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California Suits #4
Palm Springs King
Rockstar Austin Michaels never took much seriously—other than his music. But tragedy thrust him out of the spotlight and into the boardroom. Now, he’s helping his brother run a luxury hotel chain and he couldn’t be farther out of his comfort zone. He’s doing his best––until his beautiful new spa manager arrives.
Yoga teacher Kenzie Banks earned her reputation as the best in the spa business by being a hyper-efficient perfectionist. Ready to plant roots after too many years on the road, she’s thrilled to land her dream job working for the Hotel Kings — they’re literally the family she always wished for. Except, her sexy boss Austin Michaels is driving her nuts with his impulsive decisions and smoldering glances.
The sparks between these two opposites burn so hot it’s a wonder they don’t spontaneously combust. But Kenzie knows what they say about fire…and she’s come too far and worked too hard to get burned. Can the pair find a way to work together, or will everything they’re building go up in flames?
Yoga teacher Kenzie Banks earned her reputation as the best in the spa business by being a hyper-efficient perfectionist. Ready to plant roots after too many years on the road, she’s thrilled to land her dream job working for the Hotel Kings — they’re literally the family she always wished for. Except, her sexy boss Austin Michaels is driving her nuts with his impulsive decisions and smoldering glances.
The sparks between these two opposites burn so hot it’s a wonder they don’t spontaneously combust. But Kenzie knows what they say about fire…and she’s come too far and worked too hard to get burned. Can the pair find a way to work together, or will everything they’re building go up in flames?
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2023
9 people are currently reading
2016 people want to read
About the author
Claire Marti
27 books739 followersClaire Marti is an award winning and USA Today Bestselling author of swoonworthy Contemporary Romance novels set in Southern California, including the Pacific Vista Ranch series and the California Suits series. She lives in San Diego with her husband, silly dog, and two clever cats.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
Claire started writing stories as soon as she was old enough to pick up pencil and paper. After graduating from the University of Virginia with a BA in English Literature, Claire was sidetracked by other careers, including practicing law, selling software for legal publishers, and managing a non-profit animal rescue for a Hollywood actress.
When Claire's not writing, she's teaching yoga. You can find her sixty+ online classes on the international website www.yogadownload.com. A breast cancer survivor, Claire is a sought-after speaker on the power of yoga and meditation. She's been published in numerous magazines with articles on wellness and is the author of a memoir, Come Ride with Me Along the Big C, on her experience beating breast cancer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 7, 2023
REVIEW
cw: grief, addiction
Austin Michaels was the former lead singer of a wildly popular alt-rock band, but when tragedy struck, he left the band and joined his brother and their friends to open a chain of boutique hotels throughout California. Palm Springs will be his baby, even if he's more suited to writing a hit song than a business plan. Kenzie Banks has escaped her chaotic childhood, to a place of Zen as a renowned Spa creator and Yogi. She's a perfectionist and is ready to settle down. The last thing she needs is a 6ft 1" distraction who's also her boss.
This was my favourite in the series so far! I was immediately drawn to Austin, and the parallels with one of my favourite bands made my heart ache for him. He was such a romantic at heart, which was a pleasant surprise, and I really loved his more sensitive side. Kenzie was a really interesting character, and I liked that she was level-headed, and how she processed her childhood. Their chemistry was palpable right from the start, and I loved their banter as well as their vulnerable moments. It was also wonderful to catch up with all of the other Hotel Kings and their partners at the wedding, and I particularly appreciated that the conflict wasn't drawn out. I also loved the epilogue. This addition to the series was sweet, and as hot as the desert.
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥.5
Emotional Rating: 😂💓🙈😍😢💔💓🥰
*Thanks to Claire Marti for the opportunity to leave an honest review*
*p.s I would very much like to subscribe to Forearm P*rn Magazine, please 😉
cw: grief, addiction
Austin Michaels was the former lead singer of a wildly popular alt-rock band, but when tragedy struck, he left the band and joined his brother and their friends to open a chain of boutique hotels throughout California. Palm Springs will be his baby, even if he's more suited to writing a hit song than a business plan. Kenzie Banks has escaped her chaotic childhood, to a place of Zen as a renowned Spa creator and Yogi. She's a perfectionist and is ready to settle down. The last thing she needs is a 6ft 1" distraction who's also her boss.
This was my favourite in the series so far! I was immediately drawn to Austin, and the parallels with one of my favourite bands made my heart ache for him. He was such a romantic at heart, which was a pleasant surprise, and I really loved his more sensitive side. Kenzie was a really interesting character, and I liked that she was level-headed, and how she processed her childhood. Their chemistry was palpable right from the start, and I loved their banter as well as their vulnerable moments. It was also wonderful to catch up with all of the other Hotel Kings and their partners at the wedding, and I particularly appreciated that the conflict wasn't drawn out. I also loved the epilogue. This addition to the series was sweet, and as hot as the desert.
