Wilder!!!
I’m not going to lie, I was a little wary reading this one because of the fake marriage plot and I was worried about cheating (a big no for me) but I shouldn’t have been. There is no cheating at all in this book.
I love how realistic Claire’s characters alway are. Cassandra is the oldest of the Kelly children and you really get the responsibility she feels to the hotel and to her siblings. Blake had sacrificed his happiness for years to protect both Lila and also their business. It’s really lovely to see how both characters start to put themselves and their happiness first for a change.
I’m so excited to jump into this new series and see what life has in store for Cassandra and the Kelly family
I’m not going to lie, I was a little wary reading this one because of the fake marriage plot and I was worried about cheating (a big no for me) but I shouldn’t have been. There is no cheating at all in this book.
I love how realistic Claire’s characters alway are. Cassandra is the oldest of the Kelly children and you really get the responsibility she feels to the hotel and to her siblings. Blake had sacrificed his happiness for years to protect both Lila and also their business. It’s really lovely to see how both characters start to put themselves and their happiness first for a change.
I’m so excited to jump into this new series and see what life has in store for Cassandra and the Kelly family
June 25, 2025
4.5⭐️
This book came out of nowhere and just bowled right through me! It was simple and quick and easy and sweet and I absolutely loved it! I can’t wait to read every single thing Claire Wilder has written!
This book came out of nowhere and just bowled right through me! It was simple and quick and easy and sweet and I absolutely loved it! I can’t wait to read every single thing Claire Wilder has written!
March 22, 2022
Love this rather adorable romance that has two people, Cassandra and Blake, realizing being enemies is not what they really want.
There are some hurdles since he is there maybe with his wife to help her family’s business. And they didn’t get off to a good start.
Slow burn but definitely well worth the read. Her family is going to prove to be interesting in the coming books.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
There are some hurdles since he is there maybe with his wife to help her family’s business. And they didn’t get off to a good start.
Slow burn but definitely well worth the read. Her family is going to prove to be interesting in the coming books.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
March 25, 2022
Another incredible read from Claire! Claire’s ability to suck you into her stories is undeniable and this one is no different!
Cassandra & Blake’s story takes you fit a ride with their forbidden romance. Their instant attraction makes you want to find love all over again.
Cassandra & Blake’s story takes you fit a ride with their forbidden romance. Their instant attraction makes you want to find love all over again.
October 25, 2025
Easy Read. I enjoyed the chemistry between Cass and Blake.
Looking forward to reading her siblings books.
Looking forward to reading her siblings books.
March 21, 2022
Claire Wilder delves into one of my favorite romance tropes and gives it a fresh twist. The fake marriage is not between the two main characters, Blake and Cassandra, but between Blake and his business partner Lila. Lila is in a real marriage with someone else but they have to keep it a secret. Read this gem of a story to see how all the secrets play out in one fun story. I look forward to the next book in this new series. Claire Wilder has grabbed my attention!
March 19, 2022
Wow! Wow! Wow! Could you imagine sharing an in intimate moment with someone, hoping to never see them again, and BAM! The next morning you are working with them. This book had my face turning red in embarrassment (the good kind), laughing, and giving me all the feels! It sucks you in so quickly that you read the last page and get angry because you came upon the end of the book, but you wanted the characters to keep telling their story. I loved this book!
March 22, 2022
I enjoyed my first book by Claire Wilder. Blake and Cassandra's story is a complicated one and that was why I got really sucked into and invested in it. I wanted to see how their relationship was going to unfold. It was enjoyable and a good read. I loved the grand gesture at the end. I can't wait for the continuation to the series.
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