The Desperate Deal: A Hidden Identity Romantic Comedy

Seashells and Sunsets #1

by Dineen Miller

Her world fell apart. He offers a helping hand. But when secrets surface, will their attraction survive the scandal?

Sheridan Lane Scott lives the good life. But when her uber-wealthy father goes down for embezzlement, the shocked socialite loses everything and takes a restaurant greeter job to hide her smeared identity. Though her plan to stay under the radar shatters when she spills a pricey bottle of wine, only to blush when the handsome owner wipes her down.

Noah Kent always puts other people first. So after letting his dad move in when he loses his savings to a crooked financier, the warmhearted businessman doesn’t hesitate to hire a quirky girl who tugs at his heartstrings. And when he invites his new homeless employee to use his spare bedroom, he struggles to resist his chemistry with the beautiful woman.

As sparks fly during her time as his guest, Sheridan tries to keep her shameful past from the man who has shown her nothing but kindness. But when shocking news hits the papers, Noah fears he can’t trust someone connected to his parent’s ruin.

Can Noah and Sheridan rise above the rumors to embrace each other’s hearts?

The Desperate Deal is the charming first book in The Pineapple Club romantic comedy series. If you like earnest infatuation, laugh-out-loud dialogue, and endearing characters, then you’ll adore Dineen Miller’s sweet and sassy tale.

Read The Desperate Deal to place passion on the menu today!

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Rom Com, Fiction

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2022

About the author

Dineen Miller is an award-winning and Amazon bestselling author who writes closed-door romantic comedies filled with swoony moments, snappy banter, and just enough awkward flirting to feel real. When she’s not writing happily ever afters, she’s hoarding yarn like a dragon, crocheting her way through a Netflix binge, or laughing at her husband’s punniest jokes (even when she pretends to roll her eyes). Life at home includes two quirky dogs, a yarn collection with its own zip code, and a husband who thinks he's hilarious (and he kind of is).

Want a free novella? Visit DineenMiller.com to sign up for her newsletter and snag your copy!

Reviews

[Maven_Reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Desperate Deal by Dineen A. Miller is a clean, sweet small-town romantic comedy about Sheridan Lane Scott, a woman whose life quickly spirals when her ultra-wealthy father is arrested for embezzlement, which costs her job and her social circle, and lands her in a humble restaurant greeter position where she meets Noah Kent, the charismatic restaurant owner who offers her not just work but a place to stay and the chance at a fresh start.

As Sheridan tries to navigate her dashed confidence and hidden past, sparks begin to fly between her and Noah, prompting questions about trust, redemption, and whether two very different people can build something lasting together despite uncertainty and embarrassment. It is the first book in the Seashells and Sunsets series and blends wholesome romance with earnest infatuation and endearing characters.

From the moment Sheridan accidentally breaks an expensive bottle of wine and finds herself rescued by Noah’s kindness, I felt instantly pulled into a story that balances embarrassment with sweet optimism. Sheridan’s vulnerability after losing her job and friends made me root for her in a deeply human way, because her awkward adjustments to a simpler life felt real and full of heart. Noah’s warmth and generosity shone through in every scene where he offered her a fresh start without judgment, and their chemistry had that lovely slow-build feel that made me smile with every shy glance and shared laugh.

I appreciated how the book handles Sheridan’s fear that her past might sabotage her future, a fear that made her feel both strong and fragile in turns, and how Noah’s steady support helped her see her own worth in clearer light. The setting of small-town life, light humor, and the gentle push into second chance hope gave this romance a cozy, uplifting vibe that felt like sunshine after a storm.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
This was a heartwarming read that made me laugh, root for the characters wholeheartedly, and believe in the possibility of love that feels safe and sincere. While the story follows familiar small-town romance pathways, its genuine kindness, well-drawn leads, and tender emotional growth made it a truly delightful escape that I’d happily recommend to fans of clean romantic comedies.

[Lillie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to DIneen Miller and Bookfunnel for allowing me to read an ARC of this read. This book was so wholesome and so funny. I loved every single page of it, and it got me hooked from page one. Sheridan and Noah's relationship was so genuine and wholesome. I also really enjoyed how Madilyn's and how we got to get into the aspect of the restaurant industry. If I could give this book a 6 stars, I absolutely would. I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a light-hearted, clean read.

[Melissa · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was ok. It started out strong and ended weak. I thought the whole plot was great. I really liked this sweet kind leading lady. It felt a little like insta -love. I just didn't feel it, and I really like to feel a couple fall in love. The end was a little unbelievable and predictable. You know what's going to happen you just don't want to predict it down to the details which I was able to do.
Clean romance. No swearing. Some drinking.