Overall Rating: ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥.5
Emotional Rating: 😂💓🙈😍😢💔💓🥰
*Thanks to Claire Marti for the opportunity to leave an honest review*
*p.s I would very much like to subscribe to Forearm P*rn Magazine, please 😉
February 8, 2023
The California Suits series has made for some fabulous reading. All these couples are special, but I did particularly enjoy this one. This was Austin and Kenzie’s story, and it was fun. The writing was lively with great banter between the two of them. Is he a tortured bad boy or just a sensitive soul, and how will Kenzie fit him into her structured life plan? Well, we get to find out as the story unfolds. Their chemistry is electric, and we see that right from the beginning but it's fun to watch them fight it and then see them open up to the other, and their love blossom. Add in some scorching hot sex scenes and you have everything needed for a great read.
February 8, 2023
What's hotter than the Palm Springs desert?
Kenzie and Austin's combustible romance in Claire Marti's brand new California Suits story, Palm Springs King.
Kenzie and Austin couldn't be more different. She's a planner, he's a rebel spirit with a poet's soul and they both come together when Austin agrees to open the Monroe Hotel in Palm Springs Desert with Kenzie running the spa.
They're both wary of what they can bring to a relationship with their scarred pasts, but forced proximity and the hot desert air work on their resistance.
Before long, Austin's family is taking bets on how soon they'll get together and Austin and Kenzie tumble...hard.
This story had just the right amount of angst. Austin and Kenzie have both been through a lot. Which only made their sweet happily ever after a more satisfying joy to behold.
I enjoyed the appearances by the other couples in the California Suits series as well as the extended McNeil clan. I loved "visiting" with them and "seeing" the Palm Springs Desert area which is now a new locale on my bucket list, thanks to Ms. Marti's talented pen. Have a hankering for a well written, California centric, steamy romance? Claire Marti has you covered.
Kenzie and Austin's combustible romance in Claire Marti's brand new California Suits story, Palm Springs King.
Kenzie and Austin couldn't be more different. She's a planner, he's a rebel spirit with a poet's soul and they both come together when Austin agrees to open the Monroe Hotel in Palm Springs Desert with Kenzie running the spa.
They're both wary of what they can bring to a relationship with their scarred pasts, but forced proximity and the hot desert air work on their resistance.
Before long, Austin's family is taking bets on how soon they'll get together and Austin and Kenzie tumble...hard.
This story had just the right amount of angst. Austin and Kenzie have both been through a lot. Which only made their sweet happily ever after a more satisfying joy to behold.
I enjoyed the appearances by the other couples in the California Suits series as well as the extended McNeil clan. I loved "visiting" with them and "seeing" the Palm Springs Desert area which is now a new locale on my bucket list, thanks to Ms. Marti's talented pen. Have a hankering for a well written, California centric, steamy romance? Claire Marti has you covered.
February 11, 2023
Claire Marti has done it again with her latest book in the Hotel Kings series, Palm Springs King. She writes romance that sizzles off the page. The characters and their conflicts seem so real, and when they come together it’s oh so satisfying.
Austin is the younger brother of the first Hotel King, and is never quite sure if the other guys are humoring him by including him in the group or if he’s earned his place fair and square, since he has no background in business or finance. Instead, he left high school to become the lead singer and songwriter for a rock band that sat at the top of the charts for years, until he left it all behind after one of the guys died. He feels the need to prove himself, and the yoga master hired to help run the resort is a major distraction to that goal.
Kenzie craves stability and a sense of home. She makes careful, detailed plans for everything in her life – and her attraction to her new boss isn’t in those color coded binders. On the surface, he’s just another bad boy making her derail her dreams, but as she peels back his layers she finds a soulful man with a whole lot of heart. Can they work together and have a real relationship?
This is part of a series, and while it’s a standalone story of two people with trust issues, the story is greatly enhanced if you know the rest of the Hotel King characters and their stories. Totally recommend this story, and this series, and this author. Claire Marti writes wonderfully broken characters who find their missing pieces in each other. 5 bright sparkling stars for this book!
Austin is the younger brother of the first Hotel King, and is never quite sure if the other guys are humoring him by including him in the group or if he’s earned his place fair and square, since he has no background in business or finance. Instead, he left high school to become the lead singer and songwriter for a rock band that sat at the top of the charts for years, until he left it all behind after one of the guys died. He feels the need to prove himself, and the yoga master hired to help run the resort is a major distraction to that goal.
