What do you think?
Rate this book
Lake State University #4
Wicked Little Promise
He’s my new boss.
So what if I’ve secretly been crushing on him for years? Or that he’s sexy, tempting, smells like heaven, and makes my girly parts twitch? He’s also sweet, caring, and everything I’d want in a man… if I wanted one.
Which I don’t.
Falling in love is the last thing I want right now. I’m not even sure I believe in love anymore. It leads to heartbreak and that’s an emotional rollercoaster I’m not interested in riding.
All my friends might be coupled up and deliriously happy, but that doesn’t mean I want what they have. Happily ever after is not in the cards for me.
No, I’m not jealous.
I keep telling myself that, not that I believe my own lies.
Which makes the next few months the biggest challenge of my life. Spending hours alone with him, working side-by-side late into the night, keeping my hormones in check when I get a whiff of his intoxicating scent…
I can handle this. I’ll just repress my feelings the same way I have been since the moment we met. Masked by a fake smile and practiced deep breathing.
How hard can it be?
When he starts making promises, it becomes harder than I could have ever imagined. Because I want him to keep those promises even though I know he won’t be able to. I won’t let him.
It’s the only way to keep myself from falling in love with him. Because if I do, I may never recover.
So what if I’ve secretly been crushing on him for years? Or that he’s sexy, tempting, smells like heaven, and makes my girly parts twitch? He’s also sweet, caring, and everything I’d want in a man… if I wanted one.
Which I don’t.
Falling in love is the last thing I want right now. I’m not even sure I believe in love anymore. It leads to heartbreak and that’s an emotional rollercoaster I’m not interested in riding.
All my friends might be coupled up and deliriously happy, but that doesn’t mean I want what they have. Happily ever after is not in the cards for me.
No, I’m not jealous.
I keep telling myself that, not that I believe my own lies.
Which makes the next few months the biggest challenge of my life. Spending hours alone with him, working side-by-side late into the night, keeping my hormones in check when I get a whiff of his intoxicating scent…
I can handle this. I’ll just repress my feelings the same way I have been since the moment we met. Masked by a fake smile and practiced deep breathing.
How hard can it be?
When he starts making promises, it becomes harder than I could have ever imagined. Because I want him to keep those promises even though I know he won’t be able to. I won’t let him.
It’s the only way to keep myself from falling in love with him. Because if I do, I may never recover.
ebook
Published March 10, 2022
13 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Rachael Brownell
65 books982 followersI'm a Michigan girl, born and raised. My addictions include: coffee, chocolate, coffee, avoiding adulting, coffee, and coffee.
My favorite season is fall. My favorite color is teal. And my favorite genre to read and write is romance.
I refuse to 'stay in my lane' when it comes to my books. You'll find I write everything from young-adult to sweet contemporary to steamy new adult.
#noregrets
Looking for a place to start with my books? Check out A Moment Too Late (small-town second chance romance) or The Lake State University series (new adult, steamy college romance).
Thanks for being here and happy reading!
My favorite season is fall. My favorite color is teal. And my favorite genre to read and write is romance.
I refuse to 'stay in my lane' when it comes to my books. You'll find I write everything from young-adult to sweet contemporary to steamy new adult.
#noregrets
Looking for a place to start with my books? Check out A Moment Too Late (small-town second chance romance) or The Lake State University series (new adult, steamy college romance).
Thanks for being here and happy reading!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
October 28, 2022
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I am enjoying the Lake State University series and looked forward to reading Wicked Little Promise. Each book in the series features a different couple, making it possible to read them as standalones. Despite it not living up to my expectations based on prior experience, I still had a good tie with this story. Read on and learn my reasons for recommending Wicked Little Promise.
Wicked Little Promise is a story of a friendship that builds into something deeper between college students, Julian Chambers and Piper Hoffman. Julian plays baseball, enjoys cooking for his circle of friends and works at his parents’ restaurant during his spare time. He spent the past few months watching his friends falling and dream of having what they have one day. Two years ago, Piper and Julian crossed paths and since then they have shared a mutual attraction. However, neither acted on their attraction. Piper thought Julian was out of her league, while Julian feared Piper didn’t share his feelings.
Piper is a firm believer in love and happily ever after. However, her parents pending divorce puts her beliefs to the test. She no longer believes in love. But then, amid her emotional turmoil, circumstances led to her and Julian spending more time together. A situation which forced them to confront their feelings for each other.
Wicked Little Promise was such a cute read. Having met Julian and Piper in the previous books, I looked forward to their story. I had fun getting to know both. One would expect as an athlete who had females throwing themselves at him, Julian would be an egotist. However, this was not the case. Instead, he was the epitome of kindness and selflessness. Both he and Piper made a great couple. They had a lot in common, which made them perfect for each other.