[Rosemary K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheridan lost her comfortable life when her father was arrested for embezzlement. Everyone believed that she knew what he did and was involved. Now she's lost her job, her condo and finds that no one will hire her. A position as a greeter at Madalyn's Grill and Wine Bar is her last chance so she hides her true identity from the owner. Noah is desperate. He needs help. So he's willing to take a chance. When Sheridan spills an expensive bottle of wine all over him I thought that she wouldn't get the job. As luck or fate would have it, he doesn't make her leave. This is the start of a sweet romance. Sheridan is caring and hard working, but she's a klutz when Noah is around. Noah and his father both like Sheridan and want to help. That touched me. Sheridan and Noah are perfect for each other. Their dialogue sparkles and the setting highlights the story. I also like Sheridan's new friend, Kaleena. She's an interesting character who knows everything that's happening on Pineapple Avenue. Dineen Miller wrote a sweet romance that kept me entertained. I'm looking forward to more of the Pineapple club.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a fast paced romance book. it was a well written book with entertainment sizzling chemistry term and humor. The characters were engaging with wonderful chemistry. It’s a sweet romantic comedies that I recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved this! The Desperate Deal was my first introduction to Dineen Miller's world of Sarasota, FL. It was easy to imagine the people and places within this story. I look forward to reading more in this series.

I received an ARC; this is my honest review.

[Rose Morrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance copy of The Desperate Deal and this is my honest review. Sheridan's comfortable life is turned upside down when her father is accused of investor fraud. After being turned down numerous times for jobs she applies for, she lands a job as a greeter in a restaurant. Her personality and skills soon have the restaurant prospering. Unfortunately the owner and his father were victims of the father's deeds and Sheridan fears what will happen if they discover her identity. Sheridan is bit of a klutz and there are numerous instances of spilled wine and broken bottles. While I enjoyed the novel I believe that her clumsiness was distracting rather than clever after awhile. How it all turns out and the lead in for a future novel will have me returning to see what happens.

[Ellen White · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sheridan has had her life turned upside down, when her father was charged. Now it was a seedy motel, and no to hiring when they recognize her. Now with no money and having to pay just to be safe.
Could she land the job as a greeter at The Pineapple Club.
The connection to her boss and hope his folks will understand if they knew who she was A place that was full of adventure and mayhem. Enjoyable to read. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion

[Mvm · Rating 4 out of 5]

Light - Relaxing - Entertaining Read

Sheridan’s life is in shambles. Her father is arrested and suspected of running a Ponzi scheme. She has lost her job, her condo and her friends have snubbed her. Basically, homeless she applies for the job of a greeter at a local eatery hiding her last name and any relation to her incarcerated father. At first meeting there is “something” between Sheridan and Noah owner of the eatery. Sheridan learns that Noah’s father, who she has come to like is one of the victims of her father’s scheme. She is falling for Noah and his father who have been extremely kind to her, but can’t bring herself to share who she really is for fear of losing the little happiness she has found with Noah, his father and her job. The heat continues to grow between the two and Sara, when Noah’s old girlfriend and daughter of his investor enters the picture. Next, the whole sad story explodes when her father pleads guilty and her identity is known to everyone. Sheridan’s life is totally imploding around her.

I was provided with an advance copy of this book and am providing an honest, voluntary review.

[Ian · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun quick read. Sheridan's father has been caught in a public embezzlement scandal that has left her out of work and out of a home. She arrives on the Pineapple Club strip desperate for work and a place to stay.

Enter Noah Kent who owns the local eatery on the strip and needs a greeter. Little did he know that when he employs Sheridan that she is who she is. To further complicate matters, Noah's father is one of the people who suffered from Sheridan's father's scandal losing his savings.

The story moves along with a good clip as the infatuation between Noah and Sheridan simmers. But how will Noah react to knowing whose daughter Sheridan is?

Sheridan is a self-proclaimed klutz and we see repeated evidence of her clumsiness throughout the story. I found it become a bit distracting after a while which took away some of the initial humour.

All in all this is a fun light read that many readers will happily enjoy.

I was fortunate to receive an early copy of the story directly from the author with no expectation of a positive review.

[julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheridan Lane Scott lives the good life but when her Uber wealthy father goes down for embezzlement the shocked socialite loses everything and takes a restaurant greeter job to hide her smeared identity though her plan to stay under the radar shatters when she spills a pricey bottle of wine only to blush when the handsome owner wipes her down Noah Kent always puts other people first so letting his dad move in when he loses his savings to a crooked financier the warm-hearted businessman doesn’t hesitate to hire a quirky girl who tugs at his heartstrings and when he invites his new homeless employee to use his spare bedroom he struggles to resist his chemistry with beautiful woman as sparks fly during her time as his guest Sheridan tries to keep her shameful past from the man who has shown her nothing but kindness
A really enjoyable romance book totally recommend I want to read more of Dineen Miller
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun, quirky, riches to rags story that was simply a delight to read. After her father was charged with embezzlement, Sheridan lost the cushy life she was used to. Forced now to make her own way, she has no idea how to go about doing that. She's lost everything and people think she was involved in what her father was doing, so no one is willing to hire her. Desperate for a job, she lies about her identty and is finally hired to help Noah at his restaurant. Noah is also desperate for help, so he decides to hire her. Sheridan basically is a walking disaster in the beginning when she tries to do her job. So many times I thought it possible she would get fired. But both Noah and his father took pity on her and kept giving her another chance, which I thought was very touching and sweet. The romance that develops between them touched my heart and gave me a warm, fuzzy feeling. A really enjoyable and sweet romance and I look forward to reading more of Pineapple Club series.
I received a complimentary copy from StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

Noah and Sheridan's Story . . .

Sheridan Scott's father brings public humiliation on his family when he is caught in an embezzlement scandal that hurt many people. So now Sheridan, who had nothing to do with what her father had done, has lost everything she worked for, is out of a job, and has no place to stay. She ends up on the strip and kind-hearted Noah Kent hires her to be his greeter and offers her his spare bedroom until she finds a place to stay.

But it turns out that Noah’s father was also one of the victims of the embezzlement and lost his life savings. When Noah finds out that Sheridan’s father is the man who ruined his own dad’s finances and feels that she lied to him about who she was, how will Noah react, especially when they have become closer and he has fallen in love with her? Will he feel compelled to push Sheridan out of his life completely? Or will he listen to his Dad’s advice before passing judgment on her?

[Ms. Shawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheridan Lane Scott used to work at her father’s company in the Marketing Department. When he was arrested for embezzlement, Sheridan lost her job, her condo and all of her “friends” except her best friend Emma. Also, her trust fund has been frozen while the Feds sort out her father’s financial situation. She hasn’t been able to get a job and she gets kicked out of the sleazy motel she was staying in.

Noah Kent owns Madilyn’s Grill & Wine Bar on Pineapple Avenue. He is looking for a greeter and Sheridan applies using only the first part of her name Sheridan Lane. She gets the job and Noah is also interested in her marketing ideas.

What happens when Sheridan finds out that Noah’s dad lost everything due to her father? What happens when Noah finds out who Sheridan really is?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sky · Rating 1 out of 5]

Disappointed. This book is not for me. Hence the low rating. I had to force myself to not DNF this book and it took me longer than I expected with the number of pages.

I had a hard time following the flow of the story. The writing style is not to my liking–too exaggerating, cliché, predictable. If you like insta-love kind of story, then this book is for you.

The story's pace was not consistent–was draggy with inner monologue of Sheridan and Noah at first and then followed by rushed to end things. I disliked the protagonist, who was supposed to seem quirky but ended up annoying me with her clumsiness. She freaking spilled wine SO many times. It seemed like she didn't have to try to be klutzy, she already was.

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t blame Sheridan for hiding her true name when she’s left with almost nothing and no one will hire her because of her father. I laughed at how klutzy she was with Noah and was surprised he still hired her. But she ends up bringing more to this restaurant than he could ever have imagined. Still when the truth comes out about who she is will Noah turn his back on her like so many others did? His father has such a positive attitude for someone who had lost his retirement savings in her father’s investment company. Sheridan could have just been a spoiled trust fund kid who cared more about their social life than anything else. But she knew how to work hard and didn’t expect a handout. There were a lot of funny, up and down, and sweet moments in this clean romantic comedy.

[Ally A · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sullied by her embezzler father’s fall from grace, Sheridan does what any discredited socialite would do – she takes on a new identity and goes into hiding as a greeter in a restaurant. Her hunky boss, Noah, not only gives her a job, he offers her his extra bedroom and soon he offers his heart. Sheridan is equally attracted to Noah and their romance is a delight. Unfortunately for Sheridan, Noah’s dad was one of her father’s victims. When the truth comes out, Noah questions everything about their relationship. His dad has some excellent advice for him, if Noah’s willing to listen. Fun, enjoyable read from beginning to end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheridan is not your typical rich girl, and this is not your typical story! It's so much more. It's family that let you down and ruins your life with their selfishness. It's being treated for your own merit until being exposed and tainted by events that you weren't involved in. It's being a klutz and being forgiven. It's also that grit and determination that leads to happily ever after.
What a wonderful story with great characters. I loved the multi-generational aspect of the story, and the willingness to let go of stereotypes and past mistakes. The book was funny and sweet, and a wonderful read that was hard to put down. But the good news is the story continues with best friends in the next book!