Kenzie craves stability and a sense of home. She makes careful, detailed plans for everything in her life – and her attraction to her new boss isn’t in those color coded binders. On the surface, he’s just another bad boy making her derail her dreams, but as she peels back his layers she finds a soulful man with a whole lot of heart. Can they work together and have a real relationship?
This is part of a series, and while it’s a standalone story of two people with trust issues, the story is greatly enhanced if you know the rest of the Hotel King characters and their stories. Totally recommend this story, and this series, and this author. Claire Marti writes wonderfully broken characters who find their missing pieces in each other. 5 bright sparkling stars for this book!
February 6, 2023
This is book five in The California Suits series and it is Austin and Kenzie’s story. Austin is a partner in a string of California Luxury Boutique Hotels after retiring from being a rockstar for years after his best friend died and he had no intention of going back to it ever again and now he was determined to open and make a success of the latest one. Kenzie had a great reputation and now looking forward to running the new spa and wellness program which is just what she needs to move forward with her career and life. When Austin and Kenzie meet they are attracted to each other and the chemistry between them sizzles of the pages but they are both determined to ignore it and work together but what happens when it just gets stronger and things become more complicated when ever they are near each other as sparks fly all around them even though they try desperately to keep there distance. I absolutely love this book and I couldn’t put it down and had to keep turning the pages to see what would happen next and it was so addictive. I definitely recommend you read this book and you will not be disappointed.
February 6, 2023
A Sexy Delight!
Austin and Kenzie’s story of compassion and desire warmed my heart. Being put together to open a new hotel in Palm Springs they must find a way to co-exist, even though Austin as general manager is Kenzie’s boss. But as Kenzie plans to open her luxury spa on the premises she invites Austin, a former rock star to engage in her practice.
As Austin’s tension from a painful past releases through Kenzie’s yoga exercises, he opens up to loving her. A confirmed bachelor, this is new for him. Kenzie is drawn to Austin’s attractive looks, but also wants to help him through his pain. The journey of how they open up to each other and how Austin eases Kenzie’s troubled family life memories filled me with hope and joy.
No only are there hot and sexy scenes in this wonderful tale, but Austin and Kenzie want the best for each other and have each other’s back as they are falling in love. I also enjoyed the ending, but I’m not going to spoil it! You’ll just have to read it yourself! I recommend Palm Springs King with all my heart.
Austin and Kenzie’s story of compassion and desire warmed my heart. Being put together to open a new hotel in Palm Springs they must find a way to co-exist, even though Austin as general manager is Kenzie’s boss. But as Kenzie plans to open her luxury spa on the premises she invites Austin, a former rock star to engage in her practice.
As Austin’s tension from a painful past releases through Kenzie’s yoga exercises, he opens up to loving her. A confirmed bachelor, this is new for him. Kenzie is drawn to Austin’s attractive looks, but also wants to help him through his pain. The journey of how they open up to each other and how Austin eases Kenzie’s troubled family life memories filled me with hope and joy.
No only are there hot and sexy scenes in this wonderful tale, but Austin and Kenzie want the best for each other and have each other’s back as they are falling in love. I also enjoyed the ending, but I’m not going to spoil it! You’ll just have to read it yourself! I recommend Palm Springs King with all my heart.
February 6, 2023
Claire Marti is one of my go to contemporary romance writers, and I love her California Suits series. Each one is better than the last, and Palm Springs King is currently my favorite.
Set in Palm Springs, Austin and Kenzie's story is in turns heartwarming and steamy. Who doesn't love a bad-boy former rock star? Especially when he has the soul of a poet. Kenzie is a perfect match for him, even if it doesn't seem that way on the surface.
I love the theme of found family that runs through the California Suits series, and it is especially impactful in Palm Springs King.
Marti is a skillful and talented author, who can set the stage for her stories like no one else. I always feel like I've just come back from a trip to California after I read a book in this series. And let me tell you, I really enjoyed my vacation in the desert through the pages of Palm Springs King!
Set in Palm Springs, Austin and Kenzie's story is in turns heartwarming and steamy. Who doesn't love a bad-boy former rock star? Especially when he has the soul of a poet. Kenzie is a perfect match for him, even if it doesn't seem that way on the surface.
I love the theme of found family that runs through the California Suits series, and it is especially impactful in Palm Springs King.
Marti is a skillful and talented author, who can set the stage for her stories like no one else. I always feel like I've just come back from a trip to California after I read a book in this series. And let me tell you, I really enjoyed my vacation in the desert through the pages of Palm Springs King!