The romance that builds between Julian and Piper was sweet in so many ways. Initially, Piper tried to avoid getting involved by drawing a line in the sand. But eventually she couldn’t resist crossing the line. I enjoyed seeing their connection grow throughout the story. They hit a snag in their relationship, but it worked out in the end after Julian came to his senses, with a little push from his parents.
The secondary characters added depth to the story. It was great to reconnect with the characters from the previous book. The banter, dialogue and the activities are what one would expect from a college atmosphere.
Overall, I found Wicked Little Promise to be an entertaining and sweet romance. It’s a romance which will leave you smiling and eager to pick up the next book in the series. It should prove interesting to see how the next couple's story will unfold.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
I am enjoying the Lake State University series and looked forward to reading Wicked Little Promise. Each book in the series features a different couple, making it possible to read them as standalones. Despite it not living up to my expectations based on prior experience, I still had a good tie with this story. Read on and learn my reasons for recommending Wicked Little Promise.
Wicked Little Promise is a story of a friendship that builds into something deeper between college students, Julian Chambers and Piper Hoffman. Julian plays baseball, enjoys cooking for his circle of friends and works at his parents’ restaurant during his spare time. He spent the past few months watching his friends falling and dream of having what they have one day. Two years ago, Piper and Julian crossed paths and since then they have shared a mutual attraction. However, neither acted on their attraction. Piper thought Julian was out of her league, while Julian feared Piper didn’t share his feelings.
Piper is a firm believer in love and happily ever after. However, her parents pending divorce puts her beliefs to the test. She no longer believes in love. But then, amid her emotional turmoil, circumstances led to her and Julian spending more time together. A situation which forced them to confront their feelings for each other.
Wicked Little Promise was such a cute read. Having met Julian and Piper in the previous books, I looked forward to their story. I had fun getting to know both. One would expect as an athlete who had females throwing themselves at him, Julian would be an egotist. However, this was not the case. Instead, he was the epitome of kindness and selflessness. Both he and Piper made a great couple. They had a lot in common, which made them perfect for each other.
The romance that builds between Julian and Piper was sweet in so many ways. Initially, Piper tried to avoid getting involved by drawing a line in the sand. But eventually she couldn’t resist crossing the line. I enjoyed seeing their connection grow throughout the story. They hit a snag in their relationship, but it worked out in the end after Julian came to his senses, with a little push from his parents.
The secondary characters added depth to the story. It was great to reconnect with the characters from the previous book. The banter, dialogue and the activities are what one would expect from a college atmosphere.
Overall, I found Wicked Little Promise to be an entertaining and sweet romance. It’s a romance which will leave you smiling and eager to pick up the next book in the series. It should prove interesting to see how the next couple's story will unfold.
This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading
March 12, 2022
Amazon
Piper no longer believes in love and happy ever after. All of her friends have paired up and she might admit to feeling a tad envious, but she knows that's not in the cards for her. When she is apprenticed to her friend Julian's restaurant, though, things slowly take on a twist that she never saw coming. Her feelings for Julian may have always been a bit more than just friendly, but she never did anything about it. Now working in such close proximity with him, those feelings are coming out and it seems like he might have the same for her. Can she allow him into her heart, or is she too closed off to allow friendship to morph into much more?
Little does Piper know, but Julian has been in insta-love with her for years, he was just stuck in the friendzone and had no idea how to get out. Now that they're working so closely together, he's not sure if he can keep his feelings hidden any longer. Can the girl who's given up on love and the guy who's in love with her, turn friendship into love?
This is a sweet friends to lovers read. I like how the two slowly admitted their feelings, the feelings that had really been there for a long time and I found each character to be a sweetheart and was rooting for them to get their HEA. I am definitely looking forward to more of the Lake State University series now.
ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.
Blog | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Bookbub
March 8, 2022
This is an honest review for an arc received.
Piper’s world fell apart over the summer. After learning of her parents’ divorce and the lies that went with it, she no longer believes in love or happily ever after. She struggles knowing her friends are happy and in love with their significant others and she seems to be pushed aside. When an internship opportunity comes up to finish her thesis, she jumps on it. Once she realizes she will work closely with the one guy who stars in her every dream, well that will be the ultimate challenge.
Julian has been secretly in love with Piper since the moment he laid eyes on her. He’s never made his move since he’s positive she isn’t interested. But when she is chosen as his intern at his family’s restaurant, all bets are off. He wants nothing more than to be with her, but with everything going on in his life he is afraid of failing.