[Lakshmi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Sheridan and Noah's story. It reads like a 'two broke girls' spin off into a classic love story. The handsome hero falls for the heroin who can't resist his charms, their chemistry is sizzling. Then the hero finds out that the heroine's father is involved in the fraud that cheated his own father. Noah begins to question Sheridan's integrity and the rest of the story is of how the lovebirds finally come together for their happily ever after.

The pace of the story is brisk, with some witty dialogues and lol moments. All in all a fun and enjoyable read for readers who love clean, sweet romantic comedies. Definitely recommend.

[Betti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh my gosh! What a fun book to read. Sheridan had been dealt a rough hand - through no fault of her own, but now she has to make the best of it. Having lost everything through bad choices made by her father, she has to learn how to manage a whole new life.

Pineapple Avenue has many interesting shops, not the least of which is Madylin’s, an upscale grill and wine bar. Hired on as the greeter, Sheridan has the opportunity to find her feet - maybe. Through many spills, she finds her way to new friends and a life worth living. No one ever said it was boring in the Pineapple Club!

This ARC was received through the author. The impressions and rating are my own and were in no way solicited.

[Shelly Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a delightful read. I enjoyed The desperate deal very much. Everything about this book appealed to me. Sheridan and Noah are a couple that simply works. Their story has a realistic feeling that kept me flipping pages to see what they’d encounter next. The plot and characters were well-written, making you feel like you are friends. This was a perfect sweet romance with just the perfect amount of humor, mystery, intrigue, and adventure that will keep any reader completely engaged. If you love a well-written, thoughtful, believable romance with characters you’ll be rooting for then this one is perfect for you. I highly recommend the series.

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very cute love story about love conquering all with characters you can’t help but cheer on - or root against when it comes to the annoying ex-girlfriend and her meddling father! While I really did enjoy this book, I was a little let down by the epilogue. It was more a set up for the next story rather than an ending for our two main characters. Please don’t let that stop you from reading this book, though…despite that, it’s still a very good read!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 1 in Miller's new series Seashells and Sunsets. This is the first book of Miller's I've read, and I certainly hope it won't be my last! Our main characters are Noah and Sheridan. A well written romance comedy with a fast-paced storyline that still flowed well. Title is fitting as Sheridan is desperate to make a deal but then Noah may be desperate to seal the deal. Great humor and chemistry. A great rom com that has me eager for more!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elaine Coghlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Desperate Deal is the first book in the series Seashells & Sunsets by Dineen Miller, who also happens to be a new author to me.
I honestly can say that I enjoyed this book, in which I was engaged from the beginning till the end
There are several LOL moments here and you feel that you too are there in the moment. Loved the chemistry between Noah and Sheridan, you also can feel the embarrassment of the situation that Sheridan was in with her father.

This is a fantastic read, I have also purchased the second book in the series. Highly recommend to all.

[Denice · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story. Sheridan’s life is a mess, no fault of her own but because of something her father did. She needs a job and keeps getting turned down until she meets with Noah who is the owner of Madilyn’s. He hires her and invites her to stay at his home with him and his father, but will this be a risk? I loved the kindness of Noah and Norman his father. I enjoyed the crazy things Sheridan seemed to do when she was nervous, turning into a klutz. This is a fun story that was fun to read.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After loosing everything due to her fathers actions. Sheridan applies for a hostess position. She soon learns that her bosses family was swindled by her father. Does she tell them and risk loosing her job and and their friends? Will Noah believe she is nothing like her father? Enter Sara who Noah was forced to hire by his investor.. She frames Sheridan. Noah knew it wasn't Sheridan. He got to the bottom on the issue and found out the truth. Can Noah and Sheridan get their happily ever after??

[Ashley Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actual rating is 3.5 ⭐️ I thought it was cute. I love the friendships Sheridan built with Kay & Norman. I do wish we got to see more of Noah and Sheridan together. I felt their chemistry & dialogue wasn’t very strong. Most of the book is them with others or their inner thoughts. It was still good, but gave me more of a Hallmark movie feel instead of a romance to swoon over.


I received a copy of this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author and by the way this book read, it certainly will NOT be the last! I completely enjoyed watching Sheridan and Noah together. Sheridan has so many Issa coming at her. Noah does his best help her and then he discovers who she is! Will the be able to make it together after secrets come out?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sheridan lost everything when her father was arrested for embezzlement. At her most desperate, she applies to be a greeter at Noah’s restaurant. He hires her immediately and even lets her stay at his house after finding her sleeping in her car. There are a huge number of complications along the way but Noah and Sheridan make an adorable couple.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bonny Rambarran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her father is in the news — and not for a good reason
She needs a job — anywhere! She applies at a restaurant for a hostess job . . . .and he agrees to give her a chance. But she sorta changed her name because of her father. This is a really good book — totally loved it!! Second (and third) chances make a real difference in life!!! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.