February 1, 2023
Claire masterfully strikes the match at the very start for Austin and Kenzie. They take over from there, heating up the pages with tension, angst, dreams and expectation. And that is just in the first couple of chapters. After the first kiss, things flat out combust with these two. There is just the right amount drama and conflict making it true to the characters, but at the same time, not too torturous to the reader. Every character has baggage, but Claire manages to use it as a motivator for them rather than a weakness. You won’t find a “oh poor me” character in any of her books. They are fun, easy to read and keep you invested in the story. She fabulously connects her books too, so you get to see those characters again throughout the series. Which happens to be one of my favorite things.
April 8, 2023
Rating: 4.5/5.0
This is a delightful take on the opposites attract trope, and readers will be pulled in from the get-go.
Read full review in the 2023 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
This is a delightful take on the opposites attract trope, and readers will be pulled in from the get-go.
Read full review in the 2023 April issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 3, 2023
Palm Springs King takes the heart on a sweet escape. From combustible attraction to emotional revelations, Marti tackles all sides of the human psyche. Kenzie and Austin are a charming frustration that is hard to walk away from.
January 25, 2023
Loved this book and the series so much! Sexy and also action packed and suspenseful. My favorite kind of read!!!.
March 9, 2023
I really like mild to low-drama stories sometimes. And this one was great!
Austin is the youngest brother of Ryan who started the first hotel and is going to be the manager for the newest hotel in the chain once it opens. And a special feature of this hotel will be the world-class spa run by Mackenzie, or Kenzie to her friends.
And the sparks fly immediately between them. Only for Kenzie to pull away because of her upbringing and past relationships. But Austin does well to show he’s different than those guys. So when the news breaks he’s re-joining his former band, will they make it together?
Kenzie and Austin get their happy ending in this stand-alone book in a series.
I really liked that Austin was trying so hard not to be a burden on his family and show that he could do it. And that they all kept telling him how much better it is to work together and with their own strengths rather than struggle. One thing I really would have liked to have seen was more of a resolution between Kenzie and her parents; especially after seeing how functional parents act with their kids.
I received an advanced review copy for free from Book Sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Austin is the youngest brother of Ryan who started the first hotel and is going to be the manager for the newest hotel in the chain once it opens. And a special feature of this hotel will be the world-class spa run by Mackenzie, or Kenzie to her friends.
And the sparks fly immediately between them. Only for Kenzie to pull away because of her upbringing and past relationships. But Austin does well to show he’s different than those guys. So when the news breaks he’s re-joining his former band, will they make it together?
Kenzie and Austin get their happy ending in this stand-alone book in a series.
I really liked that Austin was trying so hard not to be a burden on his family and show that he could do it. And that they all kept telling him how much better it is to work together and with their own strengths rather than struggle. One thing I really would have liked to have seen was more of a resolution between Kenzie and her parents; especially after seeing how functional parents act with their kids.
I received an advanced review copy for free from Book Sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 9, 2023
Well the desert is always hot but this book makes it HAWT if you know what I mean. Kenzie has a weakness for bad boys that she has sworn off of, in exchange for her binder filled with tabs and dividers of a 5 year plan for her career. AFTER that she can think about adding a man to the picture. Add a crappy family upbringing and she is focused on making her place in her found-family in her hospitality career at Hotel Kings. Her smoking-hot-bad-boy boss threatens to derail her plan.
Austin is a "reformed" bad-boy rockstar, determined to make this Hotel his new passion, and a success. He doesn't need his new Spa Manager's tight yoga pants to distract him.
These two people with scarred emotional pasts are a perfect match for each other!
I love that Claire Marti writes these characters that have had some pretty horrible things happen in their pasts but they are never whiney, there is no "woe-is-me", you never think to yourself as you read, "ugh, come on, get over it". I connect with the humanity of their experiences and the determination to live their best lives.
This might be my favorite of the Hotel Kings (but then I think that after each one I read!). I loved the reunion of all my favorite characters from previous books in this series. (But you don't have to have read them to enjoy this book) This book is so good - has CM's trademark easy-read style, where you can blaze through it and be ready for the next in the series!
Definitely loved this book's steamy scenes, well written characters, and beautiful love story.
Austin is a "reformed" bad-boy rockstar, determined to make this Hotel his new passion, and a success. He doesn't need his new Spa Manager's tight yoga pants to distract him.
These two people with scarred emotional pasts are a perfect match for each other!
I love that Claire Marti writes these characters that have had some pretty horrible things happen in their pasts but they are never whiney, there is no "woe-is-me", you never think to yourself as you read, "ugh, come on, get over it". I connect with the humanity of their experiences and the determination to live their best lives.