4 1/2 amazing stars! I have to say, I love Julien and Piper. They are , so far, my favorite couple in this series. Julien is the ideal book boyfriend. Caring, thoughtful, loving, hot, sexy and patient. The tension and push and pull between these characters was spot on. I love that we still see all past characters and they all still play major roles in each story.
Piper’s world fell apart over the summer. After learning of her parents’ divorce and the lies that went with it, she no longer believes in love or happily ever after. She struggles knowing her friends are happy and in love with their significant others and she seems to be pushed aside. When an internship opportunity comes up to finish her thesis, she jumps on it. Once she realizes she will work closely with the one guy who stars in her every dream, well that will be the ultimate challenge.
Julian has been secretly in love with Piper since the moment he laid eyes on her. He’s never made his move since he’s positive she isn’t interested. But when she is chosen as his intern at his family’s restaurant, all bets are off. He wants nothing more than to be with her, but with everything going on in his life he is afraid of failing.
4 1/2 amazing stars! I have to say, I love Julien and Piper. They are , so far, my favorite couple in this series. Julien is the ideal book boyfriend. Caring, thoughtful, loving, hot, sexy and patient. The tension and push and pull between these characters was spot on. I love that we still see all past characters and they all still play major roles in each story.
March 12, 2022
4.5 Stars!
Rachael Brownell is back with the next book in the addicting Lake State University series. Y'all I have crazy enjoyed this book, devouring it whole and I swear when I finish one in this series I want to start all over again.
Wicked Little Promise is the fourth standalone, giving us Piper and Julian's story and I promise your heart and panties aren't ready for this beauty. Packed to the brims with heart, heat, and allllllll of the feels... whew. What a journey. These two had undeniable chemistry and a story that have you hooked to every page and every little moment they had.
I absolutely CANNOT WAIT for the next in this series by Rachael.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Rachael Brownell is back with the next book in the addicting Lake State University series. Y'all I have crazy enjoyed this book, devouring it whole and I swear when I finish one in this series I want to start all over again.
Wicked Little Promise is the fourth standalone, giving us Piper and Julian's story and I promise your heart and panties aren't ready for this beauty. Packed to the brims with heart, heat, and allllllll of the feels... whew. What a journey. These two had undeniable chemistry and a story that have you hooked to every page and every little moment they had.
I absolutely CANNOT WAIT for the next in this series by Rachael.
I highly recommend this book.
Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
March 6, 2022
Wicked Little Promise is Book #4 in the Lake State University series. Books are interconnected and best enjoyed read in order. With each book you fall just a little bit more in love with this group of friends. And, Rachael with her Easter eggs thrown in making us wonder and want the next books. Julian and Piper are the absolute sweetest. Friends to Lovers is a favorite of mine. Julian makes the best promises.
Book is told thru dual first person perspective.
Piper had her world turned upside down this summer. She is keeping this not so fun fact from her friends. They are all pairing up and in love. She has sworn it off.
Julian has wanted Piper since he first laid eyes on her two years ago. Everyone, but Piper sees it. Julian feels stuck in the friends zone.
But, life is about to throw them together where avoiding the underlying attraction they have will be impossible. Julian needs help with a class they both are taking, Piper needs her internship to be successful to write her thesis.
Piper makes him promise they will remain just friends. But, you know what they say about promises and good intentions?
One eye opening conversation. New promises made. One request for just a chance…
Book is told thru dual first person perspective.
Piper had her world turned upside down this summer. She is keeping this not so fun fact from her friends. They are all pairing up and in love. She has sworn it off.
Julian has wanted Piper since he first laid eyes on her two years ago. Everyone, but Piper sees it. Julian feels stuck in the friends zone.
But, life is about to throw them together where avoiding the underlying attraction they have will be impossible. Julian needs help with a class they both are taking, Piper needs her internship to be successful to write her thesis.
Piper makes him promise they will remain just friends. But, you know what they say about promises and good intentions?
One eye opening conversation. New promises made. One request for just a chance…
February 28, 2022
Absolutely loved this story.
This whole series thus far has been amazing.
Piper has given up on love and happily ever afters. How could she possibly believe in them when her parents are divorcing? But when she is forced to spend more time alone with Julian she finds herself fighting the feeling she has been hiding from all this time.
Julian has wanted Piper from the moment he first laid eyes on her and he is determined to win her over.
Can he help her move passed her hang ups? Or will all his sweet gestures go unnoticed?
A five star must read. Friends to lovers college romance. I can't wait for the next book.
This whole series thus far has been amazing.
Piper has given up on love and happily ever afters. How could she possibly believe in them when her parents are divorcing? But when she is forced to spend more time alone with Julian she finds herself fighting the feeling she has been hiding from all this time.