This might be my favorite of the Hotel Kings (but then I think that after each one I read!). I loved the reunion of all my favorite characters from previous books in this series. (But you don't have to have read them to enjoy this book) This book is so good - has CM's trademark easy-read style, where you can blaze through it and be ready for the next in the series!
Definitely loved this book's steamy scenes, well written characters, and beautiful love story.
February 15, 2023
4.8⭐️ Another great story from Claire Marti
I always know that I’m going to get a great story with wonderful editing when I read a Claire Marti book. Her characters are complex, well-developed and become better version of themselves throughout the story. Austin & Kenzie are no exception. Their love story is a spicy romance where they learn to trust themselves and each other to show unconditional love. It is always fun to have former couples as side characters and see their continued relationships. The HEA is given with the knowledge that we’ll get to see a bit more about them in future books. I highly recommend any of Claire Marti’s books!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I always know that I’m going to get a great story with wonderful editing when I read a Claire Marti book. Her characters are complex, well-developed and become better version of themselves throughout the story. Austin & Kenzie are no exception. Their love story is a spicy romance where they learn to trust themselves and each other to show unconditional love. It is always fun to have former couples as side characters and see their continued relationships. The HEA is given with the knowledge that we’ll get to see a bit more about them in future books. I highly recommend any of Claire Marti’s books!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2023
Austin and Mackenzie coming together to work on yet another hotel get the story going. I really liked how they both have some serious issues from their past that they are dealing with. Managing the ups and downs of one’s own life while trying to connect with others just made elements of the story so much easier to empathize with. I particularly loved to see the raw emotion and personal connections between this couple when they let down their guards to just be “them”.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2023
Palm Springs King is Book 5 of the California Suits series by Claire Marti. Very few series live up to the hype but this one does. Every one of these books is a true testimony to the work of the author. Austin and Kenzie's story shows how an instant attraction can lead to true love. Both of the MCs fought this attraction but ended up together anyway. This story highlights the resistance some people have toward falling in love. There is no cheating and they get their HEA. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 10, 2023
Palm Springs King is like a chilli-chocolate cupcake—super sweet with one hell of a kick. Ms Marti combines delightful characters, delicious tension, and a fascinating setup to create this truly satisfying romance. This is the kind of book I can see myself reading again just because it was that fun and that well written.This book is definitely a must read. Can’t wait to read the next book by this fantastic author. Happy reading everyone
February 24, 2023
A lovely, steamy, and fun romance. Palm Springs has always been a favorite vacation spot for me, so this setting was perfect. Austin and Kenzie not only make a great couple, but they make a strong and successful business partnership. I’d love to spend a weekend in their luxury hotel and spa. I loved the writing and the story itself was a favorite trope. Definitely recommend!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 16, 2023
This is a very enjoyable story featuring Austin and Kenzie. This book is fun to read, the writing is light and lively, the banter between the main characters is great, the chemistry is explosive, there are some seriously steamy scenes in this book. I feel this is a great fun read, so I highly recommend.
February 10, 2023
This is book 5 of the California Suits, but it can be read as a stand alone. This is a great story, the characters are so deep and you really fall for them!! Definitely a great read!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 15, 2023
Palm Springs King : An Opposites Attract Romance
Book 5 of California Suits
Claire Marti
Kenzie and Austin are so very different but the explosive chemistry between the two of them will either set them afire or burn them to the ground. Great read.
Book 5 of California Suits
Claire Marti
Kenzie and Austin are so very different but the explosive chemistry between the two of them will either set them afire or burn them to the ground. Great read.
February 18, 2023
This is such a fitting romance for Austin, whom we got to see in the first book of the series. It’s fun getting to see how much he has grown over the course of the series and become the man he is in this book. While he’s a sexy ex-rockstar, he’s also smart, kind and compassionate. He’s a book boyfriend. I love that both Austin and Kenzie have baggage and they’ve managed to come out the other side stronger. Kenzie is a smart, sassy, sweet heroine whom I adore. These two spark from the start and their romance was both sweet and suited them perfectly. I love that we got to see the other couples from the previous books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 2, 2025
Palm Springs King is another good read!
Want to read
May 2, 2025Readers have been waiting patiently for Austin's story and it's here on February 9th!
A former rockstar. A perfectionistic yoga teacher. Opposites attract?
Rockstar Austin Michaels never took much seriously—other than his music. But tragedy thrust him out of the spotlight and into the boardroom. Now, he’s helping his brother run a luxury hotel chain and he couldn’t be farther out of his comfort zone. He’s doing his best––until his beautiful new spa manager arrives.
Yoga teacher Kenzie Banks earned her reputation as the best in the spa business by being a hyper-efficient perfectionist. Ready to plant roots after too many years on the road, she’s thrilled to land her dream job working for the Hotel Kings — they’re literally the family she always wished for. Except, her sexy boss Austin Michaels is driving her nuts with his impulsive decisions and smoldering glances.
The sparks between these two opposites burn so hot it’s a wonder they don’t spontaneously combust. But Kenzie knows what they say about fire…and she’s come too far and worked too hard to get burned. Can the pair find a way to work together, or will everything they’re building go up in flames?
A former rockstar. A perfectionistic yoga teacher. Opposites attract?
Rockstar Austin Michaels never took much seriously—other than his music. But tragedy thrust him out of the spotlight and into the boardroom. Now, he’s helping his brother run a luxury hotel chain and he couldn’t be farther out of his comfort zone. He’s doing his best––until his beautiful new spa manager arrives.
Yoga teacher Kenzie Banks earned her reputation as the best in the spa business by being a hyper-efficient perfectionist. Ready to plant roots after too many years on the road, she’s thrilled to land her dream job working for the Hotel Kings — they’re literally the family she always wished for. Except, her sexy boss Austin Michaels is driving her nuts with his impulsive decisions and smoldering glances.
The sparks between these two opposites burn so hot it’s a wonder they don’t spontaneously combust. But Kenzie knows what they say about fire…and she’s come too far and worked too hard to get burned. Can the pair find a way to work together, or will everything they’re building go up in flames?
January 11, 2024
Nothing beats a romance story with a damaged musician from pain and sorrow that happened at a sensitive time when it was the peak of a career. That’s what this one included and I’m a sucker for musicians. They are sensitive and emotional, with lots of vulnerability and this one was no exception. I ached when I heard about what happened to Austin. While I’ve never experienced that, it pulled at my heartstrings. It goes on to include that he hasn’t had the inspiration to write any songs since the tragedy so he immersed himself in building a hotel chain with Ryan and didn’t look back. As an optimist I read this as the possibility that he will leave the business world and go back into the entertainment industry. With books I’ve read in the past that included a musician, more often than not it happens so I was giddy with excitement and I wanted that for him. I could see he wasn’t happy but felt that he had a duty to Ryan to pursue this hotel dream for him. What winds up happening, I can’t say I was ecstatic but at least he seemed happier. As you can imagine, Kenzie comes around and reignites his passion and inspiration for music. He pursues it in a way I wasn’t expecting and wound up being a little disappointed about, but at least he wasn’t done with music for good. It opened up the door for possibilities that I hope get explored in the next book, even though it will be about the last man standing in this group. While I’m excited about that, I can’t help but want it to include what Austin does with his newfound passion for his music again. Does he go back with his group, or does he pursue a solo career, while he continues to build the hotel chain with Ryan and his friends? Only time will tell and I can’t wait to find out. First though, I want to say this was my favorite story from the California Suits series thus far. It will be hard to top this one but I’m still excited anyway. The passion and emotion this book entailed was unbelievable and my body was humming with desire and I totally got lost in it. I loved reading about how Kenzie and Austin explore their chemistry and attraction to each other. To see Austin and Kenzie’s walls get blown all the way down and to be immersed in their vulnerability and hope was amazing. Their lack of control around each other was fire and you had to be blind not to notice how each time they were near each other was electricity and they struggled with the balance to stay professional and flirty. I can only hope the last book will be just as intense and exciting. I definitely feel this deserves 5 stars.
March 11, 2023
I know I say this a lot but this is hands down the best book Claire Marti has ever written. Things heat up when an ex-rockstar and a renowned yoga instructor/spa guru are thrown together. They say opposites attract but in this case opposites light each other on fire. Heartfelt backstories, sizzling romance, and meeting expectations make Palm Springs King a must-read for all romance readers!
It all starts with the characters. These characters will yank at your heartstrings. Poor Austin. He’s the ex-rockstar whose first love is music. But he’s tormented by his best friend’s death. Being in charge of opening and success of this boutique hotel in Palm Springs is what he’s focusing on. He can’t afford to screw things up by giving in to his desires.
Kenzie is a prominent yoga instructor (like the author herself) and has her own personal trauma. She’s looking to settle down and she can’t do that by sleeping with her boss. Two broken hearts find love and calm in the blistering desert of Palm Springs.
What I love most about the characters is how realistic they are. Claire Marti takes great care when writing characters, making sure they are flawlessly written with just the right blend of strengths and weaknesses. This kind of care makes this book impossible to put down.