Julian has wanted Piper from the moment he first laid eyes on her and he is determined to win her over.
Can he help her move passed her hang ups? Or will all his sweet gestures go unnoticed?
A five star must read. Friends to lovers college romance. I can't wait for the next book.
March 16, 2022
I love Piper & Julian but I’m giving it 4 stars because I did get tired of both of the push & pull, or however you want to call it. It’s like they both like each other but never act. I understand the reasoning but with all their friends coupling up, you would think there would’ve been talk and help with getting them together. Other than that little rod bit, I loved it. They make a great couple.
I love Julian’s parents!
The book flowed great.
I love Julian’s parents!
The book flowed great.
February 24, 2022
I freaking loved his mother! I like how his struggle is more personal. The family business is involved. Piper reminds me a lot of myself. This was very personable. I could see myself right in the mix.
March 11, 2022
3.9 ⭐️
Wicked Little Promise though a Standalone is the 4th fourth book in the Lake State University series. It tells the story of Piper Hoffman and Julian ‘JJ’ James Chambers through their dual perspective.
Friends Piper and Julian have always had feelings for each other, but neither of them know this about the other. Since both are struggling with different issues that causes the two not to come out and confess to one another.
In Piper’s case, having given up on love and HEA due to what’s going on in her family life. It has had her believe it’s pointless for her to even bother with it at all. However when her studies forces her in close proximity to Julian, she knows it’s only time before she can no longer deny or fight her feelings for him anymore.
As for Julian, with baseball, his studies and working at his parents restaurant, he lives a busy life. But that hasn’t stopped his feelings for Piper from growing every time they get together with their friends. However the fear of rejection has him keeping his feelings hidden, but what will happen when he is made to be in close proximity to Piper all the time. Will it be enough to give him the push he needs to confess his feelings once and for all?
The story of Piper and Julian was a Slow Burn, showcasing the portrayal of a newly relationship form over time like the growth of a rose to its full bloom.
It’s what rang honest and true, the genuine and realistic feel that Rachael set up in the slow pace journey Piper and Julian were trekking upon when it came to their love story.
Knowing the feelings they had carried for each other for some years now, it still had both of them going back and forth with whether or not to put themselves out there. And if so, how to go about it considering the fear of rejection they both had in their minds.
Seeing this all go down, whilst hearing about it from their personal perspective was adorable and heartfelt.
It honestly felt like you were reading about two high schoolers having their first crush, which was too sweet.
The way they acted around each other when they did start to begin to establish a relationship of sorts, made Piper and Julian all the more cuter as a couple to watch, with seeing how their story would further progress. Especially when it came to them trying to convey the sentiments they were feeling towards each other.
Whilst the story may not had any drama, there were still moments of tension taking its place given the emotions and feelings Piper and Julian were having to deal with. And that was on top of the battles they had with themselves in their mind. Something Rachael always showed in their personal perspective, allowing us to understand them even more. As well as their thought process.
Despite being a strong, independent woman, Piper did have her moments of being over dramatic when it came to the reasoning of why she was mopping around in a sad and depressed sort of way. The way she acted in regards to it made it seem like it was a super serious matter, and that she must've suffered terribly given the struggles she was going through.
Yet that was not the case, which is learnt through the progression of the story. It was more of her just over exaggerating.
Though she can't be truly faulted for it, since it was just her way of handing things. It didn't stop me from being annoyed and frustrated with her for it, seeing as its what stopped her from living a happier life in the years that she was going through this pain with mopping around by herself all alone.
My only critique was the lack of excitement at times. Had there been a little more pizazz, it could’ve made the story more intriguing with livening it up IMO. Since at moments, my attention did seem to just wonder away.
Also the ending could’ve been a little longer IMO, as it just seemed so abrupt the way it cut off and finished.
With that said, I still enjoyed Piper and Julian’s story in Wicked Little Promise.
And given the sneak peek at the end, it has me looking forward to the next book in Lake State University series. Evie and Leo's story, Scandalous Little Obsession.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Wicked Little Promise though a Standalone is the 4th fourth book in the Lake State University series. It tells the story of Piper Hoffman and Julian ‘JJ’ James Chambers through their dual perspective.
Friends Piper and Julian have always had feelings for each other, but neither of them know this about the other. Since both are struggling with different issues that causes the two not to come out and confess to one another.
In Piper’s case, having given up on love and HEA due to what’s going on in her family life. It has had her believe it’s pointless for her to even bother with it at all. However when her studies forces her in close proximity to Julian, she knows it’s only time before she can no longer deny or fight her feelings for him anymore.
As for Julian, with baseball, his studies and working at his parents restaurant, he lives a busy life. But that hasn’t stopped his feelings for Piper from growing every time they get together with their friends. However the fear of rejection has him keeping his feelings hidden, but what will happen when he is made to be in close proximity to Piper all the time. Will it be enough to give him the push he needs to confess his feelings once and for all?
The story of Piper and Julian was a Slow Burn, showcasing the portrayal of a newly relationship form over time like the growth of a rose to its full bloom.
It’s what rang honest and true, the genuine and realistic feel that Rachael set up in the slow pace journey Piper and Julian were trekking upon when it came to their love story.
Knowing the feelings they had carried for each other for some years now, it still had both of them going back and forth with whether or not to put themselves out there. And if so, how to go about it considering the fear of rejection they both had in their minds.
Seeing this all go down, whilst hearing about it from their personal perspective was adorable and heartfelt.
It honestly felt like you were reading about two high schoolers having their first crush, which was too sweet.
The way they acted around each other when they did start to begin to establish a relationship of sorts, made Piper and Julian all the more cuter as a couple to watch, with seeing how their story would further progress. Especially when it came to them trying to convey the sentiments they were feeling towards each other.
Whilst the story may not had any drama, there were still moments of tension taking its place given the emotions and feelings Piper and Julian were having to deal with. And that was on top of the battles they had with themselves in their mind. Something Rachael always showed in their personal perspective, allowing us to understand them even more. As well as their thought process.
Despite being a strong, independent woman, Piper did have her moments of being over dramatic when it came to the reasoning of why she was mopping around in a sad and depressed sort of way. The way she acted in regards to it made it seem like it was a super serious matter, and that she must've suffered terribly given the struggles she was going through.
Yet that was not the case, which is learnt through the progression of the story. It was more of her just over exaggerating.
Though she can't be truly faulted for it, since it was just her way of handing things. It didn't stop me from being annoyed and frustrated with her for it, seeing as its what stopped her from living a happier life in the years that she was going through this pain with mopping around by herself all alone.
My only critique was the lack of excitement at times. Had there been a little more pizazz, it could’ve made the story more intriguing with livening it up IMO. Since at moments, my attention did seem to just wonder away.
Also the ending could’ve been a little longer IMO, as it just seemed so abrupt the way it cut off and finished.
With that said, I still enjoyed Piper and Julian’s story in Wicked Little Promise.
And given the sneak peek at the end, it has me looking forward to the next book in Lake State University series. Evie and Leo's story, Scandalous Little Obsession.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 12, 2022
Having read Dirty Little Secret, Tempting Little Tease, and Risky Little Affair i couldn't wait for more of this series! I had to pick this one up right after finishing the third installment. I got right back into the Lake State University world right away. I so enjoyed this fourth book!
Piper and Julian's journey hooked me quickly! These two have known each other for years. When Piper takes an internship and Julian is her boss, i couldn't wait to see how everything would go for them.
I really liked getting to see these two tackle working together as well as their feelings. I enjoyed getting to dig deeper with them. Both characters had me feeling so much from start to finish! Their chemistry was great!
It was so awesome to be back in this world and getting to reunite with these characters!
With Wicked Little Promise, Ms.Brownell has created such a good read with feels that will pull you in! I can't wait to dive into the fifth installment, Scandalous Little Obsession next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Enticing Journey Book Promotions / author*
Piper and Julian's journey hooked me quickly! These two have known each other for years. When Piper takes an internship and Julian is her boss, i couldn't wait to see how everything would go for them.
I really liked getting to see these two tackle working together as well as their feelings. I enjoyed getting to dig deeper with them. Both characters had me feeling so much from start to finish! Their chemistry was great!
It was so awesome to be back in this world and getting to reunite with these characters!
With Wicked Little Promise, Ms.Brownell has created such a good read with feels that will pull you in! I can't wait to dive into the fifth installment, Scandalous Little Obsession next!
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from Enticing Journey Book Promotions / author*
March 10, 2022
I received a complimentary early release copy of this e-book from the author prior to release and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is book 4 in the series but easily stands alone as we have not seen much of Julian and Piper in this series until now.
This series is built around two siblings who have lost their father, Max and Willow. Max's good friend is Julian and Willow's good friend is Piper. They have known each other for several years but Piper has never shown an interest in Julian, though Julian has been crushing on her.
Piper is going thru a rough time now as her parents are divorcing. She also has a new job/internship working at Julian's family restaurant. Thats when these two really get to know each other but Piper is feeling down on romance because of her parents. Can Julian get her to open her heart to his?
It was an enjoyable story and I loved getting to know these two characters. Their attraction really jumped off the pages and I adored watching them fall for each other while also hiding or trying to hide their relationship from their friends.