The romance is obviously opposites attract but there are other tropes present as well. The romance is high steam with plenty of emotion, tension, and swoon-worthy moments. I fell in love with Austin while reading. The build-up is an emotional journey well worth it.
If you’re a romance reader, this book is written for you. If you love opposites attract romance, you need to read this book. A bucket read for 2023!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are all my own.
My Rating: 5++ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
It all starts with the characters. These characters will yank at your heartstrings. Poor Austin. He’s the ex-rockstar whose first love is music. But he’s tormented by his best friend’s death. Being in charge of opening and success of this boutique hotel in Palm Springs is what he’s focusing on. He can’t afford to screw things up by giving in to his desires.
Kenzie is a prominent yoga instructor (like the author herself) and has her own personal trauma. She’s looking to settle down and she can’t do that by sleeping with her boss. Two broken hearts find love and calm in the blistering desert of Palm Springs.
What I love most about the characters is how realistic they are. Claire Marti takes great care when writing characters, making sure they are flawlessly written with just the right blend of strengths and weaknesses. This kind of care makes this book impossible to put down.
The romance is obviously opposites attract but there are other tropes present as well. The romance is high steam with plenty of emotion, tension, and swoon-worthy moments. I fell in love with Austin while reading. The build-up is an emotional journey well worth it.
If you’re a romance reader, this book is written for you. If you love opposites attract romance, you need to read this book. A bucket read for 2023!
Disclaimer: I received a copy from the author in the hopes I'd review it. My thoughts are all my own.
My Rating: 5++ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
March 16, 2023
Yet again, the Hotel Kings have followed through with a beautiful hotel and a hot romance.
Austin is made for the music world, but when he faces tragedy and leaves that world behind there is no better place for him than with his friends and family in the hotel business. It’s his turn to build an amazing hotel. Enter Kenzie. Obviously these two are going to end up together, but they make the most unlikely pair. Neither one is looking for love and both are dead-set on building a successful career. Maybe they wouldn’t have worked if family and friends hadn’t intervened … but they do and the rest is history.
I love how the hotel business has brought together this unlikely group of men and women. Yes, some are related by blood, but even those who are not are quickly welcomed into the fold. What a wonderful working environment - and what an amazing world to enter into! It makes sense that a woman, like Kenzie, with difficult family relationships, would thrive in this sort of environment. Interestingly, however, she is not painted as a victim or as someone who is seeking or begging for people to love her; she is strong, independent, and like all the other women in these novels, perhaps they guiding force behind the men and their success. It’s nice to read and makes the romance between these characters all the more fulfilling.
I’ve read all the other books in this series and like it’s predecessors, this one did not disappoint. Hot and steamy romance, with a complex relationship behind it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Austin is made for the music world, but when he faces tragedy and leaves that world behind there is no better place for him than with his friends and family in the hotel business. It’s his turn to build an amazing hotel. Enter Kenzie. Obviously these two are going to end up together, but they make the most unlikely pair. Neither one is looking for love and both are dead-set on building a successful career. Maybe they wouldn’t have worked if family and friends hadn’t intervened … but they do and the rest is history.
I love how the hotel business has brought together this unlikely group of men and women. Yes, some are related by blood, but even those who are not are quickly welcomed into the fold. What a wonderful working environment - and what an amazing world to enter into! It makes sense that a woman, like Kenzie, with difficult family relationships, would thrive in this sort of environment. Interestingly, however, she is not painted as a victim or as someone who is seeking or begging for people to love her; she is strong, independent, and like all the other women in these novels, perhaps they guiding force behind the men and their success. It’s nice to read and makes the romance between these characters all the more fulfilling.
I’ve read all the other books in this series and like it’s predecessors, this one did not disappoint. Hot and steamy romance, with a complex relationship behind it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 17, 2023
I enjoyed this series a lot!!!
Rockstar Austin Michaels never took much seriously—other than his music. But tragedy thrust him out of the spotlight and into the boardroom. Now, he’s helping his brother run a luxury hotel chain. Yoga teacher Kenzie Banks earned her reputation as the best in the spa business by being a hyper-efficient perfectionist. Except, her sexy boss Austin Michaels is driving her nuts with his impulsive decisions and smoldering glances. The sparks between these two opposites burn so hot it’s a wonder they don’t spontaneously combust. But Kenzie knows what they say about fire…and she’s come too far and worked too hard to get burned. Can the pair find a way to work together, or will everything they’re building go up in flames?