This is book 4 in the series but easily stands alone as we have not seen much of Julian and Piper in this series until now.
This series is built around two siblings who have lost their father, Max and Willow. Max's good friend is Julian and Willow's good friend is Piper. They have known each other for several years but Piper has never shown an interest in Julian, though Julian has been crushing on her.
Piper is going thru a rough time now as her parents are divorcing. She also has a new job/internship working at Julian's family restaurant. Thats when these two really get to know each other but Piper is feeling down on romance because of her parents. Can Julian get her to open her heart to his?
It was an enjoyable story and I loved getting to know these two characters. Their attraction really jumped off the pages and I adored watching them fall for each other while also hiding or trying to hide their relationship from their friends.
March 9, 2022
This is the fourth book in this amazing series and is Julian and Piper’s journey. Piper has given up on love and HEA as her world has fallen apart since the summer, and after all her friends are finding their significant others, she feels pushed out. When an internship opportunity arises Piper jumps at the chance, and finds that she will be working Julian, who has secretly loved her for years, but never acted on his feeling as she did not appear to be interested. The more time Julian and Piper work together he is determined to convince her to take a chance on them. Will Piper notice what is right in front of her before it is to late? This is a well written story which is sweet, and with friendships, family, tension, emotions, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining and all-consuming addictive page turner. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
March 10, 2022
This was my 1st book by Rachael and now I'm going back to read books #1-3 in the series 😂
Piper is struggling after her life has fallen apart over the summer. Her parents are getting a divorce, so many lies have been told, and all her friends are happy and in love, while she feels like she has been pushed to the side. When she gets the chance to start an internship, she takes it with no hesitation. Little does she know, her dream guy is now her new boss.
Ever since he first saw Piper, Julian has been head over heels for her. He doesn't think she is interested in him, so he has never tried to make a move on her. Now that he is her boss, he doesnt want to hold back.
This book had me hooked to the pages! The push and pull between them was everything and I love them together! Julian is gonna be on your list of favorite book boyfriends, he is so perfect!! I'm so excited to go back and read the first 3 books in the series!!
Piper is struggling after her life has fallen apart over the summer. Her parents are getting a divorce, so many lies have been told, and all her friends are happy and in love, while she feels like she has been pushed to the side. When she gets the chance to start an internship, she takes it with no hesitation. Little does she know, her dream guy is now her new boss.
Ever since he first saw Piper, Julian has been head over heels for her. He doesn't think she is interested in him, so he has never tried to make a move on her. Now that he is her boss, he doesnt want to hold back.
This book had me hooked to the pages! The push and pull between them was everything and I love them together! Julian is gonna be on your list of favorite book boyfriends, he is so perfect!! I'm so excited to go back and read the first 3 books in the series!!
March 12, 2022
Piper has given up on finding that happily ever after after watching her parents on the road to divorce so she's not even looking anymore. Julian is a baseball player who is an unicorn as he's not a player & wants to find love. These two have secret feelings for each other but both are too much in their heads to actually go out on a limb. Things take a turn when they start really spending time together in their studies, and at work, so the sparks are flying like crazy. Now I have say that while the sparks are flying, that doesn't change the fact that Wicked Little Promise is totally slow burn as they try to get the courage up for something that could be amazing. This book was filled with heart as I experienced all the events like I was there in person, plus the fact that Piper & Julian had flipped the script on heroines who want the relationship while the hero is trying to not end up in one which was refreshing, so I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 14, 2022
Stephannie's 4 Star Review
Piper’s world fell apart. She kept it to herself that her parents are divorcing and the lies and the disaster that she has had to deal with when dealing with them. She is heartbroken and is struggling with her best friend being in a happy couple bubble. She has an internship opportunity that she gets offered and she jumps on it. Then she realizes she will work closely with the one guy, she has secretly had the hots for but he doesn't see her. Or does he?
Julian has been secretly in love with Piper since the moment he laid eyes on her. He’s never made his move because she didn't seem interested. But he is finally ready to put himself out there and see what she thinks or feels. So when she is chosen as his intern at his family’s restaurant, this is his chance. He is going to give it everything he has to make her his.
I love Julien and Piper. These two are just as sweet and cute as every couple in this series. I really enjoyed reading this one.
Piper’s world fell apart. She kept it to herself that her parents are divorcing and the lies and the disaster that she has had to deal with when dealing with them. She is heartbroken and is struggling with her best friend being in a happy couple bubble. She has an internship opportunity that she gets offered and she jumps on it. Then she realizes she will work closely with the one guy, she has secretly had the hots for but he doesn't see her. Or does he?