This is a great original romance about forgiveness and broken hearts. Kenzie and Austin have this beautiful connection right from the beginning. There are sparks and deep conversations. I adore that we get to see all of the previous characters. This is maybe my least favorite book from the series written so far because the chemistry is definitely in the pages but sometimes I was not there with them. It’s a short story but full of emotional moments and really sweet ones.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Rockstar Austin Michaels never took much seriously—other than his music. But tragedy thrust him out of the spotlight and into the boardroom. Now, he’s helping his brother run a luxury hotel chain. Yoga teacher Kenzie Banks earned her reputation as the best in the spa business by being a hyper-efficient perfectionist. Except, her sexy boss Austin Michaels is driving her nuts with his impulsive decisions and smoldering glances. The sparks between these two opposites burn so hot it’s a wonder they don’t spontaneously combust. But Kenzie knows what they say about fire…and she’s come too far and worked too hard to get burned. Can the pair find a way to work together, or will everything they’re building go up in flames?
This is a great original romance about forgiveness and broken hearts. Kenzie and Austin have this beautiful connection right from the beginning. There are sparks and deep conversations. I adore that we get to see all of the previous characters. This is maybe my least favorite book from the series written so far because the chemistry is definitely in the pages but sometimes I was not there with them. It’s a short story but full of emotional moments and really sweet ones.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 5, 2023
A slowly building romance develops between Kenzie and Austin.
Mackenzie comes to the Monroe, the fourth location of the Hotel Kings' luxury boutique California hotels to design and manage the Sanctuary Spa. When she meets Austin she doesn't know that her new boss was a big star with his band Black Velvet Machine in which he was the lead singer. But he does look like it. A bad-boy vibe emanates from him and that is precisely Kenzie's weakness. But she has a life plan for the first 5 years and a man comes after that.
Austin has put his singing career on hold following the death of the band's drummer and founding member, Tommy. A writer's block comes for him where lyrics and music could no longer get out of his hands. The passion has diminished and now he focuses on getting the hotel in order where he will stay as general manager. He sees himself occasionally making acoustic guitar music, but that's where it ends for him. With Kenzie's arrival, another passion arises and he pursues it.
But the over-organized Kenzie isn't about to give up on her life plan just like that.
Slow moving story but with enough tantalizing moments to keep reading. I give this story a 3.5*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Mackenzie comes to the Monroe, the fourth location of the Hotel Kings' luxury boutique California hotels to design and manage the Sanctuary Spa. When she meets Austin she doesn't know that her new boss was a big star with his band Black Velvet Machine in which he was the lead singer. But he does look like it. A bad-boy vibe emanates from him and that is precisely Kenzie's weakness. But she has a life plan for the first 5 years and a man comes after that.
Austin has put his singing career on hold following the death of the band's drummer and founding member, Tommy. A writer's block comes for him where lyrics and music could no longer get out of his hands. The passion has diminished and now he focuses on getting the hotel in order where he will stay as general manager. He sees himself occasionally making acoustic guitar music, but that's where it ends for him. With Kenzie's arrival, another passion arises and he pursues it.
But the over-organized Kenzie isn't about to give up on her life plan just like that.
Slow moving story but with enough tantalizing moments to keep reading. I give this story a 3.5*.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 21, 2023
It’s hot in the desert!
Another awesome story in the Hotel Kings series! Austin is a former rock star who uses his easy going Devi may care facade to hide his sensitive soul hurt from losses in his past. Determined to prove he is worthy and qualified to successfully open and run The Monroe in Palm Spring, he’s not prepared for the attraction he feels for Kenzie, the manager of The Monroe’s spa. Kenzie is trying to overcome her troubled childhood and past mistakes to build a secure future for herself. Falling for her sexy boss isn’t part of her plan.
I loved how open and vulnerable Austin and Kenzie were with each in some respects but still kept their shields in place in others. The story was calm but with plenty of heat. This would be a great book to read by pool, imagining yourself relaxing at The Monroe. I’ve loved every story in this series, I can’t wait to read the next!
Another awesome story in the Hotel Kings series! Austin is a former rock star who uses his easy going Devi may care facade to hide his sensitive soul hurt from losses in his past. Determined to prove he is worthy and qualified to successfully open and run The Monroe in Palm Spring, he’s not prepared for the attraction he feels for Kenzie, the manager of The Monroe’s spa. Kenzie is trying to overcome her troubled childhood and past mistakes to build a secure future for herself. Falling for her sexy boss isn’t part of her plan.
I loved how open and vulnerable Austin and Kenzie were with each in some respects but still kept their shields in place in others. The story was calm but with plenty of heat. This would be a great book to read by pool, imagining yourself relaxing at The Monroe. I’ve loved every story in this series, I can’t wait to read the next!
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