Julian has been secretly in love with Piper since the moment he laid eyes on her. He’s never made his move because she didn't seem interested. But he is finally ready to put himself out there and see what she thinks or feels. So when she is chosen as his intern at his family’s restaurant, this is his chance. He is going to give it everything he has to make her his.
I love Julien and Piper. These two are just as sweet and cute as every couple in this series. I really enjoyed reading this one.
March 5, 2022
I just love all these characters from Lake State University. Rachael Brownell keeps giving us these 3D characters who refuse to stay on the page.
It’s Piper’s turn this time, she comes back from summer vacation to find all of her friends have coupled up, and she’s happy for them, she really is, but with her family life and being single she’s feeling a little left out and jaded. But if she would open her eyes and let down some walls she would see what’s right in front of her.
This is the fourth book in Rachael’s Lake State U series, and it can be read as a standalone, but you will definitely connect more if you read them all in order .
1) Dirty Little Secret
2)Tempting Little Tease
3) Risky Little Affair
4) Wicked Little Promise
5) Scandalous Little Obsession (coming soon)
6) Torrid Little Passion (coming soon)
It’s Piper’s turn this time, she comes back from summer vacation to find all of her friends have coupled up, and she’s happy for them, she really is, but with her family life and being single she’s feeling a little left out and jaded. But if she would open her eyes and let down some walls she would see what’s right in front of her.
This is the fourth book in Rachael’s Lake State U series, and it can be read as a standalone, but you will definitely connect more if you read them all in order .
1) Dirty Little Secret
2)Tempting Little Tease
3) Risky Little Affair
4) Wicked Little Promise
5) Scandalous Little Obsession (coming soon)
6) Torrid Little Passion (coming soon)
March 9, 2022
This was a slow burn, low angst and low drama college romance. I liked the characters, but at the same time, I wanted to give them a kick in the pants for making choices that made their lives harder than they needed to be.
It was interesting that at the beginning of the book, Piper was feeling like her friends didn't spend as much time with her because they were too busy with their boyfriends and their respective life dramas; however, as the book went on, her focus was less on her friends as she became wrapped up in her Julian drama. (Academically, I think her thesis should've also included the wider implications of changing up the menu-- not just cost, but things such as patron perception of the restaurant and buy-in, and implications for the kitchen and food prep.)
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
It was interesting that at the beginning of the book, Piper was feeling like her friends didn't spend as much time with her because they were too busy with their boyfriends and their respective life dramas; however, as the book went on, her focus was less on her friends as she became wrapped up in her Julian drama. (Academically, I think her thesis should've also included the wider implications of changing up the menu-- not just cost, but things such as patron perception of the restaurant and buy-in, and implications for the kitchen and food prep.)
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
March 3, 2022
Piper and Julian are in the same friend group and have known each other for awhile. They also have noticed each other and have had feelings for each other but of course one is afraid to tell the other and one is afraid of relationships. They both are having young adult emotional struggles and need to work those things out. When she starts a internship at his family’s restaurant he is excited to be spending time with her. As Piper and Julian spend time together their feelings grow for each other and they realize what they really have in each other. This was a great cute read with great side characters and fun banter. I enjoyed the connection they shared and honesty they finally trust in each other. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
March 4, 2022
From the moment they met, Piper and Julian have felt an attraction that both kept as a secret. With all of their friends pairing up the two were thrown together numerous times, which only made their hearts grow fonder. But with a class together and an apprenticeship at his parents restaurant sparks fly and passion ignites. Can they allow each other to finally admit their feelings/ Or will the work relationship put all hopes to the side? With each and every book in the series Rachael Brownell continues to give the readers beautifully written characters and a storyline they cannot get enough of. With an honest portrayal of love blossoming over time this was a great read.
March 10, 2022
Lake State University here I come. lol I am so LOVING this series. This one is all about Piper and Julian. Piper just returned early from a so called vacation ( she found out her parents are getting divorced) heartbroken. She finds all her friends have hooked up and are in love. It makes her feel alone and like an outcast.
Julian has loved Piper from a far for years but has never made a move. When he see her down he decides to left her know his true feelings. But he is shot down. That is until they find each other working close in class and after at Julian's parents restaurant. Their chemistry is off the chart. You can't help but fall in love with them!!
Julian has loved Piper from a far for years but has never made a move. When he see her down he decides to left her know his true feelings. But he is shot down. That is until they find each other working close in class and after at Julian's parents restaurant. Their chemistry is off the chart. You can't help but fall in love with them!!
March 14, 2022
The first Rachael Brownell book I read was Damaging Rumors so when I saw the ARC signup for this I got excited as it’s a guaranteed HEA and heartfelt book!
Although I haven’t read the three other books in this series she touches on them throughout the book as they make appearances.
Julian’s been in love with Piper ever since he saw her and seized his opportunity to be around her more when she took an internship at his fathers restaurant. After finding out that her parents are getting divorced she becomes skeptical of everyone who claims they’re in love as she doesn’t believe in HEA.
November 3, 2022
Julian was hooked on Piper, his pretty girl, from the moment he first saw her. Piper has been crushing on Julian but doesn't believe in a happily ever after. Julian was finally able to make his move once Piper got a job interning at the restaurant owned by his family. I loved seeing Julian and Piper fall in love. Their story made me smile, blush, cry, and left me with a happy heart. I enjoy all of the characters who are involved in this series and love seeing them interact with one another. The author did an amazing job making each character unique.
March 11, 2022
Piper and Julian's story is such a slow burn with both of them pining and crushing on each other for a bit. Piper is feeling so lonely with all her friends coupled up, with a band of brothers no less. And her parents' divorce is also not helping. Now she has to work closely with Julian at his parents' restaurant and they're also paired up for a class. Julian's definitely showing her how he felt but Piper has her reservations. So he has his work cut out for him. But it was so sweet to see them get together and Julian finally got his girl.
March 11, 2022
Loved Julian and Piper
A slow-burn, friends to lovers story that will have you smiling, swooning, and looking for your own Julian.
I really liked that Piper decided to push past her hesitation—due to her parents relationship—and take a chance with her long time crush.
And the sneak peek we got for the next book? *chefs kiss* it's going to be fabulous
A slow-burn, friends to lovers story that will have you smiling, swooning, and looking for your own Julian.
I really liked that Piper decided to push past her hesitation—due to her parents relationship—and take a chance with her long time crush.
And the sneak peek we got for the next book? *chefs kiss* it's going to be fabulous
March 18, 2022
Julian and Piper
Julian is the total package, good looks, athletic, runs his loving parents restaurant and has been working up the courage to tell Piper how he feels since they met two years ago. Piper is gorgeous, smart and another finding out her parents are divorcing feels disillusioned by love. When they are forced to spend time together in and out of class, Julian and Piper finally succumb to their mutual feelings. Sweet, sexy, a little drama with HEA
Julian is the total package, good looks, athletic, runs his loving parents restaurant and has been working up the courage to tell Piper how he feels since they met two years ago. Piper is gorgeous, smart and another finding out her parents are divorcing feels disillusioned by love. When they are forced to spend time together in and out of class, Julian and Piper finally succumb to their mutual feelings. Sweet, sexy, a little drama with HEA
January 6, 2023
I could not put this book down!
I didn’t know how much I would love Piper and Julian. These two had so much in common and I wanted to know about their love of food. The way they complimented each other worked so well. Julian is the chef of this group of friends. He has a wonderful support system in his parents and friends. Piper is feeling a little left out since all her friends are coupled up.
I enjoyed how Piper wasn’t jealous of her friends and their newfound loves. She was like any other person wanting to find her own happily ever after. Personal reasons will have her keep Julian at a distance. I loved Julian’s persistence and not holding back his feelings.
I didn’t know how much I would love Piper and Julian. These two had so much in common and I wanted to know about their love of food. The way they complimented each other worked so well. Julian is the chef of this group of friends. He has a wonderful support system in his parents and friends. Piper is feeling a little left out since all her friends are coupled up.
I enjoyed how Piper wasn’t jealous of her friends and their newfound loves. She was like any other person wanting to find her own happily ever after. Personal reasons will have her keep Julian at a distance. I loved Julian’s persistence and not holding back his feelings.
March 2, 2022
I loved this book! Piper and Julian had the fantastic story
This book has one of my favorite tropes with is boss & worker romance although it was a little different from your typical CEO/worker romance.
This book has one of my favorite tropes with is boss & worker romance although it was a little different from your typical CEO/worker romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 13, 2022
Book 4 from the Lake State University series.
This series just keeps getting better! I really enjoyed this book. The characters Julian and Piper may be my favorite couple yet. Their romance and connection was great.
Overall a great read that will leave you excited for the next book!
This series just keeps getting better! I really enjoyed this book. The characters Julian and Piper may be my favorite couple yet. Their romance and connection was great.
Overall a great read that will leave you excited for the next book!
March 13, 2022
I wasn't sure how much better this series could continue getting, but this one blew me out of the water. Yet again, Bronwell has the amazing ability of dropping you right into her world of these brilliant characters and storylines.
March 12, 2022
This was a really good book. It had a great story and I enjoyed both characters throughout. I think it made the story so good that it was a progressive romance.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews